 Throughout the Gospels, we read of people’s encounters with Christ, where He invites them to “come and see” who He is. Jesus continues to extend this invitation to each of us today — but how easy is it for us to “stay” in relationship with Him when trials come our way? Furthermore, what does it look like for us to follow in Christ’s footsteps, seeing our interactions with others as opportunities to reveal the Father's love to them? The theme of this year’s Beloved Daughters Ministry conference is “Come and Stay: Relationships Rooted in Love.” As Rikka, Maria, and Jessica (the founders of Beloved Daughters Ministry) were praying and reflecting on the theme, they considered the many roles women hold. As daughters, friends, mothers, and sisters, women are presented with ample opportunities throughout daily life to cultivate and maintain authentic relationships. Yet often, comparison, fear, insecurities, and responsibilities can get in the way of developing these relationships. Maria, Rikka, and Jessica have been friends for over ten years. They can attest to the challenges of nurturing their friendship while fulfilling multiple roles and responsibilities. In the midst of it all, they strive to remind each other that disagreements are opportunities to grow in virtue — to help one another become saints and truly see each other in God’s image. Having previously volunteered together in youth and young adult ministry, we saw the formation of Beloved Daughters Ministry as an opportunity to journey alongside other women as we grow in our identity as beloved daughters of God. As we’ve mentioned at just about every one of our events, we are on the same journey as every other woman — we don’t have it all figured out.
Slowly but surely, each of us is learning that every disagreement offers the opportunity to stay, be present, and see things from another’s point of view. We can each attest that this is often challenging and frustrating in the moment. Yet by God’s grace, He continues to open our eyes to truly see one another as daughters of Christ, rather than turning inward on ourselves. This has expanded our capacity to extend love and mercy to each other. Vulnerability has led us to listen more deeply, empathize, and understand. There is a natural delight that comes with sharing life and choosing to stay with the friend placed before us. Planning ministry events together reminds us that we are on the same team. We share the same mission: to grow in love for Christ and to share that love with others. This ministry has provided space and opportunities for us to grow in holiness and virtue. More recently, as we plan our upcoming conference, we have also been reminded of the simple joy of having fun together! Sharing laughter has helped us not to take ourselves so seriously — and to remember that when we live under the freedom of being beloved daughters, God’s grace makes up for all that we lack. Within the Father’s love, there is freedom to make mistakes and to allow Him to transform them into opportunities to increase our capacity to give and receive love. Written by Maria Z, Beloved Daughters Ministry, Calgary.
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  Our small rural parish communities of St. Augustine’s, Taber and St. Joseph’s, Vauxhall recognized a great need for increased vocations. It is often our smaller communities that are most affected by the shortage of priests, which limits opportunities for worship in the sacred liturgy. Our existing priests are stretched thin, often covering two or three parishes that may be as much as an hour apart. In response, we felt called to come together for 40 Hours of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, offering special intentions for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. What initially seemed like a tall order for our community was met with an incredible response once the invitation went out. Many parishioners stepped forward—some spending time in adoration for the first time in years, and others, for the very first time. Adoration began at 3:00 am on November 25 and concluded on November 26 with Benediction at 6:45 pm, followed by a Memorial Mass offered for the intentions of all deceased members of the Knights of Columbus. A time of fellowship followed the Mass. With open hearts, we witnessed how Jesus desires to touch us deeply, speak to us, heal us, and transform us when we meet Him in adoration. Many parishioners stayed longer than the one hour they had signed up for. In heartfelt praise and thanksgiving, all were blessed to offer this time to the Lord. As we gathered in community, the presence of the Holy Spirit was strongly felt. Many experienced a renewed awareness of Jesus’ presence in the Blessed Sacrament, filling them with peace, joy, and grace—gifts waiting for all of us in Eucharistic adoration. We especially lift up all our seminarians: may God fill them with courage, continue to encourage their hearts, and bless our Catholic communities with more priests and religious men and women. God bless all our faithful servants—for your glory, Lord. Submitted by Linda Kinahan, Parishioner. Linda has been a lifelong parishioner in the Taber area, first at Assumption Parish, Grassy Lake which was a missionary parish of St. Augustine’s, Taber. She currently sits on the Liturgy Committee at St. Augustine’s and is responsible for Sacred Art. She is married to Deacon Brian Kinahan.
 It was April of 2022 when my parish, St. Albert the Great, embraced the call to sponsor a family of Iranian Catholic refugees for their first year in Canada. We formed a small ministry, and the parish responded with remarkable generosity donating the necessary funds within one year. With funds secured, all that remained was to pray and wait for Immigration Canada’s approval. During this long wait, a fellow parishioner and I connected with the family through WhatsApp, building a relationship through prayer and encouragement. We shared scripture, celebrated feast days together, and exchanged glimpses of our lives. Our parish community also supported them through prayer vigils and prayer bouquets, offering hope in their darkest moments. Finally, in September 2024, we received the long-awaited notification from Immigration Canada: the family would be arriving in 7 to 10 weeks. We felt relieved—and also happy because we had many weeks to prepare — then we learned that one of the sisters had been detained in a deportation camp in Turkey. Recognizing the urgency, we prayed for a swift arrival. The Lord answered quickly—within three days we were informed that the family would arrive in just nine days! Our prayer shifted: "Lord, nine days is not much time—we need help!" After a quick check of the liturgical calendar, we realized their arrival would be on the feast of St. Vincent de Paul. Trusting in divine providence, our parish began praying the nine-day novena seeking his intercession as we prepared. At first, things seemed to fall into place. We quickly found an apartment and felt reassured—God was with us! But then…the apartment deal fell through. We began another search, facing rejection after rejection from landlords. Late one evening, after an exhausting day of work and apartment hunting, a ministry member found a listing for an apartment in a building we hadn’t considered. Tired and doubtful, we nearly ignored it, assuming we’d just face another rejection, but my teammate and I decided to try one more apartment before calling it a night. I dialed, expecting voicemail but the landlord answered right away. I was straightforward and upfront: "I’m a volunteer from St. Albert the Great Parish. I have an Iranian family of refugees arriving in five days. They have no jobs, no references, no credit history, and I can’t sign a lease until they arrive. All I can offer is a letter from Calgary Catholic Immigration confirming our parish’s financial support for a year." I braced for rejection. Instead, as soon as I mentioned Calgary Catholic Immigration, he interrupted: "You don’t need to explain any further. My family came to Calgary in 1988 through Calgary Catholic Immigration." Tears welled in my eyes—I saw the hand of God’s providence. Seizing the moment, I asked, “Any chance you can meet me in 20 minutes?” He said, "Yes!" We walked to the apartment, unsure what to expect. We met the landlord and it turns out he is a Catholic from El Salvador—the same country my husband had fled decades ago. We connected instantly. He shared that he had a tenant lined up, but just that morning, the lease had fallen through, so he was surprised—and even relieved—to receive our call.
The next day, I learned a little more about just how much providence was at work. Amidst the whirlwind of appointments, they said, "Sister, we need to tell you something "I listened as they continued, "We are so happy with our apartment—we had been praying for a home in this exact building." I was surprised. "But how?" I asked. "You only asked to be close to the church, and there are many buildings nearby." They smiled. "We found this building on Google Maps and prayed specifically for an apartment in this building." In that moment, I fought back tears, overwhelmed by the depth of God’s care. These courageous women had lost everything—country, family, and home—because they chose to follow Christ. I had only read about this kind of faith. Yet, despite their hardships, they never wavered in their trust that their loving Father would provide. They asked, they trusted, and He answered—working through the hands and hearts of His children on the other side of the world. But His generosity didn’t stop there. He not only provided for them, but also for the landlord, who had unexpectedly lost a tenant that very morning. He provided for the landlord’s family who couldn’t have known 36 years ago that God was laying a foundation that would one day prepare them for this moment—an intersection with a new family in need of help; showing that God’s providence extends far beyond the present, reaching across generations. He also provided for me, offering deep consolation through the privilege of witnessing His provision in action. And He provided for our parish family, blessing us with the powerful witness of faith and the opportunity to offer our help. Our God is so good and we are truly His children—one in Christ, bound together by a love that transcends all. Since their arrival, they have shared their journey to Christ and the incredible ways the Christian faith continues to grow in Iran. It is a powerful reminder of who our God is—Jesus knows no boundaries. He seeks out souls even in the most unexpected places, moving beyond the barriers of an Islamic regime. Faith in Christ is alive in places we might assume it cannot exist. Let us all continue to pray for our brothers and sisters who face persecution around the world. For the past six months, we have walked alongside them as they adjust to life in Canada—learning English and navigating a new culture. Now, as they begin their job search, we ask for your prayers that they may find meaningful work to support themselves. We also ask for your prayers for a family member they had to leave behind in Iran. Our hope is that one day, he too will be able to join them here. May God open the right doors and make a way for their reunion. Written by Allison Rivas for Faithfully. Allison is a parishioner and Parish Renewal Team member at St. Albert the Great's Parish in Calgary.
 “St. Joseph was chosen by God to be the guardian of the Holy Family. This was no small task.” With these words, Archbishop Ivan Jurkovič, Papal Nuncio to Canada, opened his homily at St. Mary’s Cathedral, where close to 1,200 faithful gathered to celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph. This jubilee Mass was a profound Solemnity, marked by an Apostolic Blessing with a plenary indulgence, granted in the name of Pope Francis and imparted by Bishop McGrattan. The plenary indulgence, available to the faithful under the usual conditions—sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion, and prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father—reminds us of God’s abundant mercy and the call to ongoing conversion. St. Joseph’s role in salvation history is often described in simple terms—he was the foster father of Jesus and the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary but Archbishop Jurkovič emphasized the depth of his mission. Joseph was entrusted with the care of Jesus and Mary, a responsibility that required immense faith and unwavering trust in God’s plan. His silent strength and steadfastness provided a stable and nurturing environment for Jesus to grow. “In the home of Nazareth, Jesus would have discerned that Joseph was a man of prayer,” the Archbishop reflected. “Like every Jewish boy, much of the religious heritage of Israel would have been imparted to Jesus in that setting through Joseph’s example.” The lessons of faith that Joseph passed down would later shape Christ’s teachings. “From Joseph, Jesus would have gained knowledge of the skills to be a good carpenter and builder,” he continued. “And this knowledge He used to teach His disciples that the one who listens to the word of God and acts upon it is like the wise man who builds his house on the rock.”
St. Joseph remains a patron and guide for the Church, for fathers, workers, and all who seek to follow God’s will. “May we learn from St. Joseph how to live lives that are pleasing to the Heavenly Father,” Archbishop Jurkovič urged. His life calls us to be people of faith, courage, and love—to be men and women who, like him, embrace our responsibilities with trust and devotion.
The celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral concluded with a rare and profound moment—a papal blessing with a plenary indulgence for those present. Bishop McGrattan led the faithful in a moment of repentance, preparing their hearts to receive this special grace. “Pray to God for our Most Holy Father, Pope Francis, our Bishop William, and for Holy Mother Church, and strive, by holiness of life, to walk in full communion with it,” Deacon Peter An announced before the bishop imparted the blessing. May we turn to St. Joseph in our struggles, in our work, and in our faith, knowing that through his example, we too can walk in trust, courage, and love.  With an election call on April 28, Bishop McGrattan is calling on Christians to get involved in the electoral process. (Canva) As Canadians prepare for the upcoming campaign, Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) president Bishop William McGrattan urged Christians to get involved in the electoral process. “I think it is important to realize we do have this freedom and also the responsibility to exercise a decision that will support the country in moving forward in a way that respects common values,” said McGrattan, the Bishop of Calgary. Discourse between relatives, friends, co-workers and fellow churchgoers about the daily news and philosophical debates about the soul of the nation will magnify during the campaign timeframe. Instead of adopting a combative and intolerant posture during a political discussion with someone expressing clashing viewpoints, McGrattan said we can exchange ideas charitably. “I think the first step is to make sure that one is educated or aware of the issues so that one can speak with a certain degree of knowledge,” said McGrattan. “And then be open to listening to another person's perspective and question why they might hold that particular perspective on an issue. Maybe then say, ‘from my perspective of my life of faith, I see this in this light.’ “Faith is not a political position, but faith provides values that we need to be reflecting in our discussions and in making decisions regarding the future of a country and a society.” Catholics, specifically, are encouraged to resist being one- or two-issue voters by meditating upon all seven core principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST):
McGrattan suggested clergy can meaningfully assist these groups by being aware of the realities of food insecurity, mental illness, euthanasia and health-care barriers in their local context and then “bring those to the attention of our faithful in their discernment and education as the election unfolds.” A key to discernment, said McGrattan, is to “pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom.” He considers prayers to the Holy Spirit “essential at this time as we prepare to go into an election.” Reciting The Lord’s Prayer, the foundational Christian prayer that Jesus taught to His disciples, is also recommended by McGrattan. This pre-vote spiritual practice strikes a personal chord. “I remember my father telling me to make sure you pray before you go and vote,” said McGrattan. “He always said he would say the Our Father before placing the ballot in the box. I remember him telling me that as I came of age to vote. He gave me that sage wisdom and prudence.” The mentality a Catholic brings into the voting booth is also vital. Recognizing that voting is a responsibility, said McGrattan, should ensure that “one doesn’t just see this as a kind of superficial or just a very momentary type of decision.” He added that we should approach a vote believing “this is an act of love and service.” As for after the vote, McGrattan said we can observe the Ignatian teaching of holy indifference — embracing God’s will and direction by surrendering personal preferences. “It is about one accepting the outcome and trying to live with that and contribute the best they can,” said McGrattan. “If things don't necessarily align with one's vote, one will try and find ways to continue to advocate for some of the issues they saw as important.” McGrattan stressed that while “God knows the outcome, and God has in some ways ordained what is to unfold in our life and in the life of a country,” at the same time “He wants us to act freely and responsibly. Voting is part of that human dignity we have given to us by God.” McGrattan concluded with a call to action for young voters. “Especially for the young voters, the future is important,” said McGrattan. “They have to give voice to that by being very participatory in terms of elections and making their vote known.” Written by Quinton Amundson for the Catholic Register. Image source: Canva.
I joined the Capacity Building Committee and had the great fortune of having Michelle Haywood give me a tour of the House and teach me more about the services they offer. She was the one who made the connection for me between Mother Mary and the House. As it says in Luke 1:39-40, immediately after Mary is visited by the Angel Gabriel who tells her she will bear God’s son, she travels to her cousin Elizabeth to find comfort and support. That is what Elizabeth House is all about. I love their motto: “Changing Lives, Two Generations at Time!” Founded in 2006 by the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis, Elizabeth House has welcomed over 600 women and children of all ages, backgrounds, religious affiliations, and ethnicities. All are welcome to share in the safety and support of the staff and caseworkers. Elizabeth House is a transitional home that serves as a sanctuary and community for pregnant women and mothers experiencing housing instability. Families can stay until the children reach two years of age, making this House distinct from other places of refuge. In addition to food and shelter, Elizabeth House provides residents with supports to create lifelong resilience and achieve their goals of self-sufficiency. I am very excited about the future for Elizabeth House. In the short term, I am hoping to raise the profile of the Elizabeth House both in the Diocese and Calgary Catholic School District. In the long term, I would like to see the creation of a new purpose-built house where the work of supporting women and children can expand and more lives can be changed! Written by Cathy Sandau, Elizabeth House Volunteer, Capacity Building Committee.
 The Diocese of Calgary continues the journey of pastoral renewal as parishes enter the Parish Renewal Planning stage. Over the past year, communities have engaged in listening and discernment through the Parish Renewal Survey and parish conversations. Now, ministry leaders in parishes across the diocese are preparing to take the next steps in planning and implementation. Parish Renewal Teams across the Diocese On Saturday, Feb. 8, Parish Renewal Teams (PRTs) across the diocese gathered in their parishes to take part in an important formation session. Bishop McGrattan and the Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team joined via Zoom to guide the discussion, outlining the next steps for parish renewal planning. The session reinforced that this is not just another initiative—it is a call to trust the Holy Spirit and step forward in faith. One of the strongest takeaways from the meeting was clarity. Many teams appreciated the structure, and feel more equipped for the next stage. "The timeline was absolutely helpful. Now we have a clear process to follow, and an important reminder: this is about discernment, not personal agendas." "Useful templates and clear instructions so that PRTs do not have to develop their own format." For others, the session provided much-needed reassurance that Renewal is not about rushing to quick solutions, as noted by one participant, "Renewal is a process…it will take time. That’s a relief. It had felt overwhelming at times." Above all, there was a shared sense of commitment—not just from parish leaders, but from the diocese as a whole. One participant shared, "We need to lean on and trust the Holy Spirit to guide us. A lot of work has been put in by the diocesan team to provide us with the direction and tools we made to proceed. The Diocese is committed!" Moving from discernment to action With the vision in place, parishes are now preparing for their Parish Renewal Planning Days. These gatherings will be dedicated times of prayer, reflection, and strategic planning, where ministry leaders will come together to set priorities for their communities. The process will unfold in stages:
For many, this structured approach has brought a renewed sense of confidence. One team member remarked, “This enables us to have a concrete plan to put into fruition what we have been discerning for the past year.” A Shared Journey The orientation session was a reminder that renewal is not meant to be walked alone. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and the diocesan leadership are all co-responsible in this mission. As each parish continues this process, the faithful are invited to pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and to remain engaged in the renewal journey. With faith, trust, and a willingness to cast into the deep, let us pray: For our parish community, called to pastoral renewal, may the Holy Spirit pour forth upon our parish and ministry leaders who will be involved in the planning process. Grant them wisdom, courage, and unity to discern Your will and embrace renewal for the growth of our faith community. May this renewal journey deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ and empower us to be His faithful disciples, bringing hope and love to all we encounter, let us pray to the Lord...  Denis Grady was a beacon of hope, a musician of the soul, and a servant of compassion whose life was a testament to the transformative power of faith and love. Born in Peterborough, Ontario in 1952, his family moved to Oshawa in 1962. It was in Oshawa that Denis learned to play guitar, and began performing at high school dances. Denis's journey was marked by an encounter with God in his teenage years that would shape his life thereafter. He moved west to Edmonton and eventually Calgary in the 1970s. As a gifted musician and spiritual leader, Denis began to use his music as a bridge to connect hearts and heal wounds. With two gospel albums — "Running Too Long" and "Grace in the Strangest Places" — he shared messages of redemption and hope that resonated deeply with those who heard them. He and his guitar became instruments of unity, whether teaching simple songs to children in a remote area, or bringing comfort to those struggling in his community.
In 2002, Denis founded the Franciscan and Friends Mission, embodying the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi by dedicating his life to serving the most vulnerable. It was in these early years of his ministry that my husband and I met Denis. Largely through the experience of seeing how Denis touched the lives of so many people, we ourselves joined him in becoming members of the Order of Secular Franciscans. Denis loved to travel, bringing music and light to places in need—such as Haiti, Mexico, Guatemala, and beyond—always driven by a profound belief that love knows no boundaries. My husband Bill had the privilege of taking him on a mission trip to India in 2018, and will never forget how Denis opened his heart to people everywhere they went. Here in Alberta, Denis was a crucial force in Indigenous reconciliation, organizing art and music events that brought communities together and honored the rich cultural heritage of First Nations peoples. Denis's own journey of recovery from alcoholism became a powerful narrative of grace and transformation. Achieving 40 years of sobriety, he allowed God to use his own personal struggles to reach out to others, proving that no one is beyond the reach of compassion and healing. His home became a sanctuary for those in need, a living testament to his belief that true service means opening one's heart completely. Denis’ family was the cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted grandfather who radiated joy and pride in his five grandsons. To know Denis was to understand that faith is about unconditional friendship. "Our job is to love, not judge," he would say, a philosophy that guided every aspect of his life and mission. Denis crossed over to be with his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on January 24, 2025, but his legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the music he shared, and the love he spread. In the words of one of his own songs, he was indeed "counting the days"—not with sadness, but with hope, joy, and an unwavering belief in the promise of paradise.
 Since October 2023, our Diocese has been on a journey of Pastoral Renewal, and now, we are entering the Parish Pastoral Renewal Planning phase. This is a start of something extraordinary— a bold step forward as we deepen our commitment to Renewal and venture into uncharted waters. "Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." ~Luke 5:4.  Join us in prayer as we prepare for the February 8 meeting of our Pastors and Parish Renewal Teams. This important gathering will offer an orientation to the parish renewal planning process, a spiritual journey centered on Christ. Together, as parish leaders and community members, we will seek God's guidance to develop a renewal plan with concrete actions that will transform our parish life and foster the spiritual growth of all its members. The ultimate fruit of renewal is when the joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus Christ" (Evangelii Gaudium, 1) Franciscans & Friends hosted the inspiring 2025 Bishop's Breakfast with the Nation at St. Peter's Church in Calgary. The morning was filled with a delicious breakfast prepared by God Squad, powerful testimonies, heartfelt tributes to Denis Grady, and moments of shared faith and friendship. Read the coverage about the Breakfast posted by Lethbridge Herald: "Breakfast with the Nation" offers connections to reconciliation." (Alexandra Noad) Watch testimony/tribute at the Breakfast from: 
Photos credit: Annie Chirka, St. Peter's Catholic Church, Calgary  Photo credit: Russell Moore
 We’re excited to share Deacon Peter’s inspiring journey as he opens up about his vocation and the experiences that shaped his calling! From childhood moments in Seoul to serving as a deacon today, Deacon Peter’s stories are filled with faith, family, and incredible moments of grace. Can you tell us a little about yourself—where you grew up and about your family?
 Deacon Peter’s family and friends What inspired you to pursue priesthood? Was there a moment or experience that sparked your calling?
Many young people wonder how to recognize God’s call in their lives. How do we know God is calling us?
Now that you’re a deacon, what’s been the most awesome part of serving so far?
 Litany of the Saint - during the Ordination
Deacon Peter’s story is a beautiful reminder of how God calls us in unique and personal ways. May God, who began His good work in him, bring it to completion and fulfillment.
 Photo credit: Fly_YYC (YYC International Airport) Instagram
The Global Slavery Index estimates that at any given time, there are 17,000 people affected by human trafficking in Canada. And yet The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking has estimated that although a high percentage of Canadians is aware that human trafficking is a significant issue in Canada, most Canadians don’t feel that they can recognize the signs of human trafficking, nor do they believe that Canadian citizens are among its victims. This is where organizations such as The Centre, and many other such organizations come in. HTEP is one such organization, with a specific focus to address human trafficking education in Southern Alberta. HTEP (Human Trafficking Education for Prevention) was created in Calgary in 2023 by a small group of Catholics (religious and laity) who shared a concern about troubling statistics indicating that a disproportionate number of marginalized individuals are being targeted for human trafficking in Southern Alberta. As members of the Diocese of Calgary, we believe that supporting anti-trafficking efforts is a meaningful way for the faithful to contribute to both Diocesan Renewal and personal growth in union with Christ, who spent His earthly life ministering to the poor and marginalized. While there are many groups and agencies fighting various aspects of human trafficking, HTEP decided to focus its efforts on the front end: an awareness campaign that can help prevent targets from becoming victims. HTEP believes that a community that knows the signs of human trafficking and understands the many ways traffickers operate is in a better position to protect its most vulnerable from becoming victims. By working with small regional groups and churches, school communities and educators, and local organizations, we can raise awareness, inform, and support grassroots community efforts right here in our own backyard. We also provide workshop study guides, pamphlets, and other resources that groups can use freely. As we continue to grow, we hope to offer more in-person workshops within Southern Alberta and other interactive sessions, allowing us to tailor these sessions to individual needs and demographics. To learn more about or join any aspect of the fight against human trafficking, please check out our brand-new website at htep.ca. Website content suggestions are welcome! Finally, please join us in a prayer of intercession to St. Josephine Bakhita, the patron saint of victims of human trafficking: O St. Bakhita, assist all those who are trapped in a state of slavery; Intercede with God on their behalf so that they will be released from their chains of captivity. Those who are enslaved, let God set free. Provide comfort to survivors of slavery and let them look to you as an example of hope and faith." Submitted by Human Trafficking Education for Prevention (HTEP) team.
 The Alberta government is seeking feedback on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) processes and regulations. Your feedback will help inform the Alberta government's planning and policy decision-making, including potential legislative changes to medical assistance in dying in Alberta. Please take a few minutes to complete the online survey and share your feedback.
We pray for lawmakers to uphold the sanctity of life and ensure policies protect the most vulnerable. Please make your voice heard.
 Ascension Catholic Parish, Calgary Hope is only truly hope when the situation is hope-less, and the situation must have appeared hopeless to Joseph and Mary at times. We romanticize Christmas Eve in our beautiful nativity scenes, but Jesus was born amidst feces and fleas in the piercing cold. The manger had no warmth or security. Herod wanted them dead, and the Holy Family fled as homeless refugees to Egypt to escape the Massacre of the Innocents. For those families who watched their children murdered, the situation must have been hopeless indeed. The Diocesan Advent mission was thus aptly titled Renewed in Hope because we need courageous hope, not toxic positivity. The mission began with Brett Powell encouraging attendees to confront the brutal facts facing the Catholic Church in a post-Christian era. The harsh reality is this: despite wonderful programs and a golden era of freely available, high-quality Catholic content, Mass participation continues to decline. Even though we have well-run, publicly funded Catholic schools, nearly 80% of Catholic children leave the church by age 23. Only 1% of teens raised by lukewarm Catholics are highly religious in their mid-to-late 20s. Perhaps most shocking, Powell highlighted that only 30% of practicing Catholics in the United States believe in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist (see Turnley, 2024). All these statistics suggest that a lot of sincere work in evangelization and catechesis is not effectively passing along the torch of faith.
 Ascension Catholic Parish, Calgary Powell asked the Diocese to consider making a radical shift from self-preservation because (in the West at least), there is less and less to preserve. Instead, we must let the Holy Spirit lead a new Pentecost. This is easier said than done because we stubbornly believe that we are both smart enough and good enough to know what needs doing. The Church may not be able to save all its buildings, but that is not the mission; cooperating with God to bring souls to Christ is. And so Powell advocated for a seeking Church, one that prophetically listens and goes out to find the lost sheep (who are close by). We must go. You and I. The scandal of particularity is that the Incarnation occurred in a specific time and location to real people. God needed Mary to say, “Let it be done to me according to your will.” God needed Joseph to heed the angel’s message to protect Jesus from a hostile world. (The word "need" is tricky here because God needs nothing, and this is precisely why it is scandalous). Mary and Joseph could have said no. Bishop McCaig pointed out that God invites a free response, and that our “Yes” gives God permission to act in our lives. Our cooperation also enables us to bring Jesus to other people so that He can work powerfully in their lives.
Institutionally and individually, we are in a storm, and Mary Rose Bacani Valenti meditated on the storm of sin and suffering in which we find ourselves. When I was a child, I was scared of being buried alive. As an adult, I am far more terrified of pancreatic cancer, MS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, addiction, and watching my friends and family members die slow painful deaths echoing the crucifixion. Add to this sea of suffering a blizzard of technological distraction, and it becomes easy to lose our nerve and take our eyes off Christ. Prayer is not efficient, Valenti said, but it is the only effective means for building the disciplined self-control and joy that Maximilian Kolbe demonstrated in Auschwitz. He shone the divine light in the hopelessness of a concentration camp by walking the talk: “Without sacrifice, there is no love.” Hope is only really hope when the situation is hopeless, but it is never truly hopeless because God is with us. In Advent especially, we must slow down to “live life at the pace of the soul,” as Powell put it. St. Ambrose counseled the same: “If faith and hope are to bear fruit, patience is necessary.” Hurry to bring Him gifts, but don’t panic. He is coming, just as He promised.
 St. Joseph's, Calgary
 Members of Saint Mary’s Fraternity, Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) Calgary, along with Friar Dan Gurnick, OFM, Sister Dianne Turner, OSE, Sister Anne Adounkpe, FMM, and Deacon Tomas O’Toole, OFS, gathered in gratitude on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Saint Luke Parish in Calgary. The occasion was a special dual celebration: honouring Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, patron saint of the Secular Franciscan Order, and commemorating the 10th, 15th, and 30th anniversaries of profession for fraternity members committed to living the Gospel in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. The celebration featured a presentation by Sister Dianne Turner, OSE, who led the Litany of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary and shared an inspiring reflection on her virtues. Sister Dianne encouraged attendees to reflect on which of these virtues God might be calling them to grow in today. The brothers and sisters we celebrated on November 17th bear witness to a lifetime of living the Franciscan charism. Their commitment is a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and a model of perseverance and faith. As a fraternity, we give thanks for their deepening faith, steadfastness in living the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order, and their invaluable contributions to both the fraternity and the broader Church. Their journey reflects steady growth and a continued openness to God’s call. We rejoice as a fraternity, offering prayers of thanksgiving for the years of dedication, service, and love that these members have given to the Secular Franciscan Order. Together, we strive to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis, supporting one another in living the Gospel with simplicity, peace, and joy in the world. May these anniversaries inspire us all to renew our own commitment to serving our Lord and His Church with the same faith and dedication. Congratulations to all celebrating these special anniversaries!  Left to right: Cathy Pamer, OFS: 10 years; Robert Lowther, OFS: 15 years; Ron Semenoff, OFS: 30 years; Linda Schultz, OFS: 30 years Written by Erika Bancila, OFS, St. Mary’s Fraternity, Calgary.
 Join us for “Renewed in Hope,” a powerful three-day mission happening this Tuesday, Dec 3 to Thursday, Dec 5 at your parish from 7 pm to 8:30 pm each evening. In the midst of winter’s chill and the season’s busyness, take time to refresh your spirit and renew your hope. Hear from Brett Powell, Bishop Scott McCaig, and Mary Rose Bacani Valenti, who will join us live via Zoom, sharing messages on discipleship, building a faith-filled community, and nurturing family life. Their reflections will uplift and inspire us as we journey toward Christmas. Let's bundle up, brave the chill, and bring your friends and family!
We are in for a treat with our upcoming Advent Mission that features a talk from Bishop Scott McCaig. I can tell you that firsthand. Way back in the fall of 2002, I joined the Companions of the Cross, a Society of Apostolic Life (similar to a religious order) based out of Ottawa, Ontario. To commence my formation, I travelled the long road from the prairies, down to Ottawa, and then another a two-and-a-half-hour drive to a farm on the outskirts of Combermere, a small village tucked away in the forest along the Madawaska river. This area was beautiful like a storybook. I and twenty other young men had signed up that year, planning to become priests, and we were to spend the fall, winter and summer at this farm where the Companions hold their novitiate. We were going to learn how to live together, develop a disciplined life of prayer and learn more about our faith, all while deepening our relationship with Jesus Christ. We had two priests guiding us in our formation – Fr. Jim MacGillivray and Fr. Scott McCaig. When I think about spending that winter with Bishop Scott out on the farm, three things really stand out in my memory. He was a lumberjack, he was hilarious, and he was on fire for the Lord – and it came out in his preaching! While both he and I have a few more years on us now, I suspect none of those things have changed. Prior to his conversion to the Catholic faith and becoming a priest, Bishop Scott was a lumberjack. We learned that the hard way, because he was determined to teach all us seminarians to cut trees too! Every Saturday we would form a work crew under his guidance and head out into the forest. To this very day, I know all I could ever wish about chain saw safety, the exact way to bring down a tree, chop it up and stack it to dry. The farmhouse was also heated by this wood, so we had a schedule, and everyone had to take turns getting up in the middle of the night to keep the fire roaring and the house warm – Bishop Scott included – he led by example.
He would hold you riveted, his passion for the Kingdom of God reverberating through you as he spoke. Every time he finished preaching you were left inspired, itching to get out on mission for Christ. He is all about renewal, and always has been. As we continue the renewal in each of our parishes, I would really encourage you to sign up for the upcoming Advent Mission – and whatever happens, don’t miss Bishop Scott’s talk! A lumberjack Bishop with great stories and passionate preaching leading us deeper on our journey – what more could we ask for?
 On November 5, 2024, the Diocese of Calgary hosted a Prison Volunteers Appreciation gathering at St. Luke's Parish, bringing together dedicated volunteers who serve in the Prison Ministry. Bishop McGrattan and Father Wilbert Chin Jon expressed their gratitude and encouraged those who answered the call to this ministry. The gathering highlighted the resilience and growth of the Prison Ministry, which faced significant challenges during the pandemic. “Our prison programs were almost decimated by the Covid pandemic when we were down to having only four volunteers to run our weekly chapel programs at the three prisons,” shared Deacon Thomas Ha. "With the support of the Pastoral Center and Father Wilbert, we were able to recover." With new volunteers recruited from parishes across the Diocese, including four deacon candidates, the ministry is regaining its strength. “These are the faithful who have answered their call to come and provide spiritual support to the inmates,” said Deacon Thomas. “With the gifts they brought, we will be able to grow our faith in accompaniment with each other, to sing and to pray with the inmates, and for their families, the guards, and the victims of crimes.” Answer the Call to Serve Prison Ministry provides a profound opportunity to live out Jesus’ teaching: “I was in prison, and you visited me” (Matthew 25:36). Volunteers witness the face of Christ in those they serve, creating a space for healing, prayer, and reconciliation. “The unfortunate reality is that prisons are a permanent fixture in our society, and the need for prisoners to be visited is chronic,” said Ernest Baraniecki of the Calgary Correctional Centre. Despite having the most Catholic chapel sessions allocated per year, this facility has the fewest Catholic volunteers. “Please continue to answer the call to contribute your gift of witness and presence to this rewarding ministry: ‘The harvest is abundant, but the labourers are few’ (Mt. 9:37).” If you feel called to serve, consider joining this rewarding ministry. Volunteers commit to sharing the Gospel and offering their presence once a month, dedicating 1 to 2.5 hours each time. Training is provided to equip you for this meaningful work. For more information or to inquire about volunteering, please contact the Pastoral Centre at 403-218-5500 or email [email protected].
As interesting as the contents of “Pulpitations” are, the story of how the book came to fruition is even more engaging. In April 2024, on the occasion of his 45th anniversary of ordination, Fr. Edmund was urged by Jim Jarrell, an active parishioner at St. Michael’s, to compile the knowledge he’d gained over his decades of faithful service. Jim offered to raise funds to publish these thoughts and even wrote the book’s foreword. “If Jim didn’t come forward I wouldn’t have done this,” Fr. Edmund said. After sifting through his notes, Fr. Edmund selected just over 100 sermons and proceeded to translate and summarize them for a different audience. It helped that he had experience as a magazine writer and editor from his university days and beyond. A scant forty days later the book was finished. “I considered it my Lenten practice,” Fr. Edmund laughed. “It’s not like a novel,” he cautioned, suggesting that readers should take time to pray and reflect on, say, one piece a day. Fr. Edmund’s goals for the book are modest. He plans to offer it to his parish but also make it available to others who may be nostalgic for his approachable style of teaching. “People who’ve known me over generations might share it with their children”, Fr. Edmund posits, reminiscing about people he met early in his career who now have children and grandchildren raised in the faith. For others, the power of any Christian writing is in its ability to let us hear the voice of God and respond. To paraphrase Fr. Edmund, “Your thoughts become your actions, your actions become your habits, your habits become your life, and your life becomes your eternity.”
In July, Pope Francis published a letter on the important role literature plays in priestly formation; it develops an imaginative empathy that enables clergy to see how others see. When the letter came out, my family and I were watching the 4-part mini-series Stories of a Generation, featuring Pope Francis (2021, available on Netflix). In one episode, the acclaimed film director Martin Scorsese reads a moving passage from Marilynne Robinson’s book Gilead to his daughter. Over the past couple of years of diaconal formation, I have read a lot of non-fiction theology, but I had not read a novel for pleasure in years. So, prompted by the Pope and one of the greatest film makers of all time, I took the nudge and found a copy of Gilead at the library.
I started to see “set asides” everywhere I looked, awakening in me a new fullness of life. Sunday is set aside as holy to remind us that all our fleeting time comes from and belongs to Him. We set things apart not to divide the world into what is God’s and what is not God’s, but to remind us that all is His. God commands us to honour our mother and father, Ames writes to his son, “because every human being is worthy of honour,” and singling out the mother and father teaches us the conscious discipline of respecting the dignity of every person made in God’s image. During Mass, we set aside a portion of our money and time, reminding us that we are offering back to God all the gifts he has given us. This conception of setting aside provides a valuable insight into the ancient symbol of the covenant, circumcision. The men of the covenant set aside a part of flesh and blood to remind them that every necessary and pleasurable rhythm of life belongs to God, as does all they give birth to. When entering the Church, the small containers of holy water (meaning water set aside for God’s purpose) remind me that clean water – a necessary element for life that I too often take for granted – is a gift from God, and that by my baptism, I too am set aside for God’s purpose. Being set aside for God’s purpose unlocks our identities as a “chosen portion.” St. Clement wrote to the Corinthians, “We are a portion of the Holy One,” so “let us approach him in holiness of soul, raising up to him hands pure and undefiled, out of love for our good and merciful Father who made us a chosen portion for himself.” Our status as God’s chosen portion ultimately frames and guides our actions with other people. Ames puts it this way: “people tend to forget that we are to love our enemies, not to satisfy some standard of righteousness, but because God their father loves them.” As a portion of the Holy One, we are commanded to love others as He loved us because they are also chosen portions. Pope Francis views literature as vital for formation because it educates the imagination and attunes us to hear the Voice that speaks through many voices, training us to hear the diverse needs in our community. Gilead successfully delivers what Pope Francis aptly describes as “a vision of the true and the good that discloses itself as beauty.” So, take the Pope’s advice, which is very similar to the call that prompted St. Augustine’s conversion: “Take up and read!”
 At the age of seventy- six, I have seen and lived through much of the ebb and flow of Catholic renewal that came and went in the 20th and now the twenty-first century. Candidly, I was anaesthetised to any Church change and continued practicing a rather lifeless faith. I left the Catholic church in early 2020 and only returned in 2023. I was curious to know if anyone had noticed that I had left and returned. Some believed I was dead. Imagine my reaction when I held a door open for a lady with a walker. I didn't know her but imagined her to be in her early eighties. I assumed she'd pass me, enter the church and I would probably never see her again. She stopped, looked me straight in the eye, fixed her gaze on me, put her hand on my shoulder and said, "Gerald, you've been away too long." I was thunderstruck, speechless. This was something I wanted and needed to hear since I never really felt at home in Catholicism. I thought that was all she wanted to say. It would have been enough. Still, she continued to meet me eye to eye, her right hand on my left shoulder. Since I thought her ready to enter the church, I moved accordingly, but she said, "Stop. There's more." "Welcome home," she said. I tell you I felt my knees buckling. She very carefully, very clearly articulated "son," and was gone, leaving me to wonder about the implications of this meeting. Way: A Personal Reflection on Renewalby Gerald Morton The old man in me of unbent knee, Written by Gerald Morton, All Saints Parish, Lethbridge.
 In a time when meaningful connection is essential, our parish gathered for a special Renewal Gathering on St. Michael’s Feast Day, September 29, 2024. This intentional choice set the tone for a day filled with faith and fellowship, centered around the blessing of our new St. Michael statue. This ceremony fostered unity and served as a powerful symbol of protection and courage in our faith journey. The gathering was a key part of our diocesan Pastoral Renewal initiative, aimed at deepening our understanding of being a community of missionary disciples, reminding us that we are called, we matter, and we belong.  After the blessing, we enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by St. Michael’s Knights of Columbus. Laughter and conversation flowed freely, reflecting the joy of being together and the warmth of our parish family. It was heartening to see parishioners of all ages in attendance, especially since we provided childcare for families with young children. With our hearts and minds prepared, we entered the sanctuary, warmly welcomed by our host, Mike Fitzsimmons. Uplifting praise songs led by the ‘Love One Another’ Community invited everyone to join in worship. The atmosphere was charged with the Holy Spirit as we engaged in a guided Lectio Divina and prayer led by Fr. Edmund and Fr. Kelvin, focusing on the Road to Emmaus narrative from Luke 24:13-35. This scripture teaches us to be open to the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need to recognize Christ’s presence in our lives, often in unexpected forms.
 Engaging with Scripture allowed deeper truths to be revealed, fostering spiritual growth. The breaking of bread symbolizes the significance of the Eucharist and community in encountering Christ. Ultimately, the disciples’ transformation from despair to joyful witnesses of the Resurrection illustrates how openness to the Holy Spirit leads to personal renewal and a commitment to sharing the Good News. The presentation on the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal, featuring a short video and slideshow, provided insight into our shared mission. This vision made our goals feel attainable, emphasizing our collective responsibility in living out our faith. It’s comforting to know we’re all in this together, highlighting the importance of community support in our journeys. Following the presentation, Christian Estrella led a reflection encouraging small group conversations about the three Pillars of Renewal. These discussions sparked new ideas and fostered a sense of ownership over our mission, providing a unique opportunity to ask meaningful questions that could help our parish become a vibrant hub of faith and outreach.
 St. Mary’s Cathedral was alive with colour and culture on Sunday, Sep. 29, 2024, as over 300 people gathered to pray and celebrate our migrants and refugees brothers and sisters. Fr. Avinash Colaco, rector of St. Mary’s, graciously presided over the Eucharistic Celebration in the absence of Bishop McGrattan, who was attending the Plenary Assembly in Ottawa. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Cathedral’s team, Catholic Calgary Immigration Society, and many dedicated volunteers, including the lively musicians from St. Mark's Parish choir —the evening was a true testament to unity, faith, and diversity within our diocese. Traditional attire lit up the pews, and the shared joy extended to the food and conversations after Mass. Alongside tasty sandwiches, Jollof rice, steaming hot congee, and other cultural dishes were shared and enjoyed by all. Fr. John Jwad, pastor of the Chaldean Catholic Community, and a son of Iraqi immigrants, delivered a moving homily during the Mass. He spoke of the challenges many immigrant families have faced, fleeing persecution and finding safety in Canada. 
Photography by Thiago Campos, Our Lady of Fatima, for the Diocese of Calgary.
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April 2025
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