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.
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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.
The reinstallation of our Sacred Heart statue at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church in Brocket, Alberta is a deeply significant event that resonated with the parish community, while symbolizing both continuity and renewal in our spiritual life. The Sacred Heart of Jesus, representing Christ's love and compassion for humanity, holds a special place in Catholic devotion, and its presence now high above and facing outward, serves as a constant reminder of these virtues. The reinstallation of such a statue is more than just an aesthetic enhancement; it is a spiritual and communal milestone that reflects the enduring faith of our Piikani people. The process of reinstallation often begins with careful planning and preparation. This involves both logistical considerations, such as the statue’s transport and artistic repair work as well as spiritual preparations, such as prayers and blessings. The statue may have been temporarily removed for restoration and repair, but its return was eagerly anticipated by many parishioners. The reinstallation symbolizes the return of something beloved and familiar, yet renewed and restored, reflecting the cyclical nature of spiritual life—constantly renewing while maintaining deep roots in tradition.
Many Catholics have a strong personal devotion to the Sacred Heart, and the statue serves as a focal point for prayer, reflection, and the offering of intentions. Its reinstallation will reignite these devotions, encouraging parishioners to deepen their relationship with Christ through the Sacred Heart. The statue thus becomes a source of spiritual nourishment, inspiring acts of love, compassion, and service across the community.
We are truly blessed to have such a devoted group of individuals who consistently go above and beyond to support St. Paul’s. Their generosity and selflessness do not go unnoticed, and we are deeply thankful for everything they do. May God continue to bless them abundantly for their kindness and dedication. Together, we look forward to continuing our mission of faith, service, and love. Thank you, God Squad, for being near to us at the heart of St. Paul’s Parish. In conclusion, the reinstallation of the Sacred Heart statue at our church was a profound event that blended the practical with the spiritual. It was a moment of continuity, where the past and present meet in the shared devotion of our community. As the statue was placed once again in its rightful place, it stands as a beacon of faith, reminding all who travel on Highway 3, of the enduring love and mercy of Christ. The rededication not only restored a beloved religious icon to its place of honour, but also reaffirmed the faith and unity of the Piikani people and its supporters, ensuring that the light of Christ’s love continues to shine brightly in our midst. Written by Deacon Tom O'Toole, St. Paul's Parish, Brocket, AB.
We believe in a God who “travels the paths of history and shares in the life of humanity.” A term that captures this belief is the word “synodality.” The term comes from the Greek words “syn” meaning “together” and “hodos” meaning “way” or “journey.” So, synodality is a “journey taken together”; it describes how God accompanies us and how we are called to accompany one another in Christ. In October 2021, Pope Francis convened a gathering of religious, cleric, and lay persons from around the world, to discuss and discern how the Church could better embody synodality. In his opening homily, Pope Francis described synodality as having three components - an openness to encounter others and God, heartfelt listening to the other, and spiritual discernment. He said, synodality called us to be open, courageous, and willing to let ourselves be challenged by the presence and the stories of others. The Holy Father asked: “Are we prepared for the adventure of this journey? Or are we fearful of the unknown, preferring to take refuge in the usual excuses: ‘It’s useless’ or ‘We’ve always done it this way’?" So, synodality refers to the involvement and participation of the whole People of God in the life and mission of the Church. The blueprint for how we are called to embody synodality is what the Calgary-wide Pastoral Renewal is all about. It is a process that creates opportunities for us to encounter God and one another, to empower us in the art of listening to God and one another, and how we, together, can discern how God is calling us to live by the words and deeds of Jesus. Phase One of our synodal journey (October 2021-April 2022) has been completed. At that time, Pope Francis mandated that a process of encounter and listening be established in every diocese throughout the world, so that the People of God could voice their thoughts and feelings on two questions: #1: How is this “journeying together” happening today in your local Church? and #2: What steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in our “journeying together”? As a follow up to this initiative, the Diocese of Calgary launched a parish-wide survey. In June of this year, St. Michael's Parish in Calgary was invited to participate in the Diocesan-wide survey. Of the 1826 weekly attendees at Sunday Mass, 1288 filled in the questionnaire. Our participation rate was 70.54% - much higher than what the experts had predicted! Our parish is now ready to take the next step of Renewal journey. Our focus is shifting to three pillars that will help support and focus our efforts. These three pillars are: #1: Being missionary disciples in Christ, #2: Being a Church of encounter and witness, and #3: Strengthening family life. In the next three weeks, the three pillars of pastoral renewal will be explored. We are part of a faith community that is deeply synodal in nature. We have embarked upon an extraordinary, historic journey toward discovering how to be Church in the third millennium through a process of encounter, listening, and discernment where we celebrate that everyone is called, that everyone matters, and that everyone belongs. Written by St. Michael Catholic Community Parish Renewal Team. Photos: St. Michael's, Calgary.
A 50th Anniversary… a time for celebration, praise, and thanksgiving for Holy Spirit Parish in Calgary, established on August 18, 1974, by Bishop Paul O’Byrne to meet the needs of the growing Catholic population in the southwest quadrant of Calgary! Our Beginning: Growing with the Spirit Quickly outgrowing the space at St. Benedict School, a fundraising campaign, "Growing with the Spirit," was initiated with the participation of the entire parish. The result was a move into a beautiful church on June 25, 1988. Fr. David Meadows shared, "I think one of the most memorable moments in the history of Holy Spirit was the actual construction and building of Holy Spirit Church in 1988. And then eventually paying off the debt." Although beautiful, this building still required a lot of work, as the offices, meeting rooms, kitchen, etc., were not complete. Once again, parishioners stepped up with another fundraising campaign, "Together in the Spirit." As before, parishioners generously gave their time, talent, and treasure, which included building a retaining wall, crafting the first set of Stations of the Cross and candlestick holders and ambo, painting the interior, and assembling pews. A fire in May 1998 once again demonstrated the resolve of the parishioners, as the church was restored by the fall of that year, allowing the parish community to resume as usual. Through all these years, the Holy Spirit has continually invited parishioners to grow in their faith by offering their time and talents, whether in Sunday or weekday liturgies, beautifying the environment, leading Bible studies, prayer groups, rosary making, sacrament preparation, catechesis and RCIA/RCIT, youth ministry, pastoral care, sponsoring families, or being members of the Knights of Columbus or the Catholic Women’s League.
During the COVID years, a small group of parishioners kept the parish functioning so that Sunday and daily Mass could be celebrated, despite the toll the virus took. With that in mind, the 50th Anniversary Committee decided to focus on “rebuilding,” with "Life in the Spirit" as the theme. Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, a year-long celebration was planned, with hospitality and prayer at the core. Reflecting on the spirit of our parish, Anna Glynn, a long-time member and former parish secretary, shared how Fr. Joe Toole would remind her, "always remember that when someone comes to the office, you are the face of Christ." This profound guidance shaped not only her years of service but also continues to resonate with our parish community today. It’s a powerful reminder of the role we all play in embodying the love and compassion of Christ, in being a Church of Encounter and Witness. Beginning in April, a month before the kickoff, parishioners were asked to become part of a pictorial/history book, inspiration magnets were distributed to all the students of our three schools, names of parish families were displayed on “Flames” on our church windows, a beautiful anniversary banner was designed and made by three talented women, 800 anniversary rosaries were made by our rosary makers and distributed at our anniversary Mass on Pentecost, and 5 beautiful Travelling Prayer Crosses were made and donated by two families. These crosses were blessed by Bishop McGrattan and are traveling weekly from home to home as parishioners pray for the needs of the parish and the community. A Hopeful Future Our 50th Anniversary Mass, celebrated on May 19 , 2024 with Bishop McGrattan as the celebrant and a congregation wearing red, lifted their voices in grateful praise and thanksgiving as the year-long celebration began. Each month, different activities are planned to strengthen our congregation as a family where all are called, belong, and matter, so that life in the Spirit continues to grow. In this season of Pastoral Renewal, Fr. Meadows expressed, "My hope for the future is that the parish will continue to grow and to be able to meet the challenges and needs of an ever-changing world." As our church community prays before each weekend Mass, “Come Holy Spirit,” we hope to continue bringing His presence to the community for the next 50 years and beyond.
I started working at St. Gerard’s Parish in Calgary in 2021 and soon came to know the spirited community there. Each parishioner brings a unique gift, contributing to the warmth, faith-filled essence, and camaraderie that you feel as you walk in. Getting to know them personally is the best part of my job. Rozi Zorko is a long-term member of St. Gerard’s Parish. At 99 years old, she still drove to daily morning Mass! I was impressed and convinced that I had to meet her personally. One morning, as I was sitting at my desk, I saw her park her car. I wanted to meet this legend before she reached the entrance. As I stepped out of the office, she tripped on the pavement, just a few steps from the church entrance. Oh no! Gordon, our maintenance guy, and I rushed to assist her. She graciously stood up like nothing had happened. When I asked her if she was okay, she replied, “I am fine!” Thankfully, she truly was, and we escorted her to the door. I also got to know her daughter Mary, who informed me that Rozi was turning 100 in August 2021. However, Mary was having trouble getting a special certificate for Rozi’s 100th birthday from the Papal office in Rome. Due to time constraints, I managed to create a 100th birthday certificate to honor her, with a signature from our pastor, Fr. Ignatius Tran. The following year, thanks to the assistance of the Bishop's Office, I finally got Rozi her official 100th birthday certificate from Pope Francis. I believe it’s important to recognize milestones with simple gestures that mean a lot. This led to the celebration of monthly birthday and wedding anniversary celebrations every Friday after the 9 am morning Mass, as well as the posting of special occasions in our weekly newsletter and on our monitors. Celebrations like Rozi’s birthday bring the community together. We are called to be a Church of Encounter and Witness every day. At St. Gerard’s, visitors and strangers are always welcome to share a meal and their story. A family member visiting her mom had this to say: “One time when we attended Mass, a lady named Rozi had her 102nd birthday, and we were invited by her daughter to attend the party afterward.” The minute you walk into our space, you are part of our family! Pull up a chair—we’re here to listen to your experience. Mary graciously shares a few details below about her mom, Rozi, on her 103rd birthday, August 24, 2024. Please join me and the community in celebrating Rozi’s wonderful milestone.
Parish Renewal – a concept and process that we at St. Augustine’s see as a great need. With great enthusiasm, we began our process of Renewal at St. Augustine's Parish, guided by the Diocese's framework. We assembled a team consisting of our Catholic school administrators, parish staff members, and other parish community members who represented various groups. As we considered the three areas of pastoral renewal, our immediate attention was drawn to the third focus area. We recognized the need to strengthen our families' faith lives, their connection to the parish, and to collaborate with the schools in encouraging the faith life of our young people. We also understood that this process needed to be approached with an eye toward the first two pastoral priorities. As a first step, a strong effort was made—and continues—to be very present in our Catholic schools during important events, with participation by either our pastor or deacon in religious education classes. However, as the parish became very busy with the Lenten and Easter seasons, we experienced a bit of a lull in the renewal process. It was felt that we needed a significant event to kickstart things again. With the advent of the parish survey, we decided it was critical to truly understand where our parishioners were at so we could begin to focus our attention on their needs, the gaps they might see, and base our future plans on those results. Already in progress was a new venture for us: a Corpus Christi procession throughout our town on the day of our young children’s First Communion. We took a deep breath and prayerful approach, knowing that the same date would also mark the kickoff of the renewal survey. It was all hands on deck. Planning for First Communion and Corpus Christi was already well underway, so the question became how we could piggyback on these events. Recognizing that this would be a day when many people, both active and inactive, would be present, we prepared our parishioners for three weeks leading up to June 2, 2024 (Pastoral Survey Sunday). We made strong pulpit announcements about the survey and the need for everyone to make their voices heard. The church was plastered with posters about the survey, and the week before, we placed copies of the QR codes throughout the pews and on the walls of the church.
Sometimes, when we set out on a new initiative, we can forget the positives of what we already do. We feel it is critical to remember that we have a vibrant and faith-filled parish to continue building on. As we think of renewal, we are also drawn to all that we do, or are beginning to do, within our parish to encourage and involve our parishioners. Below are just two examples, but there are many more. The first is new to us; the second is always ongoing!
You could ask yourself: Why has Bishop McGrattan spearheaded this Diocesan Renewal? There are many reasons and causes, but as Catholics, we believe that, in the end, it is God who wants to renew the Diocese and to renew us: renewing us in our love for Him, our love for families, and our love for the faith. In this light, Ascension Catholic Parish went on a seven-week thematic journey each weekend during the Easter Season with a Series on the Eucharist. It was a chance to underline what we believe on Jesus’ own Word: that Jesus remains truly present among us, the Bread of Life. It aimed to deepen our understanding and increase our devotion, recognizing Jesus’ profound, constant love for his daughters and sons. The Series Fr. Daniel Wilson LC and I began the Series reminding us why Eucharistic devotion is so central to our faith, and in the subsequent weeks helped us to delve into its meaning and significance. To go through the topics that were discussed is, in itself, a mini-renewal of our understanding of this Sacrament: Each week, the Greeters and Ushers helped to give our small cards to every parishioner, as a reminder of the theme. It was a way of saying that you belong, you are called, you matter. On the back of the card, we had two points to chat about on the way home from Church: What did Jesus teach us? and What is Jesus saying to me today?
"Our Lady of the Rockies hosted the '40 Hours Devotion for Vocations' from July 26-28," shares Fr. Pilmaiken Lezano, pastor of the Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies in Canmore. "The Shrine received an outpouring of support for this event from parishioners and pilgrims." Thanking seminarian Solomon Ip who was based in Banff during the summer, Father Pilmaiken expressed his gratitude, "Solomon joined us to cover some of the spots available – the challenging times close to and after midnight." Reflecting on the devotion's impact, Fr. Lezano notes, "Many graces came out of this experience, and I hope that after these 40 Hours of Devotion for Vocations, the hearts of the youth of the Bow Valley may be set afire to serve the Lord by being consecrated to Him." Photos courtesy of Our Lady of the Rockies, Canmore & Solomon Ip.
Graduating from high school was an amazing achievement for me. As was the day my wife and I got married in 2002. What a glorious day that was! Looking back, my wife and I chuckle at how we were babies compared to the adults we are now. We had 2 beautiful kids, a son and a daughter. We attended the LDS church sometimes and both kids were baptized in the Mormon faith, but that was as far as it went. I got a job in the oilfields as a journeyman pipefitter and worked there for 15 years. The job was physically and emotionally stressful. I began drinking to cope with pain from injuries and trauma from accidents I witnessed. It was all part of the ‘oilfield culture’. Because I was gone from home for long stretches of time, I struggled with a new addiction: pornography. In 2013, I was arrested for drunk driving. I don’t remember much, but I do remember the amount of heartache and money it cost my family. This almost destroyed my marriage. So, I decided to get sober. I have a lot of regrets about this period of my life, but the two biggest are that I didn’t get to enjoy my kids growing up and I was a terrible husband. God bless my wife (we have been married 22 years) for being such a strong and wonderful woman. Eventually, I lost my job in the oil patch due to the industry downturn. I got a job in Medicine Hat, which meant our family was finally together. My desire for pornography lessened but didn’t stop. COVID arrived, and it was hard on our teenage children, especially my son, who fell down the wrong path. He dropped out of school, and there seemed to be total disorder in our home. In June of 2023, when my son got into serious trouble, I felt that I failed as a husband, a father, and a human being. It was a very low point in my life.
Written by Ray, a parishioner of St. Patrick's, Medicine Hat. Abridged by Alice Matisz. Photos courtesy of Ray and St. Patrick's Parish. For the unabridged story, email [email protected] for a copy.
In the spring of 2024, the renewal team led the Pastoral Renewal Survey in our parish. Since we had surveyed our parish twice in the past year, we were familiar with the process. We quickly assembled our team and surveyed the parish using the diocesan Pastoral Renewal Survey. The ELCPAP project spawned several committees to carry out its recommended strategies. Most of our Parish Renewal Team has been added to the Unity Committee. This committee is tasked with creating a plan to guide cultural change in order to strengthen parish unity. The Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team has been a great support during our winding journey. At the recent Provincial CWL convention, Bishop McGrattan explained our Diocesan Renewal Process. A CWL member from another diocese questioned the Bishop about the support given to the parishes. I was able to explain to her further, explaining the various supports that we have been given. One of the supports I enjoy is the monthly #Renewal Zoom Lunch and Learn meetings. They are a great way to hear what other parishes are doing and ask questions of the Diocesan Renewal team. We always get the message that; We are Called, We Matter, and We Belong. This summer, All Saints Parish will hold several parish BBQs. By uniting over a shared meal, we can get to know each other and celebrate our faith. Our renewal team looks forward to hearing the results of the diocesan survey in the fall. Will our ELCPAP surveys help us focus on the themes that the diocesan survey identifies? Perhaps the two roads will converge for a while. In any case, All Saints Parish will continue to follow its winding road to renewal and unity.
Last June, hundreds of parishioners at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Calgary were bursting with joy and colour as they celebrated the Feast of the Lord Holy Christ of the Miracles. Fr. Fabio De Souza, pastor of Our Lady of Fatima, shared, "This feast is very prominent in Portugal. Some even travel back to Portugal or visit for this festival because of its huge significance." For those who are new to this cultural celebration, keep reading. The Monastery of Our Lady of Hope The island of São Miguel, part of the Azores archipelago, is rich in faith, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. One of its most iconic representations is the revered Ecce Homo, known locally as Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres, or Lord Holy Christ of the Miracles in English. Carved in the early 16th century, this venerated image was a gift from Pope Paul III to two nuns who traveled to Rome to obtain the Bull for the foundation of São Miguel's first female monastery. Located in Ponta Delgada, Azores, the Monastery of Our Lady of Hope houses a striking wooden bust of Jesus Christ, depicting Him during the Passion. This remarkable statue is known for its profound facial expression and the exquisite craftsmanship of its adornments, which include various precious stones. The devotion to Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres gained significant momentum in the 18th century thanks to Mother Teresa de Jesus da Anunciada and has since spread across the Azores and worldwide, including Europe, Central and South America, as well as the United States and Canada. Major Religious Festival Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres is the focal point of the largest religious festival in the Azores and the second largest in Portugal, surpassed only by the Festivities of the Sanctuary of Fatima. This annual celebration attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the globe, especially immigrants from the U.S. and Canada, highlighting the deep faith and cultural traditions of the Azorean people. Devotion in Calgary This devotion was brought to Portuguese parishes in Canada by Azorean immigrants, making it, alongside the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, one of the most important celebrations for Portuguese-Canadians. "At least 100 people from Edmonton also came to our parish to celebrate this feast," shared Fr. Fabio. "This feast attracts even those who don't usually attend Mass in our parish. They come for this feast because it's the most important devotional event for them, embedded in their culture." After Mass, the faithful gathered outside the church to join the procession, followed by a social gathering in the Parish hall, complete with traditional Portuguese finger food. At Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Calgary, the festivities have been organized by the Confraternity of the Lord Holy Christ of the Miracles since 2014. This group promotes the religious celebrations, procession, and social events, attracting many Azorean faithful, including those from places like Edmonton. These gatherings help preserve the Portuguese heritage in Calgary. In this season of Renewal, the festivity highlighted the importance of a sense of belonging, one of the key pillars of Diocesan renewal. "For this event, volunteers came together and invited everyone to join the festivity. With this cultural event, we as a parish attract so many people, including the unchurched," shared Fr. Fabio. The parish is already hoping to hold this celebration in both Portuguese and English to be welcoming to even more people in their parish and beyond. Submitted by Our Lady of Fatima Parish. Photos courtesy of Our Lady of Fatima Parish.
My earliest memory of St. Bonaventure Parish dates back to before the church was even built. It was just a grassy field, and across the street, we celebrated Mass at St. Bonaventure School. As a child living in the community of Parkland, we attended Mass every Sunday in the gymnasium. Being so young, I thought it was incredibly cool that church was held in a gym. As luck would have it, years later, I would attend that school myself. Fast forward almost 20 years. I was newly married, and my husband Tony and I had just had our first child. We lived in Northeast Calgary, but we knew we wanted to have our baby baptized at St. Bonaventure, where I had celebrated most of my sacraments. We took our four-day-old baby boy to Sunday Mass, and afterward, we instantly knew that this church and its parishioners would become part of our “family.” After my daughter was born and I became a stay-at-home mom, I joined the St. Anne’s Mother’s Group in the parish. I felt called to be with other Catholic women and mothers, and to get to know my faith better. There was babysitting for my kids, so it was a time of gentle peace with like-minded women. We bonded over our faith, our families, a few family recipes, coffee, and some good old-fashioned girl talk. Several years later, I was still enjoying the Mother’s Group, as it was my two hours of time to myself while my kids were at preschool. One day, I needed a pen, so I decided to stop by the parish office to see if I could borrow one. I noticed the parish secretary seemed run off her feet, moving from desk to desk as though she was doing 20 things at once. Jokingly, but also casually looking for a part-time job, I asked if she was hiring. I remember the look on her face; it was as if I had just been the answer to her prayers. She responded, “Yes, as a matter of fact, I am. Are you up for an interview with me and Fr. Bill?”
Written by Michelle Fraser for Faithfully. Michelle has been the Sacrament Coordinator at St. Bonaventure Church for over 22 years. Michelle and her husband Tony are native Calgarians with two grown children. She volunteers at the parish as ministry coordinator for Art & Environment and the Hospitality Ministry. She enjoys travelling with her husband and bicycling. Photos courtesy of Lance Dixon and Michelle Fraser.
With prayer and the Holy Spirit as our guide, we made progress. Parishioners were introduced to and informed about the Pastoral Renewal and its importance through pulpit announcements and email updates. Posters were also put up, including some of our own, which were made on very bright paper to ensure they were not missed. When it came time for the survey in June, we hit the ground running. Promotion of the survey was approached the same way as the Renewal information was shared, with pulpit announcements, information, and reminders via email and posters. On Corpus Christi Sunday, June 2, 2024, we adopted the process of not having the procession after the final blessing at Mass (this had been noted to parishioners in shared information before June 2nd) to give time for survey completion. Father Silvano asked all to stay after Mass and complete the survey, which he noted was not mandatory, but greatly encouraged. All parishioners listened, and we had a great response. We received everyone's completed surveys on the first Sunday of the Survey. Our aspirations and goals had been met, above and beyond, in one Sunday gathering! St. Mary’s parishioners have a deep dedication to our church and to the parish as a community. Their support is unsurpassed when it is needed and asked for! Everyone definitely came together to help achieve a successful end result with the Renewal survey—each and every parishioner is to be commended! We will await the survey results, which will be sent to our parish, as these will continue to guide us on the path of the Renewal process. When the results are received, they will greatly aid us in identifying the areas we need to focus on and address moving forward. The Renewal team will review the results and then present the information to the parishioners, gathering feedback as the journey continues. Although at the beginning, the needs for and presentation of the survey were a tad daunting, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and St. Mary’s parishioners reign supreme! Written by Elaine Carley, Parish Renewal Team chair of St. Mary's Parish in Beiseker. Photo credit: Town of Irricana.
On June 7-9, 2024, the Sacred Heart Parish in Calgary held the 40 Hours of Adoration for Vocations. This prayer gathering was a testament to the unwavering faith and devotion of the parish community to the importance of vocations to the priesthood and religious life within the Diocese of Calgary. The parish community responded enthusiastically. Many parishioners participated in the adoration, taking turns spending time in prayer and meditation. This collective effort demonstrates the deep commitment of the Sacred Heart Parish to supporting and nurturing vocations, which are crucial for the growth and vitality of the local Church. Through this prayer initiative, the parish fostered an environment of prayerful support and encouragement for those discerning a religious vocation. We are thankful for the success of the 40 Hours Adoration for Vocations, and the active participation of the parish community. It was truly a strong testament to the community spirit that thrives within our parish. Written by Fr. Arjay Arbanto, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish, Calgary. Photos courtesy of Sacred Heart Parish.
We are truly blessed! Thank you to all who participated in the Survey!
An incredible 19,000 parishioners from across the diocese participated in the survey, demonstrating a belief in the importance of Renewal in their faith life and thatof the parish community. We look forward to sharing the many insights gained from the survey results, which will help us understand our greatest strengths and opportunities for growth on our path to Renewal. Special thanks to diocesan and parish staff for their hard work! Our collective efforts in promoting and facilitating the Survey in every parish community made a significant impact and allowed us to truly hear the voice of our parishioners. What next? Here's a look at the key milestones prepared by the Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team as we move forward to the second year of our Renewal journey:
This spring and summer, our parishes are joyfully welcoming families into the sacramental life. We ask for your continued prayers for the youth across the diocese as they receive their Sacraments of Christian Initiation, particularly First Communion and Confirmation. We also extend our gratitude to Bishop Jon Hansen (see photos below) from the Diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith for assisting Bishop McGrattan with Confirmation Masses in some of our parishes. Photos courtesy of Bandi Szakony (St. Joseph's Parish, St. Anthony's, Parish, St. Francis de Sales Parish), Victor Panlilio (Canadian Martyr's Parish), and Maria Hernandez (St. Mary's Cathedral, Calgary).
In April, Holy Spirit Parish hosted a 40 Hours Adoration for Vocations, drawing an impressive number of participants and receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback. "The number of people registered through the 40 hours Adoration was 378," Pauline Jensen, Adoration coordinator, shared, "However, I would put that number up and over 500 as many did not register either from this parish or other parishes. There were many new faces and I surmise the notice on the Diocesan website was instrumental in appealing to those wanting to attend an Adoration at certain hours." This prayer event is a part of the broader diocesan initiative. In his letter promoting the 40 Hours, the Bishop emphasized, "In the spirit of our Diocesan Renewal, I wish to promote the 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations in the Diocese of Calgary. This Devotion is a longstanding tradition of forty hours of continuous prayer before the solemn Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in a succession of churches for special intentions. In the Diocese of Calgary, the special intention will be for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life." Pauline noted that the event ran smoothly without any issues, thanks to the help of their dedicated volunteers. "The night hours went well," she said. "The Knights arrived at midnight and were in the chapel when I arrived at 7 am." Special prayer sessions marked the devotion. "On Saturday, the Spanish community led the rosary at 5 pm, and the prayer group at 6 pm," Pauline mentioned. Additionally, the Divine Mercy prayer was recited at various intervals throughout the 40 Hours. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the experience as "calm, peaceful, holy" and expressing eagerness for future events. "When can we do this again?" was echoed by many attendees. Fr. David Meadows expressed his gratefulness for the prayer, stating, "Our 40 Hours Adoration for Vocations was a great success. I was impressed by the number of people, and their enthusiasm." The 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations at Holy Spirit Parish not only demonstrated the strong sense of community within the parish but also highlighted the power of collective prayer and devotion. As the Bishop underscored Matthew's Gospel passage in his letter, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest” (Matt. 9:37-38). He added, "Through this initiative of the 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations, we will in time see the fruits of our prayer as the Lord sends out labourers into his harvest, including into the local church of the Diocese of Calgary."
Submitted by Deacon Greg Barcelon, Parish Renewal Team, St. Mary's Cathedral
In the intricate dance of community engagement, one often encounters unexpected challenges and opportunities. This was precisely the case for St. Mary's Cathedral parish as we embarked on facilitating the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal Survey. Conventional wisdom will tell us that "Strategic" would not come out as one of the top.3 leadership traits listed under Question 15 of the survey. This revelation sparked our curiosity and drove us to delve deeper into thinking strategically. However, before we could delve into details of our strategy, we had to address a pressing concern: how to incentivize participation and ensure that the survey resonated with our parishioners. Understanding the age-old question of "What's in it for me?" was pivotal. With meticulous planning, we tailored our approach to emphasize the tangible benefits of participating, from shaping the future of our parish to fostering a sense of belonging and ownership. Then, we realized we faced a significant hurdle, i.e., the clash between the prescribed June 1/2 survey weekend and the much-anticipated Lilac Festival in the vicinity of the Cathedral. Recognizing the potential impact on attendance, we sought a solution that would accommodate the schedules of our parishioners. Thanks to the advocacy of our Rector, Fr. Avinash, we secured a postponement, allowing us to have a better chance at success, plus it afforded us to observe best practices from other parishes who were doing the survey one week ahead of us. Drawing from this observation period, we refined our approach with three strategic pillars: proactive engagement before Mass, integration of the survey into homilies, and innovative distribution methods to ensure simultaneous participation. These tactics not only streamlined the survey process but also fostered a sense of collective responsibility and engagement among our parishioners. However, our efforts did not end with tapping our regular Mass-goers. We recognized the importance of reaching out to every corner of our parish community, including newly registered parishioners, volunteers of various ministries, parish groups, parents of sacramental preparation classes and newly initiated RCIA attendees. Leveraging digital platforms and personalized communication, we cast a wide net, inviting all voices to contribute to our collective narrative. Looking ahead, our focus shifts to rekindling connections with those who have drifted away from the fold. We envision a grassroots movement where every parishioner becomes an ambassador, reaching out to friends and family members who may have lapsed in their attendance. It's a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the collective strength of a unified parish. In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this endeavor, from our dedicated Parish Renewal Team to the countless volunteers and parishioners who recognized the value of our survey. Together, we have embarked on a journey of self-discovery and renewal, paving the way for a blessed future for our beloved parish. Rewind to June 2023. Out of pure luck, I saw a posting for a teaching position with Christ the King Academy, a middle school in the same small town where I lived. I happened to know the vice principal, Errin Nelson, and took a chance and emailed him to ask some questions. Fast-forward to the end of that week, and I had accepted a brand-new teaching position in another school division! I was leaving my home division, which brought me to Alberta in 2011. Scared? A little. Excited? Definitely. I felt in my heart that I was called to make this big change. My daughter, Anna (8), joined me. She and I are glued at the hip, and she wanted to move to Holy Family Academy to remain close to her momma. This is when I began to notice incredible divine intervention. It sounds so strange to say out loud, but there is no doubt in my mind that I was called to this position. Several signs appeared over the next little while that made me know for certain I had made the most incredible choice. Jumping forward again, I learned about RCIA, which was going to begin in October. I have always had a ton of questions and often wondered if there was 'more'. Out of my personal and very private fear of death, which only grew stronger once I became a mother, I reached out and signed myself and my daughter up. Once my journey of learning about the Catholic faith began, I have not looked back. One particular example illuminated for me was this; my classroom saint is St. Joseph; I was born in Saint Joseph's Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario; and my grandfather's name was Joseph. This Easter, my incredible daughter Anna and I were baptized and fully initiated into the Catholic Church at St. Mary's in Brooks. We were baptized together and received the Sacraments. My heart is so full and so incredibly grateful to several amazing people who have made me feel more like a family than I can ever express.
The teachers and staff of CTK welcomed my daughter and I with open arms. I am forever grateful and will hold the CTK and Christ of the Redeemer School Division families in my heart and prayers forever. Submitted by Sarah Parkin, Teacher at Christ the King Academy. Photos courtesy of Sarah Parkin.
While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing Him." ~ Luke 24:15-16 This was a passage that many parishioners, who participated in St. Albert the Great’s Parish Renewal Gathering on May 4, 2024, pondered deeply and discussed heartfully during the Lectio Divina. One parishioner said, “How many times do we fail to recognize Jesus in one another? Yet He is with us all the time.” Another one expressed, “we were given the beautiful gift of sight, but we often close our eyes and fail to see the beauty of Jesus present in us.” Last Saturday’s gathering at our parish was indeed an eye-opener for many of us. While in the facade of our beautiful church we seem lively and vibrant, and indeed we are, there are areas we may be failing to recognize in our parish community. It could be families struggling in their relationships, our youth getting lost in their paths, our young adults who don’t know where to start, friendships strained and broken by past hurts, the elderly who may have been forgotten, or even one’s struggles with work in a weakening faith life. These are some of the “things” that are happening in the lives of parishioners. When Cleopas answered Jesus, “are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” Jesus replied, “What things?” Well, we can talk to Jesus and tell Him, Lord these are the things! Very quickly, Jesus will probably tell us how foolish we are because it is necessary for those things to happen so “He can enter into His glory”. In another small group conversation, a parishioner reflected on the presence of sufferings in our lives as a way of God to reveal His glory. “What’s important is to know that we are not alone and that we have Jesus and the entire community to walk with us in our journey and the sufferings that come with it. It is comforting to know that I have a home and that if I experience some suffering, I have an entire community that prays for me.” That hits the note!
What a great day it was for our parish, you can strongly sense the Holy Spirit’s presence. “I didn’t know what to expect for attendance, but everyone’s presence here is truly a blessing to our parish. St. Albert the Great parishioners are the best!”, said Fr. Andrew who gave his full support and guidance throughout the planning of the gathering. When asked what his vision is for the Renewal, he said, “my goal is for everyone in the parish to call this home.” Sounds like we are on the right track! The journey to Renewal is long and not easy. Bishop McGrattan said and was quoted many times throughout the gathering, “Renewal is not a sprint, but is a marathon.” St. Albert the Great is gearing for it! As a renewal team member said, it is not an 8-member team but an entire parish that will run the marathon. To affirm that, everyone in the gathering expressed their enthusiasm when the word You was changed to We, as they exclaimed, “WE are Called, WE Matter, and WE Belong!” Thank you Jesus! Submitted by Florian Bernardo, St. Albert the Great Parish Renewal Team.
How did Christianity prosper when it was powerless, ridiculed, and persecuted? Early Church historian Henry Chadwick attributes Christianity’s quick spread to women because of Christianity’s belief in the equality of women and men before God. True, in the early years of the first millennium Christian women were still constrained to the social roles of homemaker and wife, but Christianity elevated the status of women through its doctrine that all are created in God’s image and redeemed by Christ, meaning all must treated with respect and dignity. The long-standing importance of women evangelists in the Church was visible in Medicine Hat during the 100-year anniversary celebration of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of St. Patrick’s Parish on Saturday, April 27th, 2024. A century after the chapter’s founding, Bishop McGrattan called CWL a gift to the Church and the community because of CWL’s constant witness, faith, and service. CWL remains steadfastly committed to social justice by promoting life from conception to its natural end. As current St.Patrick’s CWL President Anne Helfrich proudly proclaimed, “since 1924 the CWL chapter of Medicine Hat has helped women grow in faith by being the hands of Jesus.” Michelle Bien, a CWL member who joined two years ago told me, “CWL is for me. CWL fills a niche that nothing else does; it filled a gap in my life I didn’t even know was missing.” This succinctly expresses the heart of the diocesan renewal’s promise of You are called; You matter; You belong. St.Patrick’s CWL chapter creates a vibrant and radiant parish life by actively caring for the parish and the greater community of Medicine Hat by fundraising for charities like the Ronald McDonald House, Salvation Army, and the Mustard Seed, giving away clothing to those who need it, teaching children how to pray the rosary, and providing scholarships to students of Catholic schools. Bishop McGrattan’s homily at the celebratory Mass and his speech to over 100 CWL members and guests at the dinner following, discussed how lay movements witness daily to the Church’s call to charity by, “Taking out of the storehouse what is good and bringing it forth.” Bishop McGrattan concluded by issuing a challenge to grow vocations throughout the diocese by committing to 40 hours of Eucharistic adoration because Eucharistic adoration will be the most efficacious approach to diocesan renewal. As I listened to the legacy of this vibrant CWL chapter and Bishop McGrattan’s message for renewal, I was reminded of another woman who sparked a Catholic renewal – St. Juliana of Mont Carillon – a Flemish nun instrumental in establishing the Feast of Corpus Christi in the thirteenth century when many people did not have access to, or understand, the Eucharist. Prophets like St. Juliana appear in periods of crisis when the patterns of life have been disrupted or destroyed. Religious leaders and laypeople at the time recognized and admired the religious devotion of St. Juliana and her sisters who channeled their energy into Eucharistic adoration. The Feast of Corpus Christi quickly became one of the most important and popular feasts of the Church because of its focus on the central mystery of the faith, and because it expressed pride in community life and, of course, simply because it was fun, which was fully on display when members of the CWL enacted a spirited and laughter-filled “fashion show.” While popular music of the past decades played, CWL members donned period clothing and joyfully paid tribute to women of the past 100 years, one decade at a time. President Helfrich, who revived the chapter after the pandemic at Fr. Roque’s request, gave the audience a humorous history lesson and noted major moments in Church history over the past 100 years. Worship, laughter, and frivolity merged into a joyous whole, showing how to bring the love of Christ into community life. If the Church’s past is any predictor of its future, women (such as the century of women from the CWL chapter of St. Patrick’s in Medicine Hat) will play a leading role in the Church’s renewal. They will lead the renewal through service to their community, Eucharistic devotion, and they will have fun doing so! “CWL is a great place to live the Catholic faith,” President Helfrich said. “CWL has supported me and what I stand for, filled my life with friendships, and gave me opportunities to help people.” Congratulations to all the members of St. Patrick’s CWL, especially the organizing committee. May God continue to bless the next generation of the Catholic Women’s League in Medicine Hat! Written by Jason Openo on behalf of St. Patrick's Parish, Medicine Hat for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Jason Openo.
We were incredibly fortunate to hold our first St. Mary's Cathedral Parish Renewal Gathering on Friday, April 26, 2024, which coincided with the Memorial to Our Lady of Good Counsel. It all began with a beautiful Mass at 5 p.m., with Fr. Avi presiding and Deacon Greg Barcelon and Deacon Dennis Foraie serving. The Catholic Women's League (CWL) of St. Mary’s was instrumental in preparing for this celebration—they diligently took care of various ministries for this Mass - as this is also a special celebration of Our Lady of Good Counsel, the patroness of the Canadian Catholic Women's League. It was a beautiful beginning for the renewal gathering, and it was lovely to see our Church filled with over 300 people at the Mass. After the Mass, Fr. Avi gave a short catechesis updating us all on the #Renewal process, after which we headed off to the Parish Hall to share in a “meatless Friday meal.” It was joyous to see over 220 people come together to share food and fellowship in the Hall. There was plenty of laughter and conversation, and a table was set up for the children to be able to colour and draw throughout the evening. Perhaps one of the biggest surprises to many was the talented group of musicians, led by our own Fr. Avi who performed a range of music and songs that appealed to all age groups. There was even a singalong to “Don’t worry, be happy”, along with Fr. Julian doing an impromptu dance inviting us all to be “joyful” witnesses to others. There was so much conversation happening that when it came time to focus on breaking up into smaller groups to answer 3 questions that the Renewal Team had selected for discussion, Fr. Avi first invoked the aid of Our Lady. Together, we prayed the Hail Mary which brought a profound stillness over us, perfectly setting the tone for thoughtful discussion. The event was highlighted by the mix of familiar faces and many new ones among the attendees. Many of the 220 present were attending their very first “Church” gathering, including several recently welcomed into the Catholic faith at the Easter Vigil. It was encouraging to see the mingling of different Parish group members present to share in the evening and offer a hand, as well as demonstrate their support for the Renewal Team. Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive, with comments such as: “I feel so happy to be part of this lovely group of people”; “I feel like I belong here”; “Great event, great to see so many families here with their children”; and “Thank you so much for bringing us all together again.” “All things are possible with God” never rang so true as it did that evening. Given just two weeks to plan and execute our Renewal Gathering, it was clear to see that there is a hunger and a longing for belonging and meaningful connection within our Parish and the Diocese. It was a great beginning for us, and we remain committed to the spirit of the renewal already stirring within our Parish and Diocese. Submitted by Linda Edney, St. Mary's Cathedral Parish Renewal Team
Growing up, the Catholic Church was a feature in my life. My grandparents were regular Parishoners and my father, though lapsed in his own faith, made reference to the Church as a moral framework. I attended a Catholic school in my formative years out of pragmatism, but was transfered to public school at the impressionable age of 6 and remained in it until graduation. This presence of the Church but separation by a membrane of apathy and intangibility led to my belief that I understood the Church, when in reality I was utterly oblivious to the depths of its grace. This changed during the pandemic. In that time of struggle I was met with various hurdles, challenges that contributed to a deep malaise that overtook my life. It was within this climate of paranoia, uncertainty, and restriction, that I first began to take comfort in the stability and universality of the Church. I could find solace that cut through the pervading doubt that surrounded pandemic in the Truth of God. Apostolic succession, unchanging virtue, all surrounded by the vitality of the Church embodied in Christ. These were things that I did not know in my secular life, and graces that were absent in my other religious forays. I sought a way to unify with the Church, with the way and the life that was a hope in the oppressive darkness of the world. However, my lack of living ties, and the fact that at that time I was only 16, impeded my ability to join. In 2023, following my High School graduation and rapidly approaching my 18th birthday, the potential of a new chapter in my life emboldened me to pursue the fullness of the Church. So I did. I found my way to RCIA, and was met with the spiritual and temporal benefits of the Church that began to impact my life. Catechumenate life connected me with a fantastic array of people experiencing the ongoing journey of faith, people who were indispensible as guides along an uncertain bridge of intake into the Church. It was an honour for me to be able to undergo baptism with such a wonderful group of people, and to have the privilege to be assisted by the faculty of my Parish. Since becoming a Neophyte and I have received further blessings of faith, a galvanization to fulfill my duty as a Catholic and as a follower of Jesus Christ. I foresee a bountiful and happy life in the Church, so I hope that others can hear my testimony of its greatness to come and understand God. Submitted by Connor Shaw, who was baptized on Easter Vigil, April 20, 2024.
We have a beautiful special needs daughter who brought new meaning to “joy”. Hannah never learned to speak our language, but I could feel her love and her enthusiasm every minute I was with her. Hannah completed her earthly ministry in July of 2022 and left me with the biggest hole in my heart. Fortunately, a student and a wonderful friend of mine helped me see that where there is death, there is new life also. I had been happy in my faith and was not looking for more. But when I attended Mass with my friend I was totally blown away. I could not believe how close I felt to our Lord during the Eucharist. I had thought that Catholic worship was pomp and ceremony, but what I saw and felt was a conduit to my Lord. I could not stay away. I started attending Mass every morning on my way to work. Twenty-four hours seemed like such a long time to wait to come back again. A year ago, on Holy Thursday, I had accepted an invitation to a banquet at the Petroleum Club. At that time, I had not yet begun RCIA. So, when I accepted the invitation, I did not realize that I would miss the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. During the evening, something told me that I was at the wrong banquet. I got up and ran to my car, drove to St. Mary’s, miraculously found a parking spot and was just on time for the beginning of the Mass. I was not sure why I was there, but when Bishop McGrattan started washing the feet of those who had been chosen, I felt the most overwhelming spiritual sensation and nothing else mattered. It was like a river cascading in my head. At that moment, I knew that I would be baptized the next Easter. I must admit that my baptism at the Easter Vigil this year was a bit stressful – it was a departure from my past and I was confused and anxious. Now I realize that baptism is not simply an event, it is the beginning of a new life. While I didn’t feel an overwhelming sensation when I was baptized, I have felt a peace that is so beautiful and continuous since then. Something else happened as well – at my first confession. I needed to go, and I thought confession would be miserable with the priest scolding me. I didn’t want to go, and I rehearsed what I would say many times. But it was the most amazing experience – a loving priest understood me and gave me just the guidance I needed (and not what I had expected). I still feel the same way – every Mass is a spectacular adventure where I get to feel His love. I miss my beautiful Hannah, and I go and say a prayer at her grave each day. I know that “those who sow with tears will reap with shouts of joy” and I look forward to seeing Hannah again. And I am so thankful for my new life. I know that He died that we might live. Submitted by Mark Anderson, from St. Mary's Cathedral Parish. Photos courtesy of Maria Hernandez.
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
June 2025
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