Rewind to June 2023. Out of pure luck, I saw a posting for a teaching position with Christ the King Academy, a middle school in the same small town where I lived. I happened to know the vice principal, Errin Nelson, and took a chance and emailed him to ask some questions. Fast-forward to the end of that week, and I had accepted a brand-new teaching position in another school division! I was leaving my home division, which brought me to Alberta in 2011. Scared? A little. Excited? Definitely. I felt in my heart that I was called to make this big change. My daughter, Anna (8), joined me. She and I are glued at the hip, and she wanted to move to Holy Family Academy to remain close to her momma. This is when I began to notice incredible divine intervention. It sounds so strange to say out loud, but there is no doubt in my mind that I was called to this position. Several signs appeared over the next little while that made me know for certain I had made the most incredible choice. Jumping forward again, I learned about RCIA, which was going to begin in October. I have always had a ton of questions and often wondered if there was 'more'. Out of my personal and very private fear of death, which only grew stronger once I became a mother, I reached out and signed myself and my daughter up. Once my journey of learning about the Catholic faith began, I have not looked back. One particular example illuminated for me was this; my classroom saint is St. Joseph; I was born in Saint Joseph's Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario; and my grandfather's name was Joseph. This Easter, my incredible daughter Anna and I were baptized and fully initiated into the Catholic Church at St. Mary's in Brooks. We were baptized together and received the Sacraments. My heart is so full and so incredibly grateful to several amazing people who have made me feel more like a family than I can ever express.
The teachers and staff of CTK welcomed my daughter and I with open arms. I am forever grateful and will hold the CTK and Christ of the Redeemer School Division families in my heart and prayers forever. Submitted by Sarah Parkin, Teacher at Christ the King Academy. Photos courtesy of Sarah Parkin.
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A Personal Calling Michelle Haywood has been with Elizabeth House since 2007, initially joining as a volunteer coordinator. Her passion for the ministry is palpable. “I myself was a very young single mom. When I heard about this place that provided care and support for young moms, it felt like a calling,” shares Michelle, Program Manager at Elizabeth House. Elizabeth House. was founded by the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis in response to a surge in teenage pregnancies. The Sisters recognized a pressing need for housing and support for young mothers, leading to the creation of Elizabeth House. Elizabeth House, a transitional home in Calgary, offers a lifeline to pregnant and parenting women experiencing homelessness. This ministry, which has been a vital support for hundreds of women and children, has been helping generations thrive since 1996. Over the years, the ministry has evolved significantly. Initially operating out of a small duplex, Elizabeth House has moved several times to accommodate growing demand. “We’ve supported approximately 600 women and children,” Michelle notes. The Diocese of Calgary has played a crucial role in this evolution, providing financial and administrative support. This has allowed Elizabeth House to offer 24/7 care and expand its services. Success Stories and Challenges One of the key strengths of Elizabeth House is its ability to offer long-term stays, allowing mothers to stabilize their lives. Michelle shares several success stories that illustrate the transformative power of extended support. “Women who typically would have had their child apprehended at birth or struggled considerably after birth are now able to stay with us and gain foundational skills,” she explains. This holistic approach helps women build lifelong resilience. Michelle also acknowledges the diverse backgrounds of the residents. “Since COVID, we’ve had three women complete their post-secondary degrees while staying with us. Two of them graduated with honours,” she proudly states.
Revamping the Digital Presence Jen Schultz, through her volunteer work, has been essential in modernizing Elizabeth House’s digital presence. Her involvement began when her family foundation connected with Elizabeth House through the Knights of Columbus. Recognizing the need for a website overhaul, Jen brought her expertise in marketing to the project. “The old website was very black and white and not as hopeful as it could have been,” Jen recalls. The new website features a warm, earthy colour palette and an inviting design. “We wanted to make it really clear and actionable,” she explains. The redesigned website includes essential features like a safe exit button for women in unsafe situations and clear application instructions. It also provides detailed information on how to get involved. “The team feels like the new website truly reflects the welcoming environment of Elizabeth House.” A Call to Action Elizabeth House thrives thanks to the unwavering support of the Calgary community. Michelle and Jen both recognize the importance of raising awareness about the work of this ministry. “Come get to know us,” Michelle invites. Whether through prayers, donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, there are many ways to support this vital ministry. “Also, we’re hiring!” Elizabeth House’s journey reflects the power of compassion and community. Through their dedicated efforts, they provide not just shelter, but a brighter future for Calgary’s mothers and their children. As Michelle concludes, “We are helping two generations at a time.”
When my husband Jim and I moved back to Calgary, I needed to find a way to meet like-minded, faith-filled women. I thought, what better way to do so than to join the CWL? So I did. At my first meeting with CWL, I volunteered to be the treasurer, and thus began my journey with CWL. Our council holds many activities and projects to help our parish, St. Peters; be it ministry masses where my League sisters serve as lectors, ushers, greeters, Extraordinary Ministers of Communion or sacristan; the fundraisers to help our beloved charities; collecting items for KARA or Elizabeth House, or offering an education bursary for girls going into post-secondary education. As I grew in my knowledge of the Catholic Women’s League, I realized that we were not just funeral lunch ladies, although this service that we provide to grieving families is very important to us. But we are much more than that. Our three pillars—Faith, Service, and Social Justice—perfectly describe what we are all about. We hold powerful prayer services, living rosaries, and annual spiritual retreats, to name a few. We advocate for important issues such as the sanctity of life, from conception to natural death. In 2012, I was honoured to attend the National CWL Convention in Edmonton, as a resolution that our own council researched and presented “to increase Employment Benefits for Adoptive Mothers” was adopted and then presented to the federal government. It has since come to fruition, as adoptive parents now receive the same benefits as parents who have their biological children. I was proud to serve as the President of St. Peter’s CWL council, as I loved working with and building relationships with my League sisters. As a servant leader, I grew in my faith, especially with the support of our spiritual advisors. In 2013, I was appointed diocesan CWL secretary by president Carol Schlachter. Jim said he’d support me, and my CWL journey with Calgary Diocesan Council began. I had no idea what I had agreed to, but it changed my life. Reflecting on this eleven-year journey, there were many highlights. Here are just a few:
Yes, there were sad moments too, when we bade farewell to two of our diocesan presidents, Carol Schlachter and Sharon Malec, as well as many other League sisters. And grieving alongside our sisters when they lost loved ones. Crying together is part of this amazing sisterhood we belong to.
When I went into a bookstore to buy my first ever physical Bible, I noticed also a Catholic Bible on the shelf. The man who was looking through books beside me saw that I was searching for a Bible and he told me to stay away from “that one” while he pointed at the Catholic Bible. So I was soon baptized in an evangelical church. On Saturdays, you would find me with a mic and speaker preaching the gospel with a group of people. I had a strong desire to share the love of God with others. I found work at Hope Mission, a non-denominational Christian ministry, working with children and youth. But then I was introduced to the teachings of the early church and Catholicism through YouTube. I soon became convicted of what I knew to be true and true teachings of Jesus and the apostles. I learned more and more about Catholic theology and saw how beautiful it was, and how it was all in scripture, contrary to what many people would say. I wasn’t shy to share what I learned with others. My friends and co-workers, who were mostly Baptists and Pentecostals, were confused that a non-Catholic would hold to Catholic beliefs. “Why is this guy talking about Mary and defending the idolatrous Catholic worship of Mary?” While my entire theology was being tested, something odd happened at work. I kept seeing a rosary in my workplace. I told myself, “This isn’t the right place for it.” One day, I found it on my work desk and I took it home. As I wrapped the rosary around my hands, I was hesitant to pray the Hail Mary. Then I thought to myself; I can defend the intercession of Mary with scripture, so why couldn’t I pray the prayer? Then I slowly began to pray the rosary and lots of it. It led me to see the Blessed Mother in a new light. As I went on, the Lord revealed to me his presence in the Eucharist. As I learned more and more of scripture and the faith, I started to see the truth of the Eucharist and the Lord’s true and real presence on the altar. After this, I didn’t want to be anywhere other than in front of the altar of a Catholic church. He truly did answer my prayers. I inquired with the RCIA at St. Mark’s Parish in Calgary, and went to morning masses as much as I could. The Easter Vigil was around the corner, so I made the decision to become Catholic. I was confirmed and received the Body and Blood of Christ on March 30th, 2024. Three weeks later, I ended up getting fired from my job after serving there for one year, simply because I was openly praying the Hail Mary with the children I worked with. Right now in my faith journey, I want to grow closer to the Lord in the Eucharist. Despite uncertainties I’m experiencing, my faith and hope in the Lord continues to grow stronger and he continues to pour his graces on me through his sacraments. I have no doubt that God was the one who sought me first and continues to call me. Written by Rooben Aurumugam, St. Mark's Parish, Calgary. Photos courtesy of Rooben.
Let us stir the longing for renewal in our own lives and families as we seek a closer relationship with Jesus. Let us continue to mentor our parishes, through the “genius of women” as we create a church of encounter and witness, as we strengthen our families and create missionary disciples. To our dear Catholic Women’s League: Thank you! Bonnie Annicchiarico Photo credits: Catholic Women's League. For more photos, click here
Volunteering Opportunities at Calgary Remand Centre
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As with any volunteering opportunities, we require a Vulnerable Sector Police Information Check (VSPIC), the completion of the Praesidium Academy sexual abuse prevention training, and the agreement to the Code of Pastoral Conduct and Accountability for Volunteers. This information will be provided to you after submitting your application. Prioritizing content review before our children/students view content is a wise and responsible approach. Much content can also help Catholic school teachers (including Alberta) reach many Student Learning Outcomes in the religious education resources. Please use these services and other resources to review what children/students are watching from a Catholic perspective:
Free and Paid-for Streaming Services
Programs outside of streaming services AGES 2-7/Grades K-2 and above
Compiled by the Office of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, Diocese of Calgary.
While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing Him." ~ Luke 24:15-16 This was a passage that many parishioners, who participated in St. Albert the Great’s Parish Renewal Gathering on May 4, 2024, pondered deeply and discussed heartfully during the Lectio Divina. One parishioner said, “How many times do we fail to recognize Jesus in one another? Yet He is with us all the time.” Another one expressed, “we were given the beautiful gift of sight, but we often close our eyes and fail to see the beauty of Jesus present in us.” Last Saturday’s gathering at our parish was indeed an eye-opener for many of us. While in the facade of our beautiful church we seem lively and vibrant, and indeed we are, there are areas we may be failing to recognize in our parish community. It could be families struggling in their relationships, our youth getting lost in their paths, our young adults who don’t know where to start, friendships strained and broken by past hurts, the elderly who may have been forgotten, or even one’s struggles with work in a weakening faith life. These are some of the “things” that are happening in the lives of parishioners. When Cleopas answered Jesus, “are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” Jesus replied, “What things?” Well, we can talk to Jesus and tell Him, Lord these are the things! Very quickly, Jesus will probably tell us how foolish we are because it is necessary for those things to happen so “He can enter into His glory”. In another small group conversation, a parishioner reflected on the presence of sufferings in our lives as a way of God to reveal His glory. “What’s important is to know that we are not alone and that we have Jesus and the entire community to walk with us in our journey and the sufferings that come with it. It is comforting to know that I have a home and that if I experience some suffering, I have an entire community that prays for me.” That hits the note!
What a great day it was for our parish, you can strongly sense the Holy Spirit’s presence. “I didn’t know what to expect for attendance, but everyone’s presence here is truly a blessing to our parish. St. Albert the Great parishioners are the best!”, said Fr. Andrew who gave his full support and guidance throughout the planning of the gathering. When asked what his vision is for the Renewal, he said, “my goal is for everyone in the parish to call this home.” Sounds like we are on the right track! The journey to Renewal is long and not easy. Bishop McGrattan said and was quoted many times throughout the gathering, “Renewal is not a sprint, but is a marathon.” St. Albert the Great is gearing for it! As a renewal team member said, it is not an 8-member team but an entire parish that will run the marathon. To affirm that, everyone in the gathering expressed their enthusiasm when the word You was changed to We, as they exclaimed, “WE are Called, WE Matter, and WE Belong!” Thank you Jesus! Submitted by Florian Bernardo, St. Albert the Great Parish Renewal Team.
Mary's Festival: A Celebration & Consecration of St. Mary's University to Our Blessed Mother5/12/2024
The CRSC delegation consisted of leaders met with Bishop McGrattan in April 2024. Brian Sullivan, the CRSC President from Ontario; Melvin De Paz from Manitoba; Gerard MacDonald from Prince Edward Island; Richard Dunstan from British Columbia; Joannie Farrell from Newfoundland, and Corrine Yakimovich from Edmonton. April 2024 was a significant month at the Calgary Catholic Charismatic Renewal Society (CCCRS), marking our 36th anniversary. We were thrilled to finally host the much-anticipated conference with the Charismatic Renewal Services of Canada (CRSC), a plan delayed since 2020 due to the pandemic. The event's theme, "Come and See," which was inspired by Isaiah 43:18-19, resonated deeply with us. The CRSC team, comprising leaders from various Canadian provinces and part of the global Charismatic Renewal International Services (CHARIS) in Rome, brought us invaluable guidance. Their presence bolstered our local prayer groups with new confidence and deepened spiritual journeys. Brian Sullivan, the president of CRSC, shared, "It truly felt like an upper room experience, with the Holy Spirit moving among us." He talked about how everyone was keen to focus more on charisms during the meetings with the prayer group leaders. On April 11, 2024, the CRSC delegation was honoured to meet with Bishop McGrattan. His warm reception and expression of support were meaningful to us, serving as an encouragement and confirmation for our mission. This was followed by our "ALIVE" event, graciously hosted by Fr. Adam Bobola at Our Lady Queen of Peace, Calgary. It was a night that went deep into our hearts, sparking a revival fire in everyone there. Brian shared how he was touched by Fr. Adam's openness, witness to hope, and his need for prayers in the midst of a battle with cancer. He then continued, "The ministry time following the Mass was particularly moving. The physical layout of the church allowed people to come forward, kneel before the Blessed Sacrament, and present their needs to the Lord while the team prayed for them. It was a profound and powerful moment of blessing and healing." The main conference was hosted at St. Thomas More Parish, and it was the highlight of our week. Fr. Jerald (Jerry) D'Souza and members of the CRSC team, including Brian, Melvin De Paz, Gerald MacDonald, and Corrine Yakimovich, tackled some important topics about personal and communal transformation. "This conference has been a testament to the power of community and the Holy Spirit. It's inspiring to see so many individuals coming together with a shared purpose," someone noted. Brian also added by praising Fr. Jerry for his passionate and insightful talks, saying that his words and presence had a lasting impact on everyone there. In my own reflection, our conference really brings us back to the importance of #Renewal within us. "You are called, you matter, you belong," our diocesan Pastoral Renewal theme, is not just a catchy line. Every single one of us is invited on a spiritual adventure, reminding us that we all have value and a place where we fit in. Accepting this invitation means understanding that we're not just another face in the crowd. We are known by name, appreciated for who we are, and warmly welcomed into a community where we find belonging. It's about moving forward together, towards a closer relationship with the living God. We thank our team members and our hosting parishes for their support. This conference was truly a testament to the power of faith, community, and renewal. As Brian remarked, "Your team's exceptional hospitality made us feel honoured and cared for." I would like to take this time to express my gratitude for our team members. Sunitha and Sheeja, dedicated leaders of the Divine Shepherd and Divine Spirit Prayer Groups, did an amazing job organizing the April 13th Conference. Dick, along with his St. Luke's Charismatic Music Ministry team and Liza from the CCCRS music ministry, created a beautiful space for us to sing and feel uplifted. Also, a huge thanks to Rudy, Kanthi, and many others who ensured the transportation for our guests went smoothly. Despite the challenges encountered along the way, the team improvised in the face of unforeseen circumstances, and the spirit of generosity and friendship prevailed. We really couldn't have pulled it off without our dedicated team and those who prayed for us, and for this, we are thankful. Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." ~Isaiah 43:18-19
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Pontifical Academy for Life, and other key partners are organizing an international interfaith symposium on palliative care. Entitled “Towards a Narrative of Hope”, this symposium will take place on May 21-23, 2024, in Toronto. With the objective to educate and build a culture of social responsibility in palliative care, experts from medical, ethical and pastoral contexts will focus on translating insights from the presentations and discussions into concrete strategies of actions. You can already watch a short video on the purpose of the symposium and the vital role of faith-based organizations and communities in promoting human dignity, compassion, and respect for patients and their families through the illness and dying process. Please find below, for your information the videos announcing this international interfaith symposium on palliative care. Video in French by Bishop Noël Simard, Bishop of Valleyfield QC, and Member of the Pontifical Academy for Life (PAV), and Chairman of the Scientific Board for the Symposium: https://youtu.be/zBYKDGrvDlE?si=bHQYZ51-Ol0cuazQ In preparation for the great feast of Pentecost, let us ask for an outpouring of grace into our hearts, and implore the Holy Spirit to send the grace of renewal to all the parishes in the Diocese of Calgary. Novena to the Holy Spirit starts this Friday, May 10, 2024.
A message from CCMA - submitted by Dr. Monique Withers: The CCMA ( Calgary Catholic Medical Association ) was honoured to host a very informative Bishops Breakfast on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Heritage Park. It was good to see so many people at the breakfast. The need for in-person social contact was so high that after the three-hour Breakfast was concluded, some attendees kept on socializing on the Heritage Park Plaza. 56 attendees were able to meet and mingle around a talk given by our beloved Bishop W. McGrattan. The topic chosen by the Bishop was: 'Social Media and wise use of computer-generated stories, data and opinions.' This was a timely topic as we are trying to regroup after the lengthy Covid lockdown. For many people, the Covid lockdown is a 'thing of the past.' However, healthcare workers are still dealing with the aftereffects of the Covid pandemic. These effects include burnout and the loss of a healthy daily rhythm of rest and contemplation. Contemplation and reflection are needed to wisely use all the information that is now available at a fingertip through computer programs, phone apps, etc. The Bishop provided some examples of activities that promote daily Prayer and other activities to assist in healthy choices and decision making. God is a good Father and always provides us with good gifts. This breakfast was an example of one of these gifts through the timely advice given by our shepherd, Bishop William McGrattan. The Bishop highlighted the need for the right spiritual disposition to use the internet and computer generated data in Healthcare. We need to stay focused on the dignity and personal needs of our patients. The Canadian Bishops as well as the Vatican have published on this topic, "Pastoral Letter on Social Media." https://www.cccb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Pastoral-Letter-on-Social-Media_EN-2024-01-22.pdf For the CCMA Executive, the effects noted in the week or so after this breakfast have been very encouraging. A Health Science student was able to use the Bishop's talk to write a paper for a mandatory paper. A Christ-centered physician was pleased with the clear message that physicians are meant to be healers, not technicians providing consumers with ' health products.' One attendee found that the information from the Bishop's talk made it easier to participate in a discussion on this topic at another Catholic meeting. It was good to see the students at this breakfast. They are our future and need to become ethical users of the computers we use in our daily lives. Some of the conversations with and comments from medical students at the breakfast were used by the CCMA President when communicating with the College of Family Physicians of Canada in the last couple of days.. We may sometimes think that Calgary is an isolated region in Western Canada. However all Healthcare providers are connected throughout Canada by the actions of the Holy Spirit. Wise use of the internet and computers will keep these connections vibrant and healthy.
How did Christianity prosper when it was powerless, ridiculed, and persecuted? Early Church historian Henry Chadwick attributes Christianity’s quick spread to women because of Christianity’s belief in the equality of women and men before God. True, in the early years of the first millennium Christian women were still constrained to the social roles of homemaker and wife, but Christianity elevated the status of women through its doctrine that all are created in God’s image and redeemed by Christ, meaning all must treated with respect and dignity. The long-standing importance of women evangelists in the Church was visible in Medicine Hat during the 100-year anniversary celebration of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of St. Patrick’s Parish on Saturday, April 27th, 2024. A century after the chapter’s founding, Bishop McGrattan called CWL a gift to the Church and the community because of CWL’s constant witness, faith, and service. CWL remains steadfastly committed to social justice by promoting life from conception to its natural end. As current St.Patrick’s CWL President Anne Helfrich proudly proclaimed, “since 1924 the CWL chapter of Medicine Hat has helped women grow in faith by being the hands of Jesus.” Michelle Bien, a CWL member who joined two years ago told me, “CWL is for me. CWL fills a niche that nothing else does; it filled a gap in my life I didn’t even know was missing.” This succinctly expresses the heart of the diocesan renewal’s promise of You are called; You matter; You belong. St.Patrick’s CWL chapter creates a vibrant and radiant parish life by actively caring for the parish and the greater community of Medicine Hat by fundraising for charities like the Ronald McDonald House, Salvation Army, and the Mustard Seed, giving away clothing to those who need it, teaching children how to pray the rosary, and providing scholarships to students of Catholic schools. Bishop McGrattan’s homily at the celebratory Mass and his speech to over 100 CWL members and guests at the dinner following, discussed how lay movements witness daily to the Church’s call to charity by, “Taking out of the storehouse what is good and bringing it forth.” Bishop McGrattan concluded by issuing a challenge to grow vocations throughout the diocese by committing to 40 hours of Eucharistic adoration because Eucharistic adoration will be the most efficacious approach to diocesan renewal. As I listened to the legacy of this vibrant CWL chapter and Bishop McGrattan’s message for renewal, I was reminded of another woman who sparked a Catholic renewal – St. Juliana of Mont Carillon – a Flemish nun instrumental in establishing the Feast of Corpus Christi in the thirteenth century when many people did not have access to, or understand, the Eucharist. Prophets like St. Juliana appear in periods of crisis when the patterns of life have been disrupted or destroyed. Religious leaders and laypeople at the time recognized and admired the religious devotion of St. Juliana and her sisters who channeled their energy into Eucharistic adoration. The Feast of Corpus Christi quickly became one of the most important and popular feasts of the Church because of its focus on the central mystery of the faith, and because it expressed pride in community life and, of course, simply because it was fun, which was fully on display when members of the CWL enacted a spirited and laughter-filled “fashion show.” While popular music of the past decades played, CWL members donned period clothing and joyfully paid tribute to women of the past 100 years, one decade at a time. President Helfrich, who revived the chapter after the pandemic at Fr. Roque’s request, gave the audience a humorous history lesson and noted major moments in Church history over the past 100 years. Worship, laughter, and frivolity merged into a joyous whole, showing how to bring the love of Christ into community life. If the Church’s past is any predictor of its future, women (such as the century of women from the CWL chapter of St. Patrick’s in Medicine Hat) will play a leading role in the Church’s renewal. They will lead the renewal through service to their community, Eucharistic devotion, and they will have fun doing so! “CWL is a great place to live the Catholic faith,” President Helfrich said. “CWL has supported me and what I stand for, filled my life with friendships, and gave me opportunities to help people.” Congratulations to all the members of St. Patrick’s CWL, especially the organizing committee. May God continue to bless the next generation of the Catholic Women’s League in Medicine Hat! Written by Jason Openo on behalf of St. Patrick's Parish, Medicine Hat for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Jason Openo.
“I’m very good at Lent,” my friend confided, “but I’m not very good at Easter. I struggle with joy.” My friend said this to me after I had spent most of the day reading Catholic works from the Middle Ages as part of our diaconal formation course from St. Mary’s University. When my friend confessed her struggle with joy, St. Anthony’s severe advice was fresh in my mind: “The fibre of the soul is sound when the pleasures of the body are diminished.” St. Anthony obviously loved the desert of Lent. St. Benedict’s rule includes not seeking after pleasure, hating one’s will, remaining aloof from worldly ways, and not provoking or loving laughter. Benedict was definitely a Lent-lover. According to St. Bonaventure, the Holy Spirit whispered to St. Francis that “spiritual merchandise has its beginning in the contempt of the world,” and so St. Francis sought lonely places where he could voice groanings that could be uttered only to the Lord. It is perhaps easy to see why some philosophers call Christianity sour, dour, and humourless. More confusingly, though, these statements are hard to reconcile when considering Jesus’ comments, “Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete” (John 15: 9-12). Jesus is clear: if we keep his commandments to love one another as he loved us, to carry our cross daily, to feed his sheep, and participate in the Eucharist, we can partake in the same joy Jesus brings into the world when healing people or laying down his life for his friends. Joy should not be mistaken for a purely emotive state. Emotions are fleeting, whereas the joy Jesus describes is durable, independent of circumstance, and as much a part of what we will as what we feel. A resilient joy free from the vicissitudes of life is the only way we can make sense of comments from St. Paul that we might be “as sorrowful [as death] yet always rejoicing” (2 Cor. 6:10), or “I am overflowing with joy all the more because of our affliction” (2 Cor 7:4). The next morning, I revisited the course readings from the Medieval masters looking for evidence of this durable joy, and I found a joy grounded in our creation. St. Bernard of Clairvaux points to the foundation of joy: “it is only right to love the Author of nature first of all… we should love Him, for He has endowed us with the possibility to love.” We love God because He created love and offers us the opportunity to love, to praise, to worship, and to rejoice in His work. God’s very being is an experience of loving intimacy, and this is the ground of our inmost self, as well. Julian of Norwich adorably describes this shared identity as a process of oneing: “He knit us and oned us to Himself.” This oneing takes some effort; it takes work for Jesus’ joy to be complete in our lives. But in those rare moments when we are in harmony with Jesus and united to the Father’s will, the Holy Spirit will provide an unshakeable confidence that must be proclaimed because the only thing more wonderful than experiencing harmony with God is experiencing this oneing within a community. The Eucharist is the ultimate sharing of a commmunal presence with Jesus, and every time I accept his Body, I recall Mother Teresa’s prayerful declaration: “From now on, nothing can make us suffer or cry to the point of forgetting the joy of your resurrection!” Eucharistic participation provides a joy that is no longer just an emotion, but a permanent orientation to life itself. My Sunday Missal for the Third Sunday of Easter translates Luke 24:41 as, “While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering.” The Apostles were full of joy and doubt. That’s the struggle. While I have experienced moments of ecstatic joy, most of my life is comprised of ordinary moments where I “cling to the naked promise of faith,” in Henri Nouwen’s words. In dark moments, all I have to cling to is the promise that Jesus told me the truth; that if I keep his commandments, I will remain in His love and my joy will be complete. The cross protects us from a toxic positivity and a pollyannish view of life. But the cross is also the necessary means to joy, a fruit of the Spirit that, like all fruit, needs to ripen. Joy is still ripening within me, and the struggle of the Christian life is to create the ideal conditions for joy to grow.
We were incredibly fortunate to hold our first St. Mary's Cathedral Parish Renewal Gathering on Friday, April 26, 2024, which coincided with the Memorial to Our Lady of Good Counsel. It all began with a beautiful Mass at 5 p.m., with Fr. Avi presiding and Deacon Greg Barcelon and Deacon Dennis Foraie serving. The Catholic Women's League (CWL) of St. Mary’s was instrumental in preparing for this celebration—they diligently took care of various ministries for this Mass - as this is also a special celebration of Our Lady of Good Counsel, the patroness of the Canadian Catholic Women's League. It was a beautiful beginning for the renewal gathering, and it was lovely to see our Church filled with over 300 people at the Mass. After the Mass, Fr. Avi gave a short catechesis updating us all on the #Renewal process, after which we headed off to the Parish Hall to share in a “meatless Friday meal.” It was joyous to see over 220 people come together to share food and fellowship in the Hall. There was plenty of laughter and conversation, and a table was set up for the children to be able to colour and draw throughout the evening. Perhaps one of the biggest surprises to many was the talented group of musicians, led by our own Fr. Avi who performed a range of music and songs that appealed to all age groups. There was even a singalong to “Don’t worry, be happy”, along with Fr. Julian doing an impromptu dance inviting us all to be “joyful” witnesses to others. There was so much conversation happening that when it came time to focus on breaking up into smaller groups to answer 3 questions that the Renewal Team had selected for discussion, Fr. Avi first invoked the aid of Our Lady. Together, we prayed the Hail Mary which brought a profound stillness over us, perfectly setting the tone for thoughtful discussion. The event was highlighted by the mix of familiar faces and many new ones among the attendees. Many of the 220 present were attending their very first “Church” gathering, including several recently welcomed into the Catholic faith at the Easter Vigil. It was encouraging to see the mingling of different Parish group members present to share in the evening and offer a hand, as well as demonstrate their support for the Renewal Team. Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive, with comments such as: “I feel so happy to be part of this lovely group of people”; “I feel like I belong here”; “Great event, great to see so many families here with their children”; and “Thank you so much for bringing us all together again.” “All things are possible with God” never rang so true as it did that evening. Given just two weeks to plan and execute our Renewal Gathering, it was clear to see that there is a hunger and a longing for belonging and meaningful connection within our Parish and the Diocese. It was a great beginning for us, and we remain committed to the spirit of the renewal already stirring within our Parish and Diocese. Submitted by Linda Edney, St. Mary's Cathedral Parish Renewal Team
Growing up, the Catholic Church was a feature in my life. My grandparents were regular Parishoners and my father, though lapsed in his own faith, made reference to the Church as a moral framework. I attended a Catholic school in my formative years out of pragmatism, but was transfered to public school at the impressionable age of 6 and remained in it until graduation. This presence of the Church but separation by a membrane of apathy and intangibility led to my belief that I understood the Church, when in reality I was utterly oblivious to the depths of its grace. This changed during the pandemic. In that time of struggle I was met with various hurdles, challenges that contributed to a deep malaise that overtook my life. It was within this climate of paranoia, uncertainty, and restriction, that I first began to take comfort in the stability and universality of the Church. I could find solace that cut through the pervading doubt that surrounded pandemic in the Truth of God. Apostolic succession, unchanging virtue, all surrounded by the vitality of the Church embodied in Christ. These were things that I did not know in my secular life, and graces that were absent in my other religious forays. I sought a way to unify with the Church, with the way and the life that was a hope in the oppressive darkness of the world. However, my lack of living ties, and the fact that at that time I was only 16, impeded my ability to join. In 2023, following my High School graduation and rapidly approaching my 18th birthday, the potential of a new chapter in my life emboldened me to pursue the fullness of the Church. So I did. I found my way to RCIA, and was met with the spiritual and temporal benefits of the Church that began to impact my life. Catechumenate life connected me with a fantastic array of people experiencing the ongoing journey of faith, people who were indispensible as guides along an uncertain bridge of intake into the Church. It was an honour for me to be able to undergo baptism with such a wonderful group of people, and to have the privilege to be assisted by the faculty of my Parish. Since becoming a Neophyte and I have received further blessings of faith, a galvanization to fulfill my duty as a Catholic and as a follower of Jesus Christ. I foresee a bountiful and happy life in the Church, so I hope that others can hear my testimony of its greatness to come and understand God. Submitted by Connor Shaw, who was baptized on Easter Vigil, April 20, 2024.
We have a beautiful special needs daughter who brought new meaning to “joy”. Hannah never learned to speak our language, but I could feel her love and her enthusiasm every minute I was with her. Hannah completed her earthly ministry in July of 2022 and left me with the biggest hole in my heart. Fortunately, a student and a wonderful friend of mine helped me see that where there is death, there is new life also. I had been happy in my faith and was not looking for more. But when I attended Mass with my friend I was totally blown away. I could not believe how close I felt to our Lord during the Eucharist. I had thought that Catholic worship was pomp and ceremony, but what I saw and felt was a conduit to my Lord. I could not stay away. I started attending Mass every morning on my way to work. Twenty-four hours seemed like such a long time to wait to come back again. A year ago, on Holy Thursday, I had accepted an invitation to a banquet at the Petroleum Club. At that time, I had not yet begun RCIA. So, when I accepted the invitation, I did not realize that I would miss the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. During the evening, something told me that I was at the wrong banquet. I got up and ran to my car, drove to St. Mary’s, miraculously found a parking spot and was just on time for the beginning of the Mass. I was not sure why I was there, but when Bishop McGrattan started washing the feet of those who had been chosen, I felt the most overwhelming spiritual sensation and nothing else mattered. It was like a river cascading in my head. At that moment, I knew that I would be baptized the next Easter. I must admit that my baptism at the Easter Vigil this year was a bit stressful – it was a departure from my past and I was confused and anxious. Now I realize that baptism is not simply an event, it is the beginning of a new life. While I didn’t feel an overwhelming sensation when I was baptized, I have felt a peace that is so beautiful and continuous since then. Something else happened as well – at my first confession. I needed to go, and I thought confession would be miserable with the priest scolding me. I didn’t want to go, and I rehearsed what I would say many times. But it was the most amazing experience – a loving priest understood me and gave me just the guidance I needed (and not what I had expected). I still feel the same way – every Mass is a spectacular adventure where I get to feel His love. I miss my beautiful Hannah, and I go and say a prayer at her grave each day. I know that “those who sow with tears will reap with shouts of joy” and I look forward to seeing Hannah again. And I am so thankful for my new life. I know that He died that we might live. Submitted by Mark Anderson, from St. Mary's Cathedral Parish. Photos courtesy of Maria Hernandez.
Before I became a Catholic, I led a fairly ordinary life as an independent woman in the secular world. I didn’t see much need for church-going or God’s help unless there was a snowstorm or a personal crisis. I was raised by Christian (Protestant) parents, my Father by Mennonites in the First Evangelical Free Church here in Calgary, and my Mother was raised Baptist. When they divorced, they stopped attending church regularly, and so did I. I was generally relieved to leave the hypocrisy of my upbringing behind and tackle life without much thought to the condition of my soul. Somewhere in my late 30s, I started noticing one particular question that kept coming up repeatedly: ‘How do I know what ‘right action’ is?’ I began searching for the answer to this question because it seemed to be at the root of both the suffering and the happiness in my life. I desired more happiness and less suffering. I asked more and more people this question and studied different philosophies, trying to understand how humans figure this out. It was fascinating! Around this time, I also wanted to quit smoking and went into a thrift store and picked up something that I could wear on a necklace to fiddle with when I felt the ‘itch’. It was a silver Miraculous Medal of the Virgin Mary, but of course, I did not know this at the time (I’m still wearing it today). A few years later, I met a friend in Montana who was a Catholic with a sound intellectual faith, and I asked him a little differently: ‘How do you know you are doing God’s will?’ He told me to write it down, and he would ask his priest on my behalf. The reply I received piqued my interest and appealed to my Protestant roots: ‘It is written on your heart.’ When I returned to Calgary, I looked up the closest parish to my house and contacted St. Joseph’s Parish about RCIA. Without over simplifying a rather deeply transformative process over several years, today as a Neophyte of one week exactly, I feel quite different from the woman who didn’t see much use for God before. I feel like I belong. The tradition of the Catholic Church holds the knowledge that intelligent Christians require to build faith. It succinctly and articulately addresses any and all questions that arise when it comes to inquiry about God. Anything that can not be explained is called a ‘mystery’ and fulfills a just purpose, as it is aptly named. I explain the Catholics to my Protestant kin as God’s scientists, my relatives, of course, are God’s ‘Hippies’! I had many questions about God growing up and into adulthood that no one could answer, other than to say that ‘I should pray about it’. So I did, and was confused, and then dropped out. (How does one know what thoughts are mine and which are God’s?) Since becoming a Catholic, I don’t worry about this question as much anymore. I don’t know if that means I have found the answer or the fruits of the Holy Spirit or, if it even matters which?! I also don’t really care too much about what secular people think anymore. The endless cycles of anxiety and depression driven by superficial pursuits are soul-crushing and stressful. It doesn’t mean I don’t feel that way, it just means I approach reprieve differently now. I read my bibles now (they’ve surprisingly multiplied!) and look forward to attending Mass. I don’t pray for solutions to the problems anymore, rather I think of what gifts from God I could really use to help me see things differently, if it is His will to reveal his plans. So far, I don’t have any more insight about what God's plans are for certain or His thoughts (Isaiah 55:8). However, I can recognize Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness, Modesty, Self-Control, Chastity, and Love all around. I’m on the lookout for these graces now. How I feel is less important than before, when it seemed to be all I had to go on. Who I am, my purpose now, and the way in which I live this truth is rooted in something Great and I am not afraid. Written by Michelle Thiessen, baptized on Easter Vigil 2024 at St. Joseph's Parish, Calgary
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
November 2024
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