 Someone very close to me has been away from the Church since we were teenagers, and for many years I have prayed for a return to the healing love the Lord holds in His heart. The two of us never did agree on much, and it has been that way for as long as I can remember. Over the years, we have learned to avoid certain topics to keep the peace, and that has worked because we care about each other very much. We all have people in our lives that we would so dearly love to come home to Jesus and His Church. For the most part, we are called to pray and fast for them. Because of how close we are to them (and often the baggage that goes with that) it is likely that we are not the ones the Lord will send to share the Good News with them. He will send another. We are called to pray and fast. However, it is also likely that the Lord wishes us to reach someone else’s loved one, someone with whom we are called to share the Gospel. And how are they to hear without a preacher? And how can men preach unless they are sent? As it is written ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’” ~ Romans 10:14-15
Written by Ryan Schmidt, Director of Renewal, Diocese of Calgary.
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 At its heart, the recent newsletter from the Apostolate of Eucharistic Adoration carries one clear message: Eucharistic Adoration changes parishes. March, devoted to St. Joseph, the Passion of Our Lord, and the institution of the Eucharist, is a fitting time to return to the heart of our faith: Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. The Church has long taught that worship of the Eucharist outside of Mass is not secondary or optional. As St. John Paul II wrote in Ecclesia de Eucharistia: The worship of the Eucharist outside of the Mass is of inestimable value for the life of the Church. … It is the responsibility of pastors [parish priests] to encourage, also by their personal witness, the practice of Eucharistic adoration, and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in particular, as well as prayer of adoration before Christ present under the Eucharistic species” (St. Pope John Paul II, Ecclesia de Eucharistia, No. 25). Likewise, Redemptionis Sacramentum urges that Eucharistic adoration be diligently fostered “with the participation of the people.” The message is simple and direct: if we desire renewal in our parishes, we return to the Lord in the Eucharist.
What we are seeing in our Diocese Last year, parishes across the Diocese of Calgary took up that invitation in a concrete way through the 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations. At St. Mary’s Cathedral and in parishes throughout the diocese, the Blessed Sacrament was exposed for extended hours. Parishioners signed up for time slots, many of whom returned more than once. Some came late at night. Others brought their children. Students in Catholic schools also participated, adding dozens of hours of adoration across chapels and classrooms. At Holy Spirit Parish in Calgary, 378 adorers were formally registered, with participation likely exceeding 500. Many described the experience as calm, peaceful, and holy. One recurring question that surfaced afterward was: When can we do this again? The numbers matter less than what they represent: a hunger to remain with the Lord.
The Heart of Adoration St. Teresa of Calcutta expressed it plainly: The time you spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the best time that you will spend on earth.” ~1996 address at the Eucharistic Congress in Calcutta. Her words echo what many in our own diocese have experienced: silence before the Lord brings clarity, strength, and peace. It deepens love for Jesus and, from there, love for one another. Pope Benedict XVI, in Sacramentum Caritatis (§66), highlights its intrinsic link to the Mass: "In the Eucharist, the Son of God comes to meet us and desires to become one with us; eucharistic adoration is simply the natural consequence of the eucharistic celebration, which is itself the Church's supreme act of adoration... The act of adoration outside Mass prolongs and intensifies all that takes place during the liturgical celebration itself." Why Adoration Matters The newsletter cites a striking statistic: 70 percent of seminarians come from parishes with Eucharistic Adoration. While statistics never tell the whole story, they suggest something profound: where Christ is adored, vocations flourish. Adoration draws us into sustained contact with the Real Presence of Jesus Christ, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. It strengthens faith in the Eucharist. It deepens reverence for Holy Communion. It fosters repentance, intercession, and reparation.
40 Hours Devotion for Vocation
In our own Diocese, the 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations revealed a real hunger for time before the Lord. Parishes reported strong participation, including overnight hours. Students, families, and seniors alike came to pray. Adoration is not an extra devotion. It is a wellspring of renewal for the Church. And it begins with one hour. Where to find Adoration hours?
Teachers and administrators from across the Christ The Redeemer (CTR) Schools gathered last week for the division's annual Faith Days. Faith Days is a powerful two-day tradition centred on formation in the faith. The theme for Faith Days this year was “Encountering Goodness”, completing our three-year theme “Faith Seeking Understanding” focused on Beauty, Truth, and Goodness. Through worship, reflection and community, the event invited staff to deepen their faith and renew the shared purpose that guides Catholic education across the division. The days were dedicated to fostering a shared sense of mission, with faculty participating in daily Mass, a keynote address, and teacher-led breakout sessions. Day One opened with Mass celebrated by Bishop McGrattan, and concelebrated with priests and deacons from across our division. Following Mass, keynote speaker Brett Salkeld challenged and encouraged educators with practical ways to weave Catholic faith into every subject area, helping students see clear connections between faith and everyday learning. The day concluded with a special social event, allowing colleagues to further celebrate, connect, and build community. On the first day, CTR also recognized staff whose witness and service continue to shape the division in profound ways. Eighteen recipients were honoured with the Christian Witness Award, presented to staff members who make Christ known in their communities by joyfully living the Gospel and the teachings of the Catholic faith. Former employees Pat MacDonald and Shona Dobrowolski were also honoured as recipients of the St. John the Apostle Lifetime Member Award, presented to former employees whose work is characterized by excellence resulting in significant, lasting, and inspirational contributions to the life of the division. Day Two began with Ash Wednesday Mass, offering educators a meaningful opportunity to begin the season of Lent together. The day continued with teacher-led breakout sessions focused on the four pillars of formation: human, intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral. The keynote speaker was widely praised for being excellent, engaging, and inspiring. The breakout sessions, particularly those led by CTR staff and fellow teachers, were very much enjoyed for their variety, quality, and the opportunity for choice and to learn from peers. One teacher reflected, "I really valued the opportunity to step away from the busyness of school and focus on faith and personal reflection. The keynote speaker and sessions were inspiring in different ways - from sacred art to personal stories of resilience. It was a meaningful reminder of the importance of hope, compassion, and faith in our work with students." Superintendent, Dr. Andrea Holowka, expressed profound gratitude for the commitment and faith-filled leadership of CTR staff. "Our Faith Days are more than just a professional development opportunity; they are a vital moment for us to come together as one community in faith," she said. "Seeing our teachers 'Encounter Goodness' and share their spiritual journeys reinforces the heart of our mission. It ensures that the faith, hope, and love we share is what drives every decision we make for our students." The positive experience of these two days is expected to resonate throughout the remainder of the school year, strengthening the bonds between schools and re-energizing teachers in their crucial work of educating and nurturing the faith of our students.
Submitted by Cindy Nickerson, Christ of the Redeemer School Division. Photos courtesy of CTR.
My parents taught us early that nothing is free, that work has dignity, and that gratitude matters. More importantly, they taught us that service is not meant to be transactional. It is not something we do to be seen or repaid. It is something we offer freely, placing the Lord first and trusting that He will use even our small efforts for good. I was blessed to grow up in the Crowsnest Pass in southern Alberta, surrounded by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Creation itself became a teacher. Through time spent outdoors with my father, I began to understand that service is not only about action, but about listening to others, to the world around us, and to God. My father often reminded me that being present and attentive can be just as important as doing. Our Catholic faith was woven naturally into daily life. Priests were welcomed into our home. My grandparents and parents served faithfully in parish life. As a child, I buttered toast while my grandfather prepared brunch for visiting clergy. At the time, it seemed small, but I now realize those quiet moments were forming my understanding of vocation. I learned that priests give their lives entirely to God, and that all of us, in different ways, are invited to give ourselves as well. For a time in my youth, after suffering abuse within the Church, I stepped away. I carried anger, grief, and confusion. Yet even during those years, I found myself drawn to serve. I did not fully understand it then, but I believe now that God had not abandoned me, even when I felt far from Him.
Over the years, I have also experienced profound personal suffering — the loss of my sons Andrew and Frederick -- surviving cancer multiple times, divorce, and the deep sorrow of losing my father, Deacon Renso Castellarin, and my sister, within weeks of each other. These experiences did not make me stronger in the way the world often speaks of strength. Rather, they made me more aware of my dependence on God and of my need for others. If I have been able to accompany others in their pain, it is only because I have been accompanied in mine by faithful priests, religious, health professionals, friends, and family who reflected Christ’s mercy to me. Their service allowed me to heal. Any service I now offer is, in many ways, simply a continuation of what was first given to me. Service, I am learning, is less about doing extraordinary things and more about saying “yes” in ordinary moments. It requires humility, boundaries, discernment, and the willingness to ask forgiveness when we fail. A servant must remain teachable. I fail often. I misunderstand. I grow tired. But God, in His patience, continues to invite me back. Recently, after a medical crisis in which I came close to death, I was reminded again that my life is not my own. If I am still here, it is not because of my strength or merit. It is because God, in His mercy, has given me more time. Time to love. Time to reconcile. Time to serve. As we journey through Lent, I am reminded that service is not a title or an identity to claim. It is a daily choice, often quiet and unseen. We do not need to be perfect. We are simply asked to make a sincere effort and to trust that God will complete what we cannot. If there is anything my life has taught me, it is this: God remains present, even in suffering. He wastes nothing. And He continues to call each of us, in ways unique to our own story, to serve with humility, gratitude, and love. One of my favourite hymns is the Prayer of St. Francis. It reminds us to be instruments of peace, love and service. May we all have the courage to say yes, again and again. Written by Angela Castellarin for Faithfully.
Photo 1: Image: Google Gemini, 23 Feb. 2026. Photo 2: Courtesy of Angela Castellarin.  In December 2024, my husband Don was diagnosed with terminal cancer. His prognosis was “a few months to a few years”. I was determined that he should remain at home as long as possible, but it was a grim Christmas marked by draconian changes to our routines. Somewhere in my fog of anxiety and exhaustion, I registered the start of the Jubilee Year of Hope. I decided then and there that I could either sink into despair or cling to hope. I actually did both, embracing both sorrow and consolation, like the pilgrims on the Jubilee logo who clutch a cross while dragging an anchor. 2025 became a year of unexpected spiritual growth. I discovered there are dozens of people in similar circumstances to ours - adrift following some drastic event, trying to adapt whilst grieving. This is my story, but it is also our story, all of us pilgrims of hope, still journeying beyond the end of the Jubilee Year. Weary time for God Before Don’s illness, I never seemed to have time to rest quietly with God. My prayers would be hasty thanks and distracted petitions. Now, having dropped all extraneous commitments, there was time to sit down, whilst Don was sleeping. Unfortunately, my brain felt too numb to pray, so I just listened to the quiet house or the sounds of wind filtering in from outside. I allowed the Holy Spirit to communicate for me “with sighs too deep for words”. Into this silence peace would creep. I became aware of God’s nearness. Those moments of connection, however fleeting, refreshed me. I realized I was being sustained by my Creator. Jesus suffered too For every peaceful interlude, there seemed to be ten when I felt guilty or resentful. But God was there too. Once when seething about perceived ingratitude, I recalled the story of nine lepers racing away from Jesus without a word of thanks. I understood there was nothing I might feel which Jesus hadn’t also felt. Jesus being fully human finally resonated with me. Unexpected blessings In normal life, there are blessings like health and wealth. Blessings don’t disappear in troubled times but they do hide in hard-to-find places. For example, intimate caregiving can be unglamorous and embarrassing. But it can also be like cracking open a geode to find gemstones within. Something about vulnerability stirs the human heart to compassion, it bonds the carer and the cared-for together more tightly. Love continues to grow in sickness as in health. A different future A calamity can crystallize our life goals. When Don became too unsteady to leave the house, all my plans for the future dissolved. The pain of lost dreams was acute, the suffocation of self-pity even worse. But once I was done wallowing, I realized the smallness of my dreams. I had not thought beyond the grave to the eternity we are all offered. On days when I couldn’t quite see Heaven, I could least believe in things unseen. A year later, Don is still around (thank you, God), but new challenges arise every week. I am tired but grateful for small mercies and for the support networks we have. I have learned that extreme circumstances are paradoxical - I am angry but also accepting, worried but optimistic. I fear, but I continue to hope. Written by Alice Matisz (All Saints, Lethbridge) for Faithfully.
 As a long-standing tradition, the Bishop of Calgary and the Office of Vocations have brought together the current seminarians and their parents for a Christmas supper. Last December, it was held at St. Cecilia’s church with a delicious meal provided by the Catholic Women’s League and the Knights of Columbus of that parish. This event, which honours both parents and their seminarian sons, demonstrates the importance of strengthening family life to support vocations to the priesthood in our Diocese. A particularly edifying part of this gathering is the speech by the parents of a recently ordained priest. This personal sharing of the experience of these parents is offered as a support for the parents of the current seminarians as they navigate their own son’s journey towards the priesthood. Knowing how other parents have successfully supported their sons over the many years of discernment and formation demonstrates that, as a local Church, we are here to help one another. This year, the parents of the newly-ordained Fr. Peter An accepted this role for which we are truly grateful. Here follows the speech of Fr. Peter’s mother, Jinhee An. With her husband, Sungchan An, at her side, she described her experience as the mother of a son called by God to be His priest.
That one week was the most painful time of my life. My baby was kept isolated in an incubator and all I wanted to do was hold him. I kept pleading, “Please save my child. If You let him live, I will do anything.” Written by Sr. Dianne Turner, Office of Vocations. Photo credit: Fr. Cristino Bouvette.
 Photography by Bandi Szakony, for the Diocese of Calgary.
 This Sunday, we celebrate the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome, the cathedral of the Pope and “mother and head of all churches in the world.” Built by Emperor Constantine in the fourth century, it was the first public church in Rome. This feast reminds us that every church building is a sign of the living Church and that each baptized person is a living stone in the temple of the Holy Spirit. Let us pray for the Pope, for unity in the Church, and for hearts renewed in faith.
Ways to commemorate this feast with your family or parish community:
 On Tuesday, October 28, parishioners, families, clergy, and pro-life advocates filled St. Mary’s Cathedral for the Diocese of Calgary’s inaugural Mass for Life, a Eucharistic celebration devoted to honouring the dignity of every human life, from conception to natural death. Presided over by Bishop William McGrattan, the Mass invited all to rediscover the heart of the Church’s mission to defend life. In his homily, the Bishop reminded the faithful that the protection of life is not a political stance but a spiritual mission, one rooted in Christ’s sacrificial love. His words made a deep impact, encouraging each person to witness to the Gospel of Life with courage, charity, and compassion. Several pro-life and pastoral organizations were present, including ALIES, the CCCB’s Horizons of Hope Palliative Care initiative, the Catholic Women’s League, 40 Days for Life, the Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform, and the Calgary Pro-Life Association. Each offered practical ways for parishioners to learn, pray, and act in support of a consistent ethic of life. After Mass, attendees visited the display tables to ask questions and learn about new opportunities to serve. Organization representatives noted the high level of interest and engagement, describing the evening as a clear sign that this shared mission is sustained by faith and grace. The Diocese will celebrate the Mass for Life annually, offering the faithful a chance to grow in faith and unity around the Church’s call to protect life.
Photos by Bandi Szakony for the Diocese of Calgary.
 Children's resources this Advent & Christmas
Advent & Christmas Books (source: Catholic All Year)
I want to recognize and celebrate the work of Mission Mexico over these past 25 years. This program is a testament to the faith and generosity of the people of Calgary, reaching out to the poorest of the poor with arms of faith, hope, and charity for the people in the mountain regions of Guerrero. This program has given them hope and a better future for themselves and their families, firmly grounded in the love of God.  On Saturday evening, Oct 25, 2025, Mission Mexico celebrated their 25 years of service! The celebration took place at St. Anthony’s, where about 45 friends gathered for tacos, burritos, and lively conversation.
We were privileged to welcome Mike MacDonald, who leads the charity’s work in Mexico. After showing the celebratory anniversary video, Mike recounted the impact of his ministry among the poorest families in the mountains of Guerrero, and recalled the recent visit of board members, John Paul and his wife, Harriet. Board chair Sean Lynn announced that, in honour of the 25th anniversary, the scholarship bursaries will be increased to 64 awards and several one-time projects. This is just one of the many initiatives that parishes can support, whether by fundraising for the bursaries or by contributing to the other projects supported by Mission Mexico.  At St. Albert the Great Parish in Calgary, Homecoming is a beloved fall tradition, a joyful time when parishioners come together to reconnect, welcome new faces, and celebrate all that God is doing in their midst. This year, however, Homecoming 2025 carried a special focus: Parish Renewal. Our renewal journey has reminded us that renewal is not only something happening within our parish; it begins in each of us. As we come home to our parish family, we are also called to come home to Christ through prayer and personal conversion. That message of “Welcome Home” was visible everywhere throughout the celebration, from the joyful greetings at our doors to the heartfelt words shared from the ambo. Homecoming began with Name Tag Weekend, a parish tradition, where everyone attending Mass was invited to wear a name tag, from work, school, or even a creative homemade one designed by the children. It was a fun and meaningful way to get to know one another better and to recognize that each name represents a unique story of faith that makes our parish family stronger. At the same time, the parish hall came alive with the Ministry Fair, where parishioners explored the many ways to serve, grow, and share their gifts. It was a beautiful expression of how renewal becomes visible through active discipleship and stewardship. The following weekend featured our Volunteer Appreciation Tailgate BBQ a spirited, faith-filled celebration where volunteers and their families came together as one “home team.” Wearing the colors of their favorite sports teams, parishioners shared food, laughter, and fellowship in gratitude for all who serve so generously throughout the year. Homecoming 2025 concluded with the joyful unveiling of our Parish Renewal Plan, marking a milestone moment for the community. After two years of listening, prayer, and discernment, the Parish Renewal Team presented the plan and invited all parishioners to join this new chapter of faith and mission. Each person received a printed copy of the plan, along with a comfort cross and prayer card featuring the parish’s new Mission Statement. Simple reminders that parish renewal begins with personal renewal, and personal renewal begins with prayer. Following each Mass, the parish gathered for fellowship and refreshments graciously hosted by Couples for Christ, while viewing the newly released Diocesan Renewal video, connecting St. Albert the Great’s journey to the wider renewal movement across the Diocese. Homecoming 2025 was more than an event…it was a living expression of renewal and welcome. As we move forward, may every heart at St. Albert the Great continue to be renewed in faith, hope, and love, so that together we may build up the Church and make our parish a true spiritual home for all. Welcome Home, to renewal at St. Albert the Great!  Written by St. Albert the Great's Parish Renewal Team.
 Christian love breaks down every barrier, brings close those who were distant, unites strangers, and reconciles enemies … Through your work, your efforts to change unjust social structures or your simple, heartfelt gesture of closeness and support, the poor will come to realize that Jesus’ words are addressed personally to each of them: “I have loved you (Rev 3:9).” ~Dilexi te Pope Leo XIV has released his first Apostolic Exhortation, Dilexi te (“I have loved you”), on the Church’s care for the poor, on the Feast Day of St. John Henry Newman, Oct 9, 2025. Signed on Oct 4, 2025, the document was originally drafted by Pope Francis before his death and later revised and promulgated by Pope Leo XIV. It continues the reflection begun in Pope Francis’ final encyclical, Dilexit nos (“He has loved us”), on the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
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 Written by Bishop William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary. This weekend marked the beginning of the third year of our Diocesan Renewal… You are Called, You Matter, and You Belong. It also coincided with a Worship Conference for liturgical ministry coordinators entitled The Church at Worship, held at St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Mary’s High School. Those who attended the two-day gathering participated in a solemn Evening Prayer, the celebration of the Eucharist, three conferences delivered by Fr. Frank Scalia of the Archdiocese of Montreal, and several practical workshops, all designed to renew the heart of liturgical ministry. The Conference focused on deepening our understanding of the Church’s liturgical worship through prayer and the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist. General liturgical principles were introduced to guide our celebrations and to reflect on the various forms of liturgical leadership that serve the Body of Christ in our parishes.
On Friday evening, participants gathered at the Cathedral for a chanted Evening Prayer that began with the Service of Light, or lucernarium. In the silence of the darkened church, the assembly gathered in procession with the Easter Candle, as the proclamation of light was chanted, “The Light of Christ – Thanks be to God.” The sharing of the flame among the assembly became a powerful symbol of our faith in Christ’s resurrection and triumph over death. Fr. Scalia’s reflections were both rich and instructive. On Friday evening he offered a foundational vision of liturgical worship, emphasizing that the Church’s liturgy is a spiritual and sacramental encounter with the living Lord in His Paschal Mystery. He reminded participants that the rites and prayers of the Church, handed down through the generations, have become the language of our Faith, enabling us to know it, celebrate it, and live it. Lex orandi: the way we pray together informs, lex credendi: the way we understand and believe the Faith, and leads to lex vivendi: the way we live as baptized Christians and missionary disciples of Jesus Christ.  On Saturday, Fr. Scalia outlined the principles of liturgy that form the foundation of renewal, drawing upon the Second Vatican Council’s Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium. He emphasized that the Eucharist is the sacramental reality that makes present the one and same sacrifice of Christ offered for our salvation. To celebrate this sacred mystery with dignity, devotion, and adoration, several principles must guide us:
In his final conference, Fr. Scalia reflected on the meaning of liturgical leadership, drawing from several Gospel passages where Christ reveals the deeper truth of Christian leadership, a love expressed in service that seeks the good of others. He reminded participants that every liturgical role, whether visible or unseen, must always be exercised as a form of service for the good of God’s People gathered in worship. This spirit of service prepared participants for the Saturday afternoon workshops, which focused on the specific ministries that contribute to the beauty and reverence of our liturgical celebrations: altar servers, sacristans, lectors, choir members, hospitality ministers, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, liturgical environment, and liturgical committees. These sessions were led by lay representatives, permanent deacons, and priests of our Diocese, fostering dialogue, learning, and collaboration… a true sign of the fruits of our ongoing Renewal. As we continue to implement parish pastoral plans and sustain our Diocesan Renewal, we must always return to the primacy of grace received through the Church’s liturgical life, in prayer, the Sacraments, and most especially in the Eucharist, which is the source and summit of the Christian life.
Photography: Bandi Szakony, for the Diocese of Calgary
 On Saturday, September 13, 2025, St. Mary’s Cathedral was filled with joy as 29 couples, many of whom had been married civilly for years, came forward to celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony. This diocesan celebration, called Sacred Grace, was organized through the collaboration with the Permanent Deacons, the Pastoral Centre, and St. Mary’s Cathedral. For months leading up to the liturgy, the couples had been preparing for this day. They gathered documents, took part in interviews and formation, and prayed together as they readied themselves for the sacrament. Their anticipation showed both at the rehearsal and on the day itself, so much so that Bishop William McGrattan began Mass ten minutes earlier than scheduled! We are grateful for the many people who supported this celebration. Much of the work occurred quietly in the background through countless meetings and preparations: gathering paperwork for each couple, planning the rituals, rehearsing the music, preparing the altar, coordinating the dress rehearsal and reception, and ensuring that every liturgical minister was ready to serve. We give thanks to our permanent deacons, St. Mary's Cathedral's staff, and the Pastoral Centre team, whose careful work in organizing and preparing the paperwork for each couple made this day possible. Couples and guests were welcomed into the church through a white threshold prepared by the Cathedral team, and greeted by ushers with warm hospitality. A choir of youth and young adults from Calgary led the faithful in sacred music, with Gregorian chant antiphons, hymns, and choral works fitting for the occasion, accompanied by the pipe organ. The beauty of the ritual brought glistening eyes to many as the liturgy unfolded. While Bishop McGrattan was the principal celebrant, the couple’s bond in the Sacrament of Matrimony was witnessed by clergy assigned to each couple, who assisted the Bishop as vows were exchanged and rings were blessed. In his homily, Bishop McGrattan reminded the couples that marriage is not only about the bond between two people but about their union with the Lord. “The grace of God and the Holy Spirit have been at work in your lives, calling you together,” he said. “Now, in this sacramental marriage, you are one with your partner and also one with the Church.” Reflecting on the first reading from Tobit, Bishop McGrattan drew attention to Tobias and Sarah praying together on their wedding night. “Every prayer should begin with gratitude,” he said. “Tobias acknowledges that their union was intended by God from the very beginning. I hope for all of you that the words of Tobias will ring true, that you grow old together.” The Bishop also spoke about the challenges of marriage, noting that fidelity in difficult times reveals God’s own fidelity. “Even in your challenges, where you are faithful to one another, you are nearer to God,” he said. He reminded the couples that marriage is both for mutual love and for openness to life. It is the vocation of spouses to become co-creators with God and to witness to the faith within their families, the “domestic church.” This is the grace of sacramental marriage: a bond that God transforms into a sacred covenant, reflecting His eternal love. While civil marriages are legally valid, the Church teaches that they “lack this sacred dimension unless celebrated within the Church.” 
It is the presence of the Lord, who reveals Himself and the gift of His grace, that will render your marriage full and profoundly true.” ~Pope Francis The day was a truly visible sign of God’s grace at work in the lives of families, and a reminder that the Sacrament of Matrimony is not only a personal milestone but also a witness that strengthens the entire Church. In this sacrament, Christ is welcomed more deeply into the bond of marriage, blessing the love of spouses and gently guiding them on their journey of faith.  Photography by Victor Panillio and Bandi Szakony for the Diocese of Calgary.
 You’re invited, whether for a day, a weekend, or the whole week! Join young adults and all pilgrims for this Marian Week in the heart of the Rockies. As part of our diocesan journey in the Jubilee Year of Hope, it’s a sacred time of prayer, pilgrimage, and celebration, and a special opportunity to receive plenary indulgences during this grace-filled year. August 15-18 | St. Mary's, Banff
Fri-Sat, Aug 15-17 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore) Friday, Aug 15
Saturday, Aug 16
Monday, Aug 18 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore)
Tue to Thu, Aug 19-21 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore) Daily Horarium during the Jubilee Marian Week at the Shrine Church on Tuesday to Thursday (Aug 19-21)
Friday, Aug 22 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore)
Sat-Sun, Aug 23-24 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore) Saturday, August 23 at the Shrine Church
 Human beings have been called homo prospectus, which loosely translates as the One Who Anticipates the Future. Beyond complex language and sophisticated technologies, what makes humans unique is our ability to anticipate what is to come, and we spend a lot of our lives thinking about and planning for the future. My thoughts often drift towards driving back to Michigan next summer, or retirement, or watching my son land his first solo flight. But our ability to anticipate the future is limited because our lives are not as stable as they seem. Aldous Huxley once said, “the only thing we can say for certain about the future is that we are totally incapable of foreseeing it accurately,” and this limited ability to predict the future is visible in the Parable of the Rich Fool who stores up grain so that he can “take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry” (cf. Luke 12:19). “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you.” ~Luke 12:20 The Rich Fool is spending his energy on a future he won’t have. I don’t know the state of the souls of some of my favourite artists – such as Otis Redding (dead at 26 in a plane crash), Albert Camus (dead at 52 in a car crash), and John Candy (dead at 43 of a heart attack) – but I wonder if they were all thinking more or less the same thing as the Rich Fool. They had achieved worldly success and were likely planning to enjoy the fruits of their labour. But nothing is more certain than death, and nothing more uncertain than the hour. The same goes for me. I might not live long enough to enjoy retirement, meaning that I also spend a lot of time working toward a future I might not have. This realization could easily lead to a You-Only-Live-Once-focused hedonism, which would compound the foolishness of waiting to be happy until we’ve achieved a material milestone. God asks the Rich Fool, “Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ Gaudium et Spes provides the answer that “everyone must consider his every neighbour without exception as another self.” Whoever is not giving their riches to God (through their neighbour) is missing the point and failing to anticipate what comes after.
A Jewish philosopher, an Austrian farmer, and a Japanese doctor provide three examples of people who were not storing things up for themselves. They were people who rejected the prospect of taking things easy and were instead rich toward God. Some argue that the Christian belief in an afterlife discounts this world, but the examples above show that nothing could be further from the truth. These saints committed to this world precisely because they anticipated the eternal future of their souls.
Written by Jason Openo for Faithfully.
 In 2024, Elizabeth House continued to walk alongside young women and their children, helping them build skills, resilience, and hope. Through stable housing, life skills development, and community connection, participants moved closer to independence and lasting well-being. A year of deep growth 2024 was a year of deep growth at Elizabeth House. Amid the housing crisis and limited capacity, we supported 14 women and 12 infants, welcoming five new babies, through wraparound care that fostered safety, stability, and hope. With 100% of our residents maintaining housing, food security, parenting, and health, and 83% gaining financial and educational stability, our impact is clear. From launching the Women’s Group pilot to redesigning key programs, we continue building a place of sanctuary, strength, and resilience.
Lena’s story After fleeing her war-torn country, Lena arrived in Calgary seeking safety and a fresh start. Pregnant and close to birth, she found Elizabeth House—a place of hope where she could prepare for motherhood and rebuild her life. With the support of staff and access to essentials like healthcare, financial literacy, and business training, Lena gained the skills and confidence to thrive. She welcomed a healthy baby girl and poured herself into being the best mother she could be. Lena eventually moved into her own home, launched a small business crafting baby mobiles, and secured her first job in Canada.
 Twenty-nine years ago, she was fifteen and everything felt so overwhelming. She was about to bring a baby into the world all alone. She had no home, no support, and no idea where to turn. Becoming a single teen mom made her feel disoriented and scared. “I was left completely abandoned. I felt lost and hopeless, as if there was no place for me in this world,” said Elle, one of Elizabeth House's first residents. “I was two months from turning 16 and in those months, I had no form of income.” Her family members donated milk and clothes for Elle and her newborn while she figured out what to do. The social worker assigned to work with Elle had heard about Elizabeth House and told Elle that they gave assistance to young mothers like her.
At the time, young mothers like Elle were permitted to stay until the baby turned six months. After that, they had to move out because others also needed support. Elle did not feel ready and begged the sisters to stay; she was given another three months. “When my time was up and it was time to face the world on my own, it was terrifying when I eventually had to leave,” said Elle. “I fell into depression. I felt alone and unaware of how I was going to make it. I moved into a one-bedroom apartment.” Elle cried so much that day that she had to leave the home that gave her hope, assisted her, and taught her life skills. She struggled without the home, without the support she needed. “Many times, I didn’t think I was going to make it,” said Elle. “However, Sister Pat never disconnected from us. She continued her relationship with Steph and I. She would come and visit and always brought us donations.” Sister Pat never left Elle. She has always kept in contact with them until today. “Elizabeth House gave me the tools to survive and thrive and believe in the future,” Elle continued. “We stand here today because of the help we received all those years ago.” 
 Michelle Haywood, Program Manager (right) and Elizabeth House's Volunteers Written by Mary Joy Mendoza for Faithfully.
 Since 1993, Feed the Hungry, an outreach of the Diocese of Calgary, has responded to the Gospel call to serve those in need. With the help of generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers, we offer more than a meal: we offer a ministry of hope and belonging. Every Sunday, guests are welcomed with compassion, whether through a hot sit-down meal or a hamper to-go. A quick glance at how your support makes a difference
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
March 2026
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