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Rite of Election: Chosen by God

2/26/2023

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Rite of Election, Feb. 26, 2023. Photo credit: W. Anderson.
On Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023 the whole community gathered to witness something truly special: a joyous Rite of Election that welcomed 170 catechumens into St Mary's Cathedral as members of the Elect!  This event marked the culmination of their profound spiritual journey and preparation for receiving Initiation Sacraments at Easter Vigil.
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Signing the Book of Elect. Photo credit: W. Anderson.
What's happening during the Rite of Election?
During the Rite of Election, the Church recognizes those who possess the dispositions that make them fit to take part in the initiation sacraments. ​The catechumens are introduced one by one to the bishop and other attendees, and here they express their wish to receive the sacraments of initiation and become a missionary disciple. With these testimonies, the Bishop accepts the judgement of the Church and invites the catechumens to offer their names for enrolment. 

In the Rite of Enrolment of Names, 
the catechumens inscribe their names in the Book of the Elect as a pledge of fidelity, followed by the Bishop's declaration, "I now declare you to be members of the elect, to be initiated into the sacred mysteries at the next Easter Vigil."  From this moment onwards, the catechumens are known as "the elect" until they receive the Sacraments of Initiation.
The Bishop also calls to the Godparents, urging them to accept the responsibility entrusted to them in the Lord. He asks them to show their support and love for the chosen individuals by providing guidance and instruction so that they may partake in God's sacraments.

​Let us pray to the Lord for all the Elect and for ourselves, that we may be renewed by one another’s efforts and together come to share the joys of Easter. 
SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THE RITE OF ELECTION
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Sunday of the Word of God

1/11/2023

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Pope Francis has declared that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time is to be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the word of God “that the life of our people be constantly marked by this decisive relationship with the living word that the Lord never tires of speaking to his Bride” (Aperuit Illis, 2). In 2023 the Sunday of the Word of God falls on January 22.

​Download: 2023 Liturgical/Pastoral Resource from the Dicastery for Evangelization for Sunday of the Word of God


Here are five liturgical suggestions for making the most of this universal invitation from the Pontiff.  
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1. Homily
Focus on the centrality of the Bible for Christians. In the Gospel, Jesus quotes what we heard in the first reading from the Prophet Isaiah. The word of the prophet is the foundation for his teaching and the call of the first disciples. In the second reading Paul tells the Corinthians that Jesus did not send him to baptize but to proclaim the Gospel and that “it is the power of God”.

2. Bless Ministers of the Word
Following the Homily, invite ministers of the Word to stand (e.g. lectors, psalmists, leaders in RCIA, liturgy of the word for children, and scripture study). Bless them with hands extended:

Blessed are you, Lord God,
Source of all light and all goodness,
you sent your Son, your living Word,
to reveal to humanity the mystery of your love.
Look with mercy upon these women and men who proclaim your word
and lead your people closer to your teaching.
Bless X them in their ministry
so that they may be nourished by your Word,
be transformed by it and faithfully announce it
to their brothers and sisters in your Church.
We praise and thank you, Father,
in the name of Jesus your Son,
and in the love of your Holy Spirit,
God of glory for ever and ever.
Amen.


Adapted from the blessing of lectors in Celebrations of Installation and Recognition, copyright Concacan Inc.,2005. All rights reserved.

3. Universal Prayer

Introduction to the petitions:
Dear sisters and brothers,
nourished and formed by God’s Word
let us bring our needs and petitions before Him.


In addition to the petitions you have prepared for today, include some for the Word of God to come to life in your community, for example:
  • For bishops, priests, deacons, lectors, psalmists, and all who proclaim God’s Word in the world, we pray to the Lord.
  • For teachers and staff in Catholic schools, for catechists, parents, and all who bring the Word of God to children, we pray to the Lord.

Prayer at the end of the petitions:
Grant, O God, that our lives be marked by your living word.
Hear these, our prayers,
and help us to proclaim the good news of the kingdom.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.


4. Eucharistic Prayer

You might use Eucharistic Prayer III for Various Needs and Occasions (Jesus the Way to the Father). Its Preface focuses on Christ as the “Word” of God. Roman Missal p.764ff.

5. Enthroning the Bible (For use in homes, schools, and with RCIA or Bible Study groups)
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The faithful have shown reverence to the bible as the inspired word of God since ancient times. The enthronement of an open bible has often served as a symbolic invitation to delve into the sacred text as the source of our spiritual life. You might use this short ritual from the American Bible Society to enthrone the Bible at home, in schools, and with RCIA or Bible Study groups.  
  • How to enthrone the Bible in your home/class/school? 

6. More Resources
  • Note from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on the Word of God Sunday. The note highlights opportunities and practical suggestions for the Word of God Sunday celebration. English | French 
  • Adult Formation Activity
  • Understanding the Bible
  • The Art and Practice of Lectio Divina
  • The Word of God as a Source of Prayer

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Entering the Ordinary Time

1/11/2023

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During the Ordinary Time, the Church celebrates the fullness of the mystery of the Lord Jesus. The people of God offer praise by celebrating the Paschal Mystery of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus. Sunday is the original Christian Feast Day, following the tradition handed down from Apostolic times, for this way the day of the Lord’s Resurrection.

Today’s Christian communities continue this tradition by celebrating every Sunday as the day of the risen Lord. 

​Below are some resources to help break down everything you need to know for this liturgical season, as well as practical advices to help you get the most out of the Ordinary Time.
  • Read: Ultimate Guide to Ordinary Time (Catholic Telegraph) 
  • Read: Why Ordinary Time can also be called the "season of saints" (Aleteia)
  • Read: 5 ways to make Ordinary Time less ordinary (Catholic Link)
  • Read: What about an Ordinary Time resolution this year? (Aleteia)
  • Read: How do we keep Sunday holy (Aleteia) 
  • YEAR A Monthly Liturgical Calendar (CCCB)
  • Read: 7 ways to make Sunday holy for the whole family (Aleteia)
  • Watch: Why do we need to rest from work on Sundays? (Fr. Mike Smith, Ascension Press)
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Unpacking Christmas Day

12/26/2022

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Why do we celebrate Christmas, the day of the Lord’s birth, on December 25th? 

>> Watch this video and find out that this date was not inspired by the pagan feast of the sun god as commonly held by those who are cynical of the Church’s celebration of Christmas. In fact, it’s the other way around as Christmas pre-existed the pagan feast of the sun. As well, Christmas Day was not chosen randomly by the Church as this date is connected to the birth of John the Baptist.
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So, don’t hold back, celebrate Christmas, the birthday of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. And one more thing… Christmas is not just a day-long celebration, it’s a season.




The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned."  Matthew 4:16

​Live and bask in the Light of God. Overcome darkness and death with the Light of Christ. 

​A Happy Christmas to you and your family!
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Diocesan Memorial Liturgy for Miscarried and Stillborn Infants

11/28/2022

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Bishop McGrattan's homily at the Memorial Liturgy for those grieving the loss of a child through miscarriage and stillbirth, November 24, 2022 at St. Mary's Cathedral.

In the communal life of the Church the witness of faith and belief in Christ is always confirmed in the following – “Faith if it is genuine works through love”. Another way of stating this truth is that in the Christian life our faith is to be expressed through acts of love.
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This evening those families who have gathered, parents, grandparents, and children are united in the painful reality that they have suffered the loss of a child through miscarriage or stillbirth. Despite this pain and grief which is shared by those here present they also witness to a communal act of love in the remembering of their children in prayer.

This is also a genuine witness of faith to the sanctity of life. That all human life from conception to natural death is a gift from God who is the Creator. He is the author of all life and in Christ we come to know and believe that through his death and resurrection we receive the gift of eternal life from God the Father. This is the hope that must also unite us in the prayer of this memorial liturgy.
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In the Old Testament, the remembering in prayer of God’s salvific presence in the midst of his people was always an act of “anamnesis”. It is a spiritual remembering and an act of faith in which they experienced the very presence of God’s love. In the First Letter of John this evening we heard the sacred author reminding the early Christians of this same truth. “See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are”. Other translations of this passage replace “See” with “Remember”. This evening we remember the love that the Father has given these parents through marriage. A love in which He invites husband and wife to share in His “co-creative love”, to express mutual love for each other and to be open to bringing new life, children into the world.    
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This vigil celebration of prayer for those children who did not receive the gift of being born into a family are still known by God as his children, like us. Although you as parents did not receive the joy of knowing your children you do share the anguish, sorrow and despair of their loss. However, in the faith that we share in being disciples of Christ, the suffering we experience now will always be transformed by Christ and that “what we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is”. This is the hope that we pray will sustain us as it did the early Christians.

In the Beatitudes Jesus teaches his disciples that despite the present circumstance of their life the future they desire will become one of blessing and happiness if they maintain their faith in Him. This is the faith that allows one to trust that the fullness of our life is revealed in Christ. This would have been the desire and the faith of these parents for the children that they have lost. To be baptized into the fullness of the life of Christ.

At the conclusion of this liturgy we incorporate the sign of light, in the lighting of a candle. Light symbolized the dispelling of darkness, and spiritually it overshadows for believers the sadness of death. The light of the paschal candle for Christians symbolizes the eternal light of the resurrection of Christ. As you come forward to light the candles for your children and their names are proclaimed, you are uniting yourselves in this communal act of love in remembering the children you mourn, but also it is a sign of your genuine faith and belief in the resurrection of Christ for your children.

We who gather support you in the loss of your children, but in faith and through our prayers, we pray that they now share in the eternal life of Christ and God the Father.    


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Submitted by Bishop William T. McGrattan for Faithfully.
Photos courtesy of Yuan Wang | ​See all photos
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The Feasts of All Saints & All Souls

10/29/2022

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The Solemnity of All Saints, Nov. 1

All Hallows’ Day, the Solemnity of All Saints, or All Saints’ Day is a celebration of all Catholic saints held on November 1 each year. “On this solemnity, we recall the holy men and women who, having completed their earthly journeys, now live forever with God. These saints, though not canonized, offer us models of abiding faith and love of God and neighbour” (Essential Guide to Seasons and Saints, 109).

The Church teaches that by imitating the virtues lived by the saints, the saints brings us closer to Christ. When we ask the saints to pray for us, we ask them to join their wills with the will of God and intercede for us here on earth. This is the Communion of Saints which we profess every Sunday in the Creed. (Source: USCCB)

Some resources for celebrating All Saints Day with your family:
  • Attend the Solemnity of All Saints Mass at your parish church
  • Children's & family Liturgy of the Word for All Saints 
  • All Saints Colouring Page
  • Celebrating All Saints' Day at home - Crafts & Projects (Catholic Icing)
  • Have everyone at the dinner table pray to their confirmation saint and discuss why they chose that saint. Then read the Gospel from Matthew 5:1-12a
  • Pray the Litany of Saints (CCCB, CWL Canada) 
  • More ideas for celebrating All Saint’s day with your family (Catholic Mom)
  • Download graphic​
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Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed
​(All Souls Day) - Nov2

All Souls’ Day, also known as “The Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed” is observed on Nov. 2. The faithful on earth can assist these purgatorial souls in attaining heaven through prayer, good work and the offering of Mass. At Mass on All Souls’ Day, we pray that through Christ’s loving mercy, God’s “departed servants…may be granted pardon and peace, and be brought to the joy of God’s eternal home. All Souls Day is an especially rich cultural experience for Hispanic/Latino Catholics, who call it “Día de los Muertos” or “The Day of the Dead.”

Some resources for commemorating All Souls Day with your family:
  • Attend the All Souls Mass at your parish church
  • ​Say a prayer for the dead in your family and community:
    • In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. R/. Amen. 
  • Pray especially for those who died of COVID-19 in this time of pandemic. Due to world wide pandemic protocols, many have died without the Sacrament of the Sick. Let us offer our prayers for them:
    • O Lord God Omnipotent, I beseech You by the Precious Blood Your Divine Son Jesus shed in the garden, deliver the souls in Purgatory, especially the most forsaken soul. Bring these souls into your glory where it may praise You and Bless You forever. Amen. Eternal Rest grant unto them Oh Lord …… (Source: Oremus, Let Us Pray, Come Close to God in Daily Prayer, pg. 98. Oremus prayer books are available at Holy Name Parish Office for purchase). 
  • How to gain a plenary indulgence for the souls in purgatory (Relevant Radio)
  • Visit a cemetery and pray for the dead during the Octave of All Saints Day. This gains a plenary indulgence that can be applied only to the souls in purgatory. On other days, this work gains a partial indulgence.
  • Prayers for death and dying (USCCB)
  • Praying for the dead with Kids (Catholic Icing)
  • Download graphics for All Souls: square | Wide
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We are the Church #walkingtogether

7/31/2022

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The Francis Family of Calgary upon arrival at Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
I remember the day a girl about my height with jet black hair bounded up my driveway asking to play. I was about five years old and shy. Lori was a high energy, outgoing six-year-old and we quickly became friends. For the next three years we had adventures, playing hide and seek and other childhood pastimes, sometimes getting into mischief together.

In upper elementary, I remember finding out that the reason Lori acted differently is because she had fetal alcohol syndrome. But as young children that difference never factored in, in fact, in my eyes she was exciting and fun to be around. 

Knowing Lori was a gift I received early in my life. I’ve carried the memories we made together with me ever since. And I carried her in my heart as I made the pilgrimage from my home in Calgary to Edmonton for the Papal Mass on July 26, 2022. 

I prayed for Lori, one of my first best friends, an Indigenous girl who was innocently sentenced to a life clouded by the effects of a preventable syndrome. Lori was adopted and while she never attended residential school, it’s likely someone from her family tree had spent time at one of these schools. To me, her situation is an example from my own lived experience of the repercussions of residential schools felt through the generations. 

When we arrived at Commonwealth Stadium, the first thing we did was take a family photo to remember our family pilgrimage as we will continue to unpack its significance in the years to come. 

Next we found our seats, and while waiting for the Papal Mass to begin I noticed four middle-aged women sitting behind me wearing Every Child Matters orange and black t-shirts. Among them was Kelly Spooner who was not herself Indigenous, but came to honour the memory of her uncle (through marriage) who died in 2019 and attended residential school for six years. 
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“I came for strength and to renew my spirit. It’s a part of history today,” said Kelly Spooner. 

Not long after, the Pope rode around the stadium greeting the crowd. Kelly ran down to the front gate to get a closer look. After he passed by she came back in tears, saying “I’m so happy he’s here.” ​
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Juan and Lupita Artega and their children holding signs to welcome Pope Francis along his route
PictureAmber Franco of Calgary with her family
​As the pre-Mass program was wrapping up, emcee Janelle Reinhardt asked the crowd to keep a prayerful silence. 

“The stadium truly became silent, it was powerful and profound, you could only hear the humming of the buildings. It was impressive in a crowd so large,” said Amber Franco, reflecting on this poignant moment. She drove from Calgary to Edmonton with her husband Mike and seven children.   

Calgary Bishop William McGrattan also took note of the prayerful atmosphere as he looked up into the crowd from ground level.  

“When we entered in the procession for Mass and I saw the number of people on the field and in the stands you had this sense of the presence of Christ in those who had gathered to be with the Holy Father,” said Bishop McGrattan. 

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Bishop McGrattan during the processional rite at Papal Mass
The Papal Mass was celebrated on the feast of St. Joachim and St. Anne – the grandparents of Jesus.  Pope Francis used this opportunity to speak about the importance of grandparents and family cohesion during his homily. 

“This message was simple, but one that everyone could receive and appreciate,” said Bishop McGrattan. “The message of a pastor who himself was advanced in age and not afraid to show the signs of declining mobility, and the need for assistance, which is experienced in every family.”  

Like any good pilgrimage, there are challenging moments and as we sat in the bleachers listening to Pope Francis our children began to get a bit restless in the blistering heat. I turned my own discomfort into a small offering toward reconciliation, all the while my heart growing in gratitude for the heroic effort of our 85-year-old pontiff. 

I thought this was a generous gesture toward reconciliation simply by showing up and “taking the heat” with us in every sense of the phrase. But I was also humbled by the elders some 80 years and up who had made the pilgrimage from various parts of the country also suffering their own discomforts in an attempt to heal and move forward.  

My own father Deacon Richard Loftson accompanied a group of Indigenous pilgrims from Manitoba on behalf of the Archdiocese of St. Boniface. He ministers to the St. Kateri Tekakwitha Indigenous Parish in Winnipeg. 

“They were thankful for the apology. They were emotional, in tears many of them. They had been waiting for so long,” said Deacon Loftson.

Bishop McGrattan also sought feedback as he encountered people affected by residential schools. 

“In talking to some survivors at the various events, it was difficult for some to hear and relive these memories. For others, there was a sense of recognition that they were listened to by Pope Francis and that his words and actions were genuine in their eyes,” said Bishop McGrattan. 

Like many things, the future lies with the children in hopes they will learn from history and build a more just and merciful society where no child will ever again suffer the consequences of being forced to leave their family and lose their culture and heritage. 
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Calgarians Jason & Michelle Widmeyer and their family
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John Macdonald of Sundre, AB with his sons Joseph and Fulton wearing a Métis sash to honour their heritage.
PictureKonrad & Alissa Paley with their daughters
This is why our friends Alissa and Konrad Paley of Calgary also made the pilgrimage with their three young daughters (six years and under) to the Papal Mass with the same intention as our family: to build a culture of goodwill and reconciliation in their home. 

“Participating in this particular Papal Mass was really important as a Catholic and a Canadian,” said Alissa Paley. “The Church is made up of the people, we are the people of the Church. In order for the Church to work towards reconciliation we must show up.” 

“I was honoured to bring my daughters with me. I know that they currently don’t understand the gravity of this event, but I hope as they grow up they may continue to pray for the journey toward reconciliation in this country.”    

My thoughts have turned toward the child during this pilgrimage. Just like my friend Lori who did nothing to deserve the circumstances she inherited as a child, neither did I deserve the family and opportunities I have been afforded. Everything is a gift. In gratitude, I left Edmonton pondering how I can use the time I have left to seek holiness by laying down my life for my friends. 

== More photos from our Diocesan families during the Papal Mass (click "all comments")



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Written by Sara Francis for Faithfully. Sara is a writer living in Calgary with her husband Ben and their six children. They attend St. Bernard's / Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. 

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All photos are used with permission. 
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20 years of Permanent Diaconate

6/19/2022

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A Few Memories and Reflections on the 20th Anniversary 2022 of the Permanent Diaconate in the Diocese of Calgary 

The primary movement for the restoration of the order of deacons in this century occurred in the death camp at Dachau. The identity of the deacon is conceived in the midst of indescribable human suffering. A “new” diaconate is envisioned as a permanent hope to those who are without hope.
 
During World War II, a group of Catholic priests, interned at Dachau prison camp, provided support and encouragement to many of the nameless and voiceless victims of injustice around them. Somehow they kept faith alive, sustained hope and witnessed to God’s unconditional love even in an atmosphere that viciously opposed and denied these gifts. One of these priests, Fr. Otto Pies SJ, who was seriously ill when released from the concentration camp, published an article titled “Cellblock 26 - Experiences of the Priestly Life in Dachau” - dealing with the sufferings of priests imprisoned here. He also reports about those topics that were the subject of the discussions among priests who were ready to discharge their responsibilities in the face of death. In conjunction with the increasingly more serious shortage of priests, Fr. Pies poses the question as ‘to whether or not it was time to act upon the nudges that were - apparently - being initiated by the Holy Spirit’ and to permit the diaconate to rise again.
 
Knowing that their aspiration required decisive action, these priests after their liberation, continued to meet and work to awaken in every Catholic a commitment to justice through personal service and advocacy. Many people came to join these survivors, who named their group the Deacon Circle. In time, additional groups convened throughout Germany, France and Eastern Europe.
 
In 1962 Pope John XXIII convened the Second Vatican Council and within this growing awareness of the church’s obligation to be actively engaged in the world, the original members of the Deacon’s Circle, the Dachau survivors and those who had joined them in Munich wrote a letter in 1962 addressed directly to the council fathers in which they state:
 
“Would it not be a living testimony to the church’s concern for the temporal and supernatural needs of all peoples to have ordained deacons engaged in actual necessities of temporal life to the poor and the suffering, bringing  Christ both sacramentally and also in their committed care for the lowly and oppressed into places of neglect and destitution, of hunger and sickness?”

The rest of the story is our history
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Vatican II reconstituted the diaconate in the western Catholic Churches, and taught that deacons are helpers to the bishop at the altar and in the ministry of the word, while caring always for those who might otherwise be overlooked by the successors of the apostles.
 
Three reasons behind the Council’s decision:
  1. a desire to enrich the Church with the functions of the diaconate, which otherwise, in many regions, could only be exercised with great difficulty;
  2. the intention of strengthening with the grace of diaconal ordination those who already exercised many of the functions of the Diaconate; and
  3. a concern to provide regions, where there was a shortage of clergy, with sacred ministers.
 
Deacons are ordained to make visible Christ, the servant of his people. The bishop is responsible for the selection, personal formation, ministerial training and assignment of deacons. 

Prior to my arrival in Calgary, I recall a discernment weekend experience in the Diocese of London. Our topic was to try and attuned ourselves as a selected and balanced group of leaders in the diocese - bishops, ordained priests, religious women, catechists, male and female lay leaders -  to listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit through prayer and discussion led by a Jesuit priest whose expertise was discernment in the Ignatius Tradition.  Our question was straight forward: “Should We Introduce the Permanent Diaconate in the our Diocese.” At the end of our session, marked more by turbulence than peace, we held a vote - 60% yes, 40% no. Bishop Sherlock decided that the margin was not large enough to proceed and it would only divide the diocese. I was one of the 60%. My main argument was that our local church would be stronger with the fullness of the Sacrament of Orders - bishop, priests, and deacons.
 
Before the subject was revisited several years later, I was transferred to the Diocese of Thunder Bay in Northern Ontario in March of 1995. Fortunately, they already had introduced the permanent diaconate. We were a very large missionary diocese (geographically), many indigenous peoples, few clergy and  heavily reliant on the religious communities and the international community to staff our parishes and missions.  Both groups tended to be serving on a contract basis. Our married deacons were local - many were born and raised in the north, involved in business industry, recreation, etc. They and their wives who were part of the formation sessions were a terrific addition to our pastoral care delivery system. I was now more committed than ever.
 
Arriving in Calgary as the local Bishop, I was surprised that one of the most frequently asked questions, in addition to “when are you going to build us a church?”, was “What do you think of the permanent diaconate?” “I’m all in favour. It’s simply when and how?”
 
There was no permanent diaconate program west of St. Boniface. I recall an exchange at the one of the Western Conference of Catholic Bishops Meetings. I announced  that we were establishing a permanent diaconate program in Calgary and one of the senior bishops interjected “That here in the west we have opted for lay formation.” I replied: “I didn’t think that it was an either/or proposition, we can do both. Beside, I’m simply telling you, not asking for permission.”
 
First west of St. Boniface Diocese but happily, not the last!
 
There was also local opposition from many individuals and groups in the Diocese but not strong enough to stop the forward movement of the Holy Spirit. The biggest decision was to pick Developers and Coordinators who were of “good standing, full of the Spirit and of wisdom whom we may appoint to this task” (Acts.6:3). Fr. Bill Trienekens and Sr. Maria Nakagawa’  graciously accepted the appointment and set about building our program, selecting and forming our candidates, individually and communally. They have rendered enormous service to our local church! As my mom would say “And the proof is in the pudding.”
 
We were assisted in many way by the Archdiocese of Toronto who readily shared their experience and helped us walk in the direction of our hope.
 
In God’s providence, we were also assisted by the timely publication in 1998 of the two Vatican Documents:
  1. Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons - Congregation for Catholic Education
  2. Directory for the Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons - Congregation for the Clergy
 
I suspect that these two documents will influence the development of the Order of Deacon for years to come and therefore will directly influence how the faithful are shepherded by bishops and priests with the help of deacons. Practically, the deacon’s responsibilities are explained, the professional demands of his ministry are regulated, his juridical status and spiritual life are described. Most fundamentally, however, his identity is clarified.
Identity

In the first years after the restoration of the permanent diaconate, pragmatic considerations often seemed to shape its purpose and identity.
 
In some places, it seemed that the diaconate was intended, in particular, for catechists and delegates of the Word, so that familiar ministers and leaders of small communities would, through becoming deacons, make ordained ministry visible in their communities and throughout their diocese.
 
The new directory makes clear that local church cannot simply put the new label of deacon on the familiar reality of catechist without changing the life of the Church. The diaconate is a gift from God which changes not just the deacon but all of God’s people.
 
The diaconate was restored just when the Church’s relationship to the modern world was changing. The line between openness to the world and becoming “worldly’ was often not clear, and this lack of clarity influenced pastoral policy and, at times, teaching. Consequently, the permanent deacon, ordained but with a secular job, was sometimes hailed as the Church’s agent in the workplace and marketplace, as if this were not the vocation of every baptized Christian. Behind this seeming openness to the world lay a clericalism that assumed that only the ordained make the Church present in the world. The selection of candidates was often limited to those whose secular profession was proof of their position in the world and therefore of their value as deacons.
 
A second moment in the development of the restored diaconate brought forward candidates who were already visible in their parish communities as lay ministers and helpers in numerous church activities. Generous men who were obviously of good character and servants of the Lord and his Church sometimes were invited to become deacons as a kind of acknowledgment by their pastor that they were exemplary Catholics and helpful members of their parish. The diaconate became almost unique tied to parochial service.
 
The Directory comes providentially at a new moment in the developing understanding of the diaconate and the consequent criteria for the selection of deacon candidates. Full time work in the world certainly does not disqualify a man from the diaconate nor does prior ministry or service in a parish. But the Directory explains clearly that a deacon makes Christ the servant visible through ordination for a particular Church, a diocese, and not only for a parish. The relationship to the local bishop is central to the deacon’s ministry as servant to those who might otherwise be overlooked or neglected, especially the poor, as the local Church assembles around her bishop. The deacons’ sensitivity to the sick, the handicapped, the religiously illiterate, the victim so prejudice of every sort, the despised and those estranged from the community of believers will lead him to bring them to the altar of Christ. The greatest service a deacon offers is to invite others to the table where they can learn who Christ is by becoming members of his body. Having gathered the poor around the altar of Christ, the deacon proclaims the Gospel, which is always good news for the poor.
MINISTRY
(para 23-42) the Directory’s description of his service of the word, of the altar and of charity cannot be separated. Even though one or the other may be more emphasized in the course of a deacon’s ministerial life, he is always called to all three.
 
SPIRITUALITY
(para.43-62) Ordination as a deacon is a call to convert, to conform one’s heart and mind ever more closely to Jesus Christ, servant of his people; service as a deacon is a call to constant conversion so that a deacon’s ministry is not just a function. His spiritual life begins in relationships that are his by reason of ordination.
 
FORMATION
(para 63-82) the Directory gives special attention to the ongoing or continuing vocational and professional formation of deacons.

Deacons ordained in 2002:
Dcn. Paul Coderre – Sacred Heart, Strathmore
Dcn. John Hagan – Retired, Calgary
Dcn. Paul Heffernan – Holy Spirit, Calgary
†Dcn. Albert Henri – Deceased
Dcn. Allan Hinger – now in the Diocese of Prince Albert, SK.
†Dcn. Louis Lapointe -- Deceased
Dcn. Alex Martinez-Lievano – Holy Spirit, Calgary
Dcn. Clarence Otteson – now in the Archdiocese of Edmonton
Dcn. Robert Risling –Holy Family, Medicine Hat
Dcn. Albert Riendeau—Retired, Calgary
Dcn. Robert Wilson – Retired, Brooks
Dcn. John Wu – Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Calgary
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Written by
Bishop Emeritus
Frederick Henry
​for Faithfully

June 2022
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COVID-19 Pandemic in the Diocese

5/17/2022

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

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

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

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Step 2 - Liturgical Guidelines

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COVID-19 Updates

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

For your 
​Mental Health

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

Epiphany of the Lord

12/14/2021

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Epiphany means “manifestation”, that moment when we suddenly understand something that previously was hidden from us. Christmas is about the Incarnation, the coming down of the Son of God to become human, one of us. Epiphany is the showing of the Christ Child’s divinity, which is beginning to manifest itself in the world.
​
  • Blessing of Homes
    The tradition of blessing doorways on Epiphany is inspired by the three Magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, who followed the star to a manger in Bethlehem where the Messiah was made manifest for them in the person of a newborn child. The Magi showed great hospitality when they came to honour the Messiah. The blessing of our own doorway reminds us to welcome strangers and travellers into our midst as though each were Jesus himself. Incidentally, the tradition of carolling is also associated with the journey of the Magi and is a suitable way of announcing the manifestation of the Christ Child in song.
    • Here is a simple prayer service to use at home when blessing the doorway. Or download it as PDF here

  • Continue Celebrating Christmas
    Even if your Christmas trees have come down and decorations have been returned to storage, we invite you to consider keeping out the Christmas crèche a while longer at least until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, and placing it in a prominent place in your home where you can gather with family and pray.  Read: Continuing with the celebration of Christmas

  • Resources for family & children: Epiphany of the Lord
    • Today is the Feast of the Epiphany. We remember that the Magi, or Wise Men, visited Jesus. Let’s listen to learn about their journey and what gifts they gave Jesus to honour him. (Loyola Press) 
      • Kid's Bulletin for this Sunday
      • Colouring page this Sunday 
      • Sunday Connection for the Epiphany of the Lord (Gr. 1-8) 
      • Children's Liturgy of the Word with Miss Heidi (Catholic TV)

  • Gospel Reflection  
    Gifts. The Magi, these foreign interpreters of dreams, do the following: follow a star, travel a great distance, trust the words of others, bring and give gifts. In some countries, Epiphany and not Christmas is gift-giving day.  This twelfth-day (when on the traditional 6th of January) brings to completion the manifestation of Christ – first to the Jews and today to everyone. No one is foreign to God’s good grace. (Source: Diocese of Springfield)
    • How will I search diligently for Jesus?
    • Because God is merciful to me, what mercy work can I do for another?
    • What gifts will I give to others in need? 

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Trinity Sunday

5/27/2021

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God is with us; who are we accompanying?

​On Trinity Sunday, we often hear homilies about the theological mystery of the Trinity, but this year, perhaps we could focus on the theological miracle: that the three persons of God have promised to be with us to the end of time.

We have been promised that the Triune God will never leave us. Just as Jesus came to earth to reveal this to us, we are asked to be ambassadors of this kind of love in the world. Who knows God’s constant presence because you show up for them consistently? Your family and friends? Your community and neighbours? What about the sick and the suffering, the neglected and needy, the addicted and the poor? How are we bearing witness to the Triune God’s constant and faithful presence as an act of faith in the Blessed Trinity?*

May others know God’s enduring love because we have borne witness to it so well.

  • Trinity Sunday Resources 
    • How to celebrate Trinity Sunday at home?
    • The Trinity & Mission - Tim O'Malley
    • History and liturgy of the Holy Trinity
    • Morning Prayer | Evening Prayer
    • Resources for Family & children:
      • Kid's Bulletin for Trinity Sunday
      • Craft for kids from Catholic Icing
      • Catholic Cuisine for Trinity Sunday 
      • The Holy Trinity quiz 
      • The Sign of the Cross poster
      • Video for children on Trinity Sunday 

(excerpt from National Pastoral Initiative for Life and the Family, May 2021).
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Easter Message from the Bishop

4/3/2021

1 Comment

 
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The message of Easter – the Resurrection of Jesus – takes us beyond the Cross to the joy and hope that comes from seeing the Risen Lord. It was Christ risen who allowed his disciples to fully know that God exists, that there is a future for every human being and that our cry for unending life is indeed answered in Him. This is the true message of Easter!
​
In this past year with the ongoing restrictions of the pandemic we have been intensely united with Jesus, in His passion, the carrying of the Cross, and the obedient acceptance of the Father’s will in sacrificial love for others. God has truly inspired many of us in faith to act with this same love, patient suffering, endurance and courage in the face of despair and in offering a hope which has been inspired by the Holy Spirit. It is such acts of love that restores human dignity for those who have been burdened by this pandemic, by the death of loved ones, the loss of employment and the limitations that were placed on normal human interactions of education, leisure, physical exercise and community gatherings. Christians and indeed everyone have been called to respond with compassion, solidarity and in caring for those who are suffering and most vulnerable. This is a true sign of hope, of Easter faith which caused the disciples not to proclaim the tragedy of Jesus death but rather the sharing of his resurrection, the promise of eternal life, of joy and confidence in the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus revealed himself to the disciples in tangible ways especially in the anticipation of His suffering and death. In the enduring gift of His Presence “in the breaking of the bread” – the Eucharist, we come to know in faith that our suffering and death can be united with Christ and have deeper meaning when offered to God.

He also commissioned Mary Magdalene after his resurrection as the “apostle (the one sent) to the apostles”, to bring this good news of hope, the promise of new life to the world. He invites us like Mary to enter the tomb, to enter into the mystery of how God transforms our experience of despair through a vigil of love into a promise of hope. To enter into mystery means the ability to wonder, to contemplate; the ability to listen to the silence and to hear the tiny whisper amid great silence by which God speaks to us (cf. 1Kings 19:12). Like Mary we need humility to enter into this mystery especially during this “silence” created by the pandemic. To know with confidence that our search for truth, beauty and love in these challenging times will be fully revealed in the risen Christ. May our witness of this sacred mystery revealed in the dignity of each human person, silence the deafening call for expanding euthanasia and assisted suicide in our country of Canada and to acknowledge that this pandemic continues to burden the most vulnerable in our society.   

Easter calls us to promote with renewed vigor the sanctity of human life with grateful and joyful hearts. Easter calls us to move beyond the tomb with the conviction to share the good news of the Resurrection with one another. Easter calls us to courageously follow Jesus Christ, the risen one, and to boldly proclaim that out of darkness and suffering comes new life. This Easter let us rise up to meet the world our society and with the witness of our faith. It is my hope that in this coming year we discover new ways to share this Easter faith, the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection. 
​
A blessed Easter Season to you and your family.

​Sincerely yours in Christ,

+ Most Reverend William T. McGrattan 
Bishop of Calgary
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Written by Most Rev. William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary
​
April 3, 2021
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World Day of the Sick 2021

2/2/2021

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Resources

"The celebration of the XXIX World Day of the Sick on 11 February 2021, the liturgical memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lourdes, is an opportunity to devote special attention to the sick and to those who provide them with assistance and care both in healthcare institutions and within families and communities. We think in particular of those who have suffered, and continue to suffer, the effects of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic." ~ Pope Francis.

The theme of this year’s message is “You have but one teacher and you are all brothers" (Mt 23:8), which encourages a trust-based relationship with the sick and the nurturing of integral human healing. Please find here some resources for the World Day of the Sick (Feb. 11) this year:
​
  • Pope Francis' Message for the XXIX World Day of the Sick - English | French
  • Some themes for our reflection on World Day of the Sick - Download 
  • Liturgical notes for World Day of the Sick in the Diocese of Calgary - Download
  • World Day of the Sick resources (prayers, petitions, graphic/poster etc.) you can use: 
    • Prayer of the Faithful
    • Prayer and Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)

We would also like to direct your attention to the updated Bill C-7 webpage, and ask that you continue to pray and voice your concern on MAiD. "May our Lord both inspire and bring to accomplishment our efforts to embrace and protect the suffering and vulnerable, and to honour and uphold our rights and freedoms." ~ AB & NWT Bishops See webpage  
  • Statement by the group of disability advocates opposing Bill C-7. Read here
  • Calgary Catholic Medical Association (CCMA) is a lay association with a mission to foster personal and professional formation of healthcare professionals, in accord with the magisterium of the Catholic Church. Read an article from CCMA's website regarding the consultations on expanding MAiD here. What physicians are saying about the dangers of the euthanasia expansion. Read here 
    ​
COVID-19
  • To get the latest update on COVID-19 Pandemic in the Diocese, click here
  • Revised article with notes from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith re COVID-19 vaccination. Read here
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2021 Sunday of the Word of God

1/18/2021

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Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter, Motu proprio Aperuit illis published on September 30, 2019 establishes that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (January 24, 2021) is to be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the Word of God. 

  • Word of God Sunday Liturgical Suggestions - Download here
  • How to enthrone the Bible in your home? See leaflet here
  • Sunday of the Word of God resources from the Canadian Bible Society 
    ​Read the letter from The Canadian Bible Society who offers their full support for this inspiring initiative. The Canadian Bible Society have several excellent Catholic editions of the Bible available in a wide range of languages and approved translations, resources for the Sunday Lectionary Gospel of Mark, as well as Lectio Divina and other devotional tools.  
  • Note from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on the Word of God Sunday. The note highlights opportunities and practical suggestions for the Word of God Sunday celebration. Read here in English | French 
  • Current online offering of formation and events on scripture:
    • The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz (following the Great Adventure Bible Timeline with Jeff Cavins) - currently #1 in podcasts top chart. Tune in
    • The WORD 2021 International Catholic Bible Summit (Feb. 11-13) with speakers: Fr Mike Schmitz, Scott Hahn, Chris Stefanick etc. Learn more
    • Daily Lectio Divina with the Sisters of the Seeds of the Words in Calgary! This is a daily program, every morning at 7:30 am. Tune in via YouTube 
    • A reflection shared by Dr. Lance Dixon for the Sunday of the Word of God, 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year B (Jan 24, 2021). Read now
    • Find more online scripture program/courses here 
  • St. Mary’s University in Calgary is home to a full-sized fine art reproduction of The Saint John’s Bible, the first handwritten and illuminated Bible in more than 500 years. Commissioned in 1998 by the Benedictine monks of Saint John’s Abbey and University in Minnesota, it was created by a team of scribes, artists and craftspeople in a scriptorium in Wales under the artistic direction of Donald Jackson, one of the world’s foremost calligraphers and the Scribe to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Reflecting the construction of its medieval predecessors, The Saint John’s Bible was written on vellum, using quills, natural handmade inks, hand-ground pigments and gold leaf while incorporating modern themes, images and technology of the 21st century. Learn more
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Updates on Gathering #COVID19

5/6/2020

18 Comments

 
Date: May 26, 2020

Catholics will be allowed to take their first steps back to church for Mass in June under new guidelines issued by the Roman Catholic Bishops of Alberta.
​
The Guidelines for the Reintroduction of the Public Celebration of Holy Mass  were developed by a task force the Bishops established under the direction of Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton and Bishop William McGrattan of Calgary. The document follows the recent release of the Alberta government’s Guidance for Places of Public Worship as part of Stage 1 of the provincial relaunch strategy, as well as consultations with Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and other experts.

Parishes that have made the necessary preparations will be able to begin offering weekday masses on Monday, June 1, the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church; and Sunday masses as of June 7, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. In order to protect the health of parishioners, volunteers, staff and clergy, the Bishops have set a detailed list of conditions that must be met before congregants can safely be invited back to Mass. These include:
  • Limiting the total number of participants at each Mass to 50, or fewer if that is required to ensure physical distancing
  • Asking attendees to answer a series of health and travel-related questions as recommended by Alberta Health Services
  • Recording contact information of attendees for the purpose of contact tracing if necessary
  • Sanitizing hands upon entry and exit
  • Requiring masks for all volunteers and encouraging attendees also to wear masks
  • Observing physical distancing throughout the celebration
  • Extra cleaning of the church between masses.

Congregants will be able to receive Holy Communion in the form of the consecrated bread, but there will be no distribution of consecrated wine. Communicants will need to wear a mask to approach for Holy Communion, as will the priest when he is distributing it.

During this first stage, singing during Mass will not be allowed, as this activity has been shown to spread respiratory droplets that can infect others with the COVID-19 coronavirus. And any socializing after Mass will have to take place outside, still observing the physical distancing protocol.

The guidelines will apply broadly to the Archdiocese of Edmonton, Archdiocese of Grouard-McLennan, Diocese of Calgary, and Diocese of St. Paul. Some particulars will vary in each diocese, so parishes  should consult the guidelines for their own diocese.

Parish priests will be busy in the coming days preparing for the return of congregants in small numbers. However, since parishes vary greatly in terms of facilities and resources, it is likely that not all will be able to resume public masses in the first week of June. Parishioners are encouraged to check their parish website for local information.

It has been two months since public celebrations of the Mass were cancelled in Alberta. The full reinstatement of public masses will take place gradually, in parallel with the provincial relaunch strategy.

“The return of our people to the Eucharist after all this time will be a moment of great joy for both priests and parishioners, but there is still a long way to go,” said Archbishop Smith. “We will need to demonstrate that we have succeeded in providing a safe environment for Mass with small groups before we can proceed to the next stage and open masses to larger groups. For that reason, we ask once more for your patience, understanding, and prayers as we take these first steps forward.” 

  • Watch Bishop McGrattan's Video Message, Pastoral Letter and the Guidelines for the Reintroduction of the Public Celebration of Mass.

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​
Date: May 15, 2020

The Catholic Bishops of Alberta remain committed to the gradual reinstatement of public celebrations of the Mass and welcome the recent release of the Guidance for Places of Public Worship document as part of the provincial government’s relaunch strategy. These guidelines are being carefully considered by the task force that the Bishops have established under the direction of Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton and Bishop William McGrattan of Calgary. 

The task force is drafting for the Bishops a set of directives for the gradual reintroduction of Masses in public. The Bishops will present these to Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health. The proposed directives will take into consideration the information that will be received from the Telephone Town Hall with the Premier and the Chief Medical Officer scheduled for Thursday, May 21. No date will be set for the resumption of public liturgies in our Catholic churches and institutions until the Bishops are satisfied that their own directives can be fully and properly implemented.

Any announcement of the date for the gradual reintroduction will be made at least five days before the first scheduled Mass. Parishes by then will have received diocesan guidelines which help ensure the safety of everyone.

“It is critical that we understand the risks and take steps in minimizing the spread of COVID-19 through prudent planning,” said Bishop McGrattan. “The health and safety of our parishioners, priests, and church staff are of utmost importance. Each and every life is a precious gift from God, and we are called to do everything in our power to protect them. This has been a tremendous sacrifice on the part of the faithful who strongly desire to celebrate the Eucharist in their parish communities. We are grateful for their cooperation, their patient endurance, and especially for their prayers.”

===================
Date: May 6, 2020
​
In preparation for the lifting of some restrictions on gatherings in public places in Alberta, the Catholic Bishops of Alberta are working to develop a plan for the eventual reinstatement of public celebrations of the Mass. The Bishops have established a task force under the direction of Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton and Bishop William McGrattan of Calgary. The mandate of this task force is to discern when  and how this gradual reinstatement will be initiated. Their consideration will continue to be informed by the advice of Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and the provincial government’s 
staged COVID-19 recovery plan.
​
“We are acutely aware of our parishioners’ fervent desire to return to the Eucharist, and we share their concern,” said Archbishop Smith. “Our careful discernment now will ensure that when the time comes, we will be ready to begin inviting the faithful back to the churches they miss so much. We are extremely grateful to all those who have made great sacrifices in the common effort to protect our brothers and sisters by preventing the spread of COVID-19.”
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18 Comments

Consecration of Canada - May 1

4/23/2020

6 Comments

 
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The consecration of Canada to Our Lady will enrich our faith, allow a more abundant outpouring of God’s spiritual and temporal gifts on us, and enable us even more to fulfill our calling and mission. Ultimately, consecration to Mary, which springs from a more fervent, more committed, and more sustained life of prayer and devotion in which the Blessed Mother plays a unique and loving role, points and leads to a renewed spirit and understanding of family, Church, and the need for societal engagement. ​To find more catechesis on Marian Consecration and why we consecrate Canada to Our Lady, please read the document "Consecrating Canada to the Blessed Virgin Mary: Insights for Adult Catechesis."

Join us in prayer: Bishop McGrattan will consecrate the Diocese of Calgary to Mary, Mother of the Church, on Friday, May 1, seeking her maternal protection during the Coronavirus pandemic. To assist dioceses with the consecration, the CCCB will provide a prayer for use during the solemn act of entrustment. It can likewise be incorporated into family or individual prayer at home and used by other groups and faith communities. 
  • Download Prayer in English | French

Bishop McGrattan will celebrating the following liturgies on Friday, May 1, 2020:
  • 8:30 AM - Mass for the Feast of St. Joseph, the Worker (St. Peter's Catholic Church)
  • 11 AM - Consecration of the Diocese of Calgary to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, in time of pandemic (St. Mary's Cathedral). Livestream will be available at www.calgarydiocese.ca | Facebook 
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Triduum Sacred Music Playlist

3/16/2020

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Holy Thursday

​Play YouTube Playlist
Play Spotify Playlist
  • Ubi Caritas (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Tantum Ergo (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • O Sacrum Convivium (Roberto Remondi) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Ave Verum Corpus (William Byrd) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Godhead Here in Hiding (G. Manley Hopkins/Thomas Aquinas) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Panis Angelicus (Lambilotte) | Video | Sheet Music
  • My Song is Love Unknown (John Ireland) | Video 1 | Video 2 | Sheet Music
  • Adoro te Devote (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • A New Commandment (Tallis) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Ubi Caritas (Garau) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Stay with me (Taize) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Ubi Caritas (Gjielo) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Ubi Caritas (Duruffle) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Ave Verum Corpus (Mozart) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Verbum Caro (Hassler) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Una Hora - Responsory (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Go to dark Gethsemane (Montgomery/Bach) | Video | Sheet Music
  • And Now, O Father!  (William Bright/UNDE ET MEMORES) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Now, My Tongue, The Mystery Telling​ (GRAFTON) | Video 1 | Sheet Music 
  • Bread of the World in Mercy Broken (Ralph Vaughan) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Mandatum (Composer) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Litany of Humility (Composer) | Video | Prayer
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Triduum & Easter - People's Favourite Playlist
  • Submit your most cherished Triduum or Easter piece of sacred music, and we will add it to the playlist above! Enter here (comments section).
  • Play People's Favourite Playlist
 

Good Friday

​​​Play YouTube Playlist for Good Friday
  • O Vos Omnes (Victoria) | Video 1 | Video 2 | Sheet Music
  • Crux Fidelis (Chant) | Video 1 | Video 2 |  Sheet Music
  • Stabat Mater (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Stabat Mater - Sequentia (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Stabat Mater (Pergolesi) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Stabat Mater (Poulenc) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Popule Meus (Palestrina) | Audio | Sheet Music 
  • Popule Meus (Victoria) | Audio | Sheet Music
  • There is a Green Hill Far Away (Cecil F. Alexander / HORSLEY) | Video | Sheet Music
  • When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (Isaac Watts / ROCKINGHAM) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Fairest Lord Jesus (CRUSADER'S HYMN) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Reproaches and Trisagion Mysteria (Chant)  | Video 
  • Crux Fidelis (Composer) | Video | Sheet Music
  • There is a Green Hill Faraway (Composer) | Video | Sheet Music
  • When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (Composer) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Seven Last Words from the Cross (James MacMillan) | Video 
  • The Passion According to St. John (Bach) | Video 
 

Holy Saturday

Play YouTube Playlist for Holy Saturday
  • Exultet (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music (English | Latin)
  • Sicut Cervus (Palestrina) | Video| Sheet Music​
  • Hearts to Heaven (Sullivan) | Video | Sheet Music  
  • This Joyful Eastertide (Woodward) | Video | Sheet Music 
  • Let all the World (George Herbert) | Video | Sheet music
  • I know that my redeemer liveth (Handel) | Video
  • Jesus Christ is Risen Today (Williams) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Most Holy Night (Schutte) | Video | Sheet Music Preview
  • Ode to Joy (Beethoven) | Video | Sheet Music 
  • Christ Rising Again (William Byrd) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Festival Canticle: Worthy is Christ (Richard Hillert)  | Video  | Sheet Music
  • O Filii et Filiae (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music​​
 

Easter Sunday

​Play YouTube Playlist for Easter Sunday
  • Now the Green Blade Rises (French Carol) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Jesus Christ is Ris'n Today (Williams) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Vidi Aquam (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Regina Caeli (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Be Joyful Mary (Traditional) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Victimae Paschali Laudes (Chant) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Haec Dies (Gradual) | Video | Sheet Music
  • The Strife is O'er! (Vulpius) | Video | Sheet Music 
  • Thine be the Glory, Risen Conquering Son! (JUDAS MACCABEUS) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Surrexit pastor bonus (Jean Lhéritier) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Lord enrolled on High (George H. Bourne) | Video  
  • Resurrexi Introit (Composer) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Exultate Deo (Palestrina) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Hail Thee, Festival Day (SALVE, FESTA DIES) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Surrexit Pastor Bonus  (Orlandus Lassus) | Video | Sheet Music
  • Regina Caeli Jubila (Michael Praetorius) | Video | Sheet Music â€‹
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Guidelines during Influenza season - March 5

3/4/2020

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The Diocese of Calgary continues to monitor the current situation in regards to the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the province through updates from the Alberta Health Services. As of March 9, the current overall risk to Albertans is still considered low by medical experts. Get updates from Alberta Health Services and learn about the actions being taken to protect the health of Albertans here: https://www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx  

Here are general guidelines that were distributed to parishes on March 3. Please note that this is a proportionate response according to AHS risk assessment of the situation as at that date in the province.

General guidelines during Influenza Season in the Diocese of Calgary

  • Those who are ill or suspect illness should refrain from receiving from the chalice; Christ is fully present in each species.
  • At this time, we share the Sign of Peace using the second option, a bow, instead of shaking hands.  ​In the dioceses of Canada, the sign of peace is given by a handshake or a bow. However, it is appropriate that each person offer the sign of peace only to those who are nearest and in a sober manner. (The General Instruction of the Roman Missal no. 82)
  • Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion should practice good hand hygiene through frequent handwashing with soap and water and/or the use of alcohol-based rub (ABHR) and find a replacement for themselves if they are not feeling well.
  • All the faithful are encouraged to practise good hand hygiene for the sake of others.
  • The obligation to attend Sunday Mass does not apply to those who are ill, especially those who suffer from a contagious illness; those with flu-like symptoms may choose to remain at home in order not to spread the virus to others. While televised Masses do not fulfill the Sunday obligation, those who are ill are dispensed from the Sunday obligation.​
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GUIDELINE POSTER
  • Download PDF - English
  • Download PDF - Chinese
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Easter Sunday and Pentecost Sequence

2/10/2020

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Do you know that the proper Sequence is obligatory on Easter and Pentecost Sunday? It is to be sung following the second reading. The Gospel Acclamation follows the Sequence as usual. The sequence can be sung by the cantor, by the choir, or by the entire assembly. The CCCB encourages the participation of the assembly. The Easter sequence may be sung on every day of the Easter Octave including especially the Second Sunday of Easter.

Handy links for Parish music ministers and cantors:

Easter Sequence
  • Chant in Latin
    • Modern notation: CBW III no. 690 | Breaking Bread 2019 on page 151
    • Square notation: Print notation | Listen
  • Chant in English
    • CBW III no. 690 - Matches English text in Canadian lectionary | Listen
    • Breaking Bread 2019 on page 151
    • Alternate English Versions: Breaking Bread 2019 nos. 181 and 162

Pentecost Sequence
  • Chant in Latin
    • Modern notation: Breaking Bread 2019 on page 177
    • Square notation: Print notation | Listen
  • Chant in English
    • Breaking Bread 2019 on page 177 | Listen
    • Alternate English Versions
      • CBW III no. 692 - Matches English text in Canadian lectionary | Listen
      • Breaking Bread 2019 nos. nos. 188 and 189

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Blessing Homes

1/6/2020

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​The ritual of blessing homes in January is connected to the Solemnity of the Epiphany. Epiphany means “manifestation”, that moment when we suddenly understand something that previously was hidden from us. The antiphon for the Gospel Canticle at Evening Prayer illustrates the three events associated with the feast.

Three mysteries mark this holy day:
  • today the star leads the Magi to the infant Christ;
  • today water is changed into wine for the wedding feast;
  • today Christ wills to be baptized by John in the river Jordan to bring us salvation.

Christmas is about the Incarnation, the coming down of the Son of God to become human, one of us. Epiphany is the showing of the Christ Child’s divinity, which is beginning to manifest itself in the world.

The tradition of blessing doorways is inspired by the three Magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, who followed the star to a manger in Bethlehem where the Messiah was made manifest for them in the person of a newborn child. The Magi showed great hospitality when they came to honour the Messiah. The blessing of our own doorway reminds us to welcome strangers and travellers into our midst as though each were Jesus himself. Incidentally, the tradition of carolling is also associated with the journey of the Magi and is a suitable way of announcing the manifestation of the Christ Child in song.

Here is a simple prayer service to use at home when blessing the doorway. Or download it as PDF here.

Gather everyone in a convenient place and make the sign of the Cross.

Leader:  The Magi followed a star to find God in a tiny child. Let us imitate them in seeking the Saviour manifest in our world.   R/:  Amen.

Reading
Matthew 2:1-12

If you have a crêche, move the magi to the scene. 

Blessing
To bless the doorway, write over the doorway with chalk the first two digits of the year, the initials of each of the Magi, and the last digits of the year, e.g. 20 + C + M + B + 14.  The initials correspond to the first letter of each word in the simple prayer, Christus Mansionem Benedicat, Christ bless this house. You may wish to say these words as you mark the doorway.

Prayer                 
Lord Jesus, in your humble state you welcomed kings and shepherds alike. May all who pass through this doorway — poor or rich, suffering or rejoicing, stranger or friend — be welcomed as the King Himself. Grant peace to this house and to the house of our hearts that we may seek and find you in everyone we meet. You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.  R/:  Amen. 
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Photo credit: T. Fung. Used with permission.
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Presentation of the Lord / Candlemas

1/6/2020

 
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In 2020 the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord falls on Sunday and takes precedence over the Sunday in Ordinary Time. As such, we have to pay special attention to the ritual and musical requirements of the celebration. It will require some preparation and planning but is worth the effort.  Younger members of your congregation especially will be touched by the ancient actions and symbolism.

The connection of this feast with candles comes from the eighth century and led to the feast being called “Candlemas”. The procession with lighted candles and blessing of candles to take home will help parishioners to see Christ as the light of the world in the world of their own lives.  

Although Christmas season officially ended at the Baptism of the Lord, this celebration is an extension of the Christmas mystery of the Incarnation. Just as the Blessed Virgin spent 40 days contemplating the Divine Fruit of her womb before going to the temple to fulfil the Law, we also explore and live out the fruit of the Incarnation in the period of Ordinary Time leading up to February 2nd. The feast points back to Christmas and leads forward to Easter. 

The Introductory Rites
There are two forms for the Introductory Rites: the Procession and the Solemn Entrance. The ritual is the same except that in the first, everyone gathers outside the church for the blessing while in the second the place of blessing is in the church, people are in the pews, and the procession is simply with the ministers to the altar. The Roman Missal gives detailed instructions. Adjusting for inside or outside the church, the introductory rites look like this:  
  • Select a place for the blessing to take place. 
  • Place there the candles that will be used in the church throughout the coming year. 
  • All the people receive candles upon entering.
  • If people have brought candles from home, invite them to place their candles where the blessing will take place.
  • When it is time to begin, the candles are lit while the antiphon Behold, our Lord (or another suitable chant) is sung. 
  • After the greeting and address, the priest blesses the candles with holy water.
  • The priest receives a lighted candle from the Deacon or a minister and then the Deacon (or priest if there is no deacon) announces the procession to the altar. 
  • The antiphon A light for revelation is sung or another appropriate chant. 
  • The Entrance chant of the Mass follows the antiphon for the candle procession. 

Musical Considerations

The introductory rites of this celebration invite the use of simple chant. While the candles are being lit, the short antiphon Behold/Ecce dominus is sung. It is followed by a short dialogue with the priest that can be sung. The procession begins with the prescribed antiphon, A light for revelation with two verses or another appropriate chant. The Latin antiphon is also provided and could be used with the English verses. There are also Latin verses but theses need to be taken from the Graduale Romanum. 

This chant is the Canticle of Simeon known from Night Prayer of The Liturgy of the Hours. Its use in this celebration is a way of introducing the congregation to this Scriptural Canticle. The choir might also consider a different setting of the Canticle of Simeon. The Entrance Chant follows the prescribed antiphon. 

1. Download a pdf of the music
2. Listen to the Behold/Ecce dominus
3. Listen to A light for A light for revelation/Lumen ad revelationem

Universal Prayer

Inspired by the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, the Church celebrates on the same day those who have consecrated themselves to the Lord with World Day of Consecrated Life. Please include a petition for those discerning the priesthood and religious life. 

Checklist
  • Decide which form of the Introductory Rite you will use at which weekend Masses
  • Decide where to gather
  • Decide which chants will be sung for the Introductory Rites – practice!  
  • Make sure you have candles for all the parishioners
  • The week before, invite parishioners to bring candles from home for blessing
  • Make any adjustments to your worship aid if needed
  • Have your parish photographer take pictures during the blessing and procession for the website or social media

​Continuing with the celebration of Christmas

1/3/2020

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With the disappearance of decorated Christmas trees from bay windows and the appearance of dried up evergreen trees free of ornaments, tinsel and lights now lying on our curbs we can easily perceive an atmospheric change in focus. However, Liturgically, Christmas ends with the Baptism of the Lord, which falls on Sunday, January 12. 

So, even if your Christmas trees have come down and decorations have been returned to storage, we invite you to consider keeping out the Christmas crèche a while longer and placing it in a prominent place in your home where you can gather with family and pray. 

You may light a candle (mindful of everyone’s safety) and pray these words…

“O God, who were pleased to give us the shining example of the Holy Family, graciously grant that we may imitate them in practising the virtues of family life and in the bonds of charity, and so, in the joy of your house, delight one day in eternal rewards. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. ”

Did you know that the Vatican has their life-size nativity scene up until February 2?

Just as the Blessed Virgin spent 40 days contemplating the Divine Fruit of her womb before going to the temple to fulfil the Law, we also can ponder, explore, and live out the fruit of the Incarnation in the period of Ordinary Time leading up to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2. While this feast day is not part of the Christmas season, it is a feast that points back to Christmas and leads us forward to Easter.

And so, building on the #I Am Blessed campaign, we invite you and your family to keep in mind the words of Pope Francis: “The nativity scene is like a living Gospel rising up from the pages of sacred Scripture. As we contemplate the Christmas story, we are invited to set out on a spiritual journey, drawn by the humility of the God who became man in order to encounter every man and woman” Pope Francis, Admirabile Signum. 
​
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Blessing your Nativity Scene at home

12/18/2019

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​Close to the celebration of Christmas, after the Nativity scene has been set up, gather around to bless and praise God for sending his Son, Jesus.  Here is a blessing prayer you can use at home with your family: 
PictureNativity scene at the Catholic Pastoral Centre.
Introduction

Sing a Christmas hymn or carol. 

Leader:  Glory to God in the highest.
(R/.) And peace to God’s people on earth.
​
Scripture Reading

Leader: Let us listen to these words of Scripture.

A reader proclaims one of these readings from Holy Scripture:
  • Hebrews 1.1-3a – God has spoken to us by his Son
  • Titus 2.11-14 – Live lives that are self-controlled
  • John 3.16-17 – God’s love for us
  • Luke 1.28-33 – Our Saviour is coming
  • Luke 2.1-5 – Bethlehem
  • Luke 2.6-7 – Birth of Jesus
  • Luke 2. 8-20 – Shepherds

Reflect in silence for a short time after the reading.

Litany

Leader:  Let us praise our Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world, who was born for our salvation. Our response to each intention is “Glory to God in the highest.”

(R/.)  Glory to God in the highest.

Leader:  Eternal Word, you have scattered the darkness of sin and death. (R/.) 
Word made flesh, you have made us children of God most high. (R/.) 
Incarnate Son, you have united heaven and earth. (R/.) 
Lord Jesus, you are the revelation of God’s love. (R/.) 
Eternal Son, you are the light of the nations. (R/.) 
Emmanuel, you are fullness of God’s glory. (R/.) 
Son of God, you were born of Mary with Joseph as your protector. (R/.) 
Bread of life, you were laid in a  humble manger. (R/.) 
Son of David, the shepherds came to worship you. (R/.) 
Light of the world, the Magi brought you gifts. (R/.) 

Prayer of Praise

Leader:  Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation: 
you have sent your Son
as the promised Saviour of the world
so that he might share with us your divine life.
Bless us as we prepare this crib,
and let it be a reminder of the Lord Jesus,
who was born of the Virgin Mary in the City of David.
Grant that we may always serve you in faith
as did the angels,
praise you for your saving deeds
as did the shepherds,
and surround you with the warmth of our love,
as did the animals of the stable.
Glory and praise to you, eternal God, 
through Jesus Christ our Saviour,
who lives with you and the Holy Spirit,
for ever and ever.
(R/.)  Amen.

Conclude by singing a Christmas hymn or carol.

From Blessings and Prayers for Home and Family.
Ottawa: Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2004.



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Christmas Mass Times

12/4/2019

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"To you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord." (Lk. 2:11)

You are invited to spend the Christmas season with Our Lord Jesus Christ with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary.  ​Check out the Mass times for the Christmas Season in parishes throughout the Diocese of Calgary. Click here.
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O come, O come, Emmanuel

12/4/2019

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While shops, television, and radio are filling our ears with Christmas music during the “holiday season”, for Catholics most of the worldly festivity does not take place during Christmas at all. It falls rather, during the liturgical season of Advent.
 
Unlike the red and green of the secular season, the liturgical colour of Advent is violet – the colour of a penitential season. We use candlelight to soften, not eviscerate, the darkness to invite prayer and introspection. We cease singing the Gloria and our hymns reflect the twofold character of Advent.

  • In the first half of Advent, the liturgical texts cultivate in us expectant waiting for the Glorious Second Coming of Christ at the end of time.
  • The texts of the second half of Advent shift focus to the historical first coming of the Son of God in Bethlehem.
 
One of the most popular Advent hymns is “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”.  The text of this hymn originates with the medieval O Antiphons, one of which is prayed each day in Evening Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours and as the verse for the Alleluia verse of the Gospel Acclamation in the Mass from December 17 – 23. 
 
The O Antiphons introduce us to several names given to the Messiah in the Old Testament. Each of the seven antiphons has three parts:
  1. Addresses the Messiah by the title
  2. Praises the coming of the Savior by a different name
  3. Petitions the Savior in reference to the title
 
O Sapientia
O Wisdom,
O holy Word of God, you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care.
Come and show your people the way to salvation.
 
O Adonai
O sacred Lord of ancient Israel,
who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush,
   who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain:
come, stretch out your mighty hand to set us free.
 
O Radix Jesse
O Flower of Jesse’s stem,
you have been raised up as a sign for all people;
    kings stand silent in your presence;
    the nations bow down in worship before you.
Come, let nothing keep you from coming to our aid.
 
O Clavis David
O Key of David,
O royal Power of Israel controlling at your will the gate of heaven:
come, break down the prison walls of death
    for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death;
    and lead your captive people into freedom.
 
O Oriens
O Radiant Dawn,
splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:
come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.
 
O Rex Gentium
O King of all the nations,
the only joy of every human heart; O Keystone of the mighty arch of man,
come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust.
 
O Emmanuel (“God is with us”)
O Emmanuel,
king and lawgiver, desire of the nations, Savior of all people,
come and set us free, Lord our God.

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