ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF CALGARY
  • Renewal
  • Blog
  • About
  • Give
  • News & Events
  • Ministries
  • Contact Us
  • MASS TIMES
  • Jubilee 2025

Mass at Calgary hospitals resumes

12/4/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
First Sunday of Advent at Peter Lougheed Hospital Chapel, Dec 3, 2023.
Great news! The celebration of Sunday Mass has resumed at three hospitals on the First Sunday of Advent in the City of Calgary. Patients, family members and friends, and hospital staff are now able to avail of this pastoral outreach in the following facilities:
  • Sundays at 3:30 pm - Foothills Hospital Chapel
  • Sundays at 3:00 pm – Peter Lougheed Hospital Chapel
  • Sundays at 3:30 pm – Rockyview Hospital Chapel

0 Comments

The Restoration of the Sunday Obligation

5/18/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
May 18, 2022
 
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
 
The great feast of Pentecost celebrates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit into the life of the  Church through the Apostles, the disciples, and with Mary, the mother of our Lord, who were gathered in the upper room “constantly devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:12-14). This gathering for worship is necessary for our identity as disciples of Christ.
 
In March of 2020, the Bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories issued in their respective dioceses a dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation to provide the faithful the freedom to choose and not be obligated to participate in large liturgical gatherings and thus to reduce the spread of COVID-19 during the time of the global pandemic.
 
Now, at this stage where the necessity for health and safety restrictions has been relaxed, a return to in-person gatherings on Sundays as a worshipping community is necessary for our continued spiritual nourishment and growth. Therefore, the Bishops of Alberta and Northwest Territories in their respective dioceses will be lifting the dispensation on Pentecost Sunday, June 5, 2022.
 
While acknowledging the continuing presence of COVID-19 in our midst, the decree restoring the Sunday obligation will continue to provide the exemption for those who are ill, vulnerable and those providing direct care for them, and those who cannot attend Mass because of frailty or old age.
 
Our sacred duty to worship God on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation orients our personal freedom to the worship and service of God. May the feast of Pentecost inspire us to constantly devote ourselves to prayer especially in the highest form of our worship of God in the celebration of the Sunday Eucharist.
 
Sincerely yours in Christ,

✠ William T. McGrattan
Bishop of Calgary
Download Decree for the Restoration of the Obligation
0 Comments

COVID-19 Pandemic in the Diocese

5/17/2022

 
May 18, 2022
 
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
 
The great feast of Pentecost celebrates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit into the life of the  Church through the Apostles, the disciples, and with Mary, the mother of our Lord, who were gathered in the upper room “constantly devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:12-14). This gathering for worship is necessary for our identity as disciples of Christ.
 
In March of 2020, the Bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories issued in their respective dioceses a dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation to provide the faithful the freedom to choose and not be obligated to participate in large liturgical gatherings and thus to reduce the spread of COVID-19 during the time of the global pandemic.
 
Now, at this stage where the necessity for health and safety restrictions has been relaxed, a return to in-person gatherings on Sundays as a worshipping community is necessary for our continued spiritual nourishment and growth. Therefore, the Bishops of Alberta and Northwest Territories in their respective dioceses will be lifting the dispensation on Pentecost Sunday, June 5, 2022.
 
While acknowledging the continuing presence of COVID-19 in our midst, the decree restoring the Sunday obligation will continue to provide the exemption for those who are ill, vulnerable and those providing direct care for them, and those who cannot attend Mass because of frailty or old age.
 
Our sacred duty to worship God on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation orients our personal freedom to the worship and service of God. May the feast of Pentecost inspire us to constantly devote ourselves to prayer especially in the highest form of our worship of God in the celebration of the Sunday Eucharist.
 
Sincerely yours in Christ,

✠ William T. McGrattan
Bishop of Calgary
Picture
During this time of transition in the Province’s easing of health and safety restrictions, we are all asked to exercise respect, charity, and kindness with one another and to be conscious of the varying comfort levels of people especially in the following areas.
  • The wearing of masks is no longer required by the Province but people are free to continue the use of facemasks if they choose to. This applies to everyone including the clergy and to anyone serving in a liturgical capacity.
    • Note: It is possible that some municipalities may have a municipal face covering bylaw or any other health and safety measure that is not in alignment with the approach of the province. Please check with your municipality when in doubt.
  • There has been no mention of physical distancing in Step 2, in order to respect people’s personal space and comfort level, however, it would be a prudent practise to allow for some distance between people of different households.
    • At this time, for the sign of peace, we are asked to exchange peace with those outside of our household with a bow or a nod and not by a handshake.
    • In social settings, it would be charitable not to presume that others are comfortable to shake hands or to hug.
  • People who have symptoms not related to a pre-existing condition should avoid going to the church or being in public as a courtesy to others.
  • We are all encouraged to observe proper hand hygiene by sanitizing our hands at any of the sanitizer stations in the church or by washing our hands regularly with soap and water.
  • We are encouraged to observe respiratory etiquette, such as coughing or sneezing into a bent elbow and the prompt disposal of any used tissues in trash cans.
  • Access the complete details on the Step 2 implementation of the Government of Alberta. 

In Step 2, we are grateful that congregational singing may now resume in the Diocese.
 
We take this opportunity to thank all of you for your cooperation in observing the health and safety restrictions for almost two years now. At this time, we pace our walk together toward the easing of these restrictions with a lot of care and concern for the good of everyone.

=======
Step 2 - Liturgical Guidelines

Liturgical Music Ministry
  • Congregational singing is allowed.
    • The use of hymnbooks may resume.
  • Choirs may resume their ministry
    • The use of a cantor/cantors without a choir remains a valid option.
    • Parishes are able to decide the size of the choir for their church.

Sunday Collection
  • Parishes have the ability to decide whether to continue with the current practice of having the collection baskets/boxes near the entrance of the nave or to resume the passing of the collection baskets.
  • Parishes that have collection baskets with the long handles are also permitted to have ushers use them in the collection.
  • Any of the approved second collection will be collected in the same manner as the Sunday collection.

Presentation of the Gifts
  • Parishes have the ability to decide whether to continue with the current practise of having the hosts and wine placed on a credence table in the sanctuary prior to Mass or to resume the offertory procession for the presentation of the gifts of the hosts, wine, and the Sunday collection.

Sign of Peace
  • At this time, the congregation is asked to exchange peace with people outside of their household with a bow and not by a handshake.

Holy Communion
  • Hand sanitizer should be made available at the credence table and near communion lines.
  • Priests who are celebrating and concelebrating must receive both the Body and Blood at every Mass.
  • Deacons, servers, lay ministers, and the faithful receive only under one species – the consecrated host.
  • Children celebrating First Communion will also only receive under one species – the consecrated host.

Concelebration
  • Concelebrants are allowed to receive Holy Communion by self-intinction from the celebrant’s chalice. At this time, only the celebrant partakes of the Precious Blood from the chalice.

Funeral Receptions, Parish Social Gatherings, and Private Functions
  • Funeral receptions, parish social gatherings, and private functions may now resume in parish halls.
    • It is recommended for Step 2 that food and beverages be served at food/beverage stations at funeral receptions and parish social gatherings to avoid commonly touched items and surfaces. 
    • It is also recommended for Step 2 that servers serving at funeral receptions and parish social gatherings wear face masks when serving food
Vertical Divider
  • ​Download Decree - Restoration of the Sunday Mass Obligation - Effective June 5, 2022
  • ​Download Decree - Dispensation from Sunday Obligation
  • Pastoral Letter from Bishop McGrattan on exemption from COVID-19 vaccination (Sep. 22)
  • Letters from the AB & NWT Bishops about Covid-19 Vaccine ​English | French
    • CCCB Statement on ethical concerns related to currently approved COVID-19 vaccines (March 9, 2021) 
    • COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A from Calgary Catholic Medical Association (March 17, 2021)
    • ​Statement from Pro-Life Catholic Scholars on the Moral Acceptability of Receiving COVID-19 Vaccines (March 5, 2021)
  • ​They Still Bring Forth Fruit in Old Age: A Lesson on Caring in the Midst of the Covid-19 Pandemic. A Message by the Executive Committee of the CCCB ​​

COVID-19 Updates

  • COVID-19 Info for Albertans - Current Situation 
  • Updates from the Chief Medical Officer
  • ​Alberta Biz Connect 
  • Call 211 for community and social services help line (for basic needs, financial support, food, housing information, etc.)
  • Call 811 for Health Link 
  • Centres for Disease Control and Prevention​​

For your 
​Mental Health

  • Calgary Counselling Centre: 403-691-5991 + online counselling
  • Catholic Family Service: 403-205-5295.  Rapid Access Counselling: 403-233-2360 or email [email protected]
  • Distress Centre: 403-266-4357  - available 24/7. 
  • Eastside Family Centre: 403-299-9696 - telephone and e-therapy. 
  • Kid’s Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
  • Mental Health Help Line: 1-877-303-2642  
  • Access Mental Health: 403-943-1500​

Holy moments in hard times

1/1/2022

1 Comment

 
Picture
Even moments of stress can be holy. When complaining about getting the ladder up to put up Christmas lights in the cold, a student re-framed the situation to say at least you have a house and are healthy enough to climb up! By shifting our perspectives slightly, we were able to see ordinary encounters as holy moments.

The impact of teaching and learning through the various waves of the COVID 19 pandemic has impacted everyone and affected us in different ways. We noticed in conversations that at times it was challenging to see the light along the journey. Even as faith-filled educators we had to cope with uncertainty and make sense of God’s intention for us. It is in times like these that our faith can really be our strength, if we look for it.

At our school we started with a reflection on our daily encounters. Rather than simply overlooking a helpful gesture or beautiful sunrise, we wanted to absorb those moments. Those moments can be fleeting, yet so powerful. 

To transfer this to students, among several initiatives, we implemented a call to identify holy moments. One of the activities that we had students participate in was a “Holy Moments” chain. Students would add their moments to the chain which was connected and displayed in the hallways.
PictureStudents prepared the Holy Moments chain for display.
We found that by intentionally sharing holy moments, perspectives changed. The act of re-framing situations to see the blessings in our midst allowed us to see our call to be joyful people, who act with gratitude. However, joyful participation in the challenges of life isn’t always easy. By identifying holy moments, it has also affirmed the gift that we have in our Catholic school with faith in the Lord at all times. We walk with Jesus every day! It is a blessing to be able to journey through hard times together knowing that God calls us to lift one another up when we are down. When you stop and look for it, even on your hardest day there is a holy moment that will make you smile. 

The foundation of our school as a community of faithful has not been more relevant than it is today. We need to know that God is with us. It is up to us to actually pause and notice His presence in our lives. The only question left to ask is, what holy moments have you had today?


Picture
Written by Brandon Bailey for Faithfully. Brandon is the principal of St. Mary’s School in Okotoks. He is part of St James Parish in Okotoks and serves on the Diocesan Mission Council. In his spare time he enjoys surfing and hiking outdoors with his wife and 3 children. 

​Photos submitted by Brandon Bailey.
1 Comment

Bishop's Pastoral Letter re: Exemption from COVID-19 vaccination

9/22/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
September 22, 2021

​Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
 
The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 being reported each day has significantly increased in our province. This brings to the forefront of our consciousness the need to safeguard the common good, and in charity to promote the safety of others by protecting our individual health and that of society. In some provinces, the sectors of healthcare, education and social services, public agencies and corporations have begun to announce mandatory vaccination as requirement for their employees and the public. This has resulted in the Diocese and the parishes receiving from members of the faithful the request for letters of exemption from the mandatory vaccination based on the grounds of religious belief.
 
While the Diocese respects the freedom of a person’s individual conscience as the Church teaches, the Church and her ministers cannot objectively attest to or endorse a person’s process of discernment in coming to their decision of conscience. Therefore, the Diocese and the parishes will not be issuing any letters of exemption from vaccination. 
 
The clergy has been strongly encouraged instead to accompany and assist those requesting such letters to know and understand the teachings of the Church on vaccination during this pandemic through statements released by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), and the pastoral letter provided by the Bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories.
 
As stated by my brother Bishops and in communion with the Holy Father, it is morally permissible to receive a vaccine approved for use in Canada against COVID-19, and while there are many possible reasons for one to struggle in their conscience with such a vaccine being mandatory, the Diocese will not take the position or role of endorsing an individual’s conscience and decision.
 
If vaccination will be mandated, there must also be on the part of legitimate authorities, the necessary provisions of reasonable accommodation which respects and promotes the dignity of the individual conscience and the decision of conscientious objection. However, those who choose not to be vaccinated for whatever reason must do their utmost to ensure that they take all precautionary measures possible to avoid places and circumstances where they and others would be most vulnerable. They must also follow the health and safety measures not only to prevent contracting the virus for themselves but also preventing others from becoming sick. This is everyone’s moral responsibility.  
 
Much prayer is needed in this time, in this polarized society, for those who have suffered so much and for those who continue to suffer from the reality of the pandemic. As Christians and people of goodwill, we must grow in our love and concern for others and use the gift of our freedom responsibly to help others especially those who are in most need.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
 
 +William T. McGrattan
Bishop of Calgary

  • Questions to help form our conscience in the context of COVID-19 vaccination
  • Note from Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith 
  • Note from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops 
  • The Statement of the Catholic Bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories
Download PDF

0 Comments

Called to serve our neighbours

6/9/2021

3 Comments

 
Picture
Javier Martinez had just removed his face shield and mask when a woman suddenly appeared in the room and approached him. The woman was a resident of the memory care wing of the seniors’ residence where Martinez was working. She was also positive for COVID-19. “It happened so fast and I remember thinking, ‘it’s highly probable that I’ve got COVID,’” recalls Martinez, a registered nurse and the father of five. He was right.

Martinez is a clinical leader in the supportive living section at St. Marguerite Manor, a Covenant Care home in northwest Calgary. Two residents at that facility died in the second wave of the global pandemic declared in 2020. Martinez, however, was infected in Edmonton. He was there in November 2020 to provide support in a seniors’ care home hit much harder by the second wave of the pandemic. In addition to several deaths and widespread infection, many staff at that home were infected and unable to work.
​
While his first test was negative, Martinez developed body aches and a headache soon after his return to Calgary. The nurse knew he had COVID-19 well before the second test yielded a positive result. By then, he and his wife Colette had already discussed what they would do to keep the family safe. They did what they could to keep their kids, ages 13 to three, away from their dad. Still, the oldest and youngest, two of their three daughters, were infected. Both children weathered the virus well. “We were fortunate,” says their dad.
PictureJavier and his family
A culture of care

More than a year after the pandemic began, vaccinations and the careful of use of PPE (personal protective equipment, like masks) have imbued Martinez’s view from the front lines with a great deal of hope. In the early days, “there was a lot of uncertainty because it was brand new and we had to deal with a lot of changes. Provincial orders from the Chief Medical Officer of Health changed often, sometimes daily. One of the most dramatic shifts was the move to restrict visitors. That was really tough. Some of our residents have large families who are very close. I had to explain the health rules to many people and because these were mandated changes, we didn’t have much flexibility. This was very tough on residents and their families.”

Careful adherence to the rules definitely kept people safe, says Martinez. Only one resident and a few staff at St. Marguerite Manor contracted COVID-19 in the first wave. The second wave was harder, but by then, something else was also at work. He says some residents talked openly about having lived good lives. They were not afraid to catch the virus and die. What they did not “want was to be the person who brought the virus into the manor. That care for other people was very strong.”

Now that residents and most staff are fully vaccinated, life at the manor is more relaxed. Visitors are allowed in after screening and as of June 1, staff no longer have to wear face shields over their masks. “It’s amazing to see how things have changed for seniors in supportive living and long-term care because of the vaccinations,” says Martinez.
​
Looking back, Martinez thinks about what the pandemic has taught him as a Catholic man, nurse, husband and father. He knows the people he works with were negatively impacted when denied access to family and friends. He also knows many of them weathered the storm with grace.
​
“I guess I think about how we’re called to serve our neighbours—and to serve the best interests of our neighbours,” says Martinez. A parishioner at St. Gerard’s parish in Calgary, he also thinks about how the Catholic community supported that part of the gospel message. As he sees it, sometimes service is as simple as doing what’s best for others. 


Written by Joy Gregory for Faithfully
Photos courtesy of Javier Martinez
Picture
3 Comments

Is it okay to be vaccinated against COVID-19?

3/17/2021

6 Comments

 
Picture
Many people might be surprised that the question is even being posed. What could be wrong about receiving a vaccine, when we know that vaccinations save lives? The moral issue arises from the fact that vaccine development and testing often make use of cell lines derived from either the tissue of aborted fetuses or destroyed human embryos. Therefore, reception of a vaccine developed and produced from this unethical research presents us with a dilemma that seriously engages our conscience. ​The short answer from our Bishops on whether it's okay to be vaccinated against COVID-10 is: Yes, it is.  Learn more about it from the Bishop's letter re: COVID-19 Vaccine. 
  • CCCB Statement on ethical concerns related to currently approved COVID-19 vaccines (March 9, 2021) 
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A from Calgary Catholic Medical Association (March 17, 2021)
  • Download Letter from the Alberta & NWT Bishops here (Dec. 2, 2020)
  • Statement from Pro-Life Catholic Scholars on the Moral Acceptability of Receiving COVID-19 Vaccines (March 5, 2021)
  • Related notes:
    • Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith on the use of vaccines during the pandemic - Read more​ 
    • Vatican News: Vatican CDF says use of anti-Covid vaccines "morally acceptable" - Read more
    • Vatican News:  The Pontifical Academy for Life stresses the importance of overcoming "vaccine nationalism" so that everyone can have the opportunity of being vaccinated and nobody is left behind in the fight against Covid-19 - Read more
6 Comments

Care from the heart & soul

2/10/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Spiritual Care and Indigenous Wellness Teams. Left to right, Annella Wehlage, Suzan Heavyshields, Sylvia Ann Fox, John Moerman.
As COVID rages on we regularly see TV footage of health care professionals in hospitals. Yet barely visible is a small group of essential caregivers, often volunteers, who provide care for the soul, the Spiritual Care Teams. 
​
I recently met some of these caregivers inside the Chinook Regional Hospital (CRH) in Lethbridge. After navigating entrance protocol to rival a military base, I was met by Annella Wehlage, the Roman Catholic Spiritual Care Coordinator. She guided me to her office in a quiet section of the ‘tower’ office block. There I met John Moerman, the Hospital Chaplain, and the Indigenous Wellness Core, comprised of Sylvia Ann Fox/”Singing Alone From Above” (Traditional Wellness Coordinator) and Suzan Heavyshields (Indigenous Hospital Liaison). This small group explained how they work together to provided spiritual care needs to patients, and how COVID has changed what they do.  

Wehlage has been a volunteer since 2015 following a long career as a nurse. She outlined her daily routine which used to begin with a list of patients who designated a religious affinity on their admittance paperwork. She and the team would discuss a plan and then begin what Moerman referred to with a smile as ‘rounds’, or personal visits to each patient desiring spiritual care. However, COVID has changed all that.

Now the imperative to prevent cross-contamination has reduced visitors to just one per patient, usually a family member. A second professional visitor is permitted in certain circumstances, e.g., a legal counsellor or a priest. And a limited number of additional visitors are permitted in end-of-life situations.

So now the Spiritual Care Team can only visit a patient when specifically referred by family or nursing staff, or in an end-of-life situation. Wehlage is saddened by the loss of her four-person team of volunteer Eucharistic ministers who used to faithfully help her to bring the Eucharist to everyone who wanted it. Now Wehlage’s main responsibility is arranging for a priest to visit when requested. This she does with the help of a weekly roster and an ‘on-call’ list for weekends and evenings. There is always a priest available 24/7.  

The six priests on the list work tirelessly to bring the Sacrament of the Sick and the Sacrament of Reconciliation to patients, sometimes visiting the same person more than once. Their presence in the hospital is a blessing for more than just the patients. Not infrequently, a family member will also ask for a sacrament. The day I visited, Wehlage paused at a coffee kiosk in the hospital atrium where the barista told her how gratifying it was for her to simply see a parish priest walk by because her shift schedule made it impossible to attend Mass.

Another uplifting aspect of Spiritual Care at CRH is how First Nation’s spirituality is often combined with Catholicism, for First Nations patients. Team member Fox explained, “Some people, their parents were strong Catholics and their grandparents were strong in our traditional ways.” So team members offer both forms of religious care concurrently. Moerman added, “That’s how God created us, with a traditional background, a family background, a cultural background, all together.”

The CRH Spiritual Care Team and the Indigenous Wellness Core are clearly cohesive. “We’re friends outside of work”, Wehlage said, “We support one another.” They also work together to accomplish some extraordinary feats. Fox told of one gravely sick man whose wedding plans were interrupted by his illness. When she visited she found his fiancée present. She asked if there was anything she might help them with and they answered, “We’d like to get married this afternoon!” Fox and Wehlage executed a frenzy of arrangements from legal paperwork, securing a priest and arranging a special exemption for two family witnesses. Then they peeked in from the hallway to watch two people realize a dream that COVID couldn’t take from them.

More commonly the teams deal with end-of-life situations. “Sometimes if patients get a difficult diagnosis nurses will request a spiritual care visit,” Wehlage said. She also makes a point of accompanying the priest in cases where the Sacrament of the Sick is administered, especially if it was requested by family members who aren’t permitted to visit due to COVID restrictions. “If a patient sees a priest arrive unannounced at their bedside, they may get scared,” Wehlage said. The teams have many times sat with a person during their final hours. Fox explained softly, “Nobody wants to be alone when they’re going.”
Picture
Wall mural in Chinook Regional Hospital
When asked how else COVID has changed their work, the teams agreed that the hospital was much quieter with fewer visitors. That makes the teams’ work more important than ever. “Patient care can’t be done from home,” Moerman said. He added, “I don’t treat a patient with COVID any differently.” Nevertheless, additional precautions are necessary both at work and when returning home. Moerman said, “Early on I had a knot in my stomach, especially as my wife was baby-sitting our grandkids at home. I would put my clothes in the laundry as soon as I got home. I still do.” He admitted to turning off the news some days as well, “You have to limit COVID news or the fear can rise in you.” Wehlage spoke of baking as a stress-reliever and Fox had taken up traditional beading and making moccasins. 

Asked if they have a message for the readers of Faithfully, the teams had excellent suggestions.

“Follow best practices, listen to the advice of professionals so we don’t overwhelm the 14-bed ICU at our hospital.”
“If you know of somebody who’s Catholic and in hospital, notify their parish priest because the person might not have been at church for some time and their family might be too distracted to think of it.”
“Check in with your extended family, just to talk, a wellness check.”
​
It’s obvious that, both on and off the job, caring is deeply engrained in the nature of spiritual caregivers. Let us remember and pray for them in a special way this month.   

Picture
Written by Alice Matisz for Faithfully. ​Alice lives in Lethbridge with her husband Don. She is a member of All Saints Parish where she volunteers to bring the Eucharist to a long term care home (pre-COVID). She enjoys reading, writing, baking and painting. 
0 Comments

Ash Wednesday during the pandemic

2/3/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture

​During this time of the pandemic, the distribution of ashes will be carried out differently.

After the ashes have been blessed by the priest, the formula for the distribution (Repent… /Remember…) is said once from the sanctuary as a general pronouncement to the gathered congregation and one general response (“Amen”) is to be made by all. The ashes will be distributed by sprinkling on the head of each one without saying anything. There will be no tracing of the cross on the forehead. 

Similar to the distribution of Holy Communion, all who intend to receive the ashes are required to wear a mask, even those who claim mask exemption due to health conditions. Face shields alone are not considered masks. Ashes will only be distributed on Ash Wednesday. 
Vertical Divider
Picture
Picture
Picture

Downloadables:
  • Social Media or web graphic 
  • Video announcement (MP4) 
0 Comments

You were the miracle

11/24/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Novelist Jeanine Cummins uses these lines from Chilean poet Pablo Neruda´s poem “The Song of Despair” as an epigraph in her novel “American Dirt.” The novel tells the story of a mother and son from the State of Guerrero in Mexico who wage an unbelievable struggle for life and freedom from the violence that engulfs this state and others in Mexico.

Just the other day I received a phone call from Paloma, a young mother from Guerrero who is in hiding with her husband Santiago and three small children. I have known Paloma since she was born. She has no formal education, but she is an incredible young woman and a great mother. Santiago’s two brothers were recently murdered by members of a crime cartel; Santiago managed to escape, but everyone in the village knows that his name is on the hit list. I helped the family contact a human rights organization that is trying to get them asylum in another country. However, due to the COVID pandemic, all of that paperwork is presently on hold, and the family remains in hiding.

Impoverishment, violence, corruption, discrimination, impunity, injustice … these are the daily fare of too many indigenous people living in the mountains of the State of Guerrero. The reason that the above-mentioned lines from Pablo Neruda come to my mind is that Mission Mexico has for twenty years been a “fruit” for many in the midst of the “thirst and hunger” of this reality; it has been “the miracle” for many in the midst of the “grief and ruins” of this reality.
Since the year 2000, Mission Mexico has been accompanying the people of “the Mountain” of Guerrero. Approximately 500,000 people from three indigenous cultures (Na´savi, Me’phaa, Nahua) live spread out among 700 towns and villages. Mission Mexico has partnered with several trustworthy Mexican organizations to promote projects related especially to health, education, and self-sufficiency. Transformation of such a difficult reality has never been easy, but Mission Mexico has earned the gratitude of thousands of families living in this poorest region of the country of Mexico.

Now there is COVID. Everything has changed. People have gotten ill and died. It is hard to give numbers because most of the people seldom go to a hospital; medical care always involves expenses. People have lost jobs, due to the closure of all kinds of businesses. Financial assistance from illegal workers in the United States who typically send money to their families each month has diminished. 
Education has been particularly hard hit. At the present time, there is no face-to-face, classroom education in the Mountain of Guerrero. Everything is meant to be online learning, using either television or the Internet. This presents an almost impossible situation for thousands of families in remote villages in the mountains. 

I used the expression that “everything is meant to be online learning” on purpose, because many teachers, realizing that their students have little or no access to computers or television, are going to the villages with photocopied worksheets: they leave “homework” with the students and return two weeks later to pick up the completed worksheets and to leave more. It’s not an ideal situation for many reasons: teachers risk contagion during their travels; many parents are illiterate and can’t assist their children; if a student falls behind, there is no remedial assistance. But I admire the teachers for trying to do what they consider is best for their students.

Mission Mexico began helping sixteen years ago to build the Champagnat High School of the Mountain, a residential school for impoverished indigenous youth; it is run by a Mexican religious order, the Marist Brothers. And Mission Mexico has a bursary program for university students from particularly needy families. The hundreds of students from the high school and university are involved now in online learning, which often means that students have to move to a town where there is Internet service. The support for the high school and for the bursary program is vital to the success of the students in this endeavor.

However, it is almost impossible for Mission Mexico to meet the “usual” goals in terms of financial support. COVID has hit the Diocese of Calgary too. The level of donations to Mission Mexico has diminished. This is understandable, and I assure the people of the Diocese of Calgary that their “friends” in the Mountain of Mexico are praying for them.
I also hope and pray that as the “thirst and hunger” and “grief and ruins” of the indigenous peoples here hit almost desperate levels, God might touch the hearts of people in the Diocese of Calgary to extend their generosity, so that Mission Mexico might continue accompanying these very needy people is this time of very real need. Every looney or tooney helps. 

Please consider going to the donation page on the website missionmexico.com or giving during the special collection that the Diocese of Calgary is promoting in parishes on December 12 & 13, the weekend of the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Your solidarity will change lives here. 
Picture
​#IAMBLESSED2020 #GIVENOW to Mission Mexico
​Be that light for others during these difficult times

​Written by Mike MacDonald. Mike is the on-site project coordinator of Mission Mexico, currently living in Guerrero, Mexico. 


Photos credit: Mission Mexico
Donate to Mission Mexico Now
0 Comments

Being alone and being together

11/24/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Having the obligation to attend professional development training with some regularity, and presenters seeking to have their audiences more engaged, I am often witness to grown adults frantically looking around as soon as they hear we’re going to break into groups. The desire to belong, and even more the fear of being alone, is strong within us.
 
Though attributed alternately to the writers of “Charlotte’s Web” and “Stuart Little” or “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”  and “Huckleberry Finn,” the quote runs that trying to explain a joke is like dissecting a frog – you gain understanding while losing your subject. This can be said also of discussing friendship. Much of its charm lies in what is unspoken.
 
Aristotle said there are friendships of utility and convenience – we get something that makes our way easier; there are also friends who bring us pleasure – being with them is enjoyable. But the philosopher really points to those who spur us on to being better. In the language of our faith, these relationships help us mutually perfect one another; they foster virtue. And no doubt they are also useful and pleasurable. Finding such people and making and keeping such relationships can involve lots of trial and error.
 
Friendships usually start with those near us, whom we encounter more than by accident. Over time we feel an attraction to this other personality and discover what we have in common. It is upon this that something of substance can be built. We give and take in an easy-going and natural process. When there are difficulties, we invest to make a fix, and we continue to grow.
 
For most of us, the challenges of our current day are different in kind though perhaps not in degree from what has come before, or will come hereafter. Now as always we can find opportunities to be friends more fully and deeply, to those who are already in our social circles and those who are not yet.
 
Recently required compliance with the imposed COVID-19 restrictions has disrupted many aspects of regular life, including our contact with others. The normal ways that we have informally cared for one another are no longer the same. While we can lament that loss, we can also be grateful for the chance to extend both how and to whom we show care. In justice, those who have first claim upon our energies are family and friends, and those in greatest need.
 
Every liturgical season offers renewed opportunity to become more like Jesus. Advent in particular calls us to make straight and prepare, to ease what is difficult for others. These are expressions of friendship. And we can make them even for those with whom we have no visible connection, as expression of charity, as acts of service to others in the Body of Christ. If it is Jesus’ will to be Friend to all, and we are friends to him, the deepest of connections exists already. 
Picture
#IAMBLESSED2020 #ACTNOW #BEAGOODFRIEND
Be that light for others during these difficult times

Picture
Written by Wayne Ottenbreit. Wayne writes as an educator, psychotherapist, husband, and father to nine daughters. He provides courses in support of family life, relationships, and personal growth at Vivens Academy.

0 Comments

How to love Christ with greater intensity & depth?

11/24/2020

3 Comments

 
The days of this Advent Season are upon us. It has traditionally been a time of spiritual preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas and of anticipation and preparation for Christ’s second coming in the fullness of time. Spiritually it is to be a time of waiting, expectation, and hope which should mark our lives as Christians each and every day. Although this year admittedly seems different, it should not overshadow or take away from the purpose of these sacred seasons.

Much is said about the challenges we are facing in this pandemic, however, the pandemic has also impacted us in ways that can potentially invite us to grow in patience and hope – especially during Advent. Patience as we await a vaccine and a cure, and hope as we long for the post pandemic days.

It seems unlikely that we will be able to enjoy large family gatherings with members outside of the immediate household, visits with friends, shopping in crowded malls, carolling, travelling, and other festive traditions. Despite the recent limits on social gatherings and commercial venues, the trajectory of COVID-19 infections in this second wave is a matter of concern. And while the pandemic will change many of the Christmas traditions, there may be a need to peel away such cultural trappings and discover a Christmas with a renewed authenticity of faith. If the busy hustle and bustle at Christmas disappears, this could lead to a more intensive focus on the significance of the Solemnity and allows us to enter into the stillness of that holy event. 

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Switzerland captured such changes in the following statement, “This year we cannot celebrate Christmas where and how we would like: in church, with our families — large or small — with friends and relatives. Many of us will be in quarantine or self-isolating and could feel excluded; others must work over the Christmas holidays to provide essential services. However, no matter how adverse the circumstances are, Jesus comes into the world as light and takes his place among us.”  (Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Switzerland, November 17, 2020)

Although this statement describes many states of life and faith, what has not changed is that over 2000 years ago, a child was born through the grace of God to Mary and Joseph and this child was named Jesus who was the Christ, the Son of God. And His birth brought great joy to the angels who heralded his birth and to the shepherds and magi who followed the dawning of this transcendent light.  To a people who walked in darkness, He brought light; to those in despair, He brought hope.

Scripture speaks of how the coming of Christ changed the lives of the shepherds, the magi and in Jesus’ lifetime – all those who encountered Him. Today, how is Jesus Christ changing our lives and calling us to love Him with greater intensity and depth?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church invites us to contemplate Jesus’ coming among us in a significant and personally transformative way: “To become a child in relation to God is the condition for entering the kingdom. For this, we must humble ourselves and become little. Even more: to become "children of God" we must be "born from above" or "born of God". Only when Christ is formed in us will the mystery of Christmas be fulfilled in us. Christmas is the mystery of this marvelous exchange" (CCC 526)

Christ comes to us today—in His Holy Sacraments, in His Word, and in our encounters with one another. The spirit of the Incarnation is ongoing as Christ is gradually formed in us. That holy night in Bethlehem was a beginning of Christ being present to and with us.

Each of us is created to know Jesus Christ and to have a close, personal and loving relationship with Him–a life-changing relationship that transforms every aspect of living and sows the seeds of hope, mission, deep peace and joy within us.  

There are things we can and need to do to nurture this relationship and personal encounter with Christ. 
  • Setting aside a regular time for prayer to sustain this relationship with Christ.     
  • Asking Jesus to reveal to us His plan for our lives and discerning the choices that we make prayerfully so that we might be more responsive to His promptings and that of the Spirit.  
  • Recognizing the times when we have strayed from Jesus and asking Him to lead us through the Sacrament of Reconciliation so that we might humbly ask for forgiveness and resolve to walk the path of faithfulness.
  • Receiving fruitfully the holy sacraments – especially the Eucharist when we receive the real presence of Christ.
  • Contemplating the Word of God and learning about the teachings of the Church as it informs the life we live. ​
  • Serving those who are vulnerable or in need while recognizing the face of Christ in the poorest of the poor.
There are many ways that Jesus Christ is present among us and that we are blessed. This year once again in the midst of the second wave of the pandemic we are promoting the I am Blessed campaign to remind us that through prayer, acts of service and in sacrificial giving, Christ is still being born in each one of us and in the lives of others. Through the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are called to welcome Christ into our lives and to bring the presence of Christ as a blessing to our neighbours and the world. ​
Picture
Written by Bishop William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary
​
November 24, 2020
Picture
3 Comments

COVID-19 & the Call to Christian Renewal

9/14/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Please read the Pastoral Statement from the bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, called On the Impact of COVID-19 & the Call to Christian Renewal |  Download here
 
In particular, the bishops are inviting Catholics to review the impact of COVID-19 within their homes, schools, workplaces, and society in general, in light of the gospel and the social teaching of the Church. Which values, attitudes and behaviours will we want to hold on to going forward? Which may be in need of remedy or renewal? Through a process of reflection and discernment, the bishops are using this time as an opportunity to inspire and lead a renewal of Christian life in the Church that will impact society in positive ways.
 
The goal is for all of us to gain insights into living our faith at home and at work, and in our parishes and communities. “Our Catholic faith has much to contribute with respect to promoting human, social and spiritual values for the common good of society,” the bishops note in their letter. “We trust that you, like us, see the urgency to discern wisely the signs of the times and to “reset” our lives so that our collective experience in moving forward accords with the Gospel.”
WEEK 1: Inherent Dignity of Every Human Life

​The situation of this pandemic invites us all to re-discover the inherent dignity of every human life and to re-awaken a sense of gratitude, affection and responsibility towards all people, particularly the most vulnerable in our society. #CatholicYYC
  • Watch Panel Discussion Video: https://youtu.be/Y0AmwyfjNMg​
  • Download Weekly Reflection (PDF) here ==> Pastoral Letter from the Bishops are included 
    Download Weekly Reflection en francais 

​Moderator: Dr. Bonnie Annicchiarico (Director, Grateful Advocates for Catholic Education (GrACE)
Panelists: Patrick Dumelie (CEO, Covenant Health, Edmonton) Dr. Troy Davies (CEO, Catholic Social Services, Edmonton) David & Cathy Ann Bouchard (Magdalene House, Red Deer) Sr. Alinda (Mother Superior, Missionaries of Charity, St. Paul, AB) 

Parishioners and all viewers are invited to respond to the prepared reflection questions or otherwise to send thoughts/comments to [email protected] 

Weekly reflections (PDF) can be downloaded with the links below: 
​
  • Reflection Topic #1 Weekly Reflection: Inherent dignity of every human life​
  • Reflection Topic #2 Weekly Reflection: Importance of the family
  • Reflection Topic #3 (video released Oct. 5): Individual rights and social responsibilities
  • Reflection Topic #4 (video released Oct. 12): Vulnerability and solidarity
  • Reflection Topic #5 (video released Oct. 19): Responsibility for the common good
  • Reflection Topic #6 (video released Oct. 26): Healthy use of information technologies
  • Reflection Topic #7 (video released Nov. 2): Value and dignity of human work

​Download Weekly Reflection en francais 

Watch Discussion Panels
  • Discussion Panel Sessions in Grandin Media  

Parishioners and all viewers will be invited to respond to the prepared reflection questions or otherwise to send thoughts/comments to [email protected] 
  • Link to watch Discussion Panel Sessions in Grandin Media 

Articles
  • Catholic community helps map out COVID-19 present and future ​
0 Comments

Loving our neighbour

9/9/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
At the age of 11 was the first time I was exposed to suicide. A young man from our small rural church was reported missing. The men in our community gathered together to search for him, and my father found him. He had taken his life. Almost 5 decades have passed and suicide has continued to be part of my life through various avenues; the attempts of family members, the loss of a family member to suicide, numerous clients who have struggled with despair and suicidal ideation, and the poignant journey of traveling with families who are learning to live with these tragic losses.  Fast forward to fall 2020 and suicide is still a grave concern.

A year ago, most of us had not heard the acronym - COVID-19. Today it is the topic of conversations especially as we transition back to school and work places. The landscape of social interaction has been altered. In Canada, we had never experienced a global pandemic and its consequences; we were unable to organize to change in a satisfactory way because change occurred frequently with little warning and minimal personal control. We could only react, and many experienced crisis like job loss.

Two things we know occurs in the aftermath of a disaster - a baby boom (memes suggest the babies born next spring might be referred to as Zoomers or Coronials), and an increase in mental health concerns. The Canadian Poverty Institute has completed a thorough review of the COVID 19’s impact on mental health to date. See report here.

Their research revealed an increase in anxiety from 5-20% and depression from 4-10%. The Distress Centre in Calgary reported a 94% increase in calls in June of 2020 compared to June of 2019. There has also been an increase in suicide related contacts. Research suggests that persons who have experienced reduced income or unemployment, have pre-existing mental health conditions or are front line workers are at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts. Other psycho-social factors impacting suicidal ideation and attempts are concern for family members, self isolation, family violence, and social media and news exposure. Social media/news, family violence and loss of routine increase concern for children, and the elderly or convalesced persons were also labelled as high risk groups. The events that led to racism awareness superimposed further stress on an already vulnerable society even though racism reduction is also a grave concern.

This information suggests that all of us have been impacted or know someone who may have been negatively impacted by COVID 19. Loving our neighbour at this time involves checking with those we know and asking how they are doing. If you suspect someone may be at risk of harming themselves, it is important to ask specific questions. Emotions deemed concerning are despair, anger and loneliness. If persons seem to be withdrawing, or are quarantining check in to see how they are coping. Connection with another person even if it is electronic can make a significant difference in someone’s experience of isolation.

As for ourselves and family, recognizing and implementing resiliency based practices help maintain our wellness and perseverance. 

First, manage our expectations of self and others. The increased stress means most people are probably functioning 5-10% below normal capacity - be charitable - we are all in this together. 

Second, balance our activities/work with ones that restore like exercise, play, prayer, or contemplation. 

Third, establishing rituals that create routine and predictability such as family game night, attending mass, devotional or reading, or pizza nights. When change is unpredictable without an identifiable end - rituals/routines helps us stay oriented and future focused.   

Fourthly, minimize manageable stressors such as reducing social media and news exposure. 

Finally, if you notice that yourself or someone close to you seems persistently stressed, please consider connecting with professional resources. These include but are not limited to a spiritual director, your pastor, an agency like Catholic Family Services (Rapid Access Counselling program), The Distress Centre or a therapist in private practice (or you can go to Psychology Today and put in your preferences for a therapist and a list is generated).

Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, let us pray that through love of neighbour we can continue to interrupt the desire that suicide is a solution to overwhelming change and stress. May God look with mercy on all whose afflictions bring them distress, confusion and isolation, and may God give to them understanding helpers and the willingness to accept help.

Picture
Written by Eunice Peterson, MA.  Eunice is a psychologist, with specialities in treating anxiety, trauma, PTSD, as well as family conflict. Eunice, Troy and their 5 children are parishioners of St. Joseph’s Parish in Calgary.
0 Comments

The class is virtually in session

9/8/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Every year, as my children got older, the return-to-school routine got less exciting. Gone were the days where an afternoon spent at a stationary store was exciting; where an afternoon buying the Autumn wardrobe was exhilarating. With age came a certain cynicism about the reality of the classroom. They understood all too well that new pencils and backpacks, blouses and jeans, didn’t compensate for the months of hard work that were soon to replace the summer break. Despite this, I could always generate a bit of buzz talking about the return-to-school social activities and the importance of catching up with friends not seen since June.

A similar excitement usually follows the return to university classes. As President, I have always looked forward to our large NSOs — or new student orientations — where I re-use all of my age-old jokes and witticisms, but mostly get to enjoy meeting the new group of recruits, eager for the adventure that university represents. Orientation is always a loud, exciting event, where seniors descend like wizened guides to lead the newcomers around campus, and impart words of advice about navigating their new reality. The signup sheets for the different clubs are long and messy. The BBQs overflow with chatter, and professors and staff weave among the returned with excitement and good humour, still weeks away from the marking that awaits them.

All of this has disappeared with COVID-19. Where many of our faculty normally spend the summer working on research, the majority dedicated their time this year to redesigning their courses for online learning. Our staff, usually able to take vacation or focus on projects that are put off during the busy term, instead focused on germ-proofing our campus, with teams developing 100-page COVID safety plans for the health authorities and building Plexiglas barriers and signage for spaces that will be in limited use this year. It is true to say that all levels of the university return this Fall more weary and more wary than ever, facing an unknown challenge.

For St. Mary’s University, one of the biggest impacts of the pandemic has been to shut down or severely limit the charitable work that the President’s Volunteer Team (PVT) typically undertakes. Our monthly outings to support soup kitchens and shelters, building projects and seniors’ residence visits, have all been put on hold as we work with our community partners to identify safe ways for us to participate. Gone are the days of a hundred students joining me out in the field to support a worthy cause. Well, for now at least. Instead we are arranging small-scale events, in isolated groups, wherever we can. Still important, but somehow not the same.

Another challenge that our Catholic colleges and universities are facing is how to deliver our regular on-campus Masses. Many switched to online celebrations — ourselves included — but with even the limited return to campus comes the possibility of reconstituting in-person, though socially-distanced celebrations. As we’ve seen in our parishes, it can be done, even if the format is somewhat different. Here too, however, the experience will be different. At St. Mary’s, in Fr. Michael J. McGivney Hall, parishioners will find Plexiglas dividers between them. The offering of the sign of peace will still have special meaning, even though it will be expressed so very differently.

If you were to canvas university presidents about the greatest challenges, I’m sure most of us would say ensuring the safety of all our communities is key. And chief among our responsibilities will be ensuring that we look out for the mental health of our students, staff and faculty. At a recent online training workshop, our convener noted that in the virtual world, introverts become even more introverted, and extroverts … become introverts. This means that many of our stakeholders will experience some strain, with those most in need potentially least likely to seek out assistance. For this and so many other reasons, universities and colleges will need to be vigilant and attentive, clear in their messaging to their community, and alert and available to assist at all times. 

In the end, we know that we can only get through this challenge safely by being supportive of and by staying connected to each other. If we cherish and build strong communities, our chances of emerging from this pandemic stronger than before is assured. For now, it’s virtually guaranteed.
For wisdom becomes known through speech, ​and education through the words of the tongue. ​
​
Sirach 4:24

Picture
Written by Dr. Gerry Turcotte, 
president at ​St. Mary's University in Calgary. 
0 Comments

Graduation 2020

6/19/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Photo: Ecole de la Rose sauvage, Calgary - Facebook
It is June and the time of year when our young people complete their studies and gather for the celebration of their graduation.  But this year is different.  The COVID-19 Coronavirus restrictions have curtailed the in-person gatherings and reshaped them into “virtual graduations.”  This is new for all of us but it should not diminish in any way the joy we feel at seeing young people succeed whether it be the milestone of a graduation from kindergarten or the graduation from Grade 8, Grade 12, College or University. 

I add my voice to the good wishes and encouragement which our graduates of 2020 are receiving.  You are a graduating class with unique stories to tell and we anticipate the wisdom of your insights and leadership in the future. The following are for your reflection as you celebrate the completion of studies and look toward the next steps – be it further studies, a career, a religious vocation or some time to chart your future path in life.

The impact of a Catholic education was recently highlighted by Dr. Anthony Fauci, MD who has had a critical role in the pandemic leadership for the United States. Dr. Fauci graduated from Regis High School and in his own words he stated the “tenets of the Jesuit tradition sustained him throughout his life and career.”  The imprint of a Catholic Education shapes the character of a person in striving to live a life of goodness but also in assuming roles of responsibility in promoting the common good in both ordinary and extraordinary forms of service.

 As graduates of 2020 it seems to me that you are being offered three important lessons during this pandemic.
  • The first is that the pandemic has highlighted the importance of good leadership.  The values and principles which leaders hold are always of great significance for such responsibilities impact others. In his letter to the Galatians, St. Paul encourages the pursuit of what is right saying, “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.” (Galatians 6: 9-10) Always know that the Holy Spirit is there to guide you in what is right, in choosing to work for the good of others.
  • The second is that those who have discovered an inner strength and resiliency in the face of this pandemic have also been able to see and reach out to the needs of others. “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me… “(Matthew 25: 34-35) Each Sunday, I have witnessed this in the volunteers who serve in Feed the Hungry at St. Mary Cathedral Hall. Many are from the Catholic schools, teachers, staff and students who are mindful of the needs of others and are willing to sacrifice and serve for the sake of others.
  • Finally, there is much talk about a “new normal” and/or “when things return to normal.”  Perhaps we need to ask deeper questions about moving forward.  Looking at our society through the lens of our Catholic Social Teachings and striving to live the Truth of our human dignity and social solidarity as revealed to us in Jesus Christ, the pandemic has revealed and highlighted systemic inequities that have defined life for many people for far too long and created a growing spiritual poverty. “In the presence of serious forms of exploitation and social injustice, there is “an ever more widespread and acute sense of the need for a radical personal and social renewal capable of ensuring justice, solidarity, honesty and openness. … No, we shall not be saved by a formula but by a Person and the assurance that he gives us: I am with you! It is not therefore a matter of inventing a ‘new programme'. The programme already exists: it is the plan found in the Gospel and in the living Tradition, it is the same as ever.” (Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 577.)

In a recent video message to young people commemorating the 100th anniversary of St. John Paul II's birth, Pope Francis spoke about the challenges and obstacles faced by St. John Paul II as a young man and how his deep faith enabled him to overcome them.  Pope Francis expressed the hope that the life and faith of St. John Paull II would “inspire within you the desire to walk courageously with Jesus, who is “the Lord of risk, he is the Lord of the eternal ‘more.’" (Pope Francis, May 18, 2020)

Graduates of 2020, persevere in prayer, follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit and know that the Lord who calls you to embrace His Love will accomplish good works in and through you.  Seek the “eternal more” as you celebrate your graduation in 2020.
Picture
​Written by Bishop William T. McGrattan
June 18, 2020
Picture
0 Comments

What COVID-19 has taught me

6/17/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
I am weak. I can’t do life on my own. I am in need of a Saviour. This is what the Covid-19 pandemic has taught me. 

My eyes welled up with tears as I knelt to pray after receiving the Eucharistic Jesus for the first time since public celebration of Holy Mass was suspended in the Diocese of Calgary. Staring transfixed at the crucifix, I prayed: Jesus, I need you. I’m helpless without you. I surrender. 

This is not how my Covid-19 experience began.  

Energy and even some excitement characterized the initial weeks of cancellations. To keep calm, I adopted a laid back attitude, got outside for walks and practised gratitude. My husband Ben and I head up a domestic church with five children ranging from 8 months to nine years old. I loved trading in my hectic chauffeur duties, for a simpler, slower lifestyle at home together. I experienced what it’s like to truly be the primary educator of my children and to boot, there were countless free resources and professionals offering virtual help.

I appreciated the empathy and compassion that society showed with the ‘we will get through this together’ mentality. I actually believed, at least on the surface, that: ‘I’ve got this.’ I experienced a vision for our domestic church that I had never dared to dream before. 

But then, panic set in. What is going to happen once things open up again? Will it all seem like a dream? I noticed myself getting agitated, anxious and angry. I started to lose my peace because there were many aspects of this new life I wanted to retain, but I feared it might not be possible. 

Being confined to household isolation 24/7 for months felt like a monastic existence. I could not run, nor could I hide from my own weaknesses that were barriers to fully loving my family as myself. I finally had to confront them and it was like a lightning bolt struck my heart waking me from my slumber. 

I knew I was made for more. My unease felt so contrary to the holy woman I was striving to become. So I prayed for humility and courage to vulnerably peel off my camouflage. I desired to see myself the way God sees me. And through His grace, I discerned a call to a new radical self-acceptance; to become even more myself because God has even bigger plans for my life! 

What I discovered through prayer and conversation is that while I possess many creative talents, I score lower in the practical skills to keep a home running smoothly. I had been holding myself to a very high standard for which I didn’t have the natural skill to peacefully pull off. 

Early one morning, I walked to St. Pius X Church in Calgary and knelt outside looking through the window in adoration of Our Lord. I no longer felt trapped in silence and shame over my shortcomings, but rather felt freedom to address my challenges head on with compassion and mercy both for myself and others. Little did I know that only a couple weeks later, I would finally be reunited sacramentally with the healing, life-giving presence of Our Lord.  

My greatest desire is to become a saint and for those with eyes of faith, Covid-19 continues to be a holy time where both our challenges and blessings can be used to become like Christ. While we are collectively undergoing this pandemic together, our experience is uniquely ours. Following this article are six reflections from a new university graduate, a mother, a teacher, a single person, a senior and a pastor –– each made in the likeness and image of God, each giving God glory with their lives.  

Written by Sara Francis for Faithfully 
1 Comment

Fr. Fabio DeSouza and COVID-19

6/17/2020

0 Comments

 
When the pandemic hit, Fr. Fabio DeSouza turned a potential obstacle into a great pastoral opportunity. He opened a digital door to his Our Lady of Fatima Portuguese community and beyond. For Fr. DeSouza, this is only the beginning of his new online ministry.
What challenges have you faced during Covid-19?

In the beginning of this pandemic, I could say there were two challenges: institutional  –– how to run a parish with no parishioners and little revenue, and pastoral –– how to reach people in their homes. 

What blessings have you received during Covid-19? 

I arrived in Calgary four years ago from Brazil. The most fruitful moment of my pastoral ministry here in Calgary is this time of pandemic. I’m reaching more people now than before. We have about 300 families registered here; the families that come regularly are around 150. Our Facebook videos have around 17,000 views per month. I had some families from the U.S., Ontario, Portugal and Brazil join us online. I opened a digital door for them.

The majority of my parishioners are seniors. They said: Father, we cannot go to the church for personal prayer. With this challenge I started to think about what we could do. I decided to start with a short talk about the daily Gospel and pray the rosary every day. I decided this for two reasons. When we can pray together we can have a better relationship. They can present their intentions for the rosary. They can share the challenges they have, I can say some words directly to the families. I noticed that this approach worked better than Mass online every day because we had better contact. We had Mass live-streamed twice a week.  

We had no financial problem. For me it was a huge surprise. We implemented the digital platform for online donations and they continued to send their envelopes. They felt connected with me and the parish. For some of them it was like I was going to their home everyday, praying with them and sharing the Gospel and talking to them. They learned how to find our parish on Facebook and we met there every day.


What have you learned from Covid-19? 

Going forward I think that we should try to find different ways to establish our presence in this ‘new digital continent’. It’s creating a space where we can develop our mission in the digital world. We need to think more about this new reality. Some may think, if we do an online service, people will not come to the physical church. We think one thing is in opposition to the other, but I think not. Because if my parish offers a consistent online spiritual service, people will feel more connected to my community. And I have heard this feedback from my parishioners. 

The digital continent is a place for mission. We have to learn the culture and language, and it’s different from the presence in person. We have two platforms: here, in the church, in person, and the digital platform. I wish to learn more and do more. I think this is the way of the future. 
Picture
Fr. Fabio DeSouza
0 Comments

Stan Kavalinas & COVID-19

6/17/2020

0 Comments

 
Stan Kavalinas has been quarantined inside his assisted living complex for months. Thankfully, love has no bounds. At 91, Stan has learned to FaceTime with his granddaughter Kaitlin and her new baby, Ruth –– one of the newest members of St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy.
What challenges have you faced during Covid-19?

The only big challenge is being locked in. You can’t leave the place. Before the flu hit I would go down to South Centre and Ricky’s for lunch. The provincial rules have tightened things up. We go outside in the yard, but we have to be six feet apart and everything has to come through the front door. 


What blessings have you received during Covid-19? 

It’s been pretty good. I’ve been doing alright. My family calls me. I’ve always been a guy who can put up with things, you can’t make your own rules. You go along with what the rules are and hopefully in a month or so this will be all over. I think the staff are doing a pretty good job. 

It has shown us how lucky we are before the flu hit. I don’t know what the problem is. A lot of people are really sad. They just sit there and sit there. You’d figure the end of the world has come and maybe it has for them. But I don’t look at life that way. You make the best of it. If you have to tear something down, you tear it down. Never give up. 
Picture
Physical-distance visit from granddaughter Kaitlin Richie & his new great-grandaughter, Ruth.
Picture
Stan Kavalinas
0 Comments

Mia Drewniak & COVID-19

6/16/2020

0 Comments

 
In the stillness and silence of living self-isolation as a single person, St. Joseph's parishioner Mia Drewniak experienced both loneliness and the love of God and her community in new and unexpected ways.  
What challenges have you faced during Covid-19?

​Isolation. Loneliness. As a single person, I really noticed how lonely and alone I felt having certain privileges and activities taken away these last few months and having to isolate from friends and family. I never felt this before as I am an outgoing person involved in many things, constantly busy. I’ve feared catching the virus as I am 62-years-old, in the high risk group, and still working as a part-time registered nurse with Alberta Health Services, but soon retiring.

​I experienced sadness when my sister-in-law’s father passed away during this pandemic and I was not able to be with her and family for any service and grieving. And not being able to receive the Eucharist, attend Mass at my parish or do my music ministry with my parish and the diocese has been very hard for me. 

What blessings have you received during Covid-19? 

Having more time at home to pray and spend with the Lord. With more time at home I was able to get in touch with friends and family that I haven’t talked to in awhile. I’ve appreciated friends checking in with me to see how I am doing and if I am in need of anything such as groceries. With the extra time at home, I was able to plan and get things ready for my retirement. And I’ve done things around the house that I let slide because I was too busy before to tackle them.

​I enjoyed seeing the kindness coming through in people. While out for my walks in the neighbourhood, I noticed people greeting one another on the street and certain signs of encouragement written on little notes hanging from trees in yards and on sidewalks.
Picture
Mia Drewniak works as a nurse for the Alberta Health Services, and she is a parishioner of St. Joseph's Parish in Calgary.
0 Comments

Erin Loftson & COVID-19

6/16/2020

0 Comments

 
Bringing a baby into the world during a pandemic was not part of Erin Loftson’s birth plan. Amidst so much sanitization and uncertainty, her baby boy entered the world bringing new hope. ​
What challenges have you faced during Covid-19?

During the Covid-19 pandemic, I’ve faced an unusual set of challenges bringing a new baby into this world while the virus hit Calgary in late March. My final midwife appointments were cold, sterilized, and rushed. Our hospital delivery was met with PPE, sanitizing, and worrying about what I should or shouldn’t touch while labouring around the delivery room. Our postpartum days were filled with uncertainty, worry, and the disappointment of not being able to introduce our new baby to family and friends. 

But most of all, I miss the opportunity of connecting with our spiritual family, the Body of Christ, face-to-face. We have been unable to celebrate our son’s baptism with our family and friends, unable to see our friends every Sunday, and unable to join in Communion with our parish. My family has a new found realization of how much we truly need our brothers and sisters in worship, support, and fellowship. 


What blessings have you received during Covid-19? 

To say the least, welcoming our new son safely into our home has been a great blessing during this pandemic. We have also been privy to the love that our friends and family have for us by supporting us and helping our family even when unable to be physically present. Praying outside the church during the baptism, dropping gifts and food off for us, offering to run errands. Even though Covid-19 has limited our ability to physically come together with our community, it has highlighted our friends’ and families’ love and support for us when they have gone the extra mile to be there for our family. 

Interiorly, being quarantined initially emphasized my need to pray as I work in the home. “Every diaper is a Hail Mary,” I’m always told. With the inability to attend Mass for three months, I wanted to really lean into my work as a mother and offer it all to Jesus. However, I quickly burned out. I realized that my Sabbath was not set apart from the rest of the week as it used to be, and my daily activities wore me down. This all led me to a great fight for prayer time, recognizing more than ever my need for silent, uninterrupted prayer time. I still offered up the diapers, the spills, and the tantrums, but I realized that being stuck at home with little children, without any outside reprieve, necessitates a deeper connection with Christ that only prayer time can offer. Even if it’s only 10 minutes while the newborn naps and the toddler is likely getting into worlds of trouble, those 10 minutes provide me with the grace, patience, and love necessary to offer up the diapers and spills and tantrums. All for Jesus!
Picture
Erin Loftson is a wife and mother of two. The Loftson family are parishioners of St. Anthony's Parish, FSSP Latin Mass. 
0 Comments

Tiffany Biensch & COVID-19

6/16/2020

1 Comment

 
Tiffany Biensch could never have predicted she would finish her degree online and have her university graduation ceremony postponed. But this youthful and joy-filled St. James Church parishioner is taking the lessons she learned about slowing down and being present in the moment into her new career.  ​
What challenges have you faced during Covid-19?

COVID-19 began to impact Alberta just as I was finishing my university degree. I was finishing four courses and an honours thesis when our campus decided to close. This meant transitioning online for classes and cutting my research project short. In addition, my graduation ceremony was postponed to November and my job possibilities were greatly reduced. These challenges required some altered planning and patience; however, they were not paralyzing. I still graduated from St. Mary’s University with a degree in psychology and I know that with the grace of God I will find a job. Beyond the challenges in my education I was also sad when Mass was closed to the public during the pandemic. Though I understand this precaution, I found myself often missing our Beloved Eucharist and the community that gathered in this celebration. 

What blessings have you received during Covid-19? 

I am blessed that I was able to receive funding and have the support of family members who are monetarily stable. COVID-19 put many limitations on leaving the house which gave me lots of family time and prayer time. I also learned a lot during this pandemic. I think that we easily get caught up in life ‘doing’ that we forget to take time to just ‘be’. By simply being we are able to sink deeper into our faith and find our Saviour in the moment we are in. I discovered that it wasn’t easy to just stop but when I did, I discovered many blessings. This is not only a blessing but a lesson that I hope to carry forward into my life. 
Picture
Tiffany Biensch is a recent graduate of St. Mary's University, and a parishioner of St. James Parish in Calgary
1 Comment

    Author

    Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers

    Archives

    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018

    Categories

    All
    Advent & Christmas
    Art
    Bereavement
    Bishop Emeritus Henry
    Bishop McGrattan
    Book Review
    Care For Creation
    Catechetics
    Catholic Charities & Development
    Catholic Education
    Catholic Pastoral Centre
    Catholic Schools
    CCCB
    Children
    Christian Unity
    Climate Change
    Communications
    Consecrated Life
    Consecrated Virgin
    Conversion
    Covid 19
    Culture
    CWL
    Development & Peace
    Devotions
    Diocesan Event
    Disci
    Discipleship
    Ecumenical
    Elizabeth House
    Environment
    Euthanasia
    Evangelization
    Faithful Living
    Faithfully
    Family
    Feed The Hungry
    From The Bishop's Office
    Fundraising
    Funeral
    Grieving
    Health
    Health Care
    Homelessness
    Hospitality
    Indigenous
    In Memoriam
    Interfaith
    Jubilarians
    Jubilee
    Jubilee 2025
    Lay Associations
    Lent
    Lent & Easter
    Liturgy
    Marian
    Marriage
    Mary
    Mass
    Men's Ministry
    Mental Health
    Migrants
    Miscarriage
    Mission Mexico
    Movie Review
    Music
    One Rock
    Online Formation
    Ordination
    Palliative Care
    Parenting
    Parish Life
    Pastoral Care
    Pastoral Renewal
    Pastoral Visit
    Permanent Diaconate
    Pope
    Pope Francis
    Prayer
    Pray For Peace
    Priesthood
    Prolife
    RCIA
    Reconciliation
    Refugee
    Religious Education
    Religious Freedom
    Religious Life
    Resources And Guidelines
    Sacred Art
    Safe Environment
    Saints
    Scripture & Reflection
    Seminarians
    Seniors
    SFXC
    Social Justice
    Stewardship
    St. Joseph
    St. Mary's University
    Synod
    Vatican
    Vocation
    You Are Called
    You Belong
    You Matter
    Youth And Young Adults
    Youth Ministry

    RSS Feed

GET TO KNOW US
Our Bishop
Offices & Ministries
​Our Staff
Read our Blog
Catholic Community
​Lay Associations
CONNECT WITH US
If You Choose To Talk About it
​
Contact us
​Careers
​Parish Boundaries
​Mass Times

Volunteer Screening
NEED INFO ON
Becoming Catholic
Marriage Preparation
​Vocations
Annulment 
Sacraments Prep
Catholic Funeral
GIVE TO
Diocesan Ministries
Together in Action
Feed the Hungry
Elizabeth House
Your Parish Church​ 
​Other Ministry
REPORT ABUSE

Catholic Pastoral Centre  | 120 - 17th Ave SW, Calgary, AB  T2S 2T2 | ​Phone: 403-218-5500 | [email protected]
Charitable Number: 
10790-9939-RR0076​. Donate Now.
Photo from aronbaker2
  • Renewal
  • Blog
  • About
  • Give
  • News & Events
  • Ministries
  • Contact Us
  • MASS TIMES
  • Jubilee 2025