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Speak out for those who cannot speak

10/29/2020

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As Christians and people of faith we live in hope even in the midst of this pandemic. Our God has not abandoned us; He is with us and in the words of Matthew’s Gospel, “… remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28: 20) 

The question for us as Christians isn’t “How do we get back to where we have been?”, but rather, “What is the Lord’s call for us in all of this?” The words of the prophet Jeremiah are instructive, “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11). We need always be a people of hope and we need to give voice to this hope through the renewal of society and the Church after the pandemic. Pope Francis speaks of this in his recent encyclical. 

I invite everyone to renewed hope, for hope “speaks to us of something deeply rooted in every human heart, independently of our circumstances and historical conditioning. Hope speaks to us of a thirst, an aspiration, a longing for a life of fulfillment, a desire to achieve great things, things that fill our heart and lift our spirit to lofty realities like truth, goodness and beauty, justice and love… Hope is bold; it can look beyond personal convenience, the petty securities and compensations which limit our horizon, and it can open us up to grand ideals that make life more beautiful and worthwhile”.  Let us continue, then, to advance along the paths of hope. (Fratelli Tutti, #55.)

As people of faith, we are also called to address the suffering and injustices in the witness of our faith and to offer hope. Proverbs 31: 8-9: “Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute. Speak out, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Last month the Catholic Bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories issued a pastoral statement on the Impact of COVID-19 and the Call to Christian Renewal. We stated that “Our Catholic faith has much to contribute with respect to promoting human, social and spiritual values for the common good of our society” and the authentic human development of persons. 

This month we the Alberta Catholic Bishops are also identifying two important legislative matters currently before the House of Commons in Ottawa which challenge human dignity and freedom. The first is Bill C-7 that seeks to expand access to assisted suicide and euthanasia which are inherently immoral. This would potential place vulnerable persons with disabilities and mental illness at serious risk. The other legislation deals with “conversion therapy” that is intended to address coercive practices contrary to the dignity of the human person. However, the language and definition of this legislation is vague, open to interpretation that could lead to its application in situations that would be detrimental to parental rights, religious beliefs, teaching and practices. 

It should be noted that the Catholic Bishops of Canada have also issued statements on Bill C-7 expressing opposition to this legislation and that Bill C-6 be revised to fully protect and uphold the rights of parents, and individuals to have the freedom to voluntarily live their lives in a manner consistent with their faith and beliefs. I encourage the faithful to be informed through such statements of the Alberta and Canadian Bishops on these two important issues and to respond to our request in making your own objections know to your Member of Parliament. This can be a sign of hope and a witness of our faith. 
Read below: Letter to the Faithful re: Bill C-6 and C-7 from the The Catholic Bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories
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Written by Bishop William T. McGrattan,
​October 28, 2020

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October 29, 2020 

Dear Faithful in Christ, 

We bring to your attention two important legislative matters currently before the House of Commons. Since they each represent a direct and worrisome challenge to human dignity and freedom, it is necessary that we be aware of them and make our views known to the federal government.  

The first is proposed legislation, Bill C-7, that seeks to expand access to assisted suicide and euthanasia in Canada. We know that these practices in themselves are inherently immoral. This particular Bill would remove the eligibility requirement that a person’s death be “reasonably foreseeable”, and thus effectively extend provision of euthanasia and assisted suicide to those who are not dying. This would place vulnerable citizens, such as persons with disabilities and mental illness, at serious risk. In the case of people who are dying, it aims to remove key safeguards set down in 2016, such as a 10-day reflection period and the ability to consent at the time of the provision of assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia to hasten one’s death. The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops is among the signatories to an inter-religious statement expressing opposition to Bill C- 7. The Bishops have, in addition, issued their own statement detailing their concerns with this legislation. 

Our ask of you is to contact your Member of Parliament to: 
  • insist that Bill C-7 be paused to allow comprehensive consultation with Canadians on this grave matter that affects the inherent dignity of every person in our society;
  • urge that Parliament acknowledge every person’s right to life is inherent and inalienable, not to be taken away by others;
  • advocate for universal access to excellent palliative care as the humanely appropriate response to suffering at the end of life;
  • promote meaningful protection of conscience rights for healthcare workers and institutions who conscientiously object to assisted suicide and euthanasia.

The second piece of legislation, Bill C-6, pertains to what is called “conversion therapy.” The Bill aims to prevent coercive practices contrary to the dignity of the human person, a goal that we support. However, its language and definition are open to interpretations that could lead to unacceptable overreach in application, to the detriment of parental rights and religious beliefs and practices. The Bishops of Canada have issued a statement on Bill C-6. 

Our ask of you is to contact your Member of Parliament and insist that Bill C-6 be revised to protect and uphold: 
  • the fundamental right of parents to make decisions regarding the welfare of their children, specifically their freedom to instruct them in accord with their religious and ethical beliefs;
  • the right and freedom of every Canadian to voluntarily seek support to live in a manner consistent with their faith identity and beliefs, and in accord with their personal convictions;
  • the right and freedom of the Church and other religious communities to counsel and support persons who choose to live their lives and sexuality in accord with moral teachings and the dictates of conscience;
  • the right and freedom of the Church and other religious communities to share their religious and ethical beliefs regarding human sexuality.

Thank you for your attention and action on these matters of serious concern. May our Lord both inspire and bring to accomplishment our efforts to embrace and protect the suffering and vulnerable, and to honour and uphold our rights and freedoms. 
Yours in Christ, 

Catholic Bishops of Alberta and NWT 

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Most Reverend Richard W. Smith
Archbishop of Edmonton  


Most Reverend William McGrattan
Bishop of Calgary  


Most Reverend Paul Terrio
Bishop of St. Paul 


Most Reverend Gerard Pettipas CSsR
Archbishop of Grouard-McLennan  


Most Reverend David Motiuk 
Bishop of the Ukrainian Eparchy of Edmonton  

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The little one who’s gone before us

10/28/2020

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​Michelle and Jason Widmeyer will light a candle for their little babe in heaven at the Memorial Liturgy for those mourning the loss of a child through miscarriage or stillbirth, Friday, November 20, 7 pm at Sacred Heart Parish in Calgary. 

“I am looking forward to honouring our little one who has passed and gone to heaven and also gathering with others who’ve gone through the same thing,” said Michelle.

The Widmeyers attend St. Joseph Parish in Calgary with their four children ages 5 through 11. They were excited to welcome their fifth child into their fold, until the couple received the difficult news that their baby did not have a heartbeat during an early-stage ultrasound scan this fall.

“Through this experience I’ve really grown in my own faith,” said Michelle. “I’ve realized there is such grace in suffering. Even in the sorrow and the mourning there’s such great consolation from our loving God that He doesn’t leave us empty handed. 

“There is the promise of eternal life and knowing He created this soul for Him out of love. Even if we can’t embrace this little one physically and raise them, we have a little one who’s gone before us and can pray for us in heaven.” 

The Widmeyers named their child Marion meaning ‘well-wished for child’. In late August, they made a pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Rockies Shrine in Canmore after learning Michelle was pregnant. 

“At this time we felt called to consecrate the little baby in my womb to Our Lady,” said Michelle. 

As their joy turned to grief, they leaned on trusted friends, their midwife and family doctor for support. They also spoke with Fr. Adrian Martens at Ascension Parish –– nearest church to their house in NW Calgary. He provided comfort, empathy, information and prayer. 

“He was wonderfully sympathetic and just gave a listening ear,” said Michelle. 

Fr. Martens explained how the Church could support the couple during this time by offering a memorial service or funeral Mass and giving directives for burial if desired. 

He encourages anyone who has suffered through a miscarriage or stillbirth (recently or decades ago) to speak with a priest in the Calgary Diocese. They can offer spiritual direction to help families heal.  

“We’ll be here for you and support your family’s needs. Do not think you are taking up our time. This is important. In loving these little ones we are loving the face of Christ,” said Fr. Martens. 

One way diocesan clergy minister to the bereaved is through the fifth annual Memorial Liturgy for those mourning the loss of a child through miscarriage or stillbirth. This year Bishop William McGrattan will preside over the service which draws people from all walks of life and stages of grief.   

As the Widmeyers continue to work through their grief, it is these tangible signs of love and outreach, from their family of faith, that bring them comfort and hope. 

“Even just the promise that people are praying for us feels like a big hug from God; that we are going to get through this and we will be okay; that there is joy in the midst of suffering through the loving actions of others.” 

Written by Sara Francis for Faithfully
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Father's daughters

10/27/2020

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Raising of our children well is probably the most important task of our natural, and supernatural lives – with effects on society and eternity. Yet too few parents experience the confidence and joy that the process can offer. When it comes to dads and their girls, being at different life stages is merely one complication that may cause disruption. Whether socializing or biology or both together, the differing qualities of dads and daughters add another set of factors. But instead of looking at this as a mismatch, we can instead see opportunities to enlist the differing strengths of both the parent and the child.
 
It is a near universal reality that men tend to lack proficiency and become easily overwhelmed and feel out of their depth in the twists and turns of emotion – whether others’ or our own. Since emotion is an important part of what makes us human and humane, such discomfort really is a weakness, and it is of benefit to men and their relationships to grow in this area. Another fact is that little effort is required for most fathers to quickly become deeply attached to their little girls. The natural care a man has for his daughter can provide the energy to want to go beyond his own limits and meet his daughter in her world. Daughters – especially in their teens – are tremendously adept at riding emotional waves; for best success however they should learn how to accept feelings as part of life, but not as the driver of decisions. And here a father who is in loving connection with his daughter can be a mentor, even while he learns to integrate better his own feelings in service to another.
 
Confidence is something that usually increases with age and self-understanding. At the same time testosterone probably helps explain why males typically feel more comfortable in themselves and their abilities than do most females. Among young women this disparity can be seen in eating disorders, self-harm, and greater rates of depression. Some research suggests that social media is increasing these numbers much more rapidly for our daughters than for our sons. Even while we may understand reasons for this problem, biology is not destiny and there are good reasons to act with hope. Mothers and fathers are the original authorities for their children (for religious believers it is important to understand that in practical terms, parents actually exist before God in the lives of their children, with the substance of our interactions mediating and introducing our children to God; parents who neglect their responsibilities to their children are likely to disfigure their image of God (cf. Ephesians 3:15)). Through active acceptance and meaningful praise, fathers are especially important in communicating to our daughters (and our wives) that they are valuable far beyond how they look. Through our example of humbled confidence, our girls have a path to walk along as they gain greater insight into their own identities, and avoiding unfavourable comparisons to others.
 
Issues of sexuality are a final area of great importance. Here again fathers are desperately needed to give stability to their daughters as young women. Perhaps it is because females, rightly, see themselves so much in relationship with others that girls prize highly what they think others think of them. If they have not grown sufficiently in confidence, emotional stability, and self-understanding, they will be much more likely to give undue weight to messages about how to be accepted by a young man – himself often speaking out of weakness if not manipulation. What children see in the way their dads relate to their moms signals a standard to which potential romantic relationships may be later held. And we know that family stability is one of the most important factors in personal success in the short- and the long-term.
 
In all of this we can see opportunities, or obstacles. Being paternal while not paternalistic, and acting as a patron not patronizing requires hard work. It is my firm belief that being proactive in caring for and serving our children is a challenge to which fathers can commit. They are supremely worth the effort.

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Written by Wayne Ottenbreit. Wayne writes as an educator, psychotherapist, husband, and father to nine daughters. Altogether they have recently launched online courses addressing family life, relationships, and personal growth at VivensAcademy.thinkific.com

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Photos courtesy of Wayne Ottenbreit.

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When Life Leaves Us Broken: the Hope of Purgatory

10/27/2020

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The painful truth is that I never knew my grandfather, at least in any way that a grandchild should. My grandfather went overseas to fight in the first world war, full of pride. But he returned, like so many other young men, broken in spirit. In the years after his marriage to my grandmother, life afforded him little opportunity beyond labour as a brick layer. He tried to be a man of faith, but with every bottle he drank, his sense of worth diminished. When his body finally became too tired to work, his waning years disappeared before the television screen, his mind consumed by his addiction. Whatever mercy he asked for in his final days, there is no doubt he carried tremendous pain to the grave.

How many of us carry the memories of those whose stories leave us with no tale of redemption, no dramatic moment of grace to close the curtain of life, no bright ray of hope shining on their horizon. We are left sorting through the broken dreams and fractured relationships to find a goodness we can hold up, something to tell us this life meant something.

During the month of November, the Church encourages the faithful to spend 30 days praying for the dead. Pope Francis has said: “Church tradition has always urged prayer for the dead, in particular by offering the celebration of the Eucharist for them: It is the best spiritual help that we can give to their souls, particularly to the most abandoned ones.”
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It is in the words of his predecessor, Benedict XVI, where I find great hope in the gift of purgatory, the time when God purifies those souls who long to know the peace of His eternal presence, but still carry the scars and sin of this life on earth. Benedict XVI offers these words for us:
Purgatory basically means that God can put the pieces back together again. That he can cleanse us in such a way that we are able to be with him and can stand there in the fullness of life. Purgatory strips off from one person what is unbearable and from another the inability to bear certain things, so that in each of them a pure heart is revealed, and we can see that we all belong together in one enormous symphony of being.”
My grandfather lost a part of his soul on the battlefields. In this month to come, I will be praying that God, even now, is putting the pieces back together again, through His holy fire cleansing and making my grandfather whole in spirit, so he can at last rest eternally at peace in the presence of our Holy God. And for my own penance, for the times I have walked by the broken and depressed, and have not thought to share the hope found in Christ’s redemption,

​I will give alms this month in support of veterans who are still living through the trauma of war for the sake of my freedom. Have mercy on us all, O Lord, and lead us safely Home.

Written by Lance Dixon, Director of Campus Ministry at St. Mary's University
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God is never outdone in generosity

10/27/2020

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Angela entered the Catholic Church on the Easter Vigil of 1987, after completing the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults at St. Mary's Cathedral in Calgary. It was two years after she and her husband Mario, a cradle Catholic, had married and moved to Calgary from Burlington, Ontario. 

“Within weeks of being a Roman Catholic, Fr. William Stephenson (the Rector at St. Mary’s at the time) informed me as I entered to attend Mass one Sunday morning, that I was to be the lector that day. What a shock and a knee-knocking experience it was,” recounts Angela of her first experience as a church volunteer. As she started her young family, Angela began her lifelong ministry. Before long she was serving many vital functions in several churches in Calgary, running workshops and participating in parish councils, committees, and children’s programs. 

Eighteen years of volunteering at St. Anthony’s Church has not dimmed Angela Alexandre’s enthusiasm for serving her community. Even as the COVID-19 pandemic poses extreme challenges for people everywhere, Angela is working hard with the pastoral staff led by Fr. Edmund Vargas to keep the church running during these difficult months.

Not only does Angela ensure that the parish website is up to date, she also sends out the weekly newsletter, which is particularly helpful for elderly parishioners and other vulnerable people who cannot attend Holy Mass in person. She takes part in implementing programs to meet Alberta Health protocols so that people who want to physically attend Holy Mass can safely do so.
 
“In return for my time, I have the privilege of witnessing parishioners, old and new, come to Mass and be reunited with their parish community – helping them to feel safe, welcomed, missed and needed,” says Angela, who ushers in Holy Mass attendees, cleans, coordinates safety protocols, and counts collections as part of a team. 

Angela delights in meeting many wonderful people through her ministry, and treasures being a part of their lives even as they enrich her own. Taking part in church life also enabled her to understand and appreciate the workings and traditions of the parish community, which led to an administrative career with St. Anthony’s Church. She retired in 2014 and her family moved to another parish community for a time, but they found their way back to St. Anthony’s on the First Sunday of Advent in 2019, a homecoming that proved a great blessing to the parish at this time.  

Fr. Edmund Vargas, pastor at St. Anthony's Parish, is very thankful of Angela's hard work, "She is the epitome of volunteerism. As a convert, she has been devoted to her faith; she attends daily Mass, and an exemplary wife & mother."

Angela believes that being steeped in the Catholic faith provides an irreplaceable grace, nourishment and strength. For her, the greatest​​ rewards of being a volunteer are “to know the people you pray with; to be able to touch the lives of those in need; to pass along the faith to children and walk with the elderly; to be aware of the young mother with postpartum depression and extend a helping hand, a listening ear or a shoulder; to be able to attend funerals for those who have given so much of themselves during their lifetime and to pray them into the hands of the Lord; to know others and to be known by them.”

“I consider myself paid in full for anything I do, and I believe and have experienced that when you work for God, He is never outdone in generosity,” Angela concludes. 

Written by Joan Acevedo, St. Anthony's, Calgary
Photo courtesy of Angela Alexandre. 
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God is with us

10/27/2020

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Lakeland Catholic School Division annual Girls’ Retreat
​If you have ever wondered how Catholic Education is impacting students’ lives, the Lakeland Catholic School Division annual Girls’ Retreat is a great example of how this is taking place in our communities.

Fifty girls in grades 5-12 participated in the sixth annual all girls retreat on January 31, 2020. Students arrived at École Notre Dame High School in Bonnyville at 6:00 pm on Friday and stayed until noon the following day.

We are so proud of our Youth Liturgical Leadership team who led all of the small groups, activities and worship. Organizers engaged the girls in a number of faith-based reflective and group activities designed to bring them closer. During the retreat, girls participated in an obstacle course teaching them that they can overcome their struggles by reaching out to God, others and their family. Using their strength, and the strengths of those around them; they can overcome the challenges they face and then, with their experience, help others in the future. Grade 12 student Keanna Reid gave an inspiring talk about the impact faith has on this aspect of her life and the importance of friendships.
Ms. Siobhan Penner, a teacher and Youth Minister is the main organizer of the event. She said, “We watched students unite in knowing they are not alone in the struggles that they face. God is with them and their struggles are not the first or last of their kind. We must learn to work together through our hardships, seek advice from God and those who have been victorious before us, and then, use our experience to reach out to others when we see them in similar situations so that no one ever feels alone.”

On Saturday, the students put their experiences into action by helping others who are going through loss, illness, struggles with self-esteem or difficult circumstances. The group committed to being servant leaders of Christ through a number of actions. The Big Cook involved making fifty meals for those in need in the community, which was supported by the Knights of Columbus and St. Louis Parish. They prepared personal hygiene bags for individuals who are staying at the Dragonfly Counselling and Support Centre. They posted positive messages for every student on their locker. They also made thirty-six jars of friendship soup to deliver to the local Friendship Centre (donated by St. Louis Parish). These tasks allowed the girls to come together and prepare meals or put together supplies to donate to families in the community, as well as to make the school a more welcoming and inclusive place. These actions, which are rooted in our faith, have positively influenced the students to continue helping others who are in need. The retreat is just the beginning – there is a widespread impact on our students, families and community members from this initiative, as we become God’s hands and feet.
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Written by ​Amanda Wildman, Lakeland Catholic School District
​Photos submitted by Amanda Wildman.

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The Rosary Sisters

10/27/2020

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Catholic Education touches the hearts and souls of those we serve and teaches in ways we often don’t get an opportunity to see. I’m blessed; I have seen the impact!

My teaching career started in grade one, my dream grade. I wanted my students to experience what I had when I started school - God’s great love.  My own early Catholic education had fixed this on my heart and now God gave me a chance to share.  It was a fun year. As a math/science project we made rosaries.  Making a rosary is a great way to teach patterning, counting to 50, grouping by 10, colors and most importantly prayer.

It was a joyous project.  The rosaries were made with bright wooden beads and sparkly glitter-glue popsicle stick crosses.  They took over a month to make.  It was great!

Fast forward.

I’m now working in a very different capacity for our school division and my office space is upstairs in our local high school.  I often run into kids that I’ve taught as I am walking to and from my office.  One day, on my way to my office, I heard a student (very loudly) leave a classroom that I had just walked by.  I turned around and recognized them.  They weren’t happy.  They look up at me and stopped in their tracks.  

I wondered what I should say as there clearly was a conflict.  Before I had a chance to say anything, they looked at me and said, “You’re my grade one teacher.  We made that beaded thing that we prayed with all the time.”  I was shocked.  I hadn’t thought of the rosary project in years.  I answered yes and this student told me they still had theirs.  I was even more shocked.  Of all the things that could have been said or done at that moment, we talked about the rosary!  What power the rosary holds.  

I can’t tell you how it went between the student and the teacher as they turned and went back into the room.  What I can tell you is that the power of the rosary changed the outcome. Our Catholic schools change outcomes for students at the least expected times and for years beyond the moment they are in our care.

This encounter gave me an idea for our local elementary school.  We are fortunate to have Missionary of Charity sisters in our town. They love working with children and they love the rosary!  For the past three years they have been coming into our elementary school each October to make rosaries.  They spend a morning making rosaries and praying with the students.  One of the sisters told me how during the summer when they were walking in a nearby community, one of the children they saw said to them, “Hey aren’t you the rosary Sisters?”  She smiled as she told me this story and laughed; “The rosary Sisters”!  How beautiful that our Catholic schools teach this life changing prayer to our students.  

Submitted by Cynthia Martin, St. Paul Education Catholic Education Coordinator
​Photo submitted by Cynthia Martin

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The Laity’s Vocation and Mission in the Church

10/9/2020

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In this month of October Pope Francis’ prayer intention is for the Laity’s Mission in the World. At the Second Vatican Council one of the most important contributions was the reflection and teaching about the role of the laity both within the Church but also their apostolate or calling in the world.  

The Laity’s Mission originates within the Church but is primarily lived out in what we call society or the world. By virtue of Baptism and Confirmation we are all incorporated into the Body of Christ and share in the priestly, prophetic and kingly mission of Christ. This is the vocation that is specific to laity and is one that seeks to promote the Kingdom of God through a witness of life and service which can transform society in accordance with God’s will.

In the ordinary circumstances of society and family life the laity will contribute to the sanctification of the world. They can promote and witness to the reign of God by being a leaven in fulfilling the responsibilities and obligation that are specific to their circumstances and role in the broader society. Within the Church the pastors “are joined by a close relationship” to the laity. In both following the example of Christ, and in developing a close collaboration and co-responsibility, they promote the unity of the Body of Christ and become through the Holy Spirit an authentic witness to the mission of Christ in the world. Despite the diversity of graces (gifts) and ministries (works) within the Body of Christ there is a unity that can be realized both in the Church and in service to the world through the one Spirit. 

The apostolate of the laity within the world is first and foremost a sharing in the salvific mission of Christ through the Church. The laity have a special vocation to make the Church present and active in the world where they become the “salt and light” in the midst of society. The laity in this unique witness, through spiritual sacrifices of daily life, prayer, good works, family life and community involvement continually draw strength from the Eucharist and the Sacraments. For Catholics, this must be the source of our evangelization which becomes expressed in the proclamation of Christ as a living Word through the testimony of our lives in the ordinary circumstances of life and in the acts of charity that reflect the sacrificial love celebrated and received in the Eucharist, the Sacrament of his Body. 

In the Church although there is a diversity of ministries, there must be a unity of mission. This mission of evangelization for the laity is a life lived in the midst of the world and among secular affairs. The apostolate of the laity in the world must have the following supports or foundations if it is to be vibrant and flourishing.   

  • Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist - These nourish the soul of the lay apostolate which is Love. 

  • Life in Christ – There is a common and a particular “spirituality” in the lay apostolate which respects the variety of charisms, for both women and men, the different roles of responsibility which are in fact united by the Holy Spirit.  

  • Common Spiritual Life – A meditation on the Word of God; Christian friendship (family, parish, and community) and being united with Christ in the Eucharist. 

  • Particular Life of Service – The particular spirituality comes from the circumstances of one’s state in life (married, family life, single, widow, celibate), and one’s professional and social activity. 

    The mission of the laity within the society and the world when built upon these foundations also requires a holistic understanding of education – the integral human formation of the person; spiritual living the Christian faith; intellectual belief and understanding of the faith, and the practical application of this faith. The apostolate of the laity can achieve many objectives such as the following. 

  • Evangelization – To announce the basic kerygma of the Gospel, which is the person of Christ. His life, death and resurrection and to have a personal encounter with Christ, who offers us salvation.  

  • Sanctification – The growth in holiness, of promoting the integral development of the human person where transcendent values of faith, religion and spirituality shape our individual and communal lives. 

  • Renewal of the Temporal Order – The instilling of moral and family values, ensuring equity in economic interests, the recognition and collaboration of the trades and professions, promoting institutions that serve authentic human development within the political community and international countries.  

  • Works of Charity and Mercy – The ultimate renewal of the temporal order comes about through charitable works, social aid and social action that promote conditions of integral human development in communities and throughout the world. 

This was the basic vision of the lay apostolate in the world as articulated at the time of Second Vatican Council. In many ways it continues to guide the important role that the laity can exercise in influencing the society in which we live. In the most recent encyclical of Pope Francis Fratelli Tutti he invites a dialogue among all people of good will on the issues of human fraternity and social friendship. He goes on to state. “It is my desire that, in this our time, by acknowledging the dignity of each human person, we can contribute to the rebirth of a universal aspiration to fraternity. Fraternity between all men and women.” (FT no. 8.) This also must be at the heart of the laity’s mission in the world.    

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​Written by Bishop William T. McGrattan
October 9, 2020
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Our Lady of Peace Mission Cairn Site

10/7/2020

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Our Lady of Peace Mission Cairn Sign at TWP 242/ RR 43. Photo Credit: Stephanie Dittrich
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Our Lady of Peace Mission Cairn Site in 1939. Photo Credits to Glenbow Archives - 1939.
The historic site where the first permanent mission of the Catholic Church in Southern Alberta began just got a facelift. And you are invited to make a personal pilgrimage to check it out.

Our Lady of Peace Mission is worth the short 30-minute drive from downtown Calgary to west of the city, said Dan Lacroix, Coordinator of the Our Lady of Peace Mission Cairn Site Restoration Project. The retired religion teacher and self-described history buff has poured his heart into refurbishing the provincial historic site.

“With its deterioration, the signs fell down off the highway and no one cared I guess until I did,” said Lacroix. “I don’t think people who would drive that highway would even know it was there. And when you did get there it was ruinness. It was not worthy of being a historical site.” 
Lacroix’s interest in church history turned into a mission to restore the cairn, replacing the fencing, enhancing the landscaping and even designing a new highway sign. He navigated government and ecclessial regulations, rallied together benefactors, organized tradespeople, poured over legal documents, befriended local landowners and contributed a substantial personal financial investment. He persevered for seven years to see his vision realized.  

“It should be on every tourist map,” said Lacroix. “Once you are up there with the ranchlands all around, you are transported a 100-years back because it’s not much different probably from that period in the 1870s.” 

The historical site is located on a small 24-by-24-foot patch of land in Rockyview County, 3 km off The Cowboy Trail, just north of the Hwy 22 and Hwy 8 roundabout, between Bragg Creek and the TransCanada Highway. 

Metis layman Alexis Cardinal built a log cabin there in 1872. The following year Fr. Constantine Scollen OMI, established the mission, and Fr. Leon Doucet OMI joined him two years later in 1875, at which point the mission was moved near Fort Calgary. 
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Our Lady of Peace Mission Cairn Site in 1974. Photo credit: Alberta Register of Historic Places - 1974
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Our Lady of Peace Mission Cairn Site in 2019 after the restoration. Photo credit: Stephanie Dittrich
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Several more moves took place before securing the current St. Mary’s Cathedral site in 1889. Only 10 years after its inception the original Our Lady of Peace Mission site was completely abandoned in 1882. 

A cairn was built in 1939 and the site gained a provincial historic designation in 1976. 
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Lacroix has returned the cairn to its original glory and today a cross sits atop the bright white monument that houses a plaque commemorating the early missionary efforts of Fr. Scollen and Fr. Doucet. There are some stones embedded into the cairn from the original log cabin’s fireplace and chimney.

Both priests left their European homeland to share the Gospel in Alberta. Notably, Fr. Doucet was the first priest to be ordained in Alberta. And as a gifted linguist Fr. Scollen learned fluent Cree and Ojibwe, befriended the Blackfoot and witnessed the signing of Treaty 7. 

“I think that the sense of history, and the servitude, and the sacrifices the early pioneer missionaries made is quite inspiring,” said Lacroix. “We tell saint stories to inspire our spirituality, and in this case we have historical figures who really brought the Church to Western Canada.” 

Written by Sara Francis for Faithfully
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Harvest at the Feed the Hungry Garden

10/7/2020

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The 2020 Feed the Hungry Garden at Mount St Francis Retreat, Cochrane wound up on Sept 19th with the harvesting of 2940 lbs of fresh carrots, potatoes, onions, beets, kohlrabi, zucchini and spaghetti squash for the Calgary Interfaith Food Bank.  This includes 864 lbs of zucchini and other vegetables picked and delivered to the Food Bank in August and September. Over 230 volunteer hours were invested in growing this year's garden. 

Thank you Mount St. Francis, teams and volunteers for all your hard work! We are so appreciative of what you do and may God bless you! Happy Thanksgiving!
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Singing the Mass antiphons

10/7/2020

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The antiphons in the Roman Missal and Graduale Romanum are the texts given by the Church herself for each particular liturgy. You can also find these texts handy through monthly or yearly missals such as Living With Christ. 

​During this time of pandemic, the singing of the Mass is now permitted by one cantor, under strict conditions. Cantor may sing for the assembly the propers of the Mass: Introit (entrance antiphon), Offertory antiphon and Communion antiphon. Antiphon psalm verses are optional.  Please refer to:  Liturgical Guideline Update (Sep. 25) - re: liturgical singing  ​

If you are not sure about singing the antiphons and would like to learn more about it - watch this course from Dr. Jenny Donelson (Seminary of New York/Dunwoodie) on How to add Antiphons to your Parish Sunday Mass.

The resources to sing the Mass antiphons are plenty, so please use one that would work best for your congregation and cantors skill. ​

Online and free resources to sing the antiphons in English

  • Simple English Propers (SEP) 
    SEP provides complete entrance, offertory, and communion propers in English with psalms in modal chant, with four-line notation, for Sundays and solemnities. Practice videos available! More info about Simple English Propers
    • Download Single English Propers (chant notation) here
    • Download SEP accompaniment (standard notation) for these seasons:  Ordinary Time; Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter
    • Practice videos available here

  • Lalemant Propers 
    The Lalemant Propers are extremely simple settings (in English) of the Mass Propers which make it possible for any person to sing these sacred prayers, even people who have no musical training whatsoever. More info about Lalemant Propers 
    • Download Lalemant Propers (chant notation) here

  • Source & Summit Antiphons / Illuminare Publications
    Free weekly resources for Sunday antiphons during COVID-19. At this time of the pandemid in the Diocese, sing only the Introit (Entrance antiphons), offertory and communion antiphons, and omit the sung Responsorial Psalms, Alleluia and other ordinary parts.
    • Download weekly booklet for each Sunday here

  • St Meinrad's Propers 
    By focusing on the idea that chants are simply sung prayer that springs from intensified speech, Father Columba Kelly brings us this collection of the Entrance and Communion Antiphons that make the serene beauty of chant more accessible for parishes and religious communities. Antiphons can be sung alone by the cantor, or as responsorial psalms with the assembly. 
    • Download St. Meinrad propers (chant notation - free) here 
    • Standard notation, CD & accompaniment are available for purchase from OCP here 

  • Laudate Dominum Communion Antiphons 
    Laudate Dominum website features free, downloadable communion antiphons in standard notation for all liturgical year cycles, for use at Sunday and Holy Day Masses. Practice audio available! Antiphons can be sung alone by the cantor, or as responsorial psalms with the assembly. 
    • Download Laudate Dominum Communion Antiphons here

Can we use psalm tones to sing the antiphons?
Yes. Any liturgical texts can be sung with psalm tones.
  • Here is a handy video of how to set text to psalm tones from David Clayton
  • David Clayton's psalm tone examples 
    Mode I, Mode II, Mode III, Mode IV, Mode V, Mode VI, Mode VII, Mode VIII - 
    For more information, visit https://www.thewayofbeauty.org/psalm-tones
  • St Meinrad Psalm tones | Chant notation | Standard notation | Accompaniment | Videos

Printed materials

  • Proper of the Mass for Sundays and Solemnities (by Fr. Sam Weber)
    The Propers of the Mass book contains English chant settings for the Entrance and Communion Antiphons given in The Roman Missal, 2010, as well as suggestions for the Offertory Antiphons, following the pattern of the Graduale Romanum, 1974. For most antiphons, four levels of settings from complex to very simple are provided. Optional psalm verses are provided in the Gregorian psalm tone style. Thus this collection provides an option intended to suit the abilities and needs of any choir or cantor.
    • Buy Proper of the Mass for Sunday and Solemnities here 
    • Accompaniment in standard notation

  • By Flowing Waters: Chant for the Liturgy (Paul Ford)
    By Flowing Waters is an English chant version of the two official song books of the Roman liturgy, the Graduale Romanum (the Roman Gradual) and the Graduale Simplex (the Simple Gradual).
    • Buy By Flowing Waters here

  • The St. Peter Gradual (Carl L. Reid)
    An English-language Gradual, created specifically (but not exclusively) for the use of the Ordinariate, The Saint Peter Gradual: The Chants of the Mass for Sundays, Solemnities, and Feasts, has recently become available from Newman House Press. This is a resource which English-speaking Catholics may also be used to enhance celebrations of the Mass in the Ordinary Form.
    • ​Buy The Saint Peter Gradual here

To sing the Antiphons in Latin, use: Gregorian Missal, Graduale Simplex or Graduale Romanum 
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2020 Jubilarians

10/6/2020

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Most Rev. Eugene Cooney

​With 60 years of priesthood now behind him, Bishop Emeritus Eugene Cooney reflects fondly on his vocation. The heart of his ministry was serving the people of God, as both pastor and bishop. "The priesthood is my life's work, and I've had a great life," he said. "I've enjoyed it every step of the way."

Bishop Cooney grew up in Medicine Hat - the middle child of a prayerful family of five. In 1954 he entered St. Joseph's Seminary in Edmonton and was ordained in 1960. He was appointed Bishop of Nelson by Pope John Paul II in 1996, where he served until his retirement in 2007.

Now at age 89, Bishop Cooney's advice to those discerning their vocation, particularly in today's secular culture, is to turn to prayer daily and unceasingly. "When I was growing up, prayer and doing God's will was the most important part of our lives," he said. "We asked God for blessings everyday. We were very much aware that our life is in His hands. People today should remember that God's grace is necessary for us to get through and lead a good life."
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Bishop Emeritus Eugene Cooney at a retreat. Photo: Rev. J. Ronald Knott.

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Fr. Frank Feldmann
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Rev. Frank Feldmann, SAC

Looking back on five decades as the Lord's servant, Rev. Frank Feldmann offers only one message: "the honour belongs to the One who called me." Fr. Frank was born in Germany in 1940, in the midst of the Second World War. He was ordained in 1970, first appointed as an associate pastor in Swan River, Manitoba. He was welcomed into the Diocese of Calgary in 1974, serving at St. Cecilia Church. Through his years of priesthood, Fr. Frank has also served St. Paul's Parish in Airdrie, St. Agnes in Carstairs, St. James in Okotoks and St. Michael's in Black Diamond. He became dean of the Crowsnest Pass Pastoral Zone in 2010.

Fr. Frank's priestly journey came full circle in 2012, when he returned as pastor to St. Cecilia Church - the same parish he served when first arriving in the Calgary Diocese nearly forty years earlier. He retired in December 2014.

Rev. Daniel Stevenot

Rev. Daniel Stevenot grew up in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan, the youngest of three boys. His family moved to Medicine Hat in 1961. His mother, a devout and prayerful Catholic, was the guiding influence in Fr. Dan's faith and vocation. As a teenager, Fr. Dan and his classmates started a youth group - a rare thing at that time. He also began to pray daily over his vocation. Once, while in prayer, Fr. Dan spoke that he would not like to be a priest, but instead be married with 10 kids. He then felt God tell him that, even as a priest, "You will have lots of children."

Fr. Dan entered seminary in Waterloo, Ont. when he was 19, and in 1980 was ordained at St. Patrick's Church in Medicine Hat. As a seminarian, Fr. Dan took great inspiration in wanting to help others discover God's love and how they need Him in their lives. Forty years later, that same inspiration remains within him today as pastor of St. Mary's Parish in Banff.
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Fr. Dan Stevenot
Read an interview with Fr. Daniel Stevenot here

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Fr. Arjay Abanto
Read more about Fr. Arjay Abanto here: "You did not choose me, but I chose you."
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Rev. Rowel Jose Abanto

The priesthood was Rev. Rowel Jose Abanto's childhood dream. As only a small boy, he memorized the novena to the Mother of Perpetual Help - a popular prayer in his home country of the Philippines. He entered the seminary in 1986 and was ordained in 1995 in his home Diocese of Daat, Camarines North.

Fr. Abanto was called to serve the Diocese of Calgary in 2016, and today serves St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, affectionately known in the diocese as Fr. Arjay. To become close to God, Fr. Arjay believes we must open our hearts and let the grace of God lead us wherever He wants us to go. His guiding principle in serving God and His people is the words of John 15:16: "You did not choose me, but I chose you."

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Fr. Philip Le
Read more about Fr. Le: "My Adventure with the Lord"

Rev. Philip Le

Rev. Phillip Le was born amidst the violence, poverty and suffering of the Vietnam War. His father died when he was one - leaving behind him, his mother and five siblings. These devastating hardships led Le to reflect on the meaning of life from a very young age. He found the answer in the Gospels, and from there he set on the path to priesthood.

Because of communist rule, Fr. Philip had to do his priestly studies underground. The government refused his ordination, so he fled the country in 1989 - a risk that nearly cost him his life. Fr. Philip is certain God protected him from being caught and executed.

In 1990 he came to Canada as a refugee. He continued his vocation at the Christ the King Seminary in Mission, BC. Le initially struggled with English, but as a missionary priest reminded him: “The war couldn’t kill you, the poverty couldn’t, the communists couldn’t ... So English, I assure you, cannot kill you either." In 1995, Father Philip Le was finally ordained. Today, he serves parishes in Claresholm, Nanton, and Champion. 

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Fr. George Madathikunnath
Read more about Fr. George here: "Sharing on Priestly Ministry"

Rev. Dr. George Madathikunnath

Born into a devout family in the village of Katialpoovam in India, Rev. George Madathikunnath began discerning the priesthood as a child. His discernment grew stronger through the encouragement and prayerful presence of his parents, as well as the inspiring religious conviction of his grandfather.

He was ordained in 1995, and in 2001 did his doctorate in theology from the Gregorian University in Rome. He then taught theology in India, where he always advised students of the need for a personal encounter and relationship with Jesus, as the true source of all love, peace and happiness.  "Every day He calls us to serve Him radically and completely in one way or another," Fr. George said. In 2018, he joined the Diocese of Calgary as pastor to the Malankara Catholic Rite Community.

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Fr. Benedicto Tugano IV
Read more about Fr. Tugano

Rev. Benedicto Tugano IV

Even when he was only a small boy, Rev. Benedicto Tugano IV's life was filled with devotion. He would pray the rosary daily while riding his bike. He played with friends by pretending he was a priest, distributing biscuits to them as if it was communion. That inclination to priesthood stayed with Fr. Benedicto as, many years later, he and his elder brother entered seminary. While his brother eventually left the seminary, Fr. Benedicto Tugano was ordained in 1995.

Fr. Benedicto had many anxieties in the leadup to his ordination, that he would not be faithful to his ministry. But the words of his spiritual director continue to strengthen his faith to this day: "Just be faithful each day and you will make it."

After serving six parishes in the Philippines, Fr. Benedicto came to Canada in 2009. Since August 2018, he has served the Holy Cross Church in Fort Macleod.

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Fr. Ho Bong Yi

Rev. Ho Bong Yi

"The son of man did not come to be served but to serve." (Mk 10, 45). This Gospel verse resonated with Rev. Ho Bong Yi throughout his discernment to the priesthood. The words continue to motivate him now.

Ordained in 1995 in South Korea, Fr. Ho Bong Yi came to Canada in 2016 after studying theology in Rome and at the University of Innsbruck in Austria. Along with his pastoral duties, Fr. Yi was a professor at the Catholic University of Daegu and the director of St. Peter Minor Seminary in South Korea. Yi has been pastor for St. Anne's Korean Parish in Calgary since 2016.

Fr. Yi has a strong devotion to the rosary, and he encourages all those discerning their vocation to pray continuously and serve others with charity and selflessness. In those two acts, we can discover God's will for our lives, said Fr. Yi.

Written by Kyle Greenham for Faithfully
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A chat with Fr. Tugano

10/6/2020

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Where are you from?
I was born in the Philippines and I have one brother and two sisters. I was the second oldest. Before coming to Canada, I served six parishes in the Philippines, with the last one being St. John the Baptist, where I served as pastor for 10 years. I came to Canada in November 2009.

Tell us about your vocation
Ever since I was a little boy, I was already attracted to the priesthood. I remember playing with my friends when I was a child, I would pretend that I was a priest, and with biscuits in my hand, I would “give them Communion”. My vocation was also inspired by my father’s priest friend, whom I admired. My older brother went to the seminary before me, and I followed him.  Although he did not follow through the priestly vocation, I did.

I remember feeling fearful before my ordination. I was afraid of not being faithful to my ministry, but a Jesuit priest who was a professor and spiritual director at the seminary told me, “Just be faithful each day and you will make it”.

What’s your favourite prayer?
My favourite prayer is the Rosary. Even as a child, I would pray it while riding my bike. Whenever I travel or wherever I go, I pray the Rosary.

How do we get closer to Jesus? 
Spend time praying in front of the Blessed Sacrament.

Any advice for those discerning their vocation?
I am very happy in my vocation. Life is about being with Jesus. Being a priest has filled my life with happiness. 
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Fr. Benedicto Tugano IV
Fr. Benedicto was born in May 1967 in Virac, Catanduanes, Philippines and was ordained to the priesthood on June 29, 1995 at Immaculate conception Cathedral by Most Rev. Manolo Delos Santos.  Father Tugano came to Canada the same year he was ordained where he was associate pastor at Sacred Heart Church, Calgary.  He served at St. Anthony’s Parish (2011-2013) and St. Albert the Great (2013-2015) as associate pastor. In August 2015, he became pastor of St. Peter’s in Milk River and St. Isidore Mission-Allerston. Father Tugano has been serving as pastor of Holy Cross Church in Fort Macleod since August 2018.

Interview conducted by Anne Marie Brown
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Sharing on Priestly Ministry

10/6/2020

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Please share about your family
I was born in a village called, Katilapoovam in Kerala State in India. My parents, Cheriyan & Eliamma and my elder sister Sara John (Jincy) and younger brother Philippose (Vinoy) and their family now live in Toronto, Ontario. My parents and grandparents were deeply religious. Their faith experience and especially my grandfather’s religious convictions were always inspirational guidance to my priesthood. My family always stood behind me with strong support and helping me with prayer and spiritual bond.

How did you discern your vocation to the priesthood?
I was born and brought up in a traditional Orthodox St. Thomas Christian family in India. From Childhood days and especially during my primary school days, I was liked and desired for a dedicated way of life. For this, I was supported by many holy lives and particularly the role model of my parents. My discernment to become a priest grew strong due to the encouragement coupled with the prayerful presence of my parents and grandparents. 

Any priestly ministry stories before you arrived in Canada?
I was ordained to priesthood on 18th April 1995. After the ordination, I worked in a few parishes and as editor of the diocesan publication. In 2001, I was sent for higher studies in Rome and did a licentiate and doctorate in theology from the Gregorian University. After my studies, I was appointed as Chancellor of the Diocese of Muvatupuzha. Besides being the Chancellor, I was asked to teach theology in St. Mary’s Malankara Theological Seminary, Trivandrum. Before coming to Calgary, I worked in Switzerland as pastor of three parishes in the Diocese of Basel. In 2018, I joined the Diocese of Calgary as pastor to the Malankara Catholic Rite Community in Calgary while also serving as associate pastor at St. Michael's Church. I thank Bishop William McGrattan for his care and support for the Malankara Catholic community. Presently I am serving at St. Bonaventure Church in Calgary.

Any spiritual message to share from your priestly ministry
In my 25 years of priestly life, I was always happy to be with people serving, sharing and caring for them. I also enjoyed my priestly ministry in administering the Holy Eucharist, the summit of Christian life, dispensing of divine mercy in the sacrament of reconciliation, and the celebration of other sacraments. Of course, the priesthood is a gift from God. Priest is another Christ. He represents Christ to the world. 

How do we become closer to Jesus?
When I was working in the Seminary, I was teaching two subjects of Theology, Christology and Mariology. While teaching the doctrinal teachings of the Church, I never failed to advise my students the need of personal encounter and relationship with Jesus. Yes, Jesus Christ is the Saviour of the world. He is the true source of love, peace, and happiness. Following the teachings of Jesus Christ shows our love for Him and our desire to be close to Him. If we make an effort for an authentic sacramental life, we certainly experience him as well as feel his love. 

Any message for those discerning a vocation? 
We are all created in the image and likeness of God. We have our dignity as sons and daughters of God. Together with this dignity as Children of God, we are privileged to have divine call to different vocations. Discerning and embracing our vocation is paramount important. Every day He calls us to serve Him radically and completely in one way or another, which requires faithful and active obedience, unwavering commitment, and devotion from the one called.
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As I celebrate my 25th Ordination Anniversary, I thank God for his great providence and grace.
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Rev. Dr. George Madathikunnath

Written by Rev. Dr. George Madathikunnath
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An adventure with the Lord

10/6/2020

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​I was born and grew up in Vietnam during the war. My father died and left six children to the care of my mother when I was one year old. War and poverty made life very difficult for everyone. The suffering of people forced me to reflect on what life was all about. I found the answer in the Good News of Christ, and that made me pursue the priesthood. During my training, the war ended and the communists took over the country. My fellow seminarians and I did our best to finish the training, mostly underground. When I finished my studies, I thought I would be a priest and would serve the people in my country. At that time, the communist government had the final word for any priestly ordination. Every year with permission from my bishop, I sent a request to the government, but the authority kept saying “no” to my ordination without an explanation. Six years later, I planned to escape the country by boat.  

Someone at the coast arranged and prepared for the trip. It was in March 1989. It took me two days on a canoe along the rivers to reach the ocean. I got on a little boat no longer than 20 feet, with 14 other people. They left at midnight without any troubles. Just about eight o’clock in the morning, the government boats appeared from nowhere and the guards began to shoot at our boat. Our boat got hit, but the people were okay, as we would rather have died than to let ourselves fall into the hands of the guards. When the strong wind and big waves approached them, the guards feared for their lives so they stopped chasing them. I continued my journey and realized it was God who protected me and my companions. I crossed the ocean and landed in Malaysia on the seventh day.

I arrived at a refugee camp called Pulau Bidong. There were over 15,000 people in that camp.  Life was not ideal, but safe. It was a matter of time that I would be in a free country. A Canadian delegation came, and thought that I would be a good candidate for Canada. 

February 5, 1990 was the day I put my foot on the free land of Canada, and it was the first time I ever saw and touched snow. I continued to enjoy life and freedom around Toronto and Mississauga. For a while I forgot the reason why I escaped, but God didn’t forget me. My priest friend and the Bishop of Calgary invited me to return to training again. I left everything and took a bus to Calgary. The Bishop sent me to study in Christ the King Seminary in Mission, BC. After a year, I went back to Calgary with distress, as I could not speak the language. I planned to quit, but I met with a missionary priest who worked in Vietnam for 40 years until the communists kicked him out. This changed my life. The priest said, “The war couldn’t kill you, the poverty couldn’t, the communists couldn’t, the ocean couldn’t, and the refugee camp couldn’t, so English, I assure you, cannot kill you either. Be patient if God calls you, he will give you an ability to master the language.”

I then spent the next three years at St. Joseph Seminary in Edmonton and loved following the Lord. It took 26 years between my first day in a seminary and my priestly ordination (1969-1995). I felt like I was a slow learner! But for me, a priest is a man of joy, a man for others, and a man of prayer.  

Yes, dear people of God, have you ever had a thorough reflection on the life of a priest? If you do, or even if you do not, thank God for the priesthood and pray for your priests daily. With such actualities, with such a challenging future, the Eucharist is still a thanksgiving and a source of strength on a priestly journey. I cry out daily with fresh accents as the French priest Jean Baptiste Lacordaire did, “Yes, my God, yes indeed, what a life!”

Written by Fr. Philip Le
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Fr. Philip Le
Fr. Phililp was born in July 1956 in Hiep Hoa – Long An, Vietnam and came to Canada in_1990.  He was ordained to the priesthood on August 4, 1995 in  Calgary. His first assignment in Calgary was as assistant pastor at St. Mary’s Cathedral (1995-1997). He then moved on to St. Mary’s in Medicine Hat, which was later where he again served as assistant pastor (1997-1999).  Father Le also spent a year in Assumption Catholic Church in Hay River, Mackenzie-Fort Smith in the Northwest Territories (1999-2000). He was also pastor at St. Francis de Sales, in High River (2000 -_2010) and was the administrator of Holy Family in Medicine Hat (2010), where he also became the pastor (2011).  From 2011 to 2018, Fr. Le was at Holy Family, Medicine Hat. He currently serves the parishes of Christ the King, Claresholm, St. Cecilia’s Church, Nanton, and St. Mary’s Church, Champion as pastor.  
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You did not choose me, but I chose you

10/6/2020

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I am the youngest of 11 children. To become a priest is my childhood dream and my parents, Anunciacion and Rex, were instrumental in my vocation. I always accompanied my mother to church when I was young and memorized the novena to the Mother of Perpetual Help, one of the famous novena prayers to Mary in the Philippines. My vocation was nurtured through my active involvement in the parish especially the youth organization, an attitude I got from my father who was then a public servant in their community.  

I entered Holy Rosary Minor Seminary in the Philippines in 1986 and graduated with a degree of Bachelor of Arts, Major in Philosophy & Minor in Religious Education, and at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary with a Bachelor of Sacred Theology. I was ordained a priest on June 10, 1995 in my diocese (Diocese of Daet, Camarines Norte) by the Most Rev. Benjamin J. Almoneda, DD.  I also studied Liturgy at San Beda University and Human Development Psychology at De La Salle University both in Manila, Philippines. I assumed various ministries and parishes including Liturgy Director and Master of Ceremonies for 8 years, and my last assignment was as Rector and Pastor of the Parish and Shrine of St. Anthony of Padua, Mercedes, Camarines Norte.

After serving my home country for 21 years, I was called to serve the Diocese of Calgary in 2016 and was assigned by Most Rev. Frederick Henry, DD as Associate Pastor of St. Mary’s Cathedral for 3 years. I was appointed by the Most Rev. William T. McGrattan, DD as Associate Pastor of St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church last August 1, 2019. 

Following the Lord is not easy but I rely on God’s mercy and love. During trials and difficulties, my spiritual director always said to me: “Don’t give up. His grace is enough for you and He will take care of you no matter what!” That’s why, I chose my priestly ordination motto as my guiding principle to serve God and His people: “You did not choose me, but I chose you…” (John 15:16).

When asked about how to become closer to God, my advice is this: one must have an open heart and mind, and let the grace of God lead you to where He wants you to go. To trust and surrender everything to the Lord is the best way to follow Him. For me, with God as my protector, Jesus Christ as my Master and Lord, Mary as my loving Mother, everything will be in place according to His will and plan.  

Written by Fr. Arjay Abanto
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Fr. Rowel Jose Abanto (Fr. Arjay)
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A chat with Fr. Daniel Stevenot

10/6/2020

2 Comments

 
Tell us about your family
I was the youngest of three boys. I grew up in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. My father is Belgian, and my mother is French Canadian and Native - part Cree. In 1961, my family moved to Medicine Hat because there were no crops in Shaunavon. His family was members of St. Patrick’s Parish in Medicine Hat.  

How did you discern your vocation?
My mother was very spiritual and she prayed a lot. I would go to Mass with her and learned to pray, so she was a strong influence. In high school, my classmates and I started a youth group, which was quite a novel thing at the time, and we did lots of things, and we prayed together. In the early 70’s when there were a lot of changes in the Church, I began going to daily Mass and praying about my vocation. I told God that I didn’t want to be a priest but wanted to be married with 10 kids. I felt God saying to me, “You will have lots of children”. Also, there were several priests in the diocese that influenced me, like Fr. Krewski, Fr. John Petravicius, and Fr. Len Hagel. I had talked to Fr. Krewski several times about my vocation, and he expressed an interest “to just find out” if he did. Then one day Fr. Krewski told me that Bishop O’Byrne would be in town and wanted to see me. When Bishop O’Byrne asked me why I wanted to be a priest, I remember replying, “My friends are leaving the Church and losing their faith. I want to help people to realise how much God loves them and how they need Him in their lives”. So when I was about 19 years old, I went to the seminary in Waterloo with the Resurrection Fathers. I was supposed to go to the seminary in London but it was too late for registration, so I went to the seminary in Waterloo, which turned out to be a great blessing. 

What’s the best advice ever given to you?
Best advice given to me was to take my time and discern in my heart in my relationship with God what my calling truly is, and not to do it for anyone, or anything, but God alone. I told the Blessed Mother, “I don’t know if I can do this” and I didn’t feel worthy, but I felt Our Lady telling me that God would give me strength and He would lead me.

Share your favourite prayer
The prayer of St. Ignatius “Take Lord, receive…” and the prayer of St. Dominic Savio. 

How to get closer to Jesus? 
This is what I learned through life experience and through prayer. You need to spend time with God, find a quiet place that you can go to and spend time with Him. Sometimes you might question yourself saying “What am I doing here”, but you’ll be surprised when and how you will be touched by God. Just be aware of Him. I also encourage people to read the lives of the Saints, which I did in my youth, and they influenced my life. “They are real people and their love of God reflects who they are. You know it’s not fake”.

Any message for those discerning a vocation?
Have an open mind and heart to God. They may not be led to the priesthood, but all vocations are beautiful. ‘Make time for God, have God in your life, and be a good steward. All vocations are important!”

I can’t believe it’s been 41 years. I thank God for what I have and the people who have helped me along the way, as well as all the parishes, and even the ones that gave me headaches because they helped me to grow. It’s not always easy and there are ups and down in life, but I am happy for who I am, where I am at, and whatever good God has done through me.
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Fr. Daniel Stevenot
Father Daniel Stevenot was born in December of 1953 in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. He was ordained a priest on September 5, 1980 at St. Patrick’s Church in Medicine Hat by Bishop Paul O’Byrne. In the summer of 1979, Father Stevenot served as chaplain at the Foothills Hospital. After his ordination, he went to St. Basil’s Church in Lethbridge as Assistant Pastor (1980-1983). Subsequently, he went to St. Luke’s Parish and was again assistant pastor (1983-1986) whereupon he was transferred to Sacred Heart Church in Oyen (1986-1990) and was the pastor there for the next four years. In 1990, Father Stevenot became pastor of St. Michael’s Church in Bow Island where he stayed until 1995. The parish of St. Catherine’s in Picture Butte and St. Mary’s in Champion welcomed Father as pastor from 1995-1999. Following this appointment, he served as dean in Lethbridge (1997-1999) and then was appointed pastor of St. Anthony’s in Drumheller (1999-2006). Father Stevenot was then transferred to St. George’s Parish in Hanna (2003-2006). After taking a sabbatical year, Father Stevenot was appointed pastor of Holy Family in Medicine Hat (2006-2007). From there, he went to St. Bernard’s Church (June 2007) as pastor and remained there until August 1, 2015 when he went to St. Mary’s Parish, Banff where he is currently serving as pastor.

Interview conducted by Anne Marie Brown, Catholic Pastoral Centre
2 Comments

From the farm to your table

10/6/2020

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Bob Bateman's family at the farm
From coast-to-coast, people of faith will give special thanks this weekend for the Canadians whose life’s work produces the food we find on our grocery store shelves and kitchen tables. Bob Bateman appreciates the gratitude and prayers. But the High River grain farmer has a bit of a confession. While he likes to celebrate Thanksgiving with his wife Karen and their four kids, he gives special thanks when harvest is done. “It’s always a big relief to get the harvest off because you work so long and so hard to get that crop in the bin.” This year, his harvest wrapped up in September—and Bateman, who’s already planning next year’s crops—has been thanking God ever since.
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In Southern Alberta, the Thanksgiving holiday typically coincides with the harvest of an edible bounty that ranges from potatoes to pumpkins, carrots, cabbages and onions. The region also produces bread wheat, the durum wheat used to make pasta, sugar beets, canola, high-quality barley for brewing beer, and a growing number of pulse crops sold to international markets that want Alberta’s beans, peas, chickpeas and lentils. 

Growing wheat, barley, canola and field peas on land that overlooks the majestic Rocky Mountains, Bateman says there were times this harvest season when mechanical problems threatened the operation. “I told Karen, I think the good Lord is teaching us patience.” 

Knowing that harvest-time field fires were common in their area due to dry conditions in August and September, he and Karen were profoundly grateful when they discovered and repaired a mechanical issue before it caused a fire. Looking back, “I know we were being watched over and protected,” says Bateman, a parishioner at St. Francis de Sales in High River.
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The Gouw family in Taber, Alberta
Kyle and Carla Gouw farm near Taber, where they grow onions, fresh peas, sugar beets, silage corn, barley, alfalfa and beef  “This year was the exact opposite of last year,” notes Gouw, who attends mass at St. Augustine in Taber. In 2019, early snow ended harvest operations before they were complete. The Gouws harvested some of last year’s crops in the spring of 2020. This year, they were done harvest by early October. 

Gouw says it’s tough for him to think about being especially grateful at Thanksgiving. “I feel like its Thanksgiving all year long,” says the father of four. Like Bateman, Gouw converted to Catholicism. Both men attend the parishes where their wives grew up in the faith. 

The son of a Dutch immigrant, Gouw says his relationship with the Holy Spirit comes naturally. “Farmers spend a lot of time on their own. And when you’re alone, you’ll often find yourself talking to God.” 

Fr. Mariusz Sztuk, parish priest at High River, knows both men and their families. “What I see in both of these guys is they have respect for the field.” Raised on a farm in Poland, the priest feels a kinship with people who share his own appreciation of the land. “Both of these guys have this sense that the land is a gift given to them. They believe they need to take care of what they have.”
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“We take pride in the quality of food that comes off our land,” adds Bateman. “Producing a very safe product and improving our land, that’s important to us.” 
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The Bateman family farm in High River, Alberta

Written by Joy Gregory for Faithfully
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Around the world with Mary

10/5/2020

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 “Tuus totus ego sum, et omnia mea tua sunt” I am all yours, and all that I have is yours, O most loving Jesus, through Mary, your most holy Mother. ~ St. Louis de Montfort
To celebrate the month of our devotion to our Blessed Mother, Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta are taking us on a tour around the world with some universal images of Mary. We hope you find them both beautiful and prayerful, and appreciate the inspiration behind each artwork.  
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The Way, The Truth and The Life – England
By Pat Burchnall, Artist – Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta 


This icon began its ‘life’ at a workshop in England, hosted by Aidan Hart. The workshop was to study iconographic garment folds. The remainder of the work was completed once back in Calgary. Tenderness icons are identified by Our Blessed Mother and Jesus touching cheek to cheek. Mary invites the viewer to meet her son Jesus as “The Way, The Truth and The Life”.

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Our Lady of Coromoto – Venezuela 
By Mark Charlton – Artist, Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta 

Our Lady of Coromoto. Also known as the Virgin of Coromoto, based on an apparition of the Virgin Mary to a local Venezuelan tribal chef in the mid 17th century. In 1942, Our Lady of Coromoto was declared the Patroness of Venezuela and a National Shrine in her honour was dedicated in 1996.  I was recently commissioned to paint an icon to celebrate the birth of a first child. Since the father is Venezuelan, the family specifically requested an icon of Our Lady of Coromoto. In designing the icon, I was asked to include elements which clearly connect the image to its national origins. As a result, the Virgin Mary is crowned with a floral headdress typical of traditional Meso-American cultures. A thurpial, the Venezuelan national bird, symbolizes the veneration of the Virgin as Patroness of Venezuela.  The Virgin’s throne is also surrounded by orchids, the Venezuelan national flower. The crown of 12 stars is based on a reference in Revelation 12:1.

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Virgin Mary & Jesus – France 
By Gloria Chow, Artist – Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta 

I was delighted to be able to do a study of the detail of a Bouguereau painting through a SAGA Workshop. Bouguereau was a wonderful artist and his depiction of Mary and Jesus was full of tenderness and love. Mary's love for Jesus reflects the love she has for all mankind. I can feel the mercy and tenderness Mary has on us as I was painting the image.

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​Mother of God – Russia  
By Alla Kireyeva, Artist & Instructor – Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta 

In Russia, the Kazanskaya Mother of God was one of the most revered icons and the patron saint of women. Therefore, a Kazanskaya was always present in the icon corner of a family’s house, next to the icon of Nicholas, the patron saint of men. According to legend a young girl named Matrona found the icon of the Kazanskaya in 1597 after the Virgin Mary appeared to her in a dream. The icon was carried in procession to the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Kazan, where it worked many miracles. A monastery was erected where Matrona found the icon, and she herself entered the convent. This icon played an important role in Russian history. It accompanied the Russian army against the Poles in 1612 when Moscow was liberated. Two centuries later, in 1812, the Mother of God protected the Russian army against Napoleon. During the Russian-Japanese war (1904-1905) the Kazanskaya icon disappeared. Only recently the icon was discovered in the Vatican. In 2005 the Pope decided to return the Kazanskaya to Russia. Whether this was the original icon or a later copy is uncertain. The Virgin inclines her head towards Christ, who stands at her left side with his right hand raised in benediction. He is depicted half-length and faces the viewer frontally. In the Russian Orthodox Church calendar, the Kazanskaya icon is celebrated on 8 July and 22 October.

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Our Lady of Guadalupe – Mexico 
By Maria Muszynski, Artist – Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta 

This miniature illumination is a variation of the icon that is venerated across the Americas. Mary, Queen of Heaven, is surrounded by vines, hearts and roses, and is ascending upon the half moon which is under her feet and the crown on top. She is illuminated by the divine rays which emanate from her presence. Her inner robe is decorated with stylized flowers and her outer robe is covered in stars. There was a limited palette used to create a cohesiveness among the different elements.

If you are interested in learning more about the Sacred Arts Guild of Alberta please email SacredArtsGuildofAlberta@gmail.com or check their website at SacredArtsGuildofAlberta.com
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National Health Care Week 2020

10/5/2020

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At the heart of Catholic health care is a deep respect for the intrinsic value and dignity of every human being and an unwavering commitment to serving all people, from all backgrounds and faiths – especially society’s most vulnerable. 

This week is the National Health Care Week (Oct 4-10) - we invite you to learn more about National Catholic Health Care by visiting Catholic Health Alliance of Canada 

Download: 
  • National Catholic Health Care - Awaken Statement
  • Daily Reflections
  • National Catholic Health Care Declaration
  • Letter of Gratitude from Minister Shandro

This is a time for us to reflect and give thanks for the gift of Catholic health care, and for the thousands of dedicated staff, physicians and volunteers who care for those in need. Like the Sisters who came before us, the Covenant family is united by a shared mission that calls on us to serve people from all backgrounds and society’s most vulnerable, according to our values.

During National Catholic Health Care Week, let us give thanks for the courageous gift of Catholic health care during these challenging times—in hospitals, community health centres, or seniors care homes. We pray:
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  • For the Church, a company of believers who journey with the risen Lord, and who stand in prayerful solidarity with the sick, poor and marginalized. We pray to the Lord.
  • For community health centers, and seniors care homes as they foster healing and hope for the people and communities they serve. We pray to the Lord.
  • For all people who serve our Catholic health care organizations – nurses, physicians, employees and volunteers - that they may reflect the face of Jesus as they care for those experiencing illness, disability, and end of life. We pray to the Lord.
  • For those receiving health care, especially those who are most vulnerable, that they experience empathy, compassion, and the love of God in the midst of health difficulties. We pray to the Lord.
  • For all who respond to challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to health care and our larger society; for courage to have important conversations about the experiences of illness, stigma, poverty or loneliness highlighted during this time. We pray to the Lord.
  • For the spiritual and physical well-being of all parishioners; for those who have died recently; and for those who mourn and suffer loss. We pray to the Lord.
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Totus tuus, totally yours

10/4/2020

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Children's Rosary Group in Tanzania, with rosaries from Totus Tuus, Calgary
I have been praying the rosary for years, but it never ever entered my mind to actually make rosaries – that is, not until a visiting priest gave me a hand-made cord rosary at one of our Parish Missions. As soon as I saw it, I had the desire to start making rosaries just like that one!

To make a long story short, I obtained the necessary supplies and tools and started making rosaries, not having the slightest idea of how this ministry would unfold. 

As a former teacher I thought it would be a wonderful thing to make rosaries with children in the schools – but I didn’t mention this to anyone, because being retired, I didn’t see how this could possibly happen. Of course, our Lady had a plan. One of our parishioners saw me making rosaries and  asked me, out of the blue ☺  if I had ever thought about doing this in the schools!!! 

I said, ‘Yes! But I need to be invited!” He said “I’m inviting you – I’m a grade 6 teacher at” – get ready for this – “Our Lady of the Assumption School!” Our Lady had a plan and it was to begin in one of her own schools!

So on February 28th 1998 I made my first school visit. When the kids finished making the rosaries, they were thrilled – they were SO proud of their rosaries that they were showing them off to all the other students -  naturally all of them wanted to make their own rosary, too -  so the teachers had no choice but to invite me back to make rosaries with all the other classes in the school! 

After that, news of the program spread by word of mouth, from teacher to teacher, from school to school – over the years we have visited 103 of our Catholic Schools – not only in Calgary, but also in Airdrie, Chestermere, Okotoks,  DeWinton, High River and even as far away as Brooks! Every year we make and pray the rosary with between 2,000 - 3,000 students from Kindergarten to Grade 9. Teachers and students alike consider it a high-point of the year – by the end of September we are booked up for the whole school year.

At the same time, friends and parishioners, devotees of our Lady and the Rosary, were inspired to learn to make rosaries too, so we started having weekly meetings. Our membership has grown to over 60 men, women and children, who meet every Tuesday Morning at Holy Spirit Church to pray and make rosaries. When it becomes possible to resume gatherings, you are most welcome to drop in and learn how to make Rosaries and pray and enjoy the warm fellowship which has developed in this very special group.

Totus tuus is a Latin phrase which means ‘totally yours’ -  Pope (Saint) John Paul II took it as his  motto – consecrating his Pontificate to the care and guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary. That was -- and is -- the inspiration for the name of our Association. The work is totally our Lady’s work – the group belongs totally to her. And each one of us, individually, strives to belong totally to her as well -- so that through Mary - we can belong totally to Jesus. For that is Mary’s desire for us. As our Heavenly Mother, her priority is to bring us closer and closer to Jesus, so that one day we can be united with Him forever in Heaven.

Our Apostolate is actually two-fold – the first is our ministry in the schools --   the second is making and distributing rosaries worldwide. It is truly amazing how our Lady works things out  – we began by leaving a few rosaries in our chapel, giving them to pastoral care workers and then people started taking rosaries on their travels, giving them as gifts to parishes that they visited.

A few years ago, the daughter of one of our Rosary Makers was going to Malawi, Africa and took a gift of rosaries to a Sister there. The Sister gave a priest one of the rosaries, he in turn told other priests about our rosaries and word spread throughout Malawi, so that today we have over 45 connections in that country alone!!
Fr Santhosh with children in Tanzania
Prayer group in Venezuela
Students in one of our Calgary schools proudly showing off the rosaries that they made
Youth Group in Dedza, Malawi with Fr. Joseph
Village children in India
Children's Rosary Group in Tanzania with rosaries from Totus Tuus in Calgary
Our Lady knows ahead of time where the needs are and makes sure they are met. For example, a friend called me, saying she and her husband were going to Hawaii and asked if it would be  OK for her to take rosaries, even though Hawaii is not a ‘mission country’. I told her I would be glad to give her some rosaries -  there must be a reason why she feels the need to take them. She called again when she got back – “You won’t believe it’ she said “ When I gave the rosaries to the Parish Priest in Maui he was overjoyed. He said the parish was starting a Prison Ministry and he didn’t know where he would get enough rosaries!!” And there are many more similar incidents.

Through our Lady’s inspiration and guidance, our world wide mission has grown to include 83 countries -- and this year alone we have already sent out over 40,000 rosaries!

Needless to say, the most important aspect of our ministry is the praying of the rosary.
Through the rosary we are surrounding the world in prayer – which is the true essence and meaning of our Apostolate. 

Our Blessed Mother has made it possible for us to respond to her plea which she made in Fatima: 
“Tell everyone to pray the Rosary everyday to obtain peace in the world.” 

We know that the world needs peace and the rosary is the perfect prayer for peace, because it is all about Jesus, who is the Prince of Peace.

Written by Marta Toltesi. Marta lives in Calgary with her husband, John. They have two children and two grandchildren and have been parishioners of Holy Spirit Parish for over 40 years. She is a retired teacher and enjoys gardening, photography and volunteering in the schools, teaching about the rosary. 

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25 years of blessings

10/4/2020

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To celebrate a nativity is to celebrate the birth of someone or something new. September 8 is the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, also known as her birthday. It was back on September 8, 1995 that Clear Water Academy, a private, Catholic school, first opened its doors in Calgary to a mission that would form Christian leaders for the transformation of society.
 
On September 8, 2020, Clear Water Academy celebrated its 25th Anniversary since its foundation on the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, Patroness of our school, and the opening of a brand-new Elementary school building dedicated to and called St. Thomas More Hall – a nativity of its own kind.
 
With hopeful anticipation we watched our new building come to completion over the summer months. St. Thomas More Hall is beautiful; a proper nod to the excellence that takes place within its walls. In addition to our peaceful new chapel, colourful library, Atrium, and outdoor learning areas, it has large classrooms that easily house our small class sizes, and are outfitted with sinks for optimal handwashing, making physical distancing and other safety protocols much more achievable. 
 
Just two days after the Alberta Government announced the cancellation of in-person classes in early March of 2020, faculty at Clear Water Academy pivoted to CWA Interim Home Learning and witnessed the resilience of our entire community over the months of an uncharted learning environment. Our teachers sent home work packages and held classes over Google Meet, and provided hours of one-on-one support over Zoom. Our morning intercom announcements took the form of videos, and our students worked in new ways to stay engaged in their learning. It was a proud display of the tenacity and the unity of parents and faculty working together for the normalcy of a school routine for our students despite the daily-changing news updates, fears, uncertainties, disappointments in cancelled plans, and threatening despair we were all, in our humanity, experiencing at the time.
 
We believe that these victories in the practical elements of education were the fruits of our Intellectual, Spiritual, Human, and Apostolic educational model. Since God has given and blessed our mission and since we have, by grace, echoed Mary’s “yes” to fulfill the call, when fear tempted us to panic, our faith reminded us to hope and to persevere. It urged us to be thankful, even, for such a clear return to the heart of trust that comes from knowing that we have a Saviour in Jesus when nothing else seems as it should be. 

The long-awaited celebration of our 25th anniversary is of unrepeatable significance as we welcomed our students back to campus. What joy we experienced - with masks, washed hands, and physical distance - to see our students and parents again!  It’s safe to say that it has required “all sanitized hands on deck” to implement our School Re-entry Plan that has been prepared for the safety of our faculty, students, families, and greater community.
 
We are grateful to our faculty for their dedication to the mission they’ve been called to - and to our parents for their trust and partnership with us in the ongoing education and formation of their children. And finally, we are grateful that Jesus resides within our school chapels and that He is known more and more by our faculty, families, and students in every heartfelt prayer, learning activity, kind encounter, and friendly encouragement that make up our days. 

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For more information about Clear Water Academy, visit www.clearwateracademy.com
 
Clear Water Academy, located in the Currie Barracks, is a Private, Catholic school for students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 with a mission to form Christian leaders who will transform society.
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Here I am, send me

10/4/2020

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CCO Missionaries gathered from across the country to be trained in the mission.
​“I will go anywhere you want me to go, I will do anything you want me to do, I will say anything you want me to say.” Those are the words that every missionary with Catholic Christian Outreach (CCO) prays every day signifying the abdonment that we will go, do, and say whatever it is the Lord is asking of us. CCO missionaries live with a radical abandonment, the willingness to say yes to God for the mission like biblical figures like Abraham, Isaiah or Mary and saints like St. Francis Xavier. They reveal a heart on fire for Jesus and for souls to know Him. In CCO, our mission is shaped after the heart of those I mentioned above. Our mission statement is: CCO is a university student movement dedicated to evangelization. We challenge young people to live in the fulness of the Catholic faith with a strong emphasis on becoming leaders in the renewal of the world. When CCO missionaries say yes to a career with us and to live out CCO’s unique mission, we say yes to living a life of being abandoned. Now typically, how that plays out is that we are abandoned to our placements which can be anywhere in the country or being abandoned to how God provides for our ministry though our efforts in support raising. However, CCO lived this out in the past seven months in a very unforeseen way. We have had to be abandoned in everything that we do so that our mission can continue despite this global pandemic.

When we say the words “I will go, I will do, and I will say,” we didn’t expect that going means staying at home, doing means starting a Zoom call, and saying is looking for ways to creatively invite university students to place Jesus at the centre of their lives through a video screen. But that’s exactly what happened. Our mission of proclaiming Jesus clearly and simply continued despite every physical limitation that the pandemic has placed on us. Abandonment is never easy; doing mission this way has been difficult. We miss personal connections, students are harder to get hold of, and our missionaries and students are longing for community. But when Jesus calls us to something, He knows exactly how even if we can’t see it. It’s hard to see, but I trust that the Lord has good plans in all this. He knows exactly what He is doing. He has called us to a mission to bring University students to Him and He is asking us to do this by going, doing, and saying the things he is asking of us while physical distancing. 

Despite our mission seeming impossible, we have seen great fruit throughout this pandemic. In the Spring, we were in the middle of our campus programming when campuses were shut down and everything was moved online. It was a very sudden turnaround, but despite that we were able to retain 91% of our students through accompanying them online. Then shortly after, we cancelled all of our missions this summer due to travel restrictions. The Lord asked us to still have a mission and to do it online. There we saw over 120 students hear the Gospel message proclaimed to them because students joined an online mission and invited their friends to a faith study. And now this normally would be the time where we would be seeking out new students on campus and since no students are on campus, we have found new ways to find new students wether that be through personal invitations, social media campaigns, or reaching out through our networks. 

This year has not been easy for most of us. But in this time, the Father still calls us individually. In fact, He is calling every single Catholic, through their baptism, to proclaim Jesus’ name. That may seem daunting and we may not know how, but what I have seen through this pandemic is that He will always provide a way as long as we are willing to go anywhere He wants us to go, do anything He wants us to do, and say anything He wants us to say.  

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Written by Eloisa Greenwald. Eloisa is a CCO missionary in Calgary with her husband Dustin, a CCSD teacher, and their son Nathanael. They attend St. James Parish in Calgary.
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The beloved daughters

10/4/2020

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Rikka, Maria and Jessica from the Beloved Daughters Ministry
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How often do we make plans, only to have them not go “as we planned”? Perhaps similarly, Mary had an idea of what plans were to unfold for her life. However, when approached by the Archangel Gabriel, her ‘yes’/fiat to God’s will transformed these ideas.
 
For us, the beginnings of this woman’s ministry, from what we perceived the Holy Spirit’s promptings to be, didn’t even come from a woman. It came from the encouragement of a man. Inspired by his perspective, the three of us gathered over vietnamese cuisine and multiple coffees to iron out our vision of hosting Calgary’s first Diocesan Women’s Conference.

Rikka’s Perspective
It was the end of January 2020 when what we had was a venue and a date. We had an event before we even had a ministry! We had exactly 4 months to pull everything off and by God’s grace, every door opened for us. We had approval from the Diocese, a theme, amazing speakers, a production team, and tickets were being sold as soon as registration opened. God was very good. Despite the start of COVID-19 precautions, we were optimistic that our event would still occur. That is, until the end of March, where we sadly decided to postpone the event. It was difficult to believe that we were getting all the green-lights in planning over a short period of time, only to have the world literally shut down. Nevertheless,God was still very good. He had and has a plan for us. As a team we perceived this downtime as an opportunity to build a strong foundation for a ministry, that if God so willed, would flourish. We were given this opportune time to create the ministry, reach women locally via social media, create a social media presence and attempt to collaborate with local communities to get the ministry running despite the pandemic.

Maria’s Perspective
Reflecting on the Magnificat, I am reminded that we are nothing without the Lord and His grace in our life. As humans, we often lack the practice of gratitude. Mary gave a joyful claim: “all generations shall call me blessed.” She recognized the work of God in her life; that He was to make her the Mother of the Saviour of the world! Her ‘yes’ surely was a sign of gratitude, a quality that many acquire through virtuous practice and prayer. When I realized we were no longer able to proceed with the conference, I was disappointed and my motivation seemed to wane. I did not reflect on what God was conveying to us during the initial quiet months of COVID-19 restrictions. I didn’t “ponder” these things as Mary did. It is possible that Our Lady would have been overwhelmed, yet she never questioned Gabriel. Instead, she prayed and pondered everything interiorly. I can now recognize the generous gift God provided us. Our vision for this ministry is to continue saying ‘yes’ even when feeling discouraged. It is important to me that women in Calgary have a space to rediscover their identity and grow in virtue.

Jessica’s Perspective
The virtue of humility echoes throughout the Magnificat. St. Teresa of Avila defines humility as: living in the truth. The truth of who we are, and who God is. As we grow in knowledge of this truth, everything and everyone is put into proper order. When one knows the truth of who they are, there is no longer the need to compare, or compete. Instead, secure and confident in the Father, one then forgets themselves and is present to others. In Mary, we see this lived out in full. Confident in her identity as a beloved daughter of God- that had already been rooted within through her practice of prayer and virtue- upon receiving her mission, Mary is able to forget herself, and goes with haste to tend to Elizabeth. Similarly, we hope that the Beloved Daughters Ministry becomes a platform for women. That our contributors, resources, and events, will aid women along the journey of growth in prayer, virtue, and friendship as they lean into their belovedness.

After postponing our conference, we were offered the opportunity to host a live-streamed Virtual Pilgrimage through Canmore’s Shrine. Our website launched on August 22, 2020 - the Queenship of Mary, which also happened to be the Shrine’s patron feast day. It was evident that Our Lady had held our hand through all this and so we dedicate this women’s ministry to her.

​Mary is our example of how to magnify the Lord. If there is anything we desire, it is to do the same; that our ministry magnifies the Lord.


Written by Beloved Daughters Ministry: ​Rikka Borras, Maria Zein, and Jessica Bonaparte
  • Rikka has been married for 7 years to Matt Boras and they have a 3 year old daughter with another on the way. She is a Registered Nurse working with Peditaric Palliative Care. Their home parish is St. Bernadette in Calgary. 
  • Maria is a dental hygienist living in Calgary. Some of the things she enjoys during her spare time is going hiking in the mountains and spending time with her niece and nephew. Her parish is St. Bernard's in Calgary. 
  • Jessica is a Registered Nurse working in the areas of labour & delivery, and hemodialysis. She attends Sacred Heart Parish in Calgary. 
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CWL Annual Lecture: Healing the Church

10/1/2020

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Sr. Nuala Kenny. Photo by Michael Swan.
At St. Mary’s University we are proud of our Catholic identity.  Thanks to the generosity of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL), we are honoured to host a leading Catholic speaker for our CWL Annual Lecture in Catholic Studies.  On Friday, October 2 (5:30 – 7:30 pm MST), Sister Nuala Kenny, MD will offer this year’s virtual keynote address on “Healing the Church: Diagnosing and Treating the Clergy Sexual Abuse Crisis”.  Due to COVID-19, our lecture will be held online.  
Sexual abuse by Catholic clergy is the greatest scandal of the modern Church. It has caused devastating, life-long harm to victim-survivors and their families and communities. It has resulted in the loss of trust in the Church as a place of holiness, care and justice, and has eroded the credibility of its leaders as disciples of a loving and merciful Jesus. For some, it has precipitated a crisis of faith in God as it has wounded bodies and minds and crushed souls.  The Catholic Church is wounded and in need of healing.  
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As a pediatrician who is also a Professor Emeritus at Dalhousie University, Dr. Kenny is very familiar with the devastating harms of the physical and sexual abuse of children and youth.  Among her many accolades, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1999 for her contributions to child health and medical education and she has received a Queen’s Jubilee Medal.  As a Sister of Charity – Halifax for over 50 years, Sister Nuala is deeply committed to helping the Catholic Church heal from this crisis.  She has been involved in this work since her 1989 participation in the St. John’s, Newfoundland, Archdiocesan Commission on Clergy and Clergy Sexual Abuse.  She has authored two books on this topic, Healing the Church (2012) and Still Unhealed: Treating the Pathology in the Clergy Sexual Abuse Crisis (2019).  Sister Nuala also served as an advisor to the CCCB Ad Hoc Committee on Protection of Minors (2014-2018) which produced “Protecting Minors from Sexual Abuse: A Call to the Catholic Faithful in Canada for Healing, Reconciliation and Transformation”.   

On Friday evening, October 2nd, Sister Nuala Kenny’s virtual keynote address is titled “Dynamics and Diagnosis: A Call for Personal and Ecclesial Reform”.  Using her medical background, Sister Nuala will help us properly diagnose the deeper systemic issues that are at the root of this crisis. With this understanding, she will then draw upon the words and actions of Jesus, the Healer, to provide a holistic prescription for healing the Church. To register for this free online lecture, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2020-cwl-annual-lecture-in-catholic-studies-by-sister-nuala-kenny-md-tickets-121260769225     

For those who wish to continue this important conversation, on Saturday, October 3rd, Sister Nuala Kenny is facilitating a virtual workshop: “Lessons from Being Church in the Pandemic: Prophetic Possibilities for Pastoral Conversion”.  The morning session (10:30 am - 12:00 noon MST) is on “Lessons About Secrecy, Dialogue and Morality”.  The afternoon session (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm MST) is on “Lessons About Relationships, Mission and Challenges”. This workshop is a critically constructive reflection on how we, as disciples of Christ, might make sense of what has happened in this crisis and respond both individually and communally. It aims to provide support for laity and clergy who desire repentance and continual conversion to disciples of a loving and merciful God. This workshop is rooted in the “mind of Christ” and in trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to make all things new. The cost of this workshop is $25.00 for both sessions. To register, visit: https://www.stmu.ca/event/cwl-virtual-workshop/  

Written by Dr. Peter Baltutis
CWL Chair for Catholic Studies, St. Mary's University.
   
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