 Priest Assignment; Deacon Assignment; Clergy Personnel Announcements; Pastoral Assignment; Priests Move
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A message from Bishop McGrattan: I join all Canadians in offering my deepest, heartfelt sympathies to the victims, families, and all those impacted by the violence that occurred at the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver this past weekend, during one of the most joyful and special gatherings of the Filipino community.
 Something special has returned to St. John the Evangelist parish in Calgary: a newly painted statue of Our Lady of Walsingham graces our parish, bringing beauty, history, and a deep spiritual connection to one of the most beloved Marian devotions of the English-speaking world. But this statue’s journey to us has its own story—one that speaks of patience, providence, and the rich heritage of our Catholic faith. The statue, hand-carved in Oberammergau in Germany, was purchased during the COVID-19 pandemic. To save money, Fr. Robert-Charles Bengry, our parish priest and Dean of the Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter in Canada, chose to buy it unpainted, thinking he’d get to it soon enough. “We’re a small and poor parish,” he explains. A few years passed, and with parish life always demanding his attention, the task unfortunately remained unfinished. But as the Jubilee Year arrived, Father knew it was time to finally bring it to life. “Truth, goodness, and beauty are so very important to us as Ordinariate Catholics of the Anglican tradition,” Fr. Bengry says, “and so I’m happy to have been able to beautify the parish in this way.” For many Catholics, Our Lady of Walsingham may not be a familiar title, but her story is deeply rooted in our shared Christian history. In 1061, the Virgin Mary appeared to a noblewoman in England, requesting that a replica of the Holy House of Nazareth be built. That simple home became one of the greatest pilgrimage sites in medieval Christendom. Sadly, during the English Reformation under King Henry VIII, the shrine was destroyed, and devotion to Our Lady of Walsingham was nearly lost. But love for Our Lady can never truly be extinguished. Over time, her shrine was restored near to the ruins, and today, it remains a place of deep prayer and encounter with Christ. “Our Lady wanted us to know Christ through the Holy House, ultimately through the family home, the domestic Church,” Fr. Bengry reflects, adding, “and isn’t that something we need today, in this time, in this culture?” For Catholics of the Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter—originally for those who come from an Anglican heritage but now with a greatly broadened mission—Our Lady of Walsingham is especially dear. She is our patroness, a mother who has walked with us on our journey home to full communion. “God has been so very good in bringing us home to the Catholic Church,” Fr. Bengry says. “As a thank-you of sorts, we’d love to welcome diocesan Catholics this Jubilee Year and introduce them to Our Lady of Walsingham.”  This Jubilee Year brings a special invitation. St. John the Evangelist has been designated by Bishop Steven Lopes (our Ordinariate Bishop) as a pilgrimage site, meaning the faithful can receive a Jubilee Indulgence by making a pilgrimage here, praying before the Blessed Sacrament, and fulfilling the usual conditions of sacramental confession, Holy Communion, and prayers for the Holy Father’s intentions. The newly installed statue is more than a beautiful image—it holds a relic, a fragment of the ruins from the original Walsingham shrine site. To stand before Our Lady here is to stand in spiritual and physical connexion with centuries of faith and devotion. And there’s another unique touch: the holy water at St. John’s always contains water from the sacred well at Walsingham. “It’s very special,” Fr. Bengry notes, a tangible link to the graces of that ancient place of pilgrimage.
Submitted by St. John the Evangelist Parish Office
 On Sunday, April 6, 2025, ministry leaders at St. Martha’s Parish in Lethbridge gathered for an early afternoon of prayer, reflection, and discernment as part of their Parish Renewal Planning Day. About 25 leaders were present, representing a strong and diverse cross-section of the parish’s ministries. Led by their Parish Renewal Team (PRT), the session followed the Diocese’s structured prayer-discernment process—Lectio Divina, ministry assessment, and action planning rooted in Conversation in the Spirit. The day's goal was not only to plan but to pray into action, grounding every step in the presence and prompting of the Holy Spirit. “What surprised me,” shared Deacon Bruce Barnett, “was how easily the Conversations in the Spirit can slide into regular discussion. Without a constant reminder to remain prayerful, it’s easy to lose that posture of discernment. I think we need more experience and formation in this way of praying together.” Still, the fruit was evident. The PRT was encouraged by the level of engagement and passion of their ministry leaders, especially when it came time to name concrete action items for spiritual growth and ministry renewal. “We were pleasantly surprised,” Deacon Bruce noted, “by how deeply our leaders care—not just about running ministries, but about discerning how they can grow spiritually and serve the mission of the Church more intentionally.” The afternoon was part of Step 2 in the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal process. Next, the PRT will review the proposed action items, hold internal workshops, and begin building a full Parish Renewal Plan, which will be announced to the whole parish later this year.
Snapshots from Medicine Hat: Holy Family Parish Planning Day On Saturday, March 29, 2025, Holy Family Parish in Medicine Hat hosted their Parish Renewal Planning Day. As Parish Renewal Team member Heather Irvine shared, “We had a productive day of dreaming, sharing, and planning for Renewal in our parish.” Ministry leaders spent the day in spirited conversation and prayer, discerning action steps to strengthen the parish’s mission and deepen the faith life of those they serve. Photos from the day show ministry leaders joyfully engaging in small group discussion, discernment, and community-building—a beautiful witness to the Spirit at work across the Diocese.
 Photos courtesy of St. Martha's Parish in Lethbridge and Holy Family Parish in Medicine Hat.  “We have been blessed to perform for the second time at the Cathedral,” said Fr. John Jwad, pastor of St. Mary’s Chaldean Catholic Parish. “I believe these types of events are very important to the Chaldean community because it gives parishioners a chance to meet fellow Catholics from different rites and also feel more at home at the Cathedral, which many don’t have a chance to visit often.” Held on March 28 & 29, 2025, the Passion Play was presented by St. Mary’s Chaldean Catholic Parish and performed at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Calgary. Directed by Stephanie Toma, the production told the story of Christ’s final hours with reverence and sincerity. The cast members—especially those from the St. Anne’s Women’s Group—played a key role in making the evening possible. The group gathers regularly for Bible study and fellowship and is actively involved in organizing parish events. “All the female actors of this year’s play are members of this active group,” Fr. John noted. Unlike last year, this year’s presentation was part of a larger evening of prayer. On Friday, the night began with a Lenten reflection by Deacon Peter An. On Saturday, the play was followed by a reflection in Chaldean by Fr. John, along with Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction. 
 “This year our Passion Play was designed to be part of a whole night of prayer and reflection rather than just a stand-alone event,” said Fr. John. “Our hope was that the performance was complimented with deep prayer and reflection.” The Passion Play drew people from across the Diocese, including those attending a Chaldean-led event for the first time. Many were moved by the experience—not only by the performance itself, but by the chance to pray together across languages and traditions. “Many people were very grateful and happy to be a part of such a beautiful night,” said Fr. John. “Many were moved to tears, many explained that this was exactly what they needed to prepare for Easter, and others shared that they were inspired to grow closer to Christ in these last weeks of Lent.” For the Chaldean community, religious plays are familiar and meaningful. “In Iraq, attending religious plays is a common practice in most Christian villages, especially during Easter,” Fr. John explained. “These performances bring back many good memories for many of our parishioners.” Though the production was simple, the impact was strong. The Passion story has a way of drawing people in—especially when presented not just as theatre, but as prayer. Combined with the quiet moments of adoration and Benediction, the night offered something more than a performance: it became a time of encounter. As Lent gave way to Holy Week, the Passion Play served its purpose—not to entertain, but to lead hearts more deeply into the mystery of Christ’s love. And for many, it was a reminder of the shared faith that unites the Church across cultures and languages. “We hope it helped everyone who came to enter more fully into the spirit of Lent,” Fr. John said, “and to walk more closely with Jesus on the road to Easter.” 
Photos courtesy of St. Mary's Chaldean Parish, Calgary.
The day began with the 9 am Mass, celebrated by Fr. John Luxbacher, L.C., who set the tone with a message of encouragement and mission. Following Mass, over 40 parish leaders gathered at 10 am for the meeting, moderated by the members of the Parish Renewal Team and the associate, Fr. Kevin Gillis, L.C. After an introduction by Pat Brown, chair of the Parish Renewal Team (PRT), each ministry area split into its designated group for Lectio Divina and review of ministry assessment questions. These discussions, rooted in the Holy Spirit’s guidance, led to concrete “Ministry Renewal and Spiritual Growth Action Items”—practical steps to help each ministry grow in its mission. Slow & Steady Rather than rushing, the team is embracing a long-term approach. Fr. John reflected, “It would be excellent if the Parish Renewal Team could help set up one significant initiative per semester—as a type of task force at the service of parish renewal.” He emphasized that while prayerful planning is important, it’s prayerful promotion and implementation that will now take the lead. Already, signs of renewal are appearing. Fr. John mentioned that a young mom’s group recently started up on its own initiative, and that, without it being planned, there has been a grassroots renewal of the Pastoral Care team at Ascension Parish. “The Holy Spirit is always at work,” said Fr. John. “I don’t want to quelch anything that contributes to our mission.” Fr. Kevin Gillis, LC, Associate Pastor, also sees potential. “With nine Catholic elementary schools in our parish boundaries, we see the need to offer more for youth and children.” He’s hopeful about hosting a summer camp, following last year’s positive response. Openness to the work of the Holy Spirit At Ascension Catholic Parish, several areas of improvement have already been identified. “Considering that there are 9 Calgary Catholic Elementary Schools in our parish boundaries, we want to be able to offer more in the area of youth and children,” said Fr. Kevin Gillis, LC, Associate Pastor, who regularly visits classrooms and celebrates the liturgy at 3 of those schools. After an initial positive outcome last year, he is promoting a summer camp at the parish.
Next Steps One of the most striking outcomes of the day was the desire for continued collaboration. As leaders shared a meal at the end of the session, many expressed their hope to gather again—a testament to the energy and sense of mission that emerged from the day. Ascension Catholic Parish’s mission statement reflects the core vision of the Diocesan Renewal: to be missionary disciples. The Planning Session mirrored the call to become ever more a Church of encounter and witness. This gathering was not simply about planning—it was about discerning where the Holy Spirit is leading our parish and how we, as missionary disciples, can respond. As the journey of renewal continues, parish leaders and ministries will take these Action Items forward, preparing to submit Ascension Catholic Parish’s Renewal Plan in June 2025. Would you like to be part of this diocesan-wide journey? Stay connected with your parish community as we continue to walk together in renewal, building a vibrant and faith-filled Church in the Diocese of Calgary. Submitted by Ascension Catholic Parish's Communications Office. Photos courtesy of Ascension Catholic Parish, Calgary.
  Our small rural parish communities of St. Augustine’s, Taber and St. Joseph’s, Vauxhall recognized a great need for increased vocations. It is often our smaller communities that are most affected by the shortage of priests, which limits opportunities for worship in the sacred liturgy. Our existing priests are stretched thin, often covering two or three parishes that may be as much as an hour apart. In response, we felt called to come together for 40 Hours of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, offering special intentions for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. What initially seemed like a tall order for our community was met with an incredible response once the invitation went out. Many parishioners stepped forward—some spending time in adoration for the first time in years, and others, for the very first time. Adoration began at 3:00 am on November 25 and concluded on November 26 with Benediction at 6:45 pm, followed by a Memorial Mass offered for the intentions of all deceased members of the Knights of Columbus. A time of fellowship followed the Mass. With open hearts, we witnessed how Jesus desires to touch us deeply, speak to us, heal us, and transform us when we meet Him in adoration. Many parishioners stayed longer than the one hour they had signed up for. In heartfelt praise and thanksgiving, all were blessed to offer this time to the Lord. As we gathered in community, the presence of the Holy Spirit was strongly felt. Many experienced a renewed awareness of Jesus’ presence in the Blessed Sacrament, filling them with peace, joy, and grace—gifts waiting for all of us in Eucharistic adoration. We especially lift up all our seminarians: may God fill them with courage, continue to encourage their hearts, and bless our Catholic communities with more priests and religious men and women. God bless all our faithful servants—for your glory, Lord. Submitted by Linda Kinahan, Parishioner. Linda has been a lifelong parishioner in the Taber area, first at Assumption Parish, Grassy Lake which was a missionary parish of St. Augustine’s, Taber. She currently sits on the Liturgy Committee at St. Augustine’s and is responsible for Sacred Art. She is married to Deacon Brian Kinahan.
 We're excited to share a few photos from the Diocesan Renewal Planning Day at St. Mary’s Parish in Brooks! This gathering marks Step 2 in the Parish Planning Process happening across the Diocese of Calgary, as parishes prepare their Parish Renewal Plan for submission in June 2025. During this step, each ministry area contributes Ministry Renewal and Spiritual Growth Action Items to their parish’s plan—through prayer, planning, and meaningful conversations. Bonnie Annicchiarico from the Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team was present at the planning day and expressed deep gratitude to the Parish Renewal Team for leading an excellent day of prayer, conversation in the Spirit, planning, and listening. “We’re off and running,” she said, “and your leadership is so appreciated. God bless you all!” To accompany the parish planning day, Fr. Eli Cañete led 15 hours of Adoration—inviting the Holy Spirit to guide St. Mary’s renewal journey. His prayerful presence and active involvement throughout the day were a powerful witness of pastoral leadership and support. To get a glimpse of what their Parish Planning Day looks like, see the photos below. 
  It was April of 2022 when my parish, St. Albert the Great, embraced the call to sponsor a family of Iranian Catholic refugees for their first year in Canada. We formed a small ministry, and the parish responded with remarkable generosity donating the necessary funds within one year. With funds secured, all that remained was to pray and wait for Immigration Canada’s approval. During this long wait, a fellow parishioner and I connected with the family through WhatsApp, building a relationship through prayer and encouragement. We shared scripture, celebrated feast days together, and exchanged glimpses of our lives. Our parish community also supported them through prayer vigils and prayer bouquets, offering hope in their darkest moments. Finally, in September 2024, we received the long-awaited notification from Immigration Canada: the family would be arriving in 7 to 10 weeks. We felt relieved—and also happy because we had many weeks to prepare — then we learned that one of the sisters had been detained in a deportation camp in Turkey. Recognizing the urgency, we prayed for a swift arrival. The Lord answered quickly—within three days we were informed that the family would arrive in just nine days! Our prayer shifted: "Lord, nine days is not much time—we need help!" After a quick check of the liturgical calendar, we realized their arrival would be on the feast of St. Vincent de Paul. Trusting in divine providence, our parish began praying the nine-day novena seeking his intercession as we prepared. At first, things seemed to fall into place. We quickly found an apartment and felt reassured—God was with us! But then…the apartment deal fell through. We began another search, facing rejection after rejection from landlords. Late one evening, after an exhausting day of work and apartment hunting, a ministry member found a listing for an apartment in a building we hadn’t considered. Tired and doubtful, we nearly ignored it, assuming we’d just face another rejection, but my teammate and I decided to try one more apartment before calling it a night. I dialed, expecting voicemail but the landlord answered right away. I was straightforward and upfront: "I’m a volunteer from St. Albert the Great Parish. I have an Iranian family of refugees arriving in five days. They have no jobs, no references, no credit history, and I can’t sign a lease until they arrive. All I can offer is a letter from Calgary Catholic Immigration confirming our parish’s financial support for a year." I braced for rejection. Instead, as soon as I mentioned Calgary Catholic Immigration, he interrupted: "You don’t need to explain any further. My family came to Calgary in 1988 through Calgary Catholic Immigration." Tears welled in my eyes—I saw the hand of God’s providence. Seizing the moment, I asked, “Any chance you can meet me in 20 minutes?” He said, "Yes!" We walked to the apartment, unsure what to expect. We met the landlord and it turns out he is a Catholic from El Salvador—the same country my husband had fled decades ago. We connected instantly. He shared that he had a tenant lined up, but just that morning, the lease had fallen through, so he was surprised—and even relieved—to receive our call.
The next day, I learned a little more about just how much providence was at work. Amidst the whirlwind of appointments, they said, "Sister, we need to tell you something "I listened as they continued, "We are so happy with our apartment—we had been praying for a home in this exact building." I was surprised. "But how?" I asked. "You only asked to be close to the church, and there are many buildings nearby." They smiled. "We found this building on Google Maps and prayed specifically for an apartment in this building." In that moment, I fought back tears, overwhelmed by the depth of God’s care. These courageous women had lost everything—country, family, and home—because they chose to follow Christ. I had only read about this kind of faith. Yet, despite their hardships, they never wavered in their trust that their loving Father would provide. They asked, they trusted, and He answered—working through the hands and hearts of His children on the other side of the world. But His generosity didn’t stop there. He not only provided for them, but also for the landlord, who had unexpectedly lost a tenant that very morning. He provided for the landlord’s family who couldn’t have known 36 years ago that God was laying a foundation that would one day prepare them for this moment—an intersection with a new family in need of help; showing that God’s providence extends far beyond the present, reaching across generations. He also provided for me, offering deep consolation through the privilege of witnessing His provision in action. And He provided for our parish family, blessing us with the powerful witness of faith and the opportunity to offer our help. Our God is so good and we are truly His children—one in Christ, bound together by a love that transcends all. Since their arrival, they have shared their journey to Christ and the incredible ways the Christian faith continues to grow in Iran. It is a powerful reminder of who our God is—Jesus knows no boundaries. He seeks out souls even in the most unexpected places, moving beyond the barriers of an Islamic regime. Faith in Christ is alive in places we might assume it cannot exist. Let us all continue to pray for our brothers and sisters who face persecution around the world. For the past six months, we have walked alongside them as they adjust to life in Canada—learning English and navigating a new culture. Now, as they begin their job search, we ask for your prayers that they may find meaningful work to support themselves. We also ask for your prayers for a family member they had to leave behind in Iran. Our hope is that one day, he too will be able to join them here. May God open the right doors and make a way for their reunion. Written by Allison Rivas for Faithfully. Allison is a parishioner and Parish Renewal Team member at St. Albert the Great's Parish in Calgary.
 How often do we hear ourselves say, “I’m too busy,” when invited to something outside our routine? No doubt that with full calendars and countless responsibilities, carving out 5 hours on a Saturday for our Parish Renewal Planning Day would feel like just another obligation. Yet, despite their reservations, St. Joseph's Parish ministry leaders showed up. Not just that, but they also brought with them the same kindness, dedication, and willingness to serve, which made their ministries thrive. At first, some weren’t sure what to expect, but as the discussions unfolded, something shifted. The conversations were engaging, and many found themselves drawn in. One ministry leader admitted, "Honestly, when I first got the invitation, it felt like a chore, and finding the time for this meeting was tough. But once the discussion started with other ministry leaders, I quickly thought, ‘Oh, I like this—and where it’s going!’" Engagement was high —faces definitely lit up with passion as ministry leaders exchanged ideas, eager to enrich their parish communities with the gift of their ministries. "Time flew by, and we had rich discussions and new perspectives were definitely gained." This energy carried into the heart of our Parish Planning Day, where leaders tackled the challenge of transforming survey insights and parishioner feedback into meaningful steps for renewal. The goal wasn’t just to discuss change but to bring it to life in a way that strengthens and inspires the entire parish community. With fifteen of our nineteen ministries represented, the day was rich with diverse perspectives on the future of our parish. This spirit of renewal is nothing new to us—throughout our history, dating back to 1912, St. Joseph’s Parish has continually adapted to serve the needs of our community. From our early years serving nearly all of north Calgary of the Bow River to becoming a cornerstone of faith for families in Mount Pleasant, our parish has always embraced renewal. Today, it’s wonderful to see multiple generations worshipping in the same space where their faith journey began.
That sense of legacy was alive during the Renewal Planning Day. As ministry leaders reflected on their mission, many found new clarity and inspiration. The goal was not just to discuss ideas but to spark a renewed focus in our ministries—to refocus goals, foster collaboration, and find new ways to call others into faith. By doing so, we can better reach those separated from God’s word and build a strong community of faithful families with the love of the Lord at the center of their lives. For many, the small group discussions were especially powerful. One participant expressed, "Our discussions, especially in our ministry area group, are important. I felt validated—my concerns were heard, and that mattered,” shared one participant. Another reflected, “It was eye-opening to hear from other leaders. I hadn’t expected such deep attention and care for my ministry’s challenges and vision.” As a parish, we face the same challenges as the broader Calgary community—affordable housing, redevelopment, poverty, and addiction. And in the broader context, we are walking alongside other parishes around the world trying to call back those who have left their faith practice. This planning day set the stage for how St. Joseph might prepare to tackle the challenges of its next 100 years. With renewal efforts in the Diocese beginning in 2017, the 2024 Diocesan survey offered parishioners a chance to provide extensive feedback. Now, with our March planning day, we take the next step—turning those insights into action. For some, the experience was transformative. One ministry leader admitted, “I thought I knew what my ministry needed coming into this meeting, but I underestimated the process. After time in discussions and prayer, it became clear that my ministry was called to support another—to help each other thrive, so together, we can strengthen our parish’s evangelization.” I felt blessed to see our ministry leaders passionately discuss their ministries and how they impact the people they serve. Even more exciting was seeing opportunities bubble to the surface for greater ministry coordination during the assessment portion of the day. One ministry leader tried to capture the heart of the renewal: “This isn’t about just strengthening my own ministry or parish. Evangelization has to be at the centre of everything. We’re not called to work in silos for our own small goals—by working together, we can accomplish far more for Christ.” That mindset—collaborating beyond individual ministries—also challenges us to be more adaptable. How do we stay nimble, communicate new opportunities effectively, and help our parish respond to the fast-paced changes ahead? What I think all members of the Diocese can be excited about with this renewal effort is that it is not a one-and-done event. It’s a continual cycle - listening, reflecting, acting, and then listening again. This planning day equipped ministry leaders with a framework to carry that process into their own ministries, helping our parish prepare not just for today but for the next 100 years. As participants wrapped up the session, the intensity of the discussions was clear. Watching people leave the session, you could see we were drained. Five hours of evaluating, planning, and praying took its toll. But, in a good way. A little like taking all our worries and petitions at the foot of His altar. 'Alright Lord, we’ve done everything we can. Now it’s Your turn." Written by Megan Ritchie, Parish Renewal Leader chair, St. Joseph's Parish in Calgary.
Written by Deacon Daniel Deck, Diocese of Calgary.
On Sunday, March 10, 2025, I had the privilege of being at St. Mary’s Cathedral to witness the Rite of Election. The Rite of Election is a significant moment in the RCIA journey when catechumens preparing to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist at the Easter vigil come forward and are officially welcomed into the community of believers. These catechumens have been on a long journey, some for many years, as they seek to follow the heavenly calling in their lives. With their sponsors and catechists, they have been preparing and discerning God’s invitation to be faithful. 
I have been involved with the Rite of Election for many years here in Calgary and have seen impressive numbers of people coming forward, responding to the heavenly calling, but this past Sunday, the walls of the cathedral almost split wide open. The participants began gathering at the Cathedral just after 2 pm, making their way into the church and looking for their places. Each year, parishes submit the number of people they will be bringing so that pews can be reserved for the catechumens. This year, every pew in the Cathedral was filled to capacity, and the space behind the altar was filled with chairs to allow for even more attendees. There were members from 35 parishes, as well as members of the St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy, in attendance to support the 371 elect - a record number - at this major moment in their journeys to full admission. It was “deeply moving, I was fighting back tears much of the time,” as one member of the congregation observed. During his homily to welcome the elect, Bishop William T. McGrattan referred to the Letter to the Romans, where we are reminded “that when we confess on our lips that Jesus is born and believe in our hearts that God raised him from the dead,” we are witnesses to the great gift of faith given to us through grace.  We were reminded that our Diocese has embarked on a journey of renewal to touch the hearts of all the faithful in the. It is a journey to help us all respond to the Renewal call to be “missionary disciples in Christ, to become more of a church of encounter and witness, and to strengthen the family by strengthening the family, and strengthening the parish community.” Bishop McGrattan observed, “This great number of people who are coming into the Church as catecumens and the elect throughout this diocese.. I believe that it is truly a sign of God's providence, God's hope that he continues to instill in us.” We all should look to these elects and be inspired in our faith journey, embracing with the same courage that they have shown to live in a time, in a world in which sometimes this faith, this act of belief is not necessarily respected, nor is it understood, but is so important to bring hope to our world. One of the priests in attendance offered this prayer for us all: “May the Holy Spirit lead all the elect to find the beauty of the Truth, that is Christ Jesus!” The Rite of Election always falls on the First Sunday of Lent, when we are reminded of Jesus' forty days in the desert at the start of His sacred ministry. The forty days of Lent call us to reflect on our own lives and, through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, open our hearts to prepare for the gift of salvation we celebrate at Easter. I can only echo the beautiful words shared by one of the new elect: “It was emotional moment, bro, and glad I got to be part of it and be blessed by God’s calling!” 
 Photos credit: Victor Panlilio, for the Diocese of Calgary.
Imagine your first memories of the Last Supper coming from watching the scene unfold before you as the Catechist reads aloud from the Gospel of St. Mark. You watch intently as the table is set, and Jesus takes His place among the apostles in the Upper Room. He blesses the bread and wine, offering them as His Body and Blood. The table in the Upper Room now transforms into the sacred Eucharistic altar. This powerful presentation is one of many ways the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd—through its carefully crafted methodology—invites the observant child into the Mystery of God. The materials and presentations of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd were developed by Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi over fifty years, applying Maria Montessori’s principles to the catechesis of children. Their meticulous observation and deep vocation shed new light on the spiritual life of the child. Every young child has an innate desire to know God, and the Montessori approach recognizes this need by setting aside space and time for children’s religious formation.  Life in the Atrium This holy work unfolds in a space called the Atrium—a name fitting its purpose. An Atrium in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a prepared environment where the child undergoes formation to join the community of the Church. This space is equipped with intentional material that helps young children engage in their faith. The child learns by interacting with the beautiful material, while the role of the adult is to prepare and maintain the environment, introduce the material, and then hold back, allowing the Holy Spirit to work in the child. Catechists introduce children to Scripture and the Eucharist in age-appropriate ways, fostering wonder at God’s goodness. Life in the Atrium follows the Liturgical calendar and includes celebrations (Easter, Christmas, Pentecost) and preparation (Advent and Lent). Children learn about Scripture and Liturgy through presentations and works, including Jesus’ infancy narratives, geography of the Holy Land, Kingdom of God parables, Baptism, and practical life skills. Catechists draw attention to the wonders of our faith, asking questions that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. This formation is not just a method of religious education but a way to nurture the spiritual lives of our youngest faithful, allowing them to develop a deep, personal relationship with the Good Shepherd.
Behind the Doors of Catechist Formation Twenty-two Catechists-in-training, three formators, and two babies spent the severe cold spell in February in the basement of Ascension Catholic Parish in Calgary, praying, studying pedagogy, theology, and sacred Scripture. For six days, we studied the Montessori Atrium, focusing on three- to six-year-olds. As volunteer Catechists from all around the city supported the new team in formation, the Holy Spirit was at work bringing about renewal and transformation. Each day began with lighting a candle and proclaiming Jesus as the light of the world. This was followed by a solemn reading of Scripture and Lectio Divina, allowing God’s word to permeate our hearts and prepare us for the day’s activities. These moments of reflection became the heartbeat of our days, infusing the rest of our learning with meaning and grace.
 Discovering the Child’s Spiritual Life I learned that three- to six-year-olds, or “first-plane children” in Montessori terms, are in the sensitive period for wonder. They are drawn to beauty. They seek protective love. Above all, the image of the Good Shepherd resonates with them the most. The imagery of the Good Shepherd transcends Level I formation, from infancy narratives to the Paschal lamb and the Liturgy. For six days, we prayed, studied, discussed faith, and experienced the Atrium as children do. In the Atrium, we lived a Catholic encounter, realizing we are not teachers but witnesses to God’s work. A Personal Call I am deeply grateful to my formators—Lynda Catalano, Anna Boyagod, and Paula Sabatini; to Ascension Parish’s resident Catechist, Katy Morisson, and her amazing team; and to my fellow catechists-in-training. Throughout the course, I felt the Holy Spirit transform my heart. Scripture spoke directly to my soul, and I had the opportunity to practice intentionality and restraint. The entire course felt like a retreat, a time of self-construction and growth. As a new mother, I sought ways to nurture my child’s faith, turning to Montessori principles. Additionally, I felt called to read the Gospel of John aloud during my pregnancy. Going through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd formation was the culmination of both these journeys—a calling that began nearly four years ago. If you are curious about this approach, seek out an Atrium. Enroll your children, tell your friends, or volunteer—you may find yourself transformed. I hope Atriums in Calgary will form a strong Church, strengthen families, and build missionary disciples of Christ.
 This year’s Chinese New Year Banquet (Feb 7, 2025) hosted by Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) at the Chinese Cultural Centre was truly a Jubilee celebration! Titled Pilgrims of Hope, this wasn’t their usual parish celebration—it brought together performances and ministries from all over the Diocese. This year, choirs from St. Michael’s, St. Vincent Liem, St. Mark’s, Our Lady of Fatima, St. Luke, and more added to the festivity with their music and messages of hope. One of the night's biggest highlights was the Dragon Dance, performed by both adult and youth groups. The evening also featured a Wushu performance, dances, traditional songs, and an energetic young adults' performance with catchy tunes that had everyone clapping along with "Sweet Caroline." Another standout moment was a skit depicting an immigrant family’s journey to Calgary and how they found a home in the parish community, performed by OLPH’s largest ministry, Catholic Family Fellowship. The generous lucky draw also kept the excitement going throughout the night. Here's a snippet from the performances in a 10-minute video. Deacon Edward Lam and his wife, Anne, who coordinated the event, were pleased with the turnout—over 600 guests and volunteers packed the venue. It was clear the event was beyond sold out, as many observed, “All the tables were packed, barely any room to move; the tables overflowed to outside the hall.” For the Jubilee Year, OLPH's three choirs combined their efforts and sang the Jubilee 2025 Hymn "Pilgrims of Hope" in English, Mandarin, and more languages. This was followed by an inspiring reflection on the Jubilee's blessings, renewal, and hope by Bishop McGrattan. 
 Volunteer Susan Li shared, “Tonight was filled with amazing energy, laughter and chatter, and the aroma of delicious dishes!” From performers to guests, everyone felt the unity and joy of the evening. She added, “The lion and dragon dances were always the cultural highlights, and the lucky draws kept everyone excited. It was a night to remember.” For Val DeGagne, a choir coordinator from St. Luke’s, the night was more than just a performance. “My choir thoroughly enjoyed the evening—fun, food, entertainment—it had it all,” she said. “The hospitality was amazing, and the event was so well organized. And honestly, we don’t often get time to just sit and visit like that, so it was really special.” One guest shared: this is the event she looks forward to all year. “It’s never the same twice, and it’s wonderful to see how a small parish can pull off something this big! And let’s be honest—the food is always incredible,” she said. The traditional 10-course Chinese meal was, as always, a huge hit. This jubilee celebration was a reflection of what we are called to embrace this year — faith, unity, and a deeper connection with one another in Christ. With such an incredible turnout, it’s clear that this beloved tradition will continue to grow and inspire for years to come. Photos courtesy of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. For more photos, click here.
 The Diocese of Calgary continues the journey of pastoral renewal as parishes enter the Parish Renewal Planning stage. Over the past year, communities have engaged in listening and discernment through the Parish Renewal Survey and parish conversations. Now, ministry leaders in parishes across the diocese are preparing to take the next steps in planning and implementation. Parish Renewal Teams across the Diocese On Saturday, Feb. 8, Parish Renewal Teams (PRTs) across the diocese gathered in their parishes to take part in an important formation session. Bishop McGrattan and the Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team joined via Zoom to guide the discussion, outlining the next steps for parish renewal planning. The session reinforced that this is not just another initiative—it is a call to trust the Holy Spirit and step forward in faith. One of the strongest takeaways from the meeting was clarity. Many teams appreciated the structure, and feel more equipped for the next stage. "The timeline was absolutely helpful. Now we have a clear process to follow, and an important reminder: this is about discernment, not personal agendas." "Useful templates and clear instructions so that PRTs do not have to develop their own format." For others, the session provided much-needed reassurance that Renewal is not about rushing to quick solutions, as noted by one participant, "Renewal is a process…it will take time. That’s a relief. It had felt overwhelming at times." Above all, there was a shared sense of commitment—not just from parish leaders, but from the diocese as a whole. One participant shared, "We need to lean on and trust the Holy Spirit to guide us. A lot of work has been put in by the diocesan team to provide us with the direction and tools we made to proceed. The Diocese is committed!" Moving from discernment to action With the vision in place, parishes are now preparing for their Parish Renewal Planning Days. These gatherings will be dedicated times of prayer, reflection, and strategic planning, where ministry leaders will come together to set priorities for their communities. The process will unfold in stages:
For many, this structured approach has brought a renewed sense of confidence. One team member remarked, “This enables us to have a concrete plan to put into fruition what we have been discerning for the past year.” A Shared Journey The orientation session was a reminder that renewal is not meant to be walked alone. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and the diocesan leadership are all co-responsible in this mission. As each parish continues this process, the faithful are invited to pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and to remain engaged in the renewal journey. With faith, trust, and a willingness to cast into the deep, let us pray: For our parish community, called to pastoral renewal, may the Holy Spirit pour forth upon our parish and ministry leaders who will be involved in the planning process. Grant them wisdom, courage, and unity to discern Your will and embrace renewal for the growth of our faith community. May this renewal journey deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ and empower us to be His faithful disciples, bringing hope and love to all we encounter, let us pray to the Lord... 
 Since October 2023, our Diocese has been on a journey of Pastoral Renewal, and now, we are entering the Parish Pastoral Renewal Planning phase. This is a start of something extraordinary— a bold step forward as we deepen our commitment to Renewal and venture into uncharted waters. "Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." ~Luke 5:4.  Join us in prayer as we prepare for the February 8 meeting of our Pastors and Parish Renewal Teams. This important gathering will offer an orientation to the parish renewal planning process, a spiritual journey centered on Christ. Together, as parish leaders and community members, we will seek God's guidance to develop a renewal plan with concrete actions that will transform our parish life and foster the spiritual growth of all its members. The ultimate fruit of renewal is when the joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus Christ" (Evangelii Gaudium, 1)  The annual Christmas Market at St. Luke’s Catholic Church transformed a snowy Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, into a lively celebration of community and generosity. Despite the steady snowfall, younger parishioners cheerfully kept the paths clear, welcoming visitors eager to explore the market. Tables hosted by the Catholic Women’s League overflowed with handmade crafts, delicious baked goods, raffle baskets, and the centrepiece of the event—a stunning quilt crafted by Gisele Pflug, with help from the talented Crafty Ladies. This group meets weekly at St. Luke’s and provides an opportunity for strengthening community bonds among parishioners. All the proceeds from the quilt raffle tickets were donated equally to RESET (Rapid Exit from Sexual Exportation and Trafficking) and Calgary Brown Bag Lunches for Kids. The preparation for the Christmas Market at St. Luke’s began weeks before the event, as the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) brought their creative energy to life. Members gathered to bake an array of pies—apple, Saskatoon berry, and strawberry rhubarb. There was also a CWL bake day with several dozen signature shortbread cookies made from one of the members’ favourite recipes. CWL members also donated home baking and homemade items to the Bake Table and the Craft Table. 
As part of their outreach to the wider community, the CWL invited 25+ outside vendors with special items for sale too. These vendors had many interesting items for sale, everything from charcuterie boards with sayings from the gospel of Luke to homemade samosas and handcrafted bracelets. Lots of lovely Christmas decorations and the Mission Council’s refurbished Christmas cards were also available for purchase. Many customers found their last-minute Christmas gifts for that someone special. Young parishioners were a welcome part of the Christmas Market team. Multigenerational family members from St. Luke’s were busy at the North Pole Café where they served cups of hot chocolate, coffee, and tea. For those feeling a little peckish, the Cafe offered an array of treats, including tasty chocolate croissants, Mrs. Claus’ cinnamon buns, and other delectable snacks. More than just an opportunity to raise funds for the good works that the Catholic Women’s League does throughout the year, the Christmas Market brought together many people from within and outside of the parish. This was a significant part of its success. We thank our Lord for His guidance and protection throughout the year and ask for His blessings as we enter into the New Year of 2025. Submitted by Pam Wilson, President of St. Luke’s CWL
St. Augustine’s Parish in Taber was honoured to share with parishioners and guests a special evening recognising the many accomplishments, lasting friendships, and cherished memories that Father Tim Boyle has created over the past 50 years. A bit of history explains why this celebration was held at, and is so special to, St. Augustine’s Parish. In 1973, a young Tim Boyle arrived in Taber as a transitional deacon, serving the parish until his ordination to the priesthood a year later. On October 12, 1974, Bishop Paul O’Byrne came to St. Augustine’s and celebrated a Mass of ordination to the priesthood for Fr. Tim. Fr. Tim continued to serve in Taber for a further 3 1/2 years as an associate pastor under the guidance of the Pastor, Fr. Donald O’Dwyer. Fr. Tim, originally a young man from Camrose, AB via Calgary, began a blessed priestly ministry in the Church that has spanned 50 years. Throughout these years, he has continued to serve the Diocese of Calgary in various parishes. Now, having retired from active parish ministry, he serves as the Bishop’s Vicar for Clergy. The Celebration Our evening on Saturday, Sep. 28, 2024 began with Fr. Tim celebrating Mass, accompanied by Fr. Philip Le and Deacon Brian Kinahan. The music was a collaboration from our three music ministry groups, featuring songs from both past and present. During Mass, Fr. Tim shared stories of the parishes where the sacred vessels, presented to him by his family at his ordination, had travelled over the past 50 years. 
All present were truly blessed. Once you are ordained, you are a priest forever! We were so pleased to be able to celebrate this lifelong priestly ministry right here in Taber where it all began. May God continue to guide Father Tim and fill him with His grace as he continues the work of harvesting souls for Him.
Written by Lauretta Dearing, OFS, member of St. Paul's Parish in Airdrie.
 In a time when meaningful connection is essential, our parish gathered for a special Renewal Gathering on St. Michael’s Feast Day, September 29, 2024. This intentional choice set the tone for a day filled with faith and fellowship, centered around the blessing of our new St. Michael statue. This ceremony fostered unity and served as a powerful symbol of protection and courage in our faith journey. The gathering was a key part of our diocesan Pastoral Renewal initiative, aimed at deepening our understanding of being a community of missionary disciples, reminding us that we are called, we matter, and we belong.  After the blessing, we enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by St. Michael’s Knights of Columbus. Laughter and conversation flowed freely, reflecting the joy of being together and the warmth of our parish family. It was heartening to see parishioners of all ages in attendance, especially since we provided childcare for families with young children. With our hearts and minds prepared, we entered the sanctuary, warmly welcomed by our host, Mike Fitzsimmons. Uplifting praise songs led by the ‘Love One Another’ Community invited everyone to join in worship. The atmosphere was charged with the Holy Spirit as we engaged in a guided Lectio Divina and prayer led by Fr. Edmund and Fr. Kelvin, focusing on the Road to Emmaus narrative from Luke 24:13-35. This scripture teaches us to be open to the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need to recognize Christ’s presence in our lives, often in unexpected forms.
 Engaging with Scripture allowed deeper truths to be revealed, fostering spiritual growth. The breaking of bread symbolizes the significance of the Eucharist and community in encountering Christ. Ultimately, the disciples’ transformation from despair to joyful witnesses of the Resurrection illustrates how openness to the Holy Spirit leads to personal renewal and a commitment to sharing the Good News. The presentation on the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal, featuring a short video and slideshow, provided insight into our shared mission. This vision made our goals feel attainable, emphasizing our collective responsibility in living out our faith. It’s comforting to know we’re all in this together, highlighting the importance of community support in our journeys. Following the presentation, Christian Estrella led a reflection encouraging small group conversations about the three Pillars of Renewal. These discussions sparked new ideas and fostered a sense of ownership over our mission, providing a unique opportunity to ask meaningful questions that could help our parish become a vibrant hub of faith and outreach.
 On a bright sunny day, African Catholics living in Calgary flocked to the first African-organized Mass celebrated in Calgary. The Bishop presided with concelebrants representing the main African nations of South Sudan, Ethiopia, Cameroon, and Nigeria living in Calgary. The celebration was a visual and auditory extravaganza, showcasing the enthusiasm and joy that African Catholics bring to their liturgical celebrations. With such a diverse congregation, Bishop McGrattan wisely devoted part of his homily to the Diocesan Renewal. He said "the core of the Renewal is a growing personal intimacy with the Lord." How simply explained and easy to understand! How much scope for reflection, which I did for days afterwards. The light went on for me after almost a year of posters, Zoom and in-person meetings and the indefatigable efforts of the Pastoral Centre to keep me informed and active. Good thing I am retired and have a high pain threshold! The light revealed this.
We need to aim high. I never recollect going into an exam just to get a D! Thank you Bishop McGrattan for that one sentence. Written by Cedric de Souza. Cedric is husband of Greta, father of four and grandfather of seven, all the joy of his life. He was born and educated in Kenya, Uganda, India, Britain and now is a happily retired resident in Alberta. He and Greta are long time parishioners of St. Bonaventure's Parish in Calgary, where he has served in several volunteer positions. He is currently the chair of St. Bonaventure's Parish Renewal team.
Holy Trinity is a small parish in the heart of the mountains in southwestern Alberta. We’ve been part of this parish for six years, and before that, we were involved with All Saints Parish in Lethbridge. We are glad to be engaged in the Renewal Process. We felt inspired by the initial meeting and presentation that the Diocese held at St. Martha’s Church in Lethbridge. Father Joe is also encouraged by the Renewal Process. Even though we are a small parish with not much activity, we are taking small, concrete steps to create an atmosphere of belonging. We want the focus to be Christ-centered in a practical way—calling people to community, building friendships, and exploring possibilities for spiritual growth.
Written by Marie & Steve Burger, Parish Renewal Team Members at Holy Trinity Parish, Blairmore. Photo courtesy of Holy Trinity Parish.
It’s not every day that a priest, a deacon, and a seminarian take the stage as the evening’s headlining performers. But that’s exactly what happened on August 16th, when St. Mary’s Cathedral hosted its summer renewal gathering. After the 5 pm Mass celebrated by Bishop McGrattan, parishioners were invited to the Parish Hall, where they were greeted with live music and an array of sandwiches and refreshments. The band, featuring Fr. Avinash Colaco, Deacon Greg Barcelon, and other members of the parish community, set the tone. Praise and worship songs, led by seminarian Peter An and other parishioners, provided a beautiful start to the evening’s entertainment. The band later performed several classic hits that kept the dance floor packed all night! The evening also provided an opportunity for parishioners to express their gratitude to the beloved Associate Pastor, Fr. Julian Studden, on his retirement, and to welcome Seminarian Peter An, who will be with the parish for the upcoming year. 
 Meanwhile, outside, the children had their own section filled with games, a bouncy castle, arts and crafts, balloon animals, and face painting. There were laughter all around. The line for face painting also kept the volunteers busy, and the crafts table was never empty as kids’ worship songs played in the background. This renewal event offered activities for all ages—an important aspect recognized by the organizing committee. The youth and adult volunteers ensured that the children were kept busy, safe, and happy, allowing their parents to enjoy time in the hall with the community. It was heartwarming to see Bishop McGrattan engaging with the children at various stations, even taking time to sit at the craft table to make paper fish alongside them. 
The efforts of many parish groups and individuals were key to the evening’s success. The call for volunteers was shared after weekend Masses leading up to the event—and it worked! Both new and seasoned volunteers stepped forward, making it a true community effort. The sight of so many hands coming together to clean the hall after the event was, in itself, inspiring. The success of the Summer Gathering, which saw over 500 volunteers and participants, is a strong indication of the need and desire for continued pastoral renewal at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Written by Mary Ojo, a member of the Parish Renewal Team at St. Mary's Cathedral. As the youngest member of the team and a high school student, Mary also volunteers as an altar server at the Cathedral. Photos are courtesy of Mary Ojo.
 Just east of Banff, near the start of Highway 93, thirty one intrepid hikers gathered to trek up Stanley Creek and gaze up at the Stanley Glacier.
Some of us explored the caves, while others admired the waterfall or simply took in the views. The top of our hike was our lunch spot, a small meadow which looked up to the Stanley Glacier. While not as massive as the Columbia Icefield between Banff and Jasper, it’s impressive to see a glacier that even summer heat can’t fully melt. Each winter, new snow adds to the ice, continuing the glacier’s growth. 
The descent proved to be a bit more challenging, as the loose scree (small rocks along the slope) left more than one hiker with dirty pant legs. But once we were down from the glacial overlook, we made the final hour-long trek through the trees back to the parking lot, where our companions awaited the last hikers.  I am deeply grateful to our organizing team and to the faithful from St. Gabriel’s, along with all the diocesan parishioners, who joined us on this memorable hike. In this season of Renewal, it is truly uplifting to experience the strength of our diocesan community—to share the gift of presence and embody a church rooted in encounter and witness. Our next fundraising event will be a special dinner on Friday, October 25, 2024 at the St. Gabriel’s School gym in Chestermere. If you feel moved to support our efforts in building a new church, please visit: saintgabrielparish.ca Written by Fr. James Hagel, pastor of St. Gabriel the Archangel parish in Chestermere. Photos courtesy of Fr. James Hagel, Andreas Berko, and Pat Cooper.
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