 School is almost out, and yesterday was the first official day of summer. After the rainfall this spring, the flowers are blooming, and the grass is green and growing. It is hard not to feel the excitement of coming rest and vacation. This has been an incredible year for Renewal in the Diocese of Calgary. While I know that many days have been filled with hard work, meetings, events, recruiting, and coordinating, we have come so far, and much fruit is beginning to grow. The other day, when the Bishop asked me how things were proceeding, I told him that each day I feel like I am only taking a few steps, but looking back, I realize that we have crossed an entire field. Since the fall, 49 of our parishes have launched the execution phase of their Renewal Plans, representing more than 1,000 unique action items across the Diocese. After reviewing the spring reports from our Parish Renewal Teams, we learned that 75% of these items are either complete or underway. This is incredible news, and it means that real, concrete improvements and growth are happening in our parishes. I cannot express how impressed and inspired I am by this. Renewal is no longer simply an inspiration or an idea. It is happening right before our very eyes. Since the fall, we have also held many events that you supported, helped to run, and attended. These included our ongoing monthly PRT Chair Meetings and the Advent Retreat with Archbishop Prendergast. We also held four Lenten Renewal Gatherings focused on communication, as well as the first-ever Renewal Conference, attended by 700 participants and featuring Bishop Scott McCaig, with a focus on evangelization. In addition, our PRT Chairs and many pastors participated in Leadership Formation with Ron Huntley, culminating in our inaugural Leadership Summit at the end of May, which brought together 100 key leaders from most of our parishes. I know the schedule was demanding, and I want to express my deep appreciation to each of you who helped organize or attended these events. There is much on the horizon this fall. Parishes will be preparing for their annual Renewal Plan reviews in October, PRT meetings will resume, and new ongoing formation in evangelization will be introduced. We will also continue to collaborate with Ron Huntley to strengthen our leadership capacity and further enhance the impact of our Renewal Plans. A new rural Renewal strategy will also be developed to provide special attention and support to our important parishes outside the city. We will also begin asking more challenging Renewal questions, such as whether we have developed parish improvement plans or truly transformative Renewal Plans that advance our three priorities: Making Missionary Disciples, Becoming a Church of Encounter and Witness, and Strengthening Family Life.
 Worship Renewal Conference
You have worked extremely hard, however, and it is time for rest and restoration. I love this time of year on the farm. This past week, I walked my pasture to check all the fences. The grass is deep green and growing tall, in some places waist high, and it blows in the wind like waves on the sea. After treating the cattle and checking the horses, I opened the back gate of the pens and let them run. After a long winter, they sprinted through the gates with joy and galloped away, quickly checking all their favourite places. Soon, they were gone from sight. Young calves disappeared entirely into the deep grassland. Over the coming months, they will spend much of their time out there, resting and eating to their hearts’ content. I may not see them back at the pens for days on end. I couldn’t be happier for them. Special thanks to our Pastors, Deacons, PRT Chairs, Ministry Leaders, Parish Staff, and Volunteers. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and wish you a summer filled with rest, retreat, and beautiful summer pastures, wherever they may be for you. Written by Ryan Schmidt, Director of Pastoral Renewal. Photos: St. Albert the Great PRT, Feed the Hungry at St. Mary's Cathedral, Worship Renewal Conference, and Ryan's farm. 
0 Comments
When James first moved to Canada from Sri Lanka three and a half years ago, he had to adjust quickly to a new country, culture, and way of life. “Moving to a new country meant leaving behind familiarity, my home, my culture, and the life I once knew, and stepping into something completely new where I had to learn, adapt, and grow quickly,” he shared. Now a Grade 12 student at St. Mary’s High School, James serves as a mentor in the Sacraments Preparation program at St. Mary’s Cathedral. He also volunteers with youth, at the hospital, and at church as an altar server, experiences that have helped shape the person he is becoming. His faith journey, however, did not begin with certainty. “When I was younger, I didn’t know what faith really was, so I just went for the sake of going to church,” he said. Over time, through both hardship and service, his understanding of faith deepened. One of the most difficult moments in his life came when he was diagnosed with cancer. “It was a time filled with fear, uncertainty, and a lot of unanswered questions,” James shared. “There were moments when I didn’t understand why things were happening the way they were, and it tested me in ways I never expected.” The experience affected him physically, mentally, and emotionally. It also became a turning point in his relationship with God. “During that period, I began to see things differently,” he said. “I started to appreciate life more, and I became more aware of the people who were supporting me, my family, doctors, and community.” More importantly, James began to recognize God’s presence in his life in a deeper way. A verse that became especially meaningful to him was from St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” “This became something I truly understood through experience, not just words,” he said. Looking back now, James can see how the Gifts of the Holy Spirit were already at work in his life, even before he fully understood them. “When I was going through cancer treatment and facing fear, uncertainty, and difficult days, I experienced the gift of fortitude, the strength to keep going even when I felt weak,” he said. He remembers moments when he wanted to give up emotionally and physically but somehow continued to find the courage to move forward one day at a time. “When my family and I moved from Sri Lanka to Canada, I experienced the gift of wisdom and understanding,” he said. “Adapting to a new country, culture, and way of life was not easy, and there were times when I felt lost or disconnected.” Through that experience, he learned to grow, listen, and become more understanding toward others who may also feel alone or different. Through volunteering with youth, helping in the community, serving at church, and spending time with people going through struggles of their own, James shared that he also began to understand the gift of counsel. “I learned how to support people, encourage them, and simply be present for them when they need someone,” he said. He has also learned that the Holy Spirit does not always work in dramatic ways. “Sometimes the gifts appear quietly, through patience during difficult times, through kindness when someone needs encouragement, or through the strength to continue even when life feels unfair.” For young people preparing for Confirmation, James hopes they understand that the Gifts of the Holy Spirit are not simply ideas to memorize for a class. “They are gifts that can truly shape your life if you are open to them.”
His own experience has taught him that faith does not mean never struggling. It does not mean having every answer or pretending that everything is fine. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through my life is that when life becomes difficult, painful, or uncertain, it is very easy to question God and even question your own faith,” James said. He knows what it is like to ask difficult questions. “Why is this happening to me?” “Where is God in all of this?” “Will things ever get better?” “I’ve asked those questions too many times,” he said. But through those questions, James began to understand faith in a deeper way. “Faith is not truly tested during the easy moments of life,” he said. “Faith is tested during the moments when we feel lost, afraid, or overwhelmed.” Trusting God during those times, he admits, is not always easy. “I learned that trusting God does not mean having all the answers or pretending everything is okay,” he said. “Sometimes trust simply means choosing not to give up, even when life feels uncertain and difficult.” Through illness, immigration, service, and mentoring others, James has come to understand that faith grows with us. It can be tested in painful moments, strengthened through community, and expressed in quiet acts of love. “Looking back now, I realize that some of the hardest moments in my life became the moments that strengthened my faith the most.” For James, faith is still growing. And as he continues to serve, mentor, and walk with others, he trusts that God and the Holy Spirit will continue to guide him. “Faith is not about never struggling,” he said. “Faith is about continuing to trust, continuing to grow, and continuing to move forward, even during the moments when life feels hardest.” Submitted by St. Mary's Cathedral Sacrament Preparation team.
 After moving from Ontario to Calgary, I came to the church while looking for schools for my children. All three of them attended Christian schools at different times, but honestly, we didn't really understand the Bible at all. I used to not believe. I used to think God was superstition. I grew up hearing Bible stories, but they felt like fairy tales to me, not real. It wasn't until I joined the RCIA program at Ascension Catholic Parish that those "fairy tale" scriptures suddenly became real. Two thousand years of wisdom had been walking beside me all along, teaching, guiding, and leading me. Yet where human limits end, God's beginning starts. Through what we Christians call "God's plan," I was simply fortunate to have God's arrangement bring me to a genuine opportunity to draw closer to Him. I believe everything is in His hands. After my baptism, I still often feel unworthy, unable to follow Christ's teachings fully. There is so much wisdom in the scriptures that I still cannot live up to, but I learned one thing: if you don't understand, it's okay. Just obey first. One evening, during evening prayer, I was deeply lost. I didn't know if what I was doing was right. I wanted to help a loved one who had left me and betrayed me, but I wasn't sure if it was the right thing to do, whether I would be hurt in the process, whether I could calmly and properly comfort someone who had betrayed me. I didn't know what to do. In the middle of my prayer, I suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to read the Bible. It really wasn't an ordinary thought. There was a sense of urgency. I didn't refuse it, but I also didn't know which passage to read. I wasn't familiar with the Bible, didn't know the context, didn't recognize any of the characters. But I felt a prompting: just open to a random page, and I would know. I opened to a page at random and read: "Go in peace. The mission you are on is under the eye of the LORD." (Judges 18:6). I was stunned. I had been lost because I didn't know if it was right to help someone who had betrayed me with no sign of remorse. I admit I was still anxious, but this verse made me think deeply for a long time. The very first part of it told me: Go in peace. When I felt unseen, when I felt unnoticed, He was watching. He knew. He affirmed me. Article & photos by West Wong, baptized at Easter Vigil, Ascension Catholic Parish.
 Priest Assignment; Deacon Assignment; Clergy Personnel Announcements; Pastoral Assignment; Priests Move
 By the fall of 2024, St. Peter’s Parish was carrying a debt of around $5.2 million, the result of a major church renovation completed several years earlier. The loan required substantial monthly payments and, if it had continued on its regular schedule, could have remained with the parish for more than 20 years. This financial burden was limiting opportunities for ministry growth and missionary outreach. What initially appeared to be a long-term challenge became a remarkable chapter in the history of our parish as it prepared to celebrate its 50th anniversary the following year. When Fr. Fabio presented the full weight of the debt to the parish community, a small group of parishioners began to examine with him the possibility of a Building Fund Campaign. This first moment of discernment helped them see that what had once seemed like a long-term burden was beginning to take shape as a shared challenge the community could face with faith, generosity, and a clear plan. In that sense, this initial effort reflected the spirit of Renewal: helping the parish look honestly at what was holding it back, strengthening shared responsibility, and freeing the community to focus more fully on its mission. In October 2024, a Building Fund Campaign Committee was formed, bringing together professionals from different fields to guide the parish’s effort to eliminate the debt. From the beginning, the vision extended beyond fundraising. The goal was not only to reduce the debt but also to strengthen the bonds of community, increase engagement, and foster a greater sense of shared responsibility for the future of the parish.
During the planning stage, the campaign gradually developed a clear identity. The slogan “This Is My Church” was chosen to express personal stewardship and shared responsibility. Dedicated blue envelopes, promotional materials, donation stations, banners, and regular communications helped make the campaign visible throughout the parish. The original objective was ambitious. Based on giving patterns and historical contributions, it appeared possible to eliminate the debt within approximately five years. Yet even before the campaign officially launched, an unexpected development changed everything. An anonymous parishioner came forward with an extraordinary offer: every dollar donated toward the debt would be matched, up to $2.6 million. Suddenly, the amount the parish needed to raise was cut in half. What had initially seemed like a five-year journey now appeared achievable in a much shorter time. The anonymous donor proposed a one-year matching campaign, inviting the parish to respond with generosity, confidence and a shared commitment. The campaign was launched in March 2025, and the first weekend of each month was designated as a Building Fund weekend, with a dedicated collection and campaign activities to promote awareness and encourage participation. Parishioners responded with remarkable generosity. Contributions arrived through many channels, including envelope donations, e-transfers, online giving, securities and shares, pre-authorized giving, Donation Stations with card payment machines, grocery card commissions, fundraising activities, and support from ministries. Throughout the campaign, numerous fundraising initiatives were organized. These included a religious book sale, the sale of replicas of our parish Marian Grotto, a parish garage sale organized by the CWL and the Knights of Columbus, a Stampede Dinner and Dance, Taste of St. Peter’s, and other community events. While these activities generated financial support, they also served the broader purpose of bringing parishioners together, creating opportunities for fellowship, and helping the parish experience a stronger sense of community. As the campaign progressed, another extraordinary opportunity emerged. Through the Diocese of Calgary’s Multiply the Hope, a matching initiative to help parishes focus more fully on Renewal, we received an additional $775,000 in matching support toward debt reduction. Combined with the anonymous donor’s commitment, every dollar given in the final stretch of the campaign became four dollars toward debt repayment. Parishioners embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.
Behind the financial success was a clear pastoral vision: stewardship, generosity, and parish renewal were deeply connected. This vision shaped the campaign’s approach, so that fundraising was always integrated with parish life, fellowship, and the growth in communion among ministries and parishioners. By Easter 2026, the goal that had once seemed audacious had become reality. On May 23, the Vigil of Pentecost, the parish celebrated this achievement with A Taste of St. Peter’s, a multicultural outdoor parish gathering attended by almost 500 parishioners. More than 90 families brought traditional food from 25 different countries. It was a moment of fellowship, cultural richness, and belonging, reflecting the sense of community that had been strengthened throughout the campaign. The achievement was the result of many factors: the generosity of parishioners, the dedication of volunteers, the commitment of ministries, the support of the Diocese of Calgary, the extraordinary matching gift of an anonymous donor, and the coordinated work of the Building Fund Committee. Yet many parishioners also saw something deeper at work—a common purpose, the experience of walking together as a community, and a confidence that God was guiding the parish through this journey. Written by St. Peter's Communications Team for Faithfully.
 At its best, RCIA is not just a class or a countdown to the Easter Vigil. It is a gradual journey where seekers are welcomed, accompanied, formed in prayer, drawn into parish life, and helped to discern their next step with Christ. Across the Diocese of Calgary, RCIA teams are already helping this happen with generosity and care. The RCIA renewal seeks to strengthen it, so that every parish can offer Christian Initiation with greater clarity, consistency, and care. On February 3, Bishop William T. McGrattan officially announced a multi-year renewal of the ministry of Christian Initiation within the Diocese. The vision he offered for this renewal was drawn from the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35). Bishop McGrattan reminded us that just as Christ drew near to the disciples, listened to their experiences, opened the Scriptures, rekindled their hearts, and sent them forth as witnesses of the Resurrection, so too the Church is called to walk with those who are seeking Christ today through the RCIA. Over the past several months, the Diocese has taken the first important step in living out this vision: listening. Through a wide consultation that included feedback from pastors, RCIA coordinators, participants, sponsors, and those recently received into the Church, more than 400 voices have helped form a clearer picture of how RCIA is being lived in our parishes today. What has emerged is both encouraging and challenging. Across the Diocese, there is a strong and consistent experience of welcome. Those entering the Church overwhelmingly describe being received with kindness, accompanied with care, and supported in their journey of faith. As one RCIA participant put it, “The RCIA journey has been so much more than a destination; it has been a path paved with love.” Many participants also spoke of growing in their trust in God, learning to pray, and discovering what it means to follow Jesus Christ. As one neophyte who was received into the Church last year shared, “My faith has always been there, but this process really helped me to understand Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit in ways that I could not or did not understand previously.” These strengths show the dedication and generosity of RCIA teams across the Diocese. They also provide a strong foundation for the renewal now underway. At the same time, the consultation has pointed clearly to areas where the Diocese can better support parishes. At times, the experience can be shaped more by schedules and timelines than by the gradual, personal journey toward faith that the Church envisions. “The aim of RCIA is to lead people into a lifelong relationship with Christ and His Church,” explained Joseph Palko, Catechetics and Discipleship Coordinator for the Diocese. “This process can take a longer time for some and a shorter time for others. The process must respect this.” Another important area of renewal is the need to involve sponsors more fully in the faith journey of those they accompany. One sponsor expressed this challenge candidly: “It was a bit unclear to me how I was journeying with ‘my’ catechumen when I felt somewhat removed from the process.” Additional feedback pointed to the need for greater clarity in how the different stages of initiation are lived, as well as stronger connections between RCIA, parish life, liturgy, and ongoing discipleship. “All of these insights,” explained Huy Nguyen, Director of Pastoral Ministry, “should be seen as a gift. They reveal a Church that is alive, generous, and already doing much good, and one that is now being invited to grow more fully into its calling.” As the RCIA renewal now moves into its next phase of discernment, the feedback gathered throughout the listening phase will help guide the development of renewed diocesan norms, pastoral guidelines, and practical resources. The aim is to ensure that each stage of the RCIA journey is lived more faithfully, more consistently, and more fruitfully across our parishes. As this renewal continues, the invitation remains the same for all of us: To draw near. To listen. To walk together. And to trust that, along the way, Christ will reveal Himself. For more information about the Renewing RCIA initiative, contact the Office of Pastoral Ministry:
- Huy Nguyen, Director of Pastoral Ministry - Joseph Palko, Catechetics & Discipleship Ministry Coordinator Photography: Bandi Szakony for the Diocese of Calgary | Easter Vigil 2026 at St. Mary's Cathedral
 This year, as we mark the Year of St. Francis and celebrate National Volunteer Week, we are drawn again to a simple and challenging call: serve one another humbly in love (Galatians 5:13). St. Francis showed us that renewal in the Church begins not with grand plans, but with small, faithful acts of love lived each day.
In our parishes, this is already happening. In quiet acts of service, in faithful presence, and in generosity often unseen, our volunteers help make Christ known. Through their willingness to serve where needed, they foster a spirit of welcome, reverence, and care that shapes the life of our communities. To our volunteers and parish ministers: Thank you for your steady and faithful witness. In a time when the Church is called to renewal and mission, your service becomes a concrete expression of the Gospel. You show us that the call of every baptized person is not distant or abstract, but lived here and now, in love freely given. Please keep our volunteers and parish ministers in your prayers this week. You are invited to take a moment to share a note of thanks with those who serve in your parish, affirming their vital role in parish life and renewal.  When Multiply the Hope launched across the Diocese of Calgary in December, it was more than a fundraising initiative. Inspired by the Jubilee Year of Hope, it became a shared invitation to strengthen our parish communities and invest in their future. Just a few months in, the response has been strong. Through the generosity of parishioners and the support of the Diocese, more than $7 million has been raised in qualified matching funds, reaching over 58% of the overall campaign goal. Already, 56 parishes are participating, with many others discerning how they may take part. At the heart of this initiative is something simple but powerful. Every dollar given to a parish’s Building Fund or Repairs and Maintenance Fund is matched by the Diocese, up to each parish’s goal. Each gift goes twice as far.
Our parishes are more than buildings. They are spiritual homes for individuals and families, for newcomers, seniors, and those returning after time away. They are where the Eucharist is celebrated, where people encounter Christ, and where communities grow in faith and service. Yet many parishes carry financial pressures, whether through existing debt or the ongoing costs of maintaining their facilities. Multiply the Hope offers a way forward by easing these burdens and helping parishes plan with greater confidence. Looking ahead together Participation across the Diocese continues to grow. Most participating parishes are already working toward or have completed their matching goals, reflecting both strong engagement and growing confidence in the initiative. Parishes are moving forward with long-awaited projects, strengthening spaces for worship and community life, and preparing responsibly for the future. For many, the matching component has made the difference, turning what once felt out of reach into something possible.
 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?
 In recent years, I have been deeply struck by certain verses in the Gospel according to Mark. They have often intruded into my thoughts and prayers. First, some of the very last verses of this chapter: And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up deadly serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” (Mark 16: 17-18). I admit I am afraid of, and am not going to pick up any deadly snakes, or try to drink any deadly thing! But more relevant, for example, I have asked God for many physical healings for others and myself, and I'm not sure I quite believe they will happen. I doubt myself. But this throws me back in thought to earlier in this Gospel, to a story of Jesus casting out a demon from a child that the disciples failed to cast out. Speaking to the child’s father he says: Jesus said to him, ‘If you are able! All things can be done for the one who believes.’ Immediately the father of the child cried out, ‘I believe; help my unbelief!’ (Mark 9:23-24) He is telling us we need to double down. Though I doubt myself, though I am afraid of deadly snakes and poison...prayer and fasting I can do. And when we look back, we can all see the hand of God at work. I remember a few years ago my dad was really struggling with his faith, and it really upset me, so I took many cold showers (fasting from warmth) as a sacrifice of prayer for him, and I begged God constantly for two years. My dad’s faith returned and is growing daily. I did something similar for my uncle, who was near death, and after 50 years away from the sacraments, in his final weeks of life, he asked for a priest and died in the peace of God. In another instance, after 15 years of the most heartfelt prayer of my life (this intention I keep private), it was finally granted, and I was filled with tears of joy. Lord, I believe! Help my unbelief! Why am I sharing all of this? When things look really hard, when we ache for a soul to return to Jesus, when Renewal looks too big, but we want it so bad, remember that the very disciples who walked with Jesus Himself were told that there was something they should do more of…Prayer and Fasting. This is the fuel of Renewal. Consider where Renewal in your parish needs prayer and fasting, and especially as we enter into Lent next week, commit to it. Is it to reignite passion in your ministry? Is it for the youth of your parish, many of whom are conspicuously absent? Is it for that new family that just started attending? For your pastor? The Lord will honour our offerings to him - he says so! But some things can only be accomplished with enough prayer and fasting. Note: Do not pick up any deadly snakes or drink any deadly things as a test, and fast in accordance with the norms of the Church and with guidance from your pastor. Written by Ryan Schmidt, Director of Renewal. Save the date: April 17-18 - Renewal Conference on Missionary Discipleship - with Bishop Scott McCaig - St. Michael's, Calgary. Details coming soon!
This message feels especially relevant today. Many of us communicate more than ever, yet still feel unheard or disconnected. Pope Leo invites us to pause and ask how we are using these tools, and whether they are helping us grow in relationship or quietly pulling us away from it. Read more Questions for reflection
 Over the break, I found myself watching the Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life, truly one of the most beautiful movies ever made. You probably know the story, or if you don’t, I highly recommend watching it. In the movie, George Bailey is a bright and ambitious young man who wants to make a name for himself and see the world. His plan has one big problem, though. He just has too good a heart. Time and again over the years, he sacrifices his dreams to serve and care for his family and community. Unfortunately for George, he doesn’t realize just how much good he has done, and so he eventually begins to despair. Thankfully, God sends the bumbling angel Clarence on a mission to save George by showing him what life in Bedford Falls would be like if he had never lived. After seeing this, the movie ends with George racing through his hometown and back home to his family, bursting with joy and gratitude for the very life he had once wanted to escape I have been reflecting on where we are with parish renewal right now. Although each parish is in a different place, many are currently in the process of launching new initiatives and action items. It’s hard work. Probably not everything is going according to plan. Sometimes you may not even receive a thank-you for your efforts. For the most part, we also aren’t yet seeing the fruits of these initiatives. It takes time. This is a planting and tending stage, a labour of love that requires patience and trust. My prayer is that one day each of you is granted the blessing George received, and that you will know just how much of an impact you are having, because it is significant. Parish communities are being strengthened, new people are being welcomed, families are being supported, and the saving love of Christ is reaching hearts in ways we may not yet see. I would like to share two things with you today.
The second thing I would like to share is that Ron Huntley, who is currently journeying with our Parish Renewal Team leaders, has recently released a new book titled Road to Renewal: How Faith, Vision, and Courage Are Fuelling a Church Comeback. The book gathers the voices of twelve pastors and lay leaders who have led their parishes along the path of renewal. What emerges is not a model or a program, but honest voices from the field, people who are learning as they go and sharing what has helped them continue moving forward. The book is available on Amazon for those who are interested. As we begin this new year, I am thankful for the full year of the Jubilee of Hope we have just lived. My hope is that the grace we received continues to shape our daily faith and deepen the renewal already taking root across our diocese. Written by Ryan Schmidt, Director of Renewal, Diocese of Calgary.
 From December 5–7, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish welcomed Bishop McGrattan for a pastoral visit marked by prayer, encounter, and genuine closeness with the parish community. Such visits are a long-standing practice in the life of the Church, offering the Bishop an opportunity to walk with his people, listen attentively, and encourage the faithful in their shared mission. For our parish, his visit was a special moment of grace, an encounter that, in some way, reflects Christ's visit and redemption of his people. We pray that his presence among us, together with the blessing he imparted, may instill in each of us a renewed warmth of charity and kindness, the precious fruits of the Holy Spirit. The visit began on December 5, when Bishop McGrattan met with parish staff, visited a sick parishioner in their home, and spent time in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. He also visited St. Anne’s School to meet with the children and teachers of the Polish School. These encounters help strengthen the vital relationship between parish and family in supporting the education and formation of our young people.
On December 6, the Bishop began the day by celebrating the Holy Eucharist and preaching to the parish community. He then dedicated the day to meeting with various parish groups: the Rosary Society, Bible Study group, Knights of Columbus, Lectors and Collectors (Ushers), Families of Nazareth, St. Thérèse of Lisieux Family/Society, Padre Pio Prayer Group, Knights of the Immaculata, and the Altar Servers. He also enjoyed lunch at the Dominican Sisters’ House. The day concluded with another celebration of the Eucharist and meetings with the Parish Council and the Parish Renewal Committee. These encounters highlighted the collaboration between the Bishop and our parish groups, as well as the diverse spiritual activities that help strengthen our community. On December 7, Bishop McGrattan celebrated Mass and preached to the parishioners. He addressed all those involved in parish ministries, recognizing their dedication, sacrifice, and unique contributions to the life of the Church. He also met with parishioners and with both the children’s and adult choirs. On behalf of the entire congregation, we express our heartfelt gratitude for his pastoral visitation. His presence was a true joy and a special blessing for our community. May the words he shared with us be a source of courage, a light for our path, and comfort in our trials. He brought encouragement and hope to everyone involved in pastoral work and to all the people of the parish.  Written by Jane Wylotek, Parish Council member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Calgary. Photos courtesy of the Our Lady Queen of Peace, Calgary.
Interview and transcription by Sr. Dianne Turner, OSE.
Because of the Communist rule in the former Yugoslavia, there was no electricity or shops in our village. Electricity came only in 1985, and a road in 2004. The communist government ignored our village because we were considered “too strong as Catholics.” We even had school on Christmas Day, though I did not attend. The next day, the teacher asked why I had missed school. When I replied that it was Christmas Day, the teacher said, “There is no God and there is no Christmas,” and hit me on the fingers ten times with a stick until blood formed under my fingernails.
Feast days were very important to us. We would go to confession on saints’ days several times a year. The special feast in our parish was for St. Anthony of Padua. The whole Diocese was Franciscan. To honour the saint, people walked on their knees around the church while praying the Rosary. We fasted from meat on Fridays and before special feasts such as Christmas, Saints Peter and Paul, and the parish patronal feast. We supported the village's poor by cutting hay with sickles and scythes to feed their animals. Families kept sheep, cows, horses, and chickens. When wood was cut for winter, the branches were stored for feeding the sheep. We grew fruit trees and large vegetable gardens to feed ourselves, and we made wine from grapes and brandy from plums to sell, paying taxes, and buying clothing and school books. In 1973, my cousin was ordained a Franciscan priest. I attended his first Mass, and that is when I first felt called to the priesthood. I was 13 and had just finished eighth grade. I went to our parish’s Franciscan priest to ask about becoming a priest. He asked whether I wanted to be a Franciscan, a Jesuit, or a diocesan priest. I said I didn’t know the difference, we simply called them all “priests.” He then sent me to a Jesuit college, where there was a minor seminary (a high school) for boys. I studied there for four years, then attended university, where I completed two years of philosophy and psychology and four years of theology. After finishing all exams, the bishop ordained me along with other young men: six were ordained as Franciscans and six as diocesan priests. At my first Mass, the concelebrants were my parish priest, Fr. Pavo; my cousin, Fr. Nikola; and my neighbour from home, Fr. Vlado, who was also the godfather of my first Mass. My mother prayed many Rosaries each day and fasted four days a week for priests and nuns. She was very happy that I became a priest. At ordination, I promised the bishop that I would obey him and all bishops to whom I would be missioned. After ordination, I spent one year in Bosnia-Herzegovina, then was sent to Australia at the request of the Bishops’ Conference to minister to the Croatian people living there. I had volunteered to go. After a year, my mother came to join me and lived with me until she died in 2012 on the Feast of the Archangels. She and my aunt supported me through prayer and fasting throughout my priesthood. In Australia, I served at Holy Spirit Parish in Melbourne for six years and then at St. Ana Parish in Perth for four years. Australia is a good country with good people, but I was happy to go to my next mission in Calgary on December 10, 1996. I have been here for 29 years as a missionary priest. It is good work, but difficult, because Croatians in Calgary live across the entire city and beyond. We have both old and new immigrants, two distinct groups with different needs. The newer generations do not speak Croatian as well as the older ones. I try to support the community through Mass and the sacramental life, emphasizing the importance of Sunday Mass. Every Friday during the school year, we have Croatian school for language learning and catechism. Three teachers instruct the children in the Croatian language, and I teach catechism in both English and Croatian. I often pray: “Jesus, give me strength for my priesthood and patience for listening to my people.” I am a parish priest, but also a psychologist for parishioners, a taxi driver, and a hospital visitor. I receive many calls for the Anointing of the Sick. Once, I was called three times in one night to the Foothills Hospital. I write reference letters for Catholic teachers and letters for the Croatian Consulate for those seeking citizenship. I help parishioners find work, and I bless homes every year after Christmas. Because I serve Croatians in both Alberta and Saskatchewan, I travel to Lethbridge before Christmas and Easter for confessions and Mass, and sometimes for funerals, baptisms, and weddings. I also travel to Saskatoon for the same reasons. My great joy is celebrating Mass every day, praying the Liturgy of the Hours, and praying the Rosary. I love daily meditation and reading spiritual books. My advice to a young man discerning the priesthood is this: If you become a priest, this community will be so proud of you. The church will be full, and they will respect you. It is easy to think the work is too heavy or requires too much patience, but if God calls you, He will “catch you,” just as He caught me. Pray, and God will show you. I have no problem serving the Church because I pray every day for patience. I have no time for sin because I am so busy. It is the joy of my life. I thank God and the Blessed Virgin Mary for my priesthood.  At Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish in Calgary, a dedicated group of lay volunteer missionaries live this Gospel every week. Under the guidance of Deacon Ricardo Rosero and coordinator Gladys Alvarez, the Pastoral Care Ministry in Spanish serves those who are ill, elderly, or confined to their homes, bringing them Holy Communion, prayer, and companionship. “Our commitment,” says Deacon Rosero, “is to foster a more humane and Christian culture in the face of pain, suffering, disability, loneliness, death, and grieving.” Serving Christ in the sick Eighteen commissioned Ministers of Communion and an equal number of Silent Apostles, companions who accompany and pray, visit the sick each Sunday. They carry the Eucharist to parishioners who can no longer attend Mass, offering not only the Body of Christ but also presence, comfort, and a reminder that they remain part of the Church. Throughout the year, the team brings Communion weekly to nearly forty people across the city, whether in senior residences, hospitals, or private homes. Each pair of missionaries covers a different area of Calgary, ensuring that the whole city is reached “in one Sunday,” as Deacon Rosero explains. “Our mission is to bring the Kingdom of God closer to them through our service.” Special visits are made on holy days such as Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, Christmas, and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. In moments of serious illness, the pastoral team also coordinates with the parish priest so that the faithful can receive Confession or the Anointing of the Sick. A ministry of prayer and presence Prayer remains the heartbeat of this ministry. Each month, parishioners gather for two evening liturgies:
“We pray for the sick, for their families, and for those who care for them,” Deacon Rosero notes. “It strengthens our own faith and the faith of the parish.” When a patient dies, the ministry accompanies the family in mourning and remembrance. Last year, twelve people who had received Communion from the missionaries passed away. Their names were remembered during the Annual Mass for the Faithful Departed, celebrated on the final Wednesday of Ordinary Time. Training new missionaries
A milestone this past year was the successful translation and launch of the Pastoral Care Ministry Training Course in Spanish. Deacon Rosero and Gladys Alvarez spent months adapting diocesan formation materials, written originally in English, so that Spanish-speaking Catholics could receive instruction in their own language. The inaugural five-week course ran in May and June 2025 at Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish, with thirteen participants completing certification. All now serve actively in the ministry. The new course covers the theology of suffering, pastoral listening, practical guidelines for visiting the sick, and the spiritual significance of bringing Holy Communion outside Mass. Participants also learn how to collaborate with clergy, maintain confidentiality, and accompany families with compassion. Beyond their Sunday visits, the volunteers cultivate fellowship and spiritual renewal through regular formation and prayer. They participate in parish retreats, Eucharistic adoration, rosaries, and processions. Twice a year, they attend workshops or spiritual retreats to deepen their understanding of mercy and pastoral care. Moments of joy and friendship are also part of their rhythm: a summer gathering for volunteers and families, and a Christmas celebration where missionaries give thanks for another year of service. Witness of compassion The Spanish-speaking Pastoral Care Ministry represents one of the many cultural expressions of faith flourishing within the Diocese of Calgary. Its volunteers bridge language and distance to ensure that no one is forgotten. “Many of our brothers and sisters cannot come to church,” Deacon Rosero says. “When we arrive with the Eucharist, their faces light up. They know the Lord is with them.” The ministry’s impact is measured not only in numbers, thousands of Communions distributed each year, but in transformed hearts, both of those visited and of those who serve. As the Church celebrates the Jubilee Year of Hope, the volunteers of Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish embody that hope through every visit, prayer, and gentle word offered to the suffering. “Christ Himself comes to the sick through our hands,” Deacon Rosero affirms. “That is why we serve, with love, reverence, and joy.” In this ministry, the diocesan call to Renewal becomes visible. Every visit reminds the homebound and the sick that they matter, to God and to their parish family. And every volunteer, moved by compassion, discovers anew that they too matter in the mission of the Church.  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.
What would a Church, explosively alive, look like? How can we form priests who see the goodness and potential in people to evangelize the world? These were some of the questions Fr. Bob Bedard reflected on early in his teaching career. Being asked by the Archbishop of Ottawa to help found St. Pius X Boys’ High School was not something Fr. Bob ever imagined he would do. In fact, he never wanted to set foot in a high school again after a very negative experience as a transitional deacon. However, there he was, off to become a teacher! His vocation as a teacher and principal in a Catholic high school would prepare him for an even greater mission, founding one of the most solid seminaries the Canadian Catholic Church has ever seen. Now, 40 years later, the Companions of the Cross continue to lead the way in forming priests who are deeply rooted in faith and relevant to the lives of people in today’s world.
Walking with Carlo and Pier Giorgio: A Jubilee for the Youth at St. Thomas More Parish, Calgary10/12/2025  On Sat, Oct 11, St. Thomas More Parish in Calgary hosted a Jubilee for the Youth, a one-day retreat for ages 12–17 led by Fr. Jerry D’Souza, OCD and Fr. Alex Braganza, OCD. The day began with Mass, followed by breakfast prepared by the Knights of Columbus and women of the parish. In his opening remarks, Fr. Jerry invited the youth to live as people of hope, reminding them that we are called to walk with one another and carry those in need. Three talks followed, highlighting saints who inspire young people today. Martin Nguyen spoke about Saint Carlo Acutis and his love for the Eucharist, sharing his website on Eucharistic miracles. “Carlo Acutis was inspirational. He helped his parents have faith in God, which was amazing!” said one 16-year-old. Luis Cortez from St. Bonaventure Parish reflected on Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati, encouraging everyone to strive for holiness and remember that we are all made for greatness in God’s image. Sr. Katrina Le from the Sisters of Divine Mercy spoke on the Jubilee Year of Hope, inviting the youth to make peace with others, especially within their families, and to keep the Eucharist at the centre of their lives. 
 After a quiet time of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, Fr. Alex led the Divine Mercy Chaplet with Sr. Katrina. In closing, he encouraged the youth to use technology for good and to stay grounded in their faith. “The retreat was really nice,” said Michael, 19. “I didn’t know about Saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. It was really great to see how these two went through their efforts towards increasing their faith in Jesus.” Almost all participants expressed their desire for another retreat, with some signing up for the parish youth group before leaving. Rooted in the diocesan Pastoral Renewal, this Jubilee for the Youth aimed to help young people grow closer to Christ and find hope in living their faith together. Submitted by Rooben, St. Thomas More. Photos courtesy of St. Thomas More, Calgary.
 Written by Sean Lynn, St. Peter's Parish Renewal Team. In early 2024, I was invited to join the Parish Renewal Team, tasked with translating the diocesan call into concrete parish initiatives. Around the same time, through my work with God Squad and the Heroic Men's Lay Association, I interviewed Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers about his new book Building a Civilization of Love: A Catholic Response to Racism. His reflections on the universality of the Church and how every communion line mirrors the rich diversity of God’s people led me to consider how our own parish might better reflect its members. In his book, Deacon Harold challenges us to make the parish’s liturgical and communal life a true “mirror of the faithful.” Soon after, the Knights of Columbus hosted a men’s pizza night, providing a relaxed space for conversation and listening. Seizing the opportunity, I shared Deacon Harold’s challenge. I suggested that, instead of our traditional salmon dinner, we host an African-inspired barbecue, especially given the growing number of Nigerian families in our parish. David Asekomhe, who was present that evening, warmly embraced the idea and promised to explore it further. When our new pastor, Fr. Fabio de Souza, arrived, the spirit of Renewal gained new energy. David, still eager to bring the idea to life, gathered a planning team that included Emmanuel Edem and Emmanuel Udoh. Together they developed A Taste of St. Peter’s, a multicultural feast inviting every parishioner to bring a dish that represented their heritage. Seeing other men step into leadership roles was deeply inspiring. Their enthusiasm sparked a renewed sense of excitement throughout the parish community. Held on October 4, the event coincided with the launch of the third year of diocesan renewal. The celebration featured:
I pray that this Renewal continues to deepen our sense of belonging and reflect the universal nature of the Church in a world often torn by division. It fills me with hope to see volunteers stepping forward, each one helping to build up the Kingdom by doing the will of God. May the spark lit by A Taste of St. Peter’s carry us onward, strengthening our community, enriching our worship, and bearing witness to the love that unites all God’s children in a Church of encounter.
  Like all the parishes in the Diocese of Calgary, our parish, Saint Martha's, has been diligently working on the Parish Renewal over the past few years. We continue to ask the Holy Spirit to guide us, and it has been a wonderful journey meeting with one another under the spiritual guidance and prayers of our pastor, Father William Monis, and our Deacon Bruce Barnett. We tried to follow the guidelines and timing set out by the diocese and were happy to submit our results on schedule. We didn't expect to win the draw for the barbecue, as many other hardworking parishes were competing for the same prize. We were very surprised on June 14 when our name was drawn from the hat. Many people got together to form a committee to organize this event. The response from the volunteers was tremendous! The barbecue took place on Friday, August 29, which was perfect timing. Bishop McGrattan was to be in Lethbridge in the morning for the opening school Mass for the Holy Spirit School Division staff. We began with a beautiful Holy Mass at 5 pm with all our Lethbridge priests concelebrating. Not only was the Mass so beautiful, but Bishop McGrattan also used this time to install our new pastor, Father Valentine Suum, who joined us on August 1. It was a very meaningful celebration, and all present appreciated the opportunity to be part of the installation. Our parish is comprised of many cultures, and one of the elders from the Blackfoot Confederacy, Martin Eagle Child, requested that his group make a presentation to our bishop and our two new priests at the conclusion of Mass. After the final blessing, the First Nations group, in their traditional outfits, processed into the church to the sound of drumming to present a blanket to each of Bishop William, Father Valentine, and Father Luke. It was very powerful and all were moved. 
After Mass, everyone went outside to enjoy the fellowship at the barbecue. We had over 200 people, and the weather was perfect. Many volunteers prepared, cooked, and served the food to our hungry guests. Bishop McGrattan was a gracious host as he went from table to table talking to the people. One person joked that the bishop was "working the room." We were delighted that many of our friends and clergy from All Saints Parish in Lethbridge were also able to join us for this special event, as we are all in this together. We are very grateful to the diocese for all it has been doing to lead us throughout the Renewal, and we thank them for their hospitality in sponsoring this great event. It has been very positive, and we will all continue to move forward as we continue this journey. Written by Teresa Spearman, St. Martha's Parish Renewal Team in Lethbridge. Photography courtesy of Matthew Visuals & Saint Martha's Parish.
 Mary, the Mystical Rose Concert Performers It was early in June, in the sacristy after midweek Mass here in Banff, that Fr. Dan Stévènot informed me that he had asked St. Mary’s parishioner Nan Hughes Poole to organize a concert for the Marian pilgrimage week here in the Rockies. Later that week, I sent a text message to Nan to ask if she still “needed any people” for this concert. In my mind, I was thinking I could volunteer as an usher at the front door of the church. However, my text messages often will not express everything that I intend to say, so as things progressed, I was invited to play the oboe in this concert in honour of Mary, the Mystical Rose. Now, I have played the oboe for about 17 years, since grade seven band class; however, it has been years and years since I have played regularly, and I have barely played any public concerts since I graduated from university in 2019. The psychological games and social pressures from music school had wreaked their havoc, and I developed a tremor in my hands and arms whenever I played solo or chamber music; ultimately, it is why my degree is a BA in music history, rather than a more performance-based B.Mus. However, the die had been cast, and I figured that I might as well accept the invitation and see what the Lord had in store, and see what fruit would be revealed. Now, writing a few days later, I can say with clarity that this was one of the most spiritually enriching musical experiences that I have participated in. Nan invited two of her closest friends, Kathy McMillan Wilhelm and Amy Anderson de Jong to star in the concert as vocalists, as well as pianist Jack Olszewski and violinist Lev Nesterov to round out the panel. The three vocalists have sung together for decades, and it was an honour to witness how their friendship is heard throughout the music. Singer-songwriter Irene Poole opened the second act as a special guest. The music was not strictly what some in the Church would consider “sacred music”, a definition which currently seems to centre upon Renaissance polyphony, written for use in liturgy. However, the works chosen by the vocalists formed a dramatic arc than ran parallel to the life of Mary — from settings of the Magnificat to frame the Annunciation and the Visitation, to African-American spirituals and German lieder to highlight the Nativity of Christ, followed by both Baroque and Modern works on the sorrows of Mary, and settings of the Ave Maria which marked Mary’s Assumption and Coronation. Poetry selections rounded out the program, which helped to draw out the main theme of the programme — that of Mary’s humanity. If there is one particular gripe that I have with contemporary popular Mariology, it is that we tend to make Mary inaccessible, placing her high and away from the rest of us sinners on a pedestal. Yes, she is the Immaculate Conception, having no stain of original sin, and never entering into it in her lifetime. However, we often forget that Mary is fully human (the most fully human of us all!), and that she has experienced everything that we experience. The work on the program that exemplifies this best is Henry Purcell’s “The Blessed Virgin’s Expostulation” from 1693. Purcell was the first to write opera in English, and so the work is a dramatic scene, depicting the anxieties, doubts and social pressures that Mary faces as she and St. Joseph search frantically for the child Jesus throughout Jerusalem. Throughout, Mary maintains her trust in God and in the divinity of her son, and yet is contending with human emotions that pull her in all directions, including intense worry for the very human Jesus. Well, I received no miraculous grace of the healing of my tremor this weekend. What I received instead is a far greater grace of knowing that my blessed Mother has also faced societal pressure and grave anxiety. It is a realization that Mary’s presence in our lives is not chiefly as an image of Christian perfection, although this is certainly a factor. Rather, she is crowned as heaven’s queen in service of humanity precisely because she has undergone all the trials of life, and is most intimately acquainted with its problems and foibles, and therefore is best suited to empathize with us and intercede for us because of the fullness of her humanity. She is near because she is one of us, one with us, and one for us. May we know her closeness in our daily lives, in whatever it is that we face.
Written by Solomon Ip for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Peter Poole and Jan Myhre.
|
Author
Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
July 2026
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed