 Seeking the quietness in the day, in the midst of your usual routines, The Seven Sisters Apostolate is a Eucharistic Association of women who feel called to strengthen the church by ensuring that a Holy Hour is prayed each day of the week throughout the year for the sole intentions of a specific priest in their Parish. The Anchoress of our Apostolate is charged with assigning each sister one Holy Hour to pray alone before the Blessed Sacrament for a pastor chosen for us. Although we pray alone, we gather once a year, close to the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to celebrate with our pastors and sisters and to renew our commitment to the Apostolate. On June 28 this year, the Apostolate at St. Luke’s Parish held our third annual Potluck Lunch at the church. Our Pastors, Fr. Fernando Genogaling, Fr. Derek Remus, and Fr. Barnabas Esegine, joined us and offered thanks for our prayers for their intentions. We were grateful for the opportunity to “break bread” together, and judging by the volume of chatter in the room, it was clear that our pastors and all of the sisters of the Apostolate enjoyed each other’s company. To date, the Seven Sisters Apostolate at St. Luke’s Parish has 42 sisters who pray every week for the priests who shepherd us and for Bishop Rev. William McGrattan. Although our commitment to pray for our pastors is for one year, the members of the apostolate may choose to recommit for a further year, as many of our sisters have done.
History of the Seven Sisters Apostolate This Apostolate was started in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 2011 by Jeanette Howe and Fr. Joseph Johnson. Through their prayers and advocacy, the Apostolate has grown from a group of seven women to over 2600 groups on six continents, in 50 States in the USA, and in almost all of the Provinces of Canada. If your Parish is interested in this ministry and would like more information about the Seven Sisters Apostolate, please visit sevensistersapostolate.org We thank our anchoress, who belongs to the Seat of Wisdom presidium of the Legion of Mary, and as part of her Spiritual Works of Mercy, is committed to starting this Apostolate at our Parish. We are grateful for her leadership and the opportunity to be part of a powerful prayer group whose commitment to prayer for the pastors of our Parish has enriched our own lives. Written by D. Gibson, member of St. Luke’s Parish in Calgary.
Photos courtesy of Victor Panlilio, and The Sisters of the Apostolate who pray for the Parish priests and our Bishop.
0 Comments
 At St. Albert the Great Parish in Calgary, Homecoming is a beloved fall tradition, a joyful time when parishioners come together to reconnect, welcome new faces, and celebrate all that God is doing in their midst. This year, however, Homecoming 2025 carried a special focus: Parish Renewal. Our renewal journey has reminded us that renewal is not only something happening within our parish; it begins in each of us. As we come home to our parish family, we are also called to come home to Christ through prayer and personal conversion. That message of “Welcome Home” was visible everywhere throughout the celebration, from the joyful greetings at our doors to the heartfelt words shared from the ambo. Homecoming began with Name Tag Weekend, a parish tradition, where everyone attending Mass was invited to wear a name tag, from work, school, or even a creative homemade one designed by the children. It was a fun and meaningful way to get to know one another better and to recognize that each name represents a unique story of faith that makes our parish family stronger. At the same time, the parish hall came alive with the Ministry Fair, where parishioners explored the many ways to serve, grow, and share their gifts. It was a beautiful expression of how renewal becomes visible through active discipleship and stewardship. The following weekend featured our Volunteer Appreciation Tailgate BBQ a spirited, faith-filled celebration where volunteers and their families came together as one “home team.” Wearing the colors of their favorite sports teams, parishioners shared food, laughter, and fellowship in gratitude for all who serve so generously throughout the year. Homecoming 2025 concluded with the joyful unveiling of our Parish Renewal Plan, marking a milestone moment for the community. After two years of listening, prayer, and discernment, the Parish Renewal Team presented the plan and invited all parishioners to join this new chapter of faith and mission. Each person received a printed copy of the plan, along with a comfort cross and prayer card featuring the parish’s new Mission Statement. Simple reminders that parish renewal begins with personal renewal, and personal renewal begins with prayer. Following each Mass, the parish gathered for fellowship and refreshments graciously hosted by Couples for Christ, while viewing the newly released Diocesan Renewal video, connecting St. Albert the Great’s journey to the wider renewal movement across the Diocese. Homecoming 2025 was more than an event…it was a living expression of renewal and welcome. As we move forward, may every heart at St. Albert the Great continue to be renewed in faith, hope, and love, so that together we may build up the Church and make our parish a true spiritual home for all. Welcome Home, to renewal at St. Albert the Great!  Written by St. Albert the Great's Parish Renewal Team.
 Written by Sean Lynn, St. Peter's Parish Renewal Team. In early 2024, I was invited to join the Parish Renewal Team, tasked with translating the diocesan call into concrete parish initiatives. Around the same time, through my work with God Squad and the Heroic Men's Lay Association, I interviewed Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers about his new book Building a Civilization of Love: A Catholic Response to Racism. His reflections on the universality of the Church and how every communion line mirrors the rich diversity of God’s people led me to consider how our own parish might better reflect its members. In his book, Deacon Harold challenges us to make the parish’s liturgical and communal life a true “mirror of the faithful.” Soon after, the Knights of Columbus hosted a men’s pizza night, providing a relaxed space for conversation and listening. Seizing the opportunity, I shared Deacon Harold’s challenge. I suggested that, instead of our traditional salmon dinner, we host an African-inspired barbecue, especially given the growing number of Nigerian families in our parish. David Asekomhe, who was present that evening, warmly embraced the idea and promised to explore it further. When our new pastor, Fr. Fabio de Souza, arrived, the spirit of Renewal gained new energy. David, still eager to bring the idea to life, gathered a planning team that included Emmanuel Edem and Emmanuel Udoh. Together they developed A Taste of St. Peter’s, a multicultural feast inviting every parishioner to bring a dish that represented their heritage. Seeing other men step into leadership roles was deeply inspiring. Their enthusiasm sparked a renewed sense of excitement throughout the parish community. Held on October 4, the event coincided with the launch of the third year of diocesan renewal. The celebration featured:
I pray that this Renewal continues to deepen our sense of belonging and reflect the universal nature of the Church in a world often torn by division. It fills me with hope to see volunteers stepping forward, each one helping to build up the Kingdom by doing the will of God. May the spark lit by A Taste of St. Peter’s carry us onward, strengthening our community, enriching our worship, and bearing witness to the love that unites all God’s children in a Church of encounter.
  Written by Bishop William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary. This weekend marked the beginning of the third year of our Diocesan Renewal… You are Called, You Matter, and You Belong. It also coincided with a Worship Conference for liturgical ministry coordinators entitled The Church at Worship, held at St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Mary’s High School. Those who attended the two-day gathering participated in a solemn Evening Prayer, the celebration of the Eucharist, three conferences delivered by Fr. Frank Scalia of the Archdiocese of Montreal, and several practical workshops, all designed to renew the heart of liturgical ministry. The Conference focused on deepening our understanding of the Church’s liturgical worship through prayer and the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist. General liturgical principles were introduced to guide our celebrations and to reflect on the various forms of liturgical leadership that serve the Body of Christ in our parishes.
On Friday evening, participants gathered at the Cathedral for a chanted Evening Prayer that began with the Service of Light, or lucernarium. In the silence of the darkened church, the assembly gathered in procession with the Easter Candle, as the proclamation of light was chanted, “The Light of Christ – Thanks be to God.” The sharing of the flame among the assembly became a powerful symbol of our faith in Christ’s resurrection and triumph over death. Fr. Scalia’s reflections were both rich and instructive. On Friday evening he offered a foundational vision of liturgical worship, emphasizing that the Church’s liturgy is a spiritual and sacramental encounter with the living Lord in His Paschal Mystery. He reminded participants that the rites and prayers of the Church, handed down through the generations, have become the language of our Faith, enabling us to know it, celebrate it, and live it. Lex orandi: the way we pray together informs, lex credendi: the way we understand and believe the Faith, and leads to lex vivendi: the way we live as baptized Christians and missionary disciples of Jesus Christ.  On Saturday, Fr. Scalia outlined the principles of liturgy that form the foundation of renewal, drawing upon the Second Vatican Council’s Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium. He emphasized that the Eucharist is the sacramental reality that makes present the one and same sacrifice of Christ offered for our salvation. To celebrate this sacred mystery with dignity, devotion, and adoration, several principles must guide us:
In his final conference, Fr. Scalia reflected on the meaning of liturgical leadership, drawing from several Gospel passages where Christ reveals the deeper truth of Christian leadership, a love expressed in service that seeks the good of others. He reminded participants that every liturgical role, whether visible or unseen, must always be exercised as a form of service for the good of God’s People gathered in worship. This spirit of service prepared participants for the Saturday afternoon workshops, which focused on the specific ministries that contribute to the beauty and reverence of our liturgical celebrations: altar servers, sacristans, lectors, choir members, hospitality ministers, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, liturgical environment, and liturgical committees. These sessions were led by lay representatives, permanent deacons, and priests of our Diocese, fostering dialogue, learning, and collaboration… a true sign of the fruits of our ongoing Renewal. As we continue to implement parish pastoral plans and sustain our Diocesan Renewal, we must always return to the primacy of grace received through the Church’s liturgical life, in prayer, the Sacraments, and most especially in the Eucharist, which is the source and summit of the Christian life.
Photography: Bandi Szakony, for the Diocese of Calgary
 Like all the parishes in the Diocese of Calgary, our parish, Saint Martha's, has been diligently working on the Parish Renewal over the past few years. We continue to ask the Holy Spirit to guide us, and it has been a wonderful journey meeting with one another under the spiritual guidance and prayers of our pastor, Father William Monis, and our Deacon Bruce Barnett. We tried to follow the guidelines and timing set out by the diocese and were happy to submit our results on schedule. We didn't expect to win the draw for the barbecue, as many other hardworking parishes were competing for the same prize. We were very surprised on June 14 when our name was drawn from the hat. Many people got together to form a committee to organize this event. The response from the volunteers was tremendous! The barbecue took place on Friday, August 29, which was perfect timing. Bishop McGrattan was to be in Lethbridge in the morning for the opening school Mass for the Holy Spirit School Division staff. We began with a beautiful Holy Mass at 5 pm with all our Lethbridge priests concelebrating. Not only was the Mass so beautiful, but Bishop McGrattan also used this time to install our new pastor, Father Valentine Suum, who joined us on August 1. It was a very meaningful celebration, and all present appreciated the opportunity to be part of the installation. Our parish is comprised of many cultures, and one of the elders from the Blackfoot Confederacy, Martin Eagle Child, requested that his group make a presentation to our bishop and our two new priests at the conclusion of Mass. After the final blessing, the First Nations group, in their traditional outfits, processed into the church to the sound of drumming to present a blanket to each of Bishop William, Father Valentine, and Father Luke. It was very powerful and all were moved. 
After Mass, everyone went outside to enjoy the fellowship at the barbecue. We had over 200 people, and the weather was perfect. Many volunteers prepared, cooked, and served the food to our hungry guests. Bishop McGrattan was a gracious host as he went from table to table talking to the people. One person joked that the bishop was "working the room." We were delighted that many of our friends and clergy from All Saints Parish in Lethbridge were also able to join us for this special event, as we are all in this together. We are very grateful to the diocese for all it has been doing to lead us throughout the Renewal, and we thank them for their hospitality in sponsoring this great event. It has been very positive, and we will all continue to move forward as we continue this journey. Written by Teresa Spearman, St. Martha's Parish Renewal Team in Lethbridge. Photography courtesy of Matthew Visuals & Saint Martha's Parish.
 You’re invited, whether for a day, a weekend, or the whole week! Join young adults and all pilgrims for this Marian Week in the heart of the Rockies. As part of our diocesan journey in the Jubilee Year of Hope, it’s a sacred time of prayer, pilgrimage, and celebration, and a special opportunity to receive plenary indulgences during this grace-filled year. August 15-18 | St. Mary's, Banff
Fri-Sat, Aug 15-17 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore) Friday, Aug 15
Saturday, Aug 16
Monday, Aug 18 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore)
Tue to Thu, Aug 19-21 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore) Daily Horarium during the Jubilee Marian Week at the Shrine Church on Tuesday to Thursday (Aug 19-21)
Friday, Aug 22 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore)
Sat-Sun, Aug 23-24 | Shrine Church, CanmoreLocation: The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore) Saturday, August 23 at the Shrine Church
 A special gathering of young people from Canada took place in Rome on Tuesday, 29 July 2025, at the Church of Sant’Andrea della Valle, during the Jubilee of Youth (28 July to 3 August 2025), part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year celebrations. The Jubilee of Youth brought together thousands of young people from around the world for a week of prayer, catechesis, cultural exchange, and joyful witness. This international pilgrimage invited young people to deepen their relationship with Christ and to be living signs of hope and communion in today’s world. An estimated 1,000 young people from across Canada made the pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee of Youth. Pilgrims represented dioceses, eparchies, national groups, movements, and associations from across the country. A delegation of young adults from the Diocese of Calgary, led by Fr. Troy Nguyen, Fr. Cristino Bouvette, and Fr. Santiago Torres, joined the global pilgrims in Rome as part of their Jubilee Year Pilgrimage. Their journey, organized through St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy (SFXC), has taken them through sacred sites across Italy, including Montecassino, Sepino, Assisi, Padua, Turin, Florence, and Orvieto, before reaching Rome for the Papal Mass with Pope Leo XIV at Tor Vergata.
Adapted from CCCB. Photos courtesy of diocesan young adults SFXC pilgrims.
 Since 1993, Feed the Hungry, an outreach of the Diocese of Calgary, has responded to the Gospel call to serve those in need. With the help of generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers, we offer more than a meal: we offer a ministry of hope and belonging. Every Sunday, guests are welcomed with compassion, whether through a hot sit-down meal or a hamper to-go. A quick glance at how your support makes a difference
 Written by Deacon Michael Soentgerath On June 13, 2025, a small group of us, invited by Anthony Banka from the Catholic Pastoral Centre, participated in World Elder Abuse Awareness Day at the Kirby Centre in Calgary. The theme of the Expo was “Growing the Conversation.” We heard encouraging messages from several invited guests, including Mayor Jyoti Gondek. After the speeches, participants were invited to browse the incredible range of organizations and agencies in our city dedicated to supporting seniors, whether they be Indigenous, immigrants, refugees, or long-time Calgarians. We were invited to represent the Diocese of Calgary and chose to focus on our Catholic response to palliative care as seniors approach the end of life. Our booth featured posters, pamphlets, and various other resources designed to communicate the inherent dignity of every human person, a dignity that remains intact from the womb to the tomb. We highlighted the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ program Horizons of Hope, which emphasizes the importance of ensuring that every person feels loved, useful, and wanted until the moment they are called home by our loving Creator. As each of us engaged with individuals walking through the auditorium, we made a conscious effort to meet everyone as a fellow human being, a brother or sister of our Father in heaven. If our materials speak of human dignity and love of neighbour, then we knew we were called to embody that message in each encounter. These brief yet meaningful interactions often began with a warm smile or a simple gesture of welcome, an invitation from one person to another to share in the joy and hope that comes from the Good News: that we are all family. By engaging with heartfelt sincerity, we believe many people felt a genuine connection to our message and were moved to take some of our materials home. It is our hope and prayer that, through these resources and the encounters they experienced, individuals might come to see the beauty and sacredness of life, even in its final stages, and choose life, trusting that God will welcome them to their eternal home once their time has come.
Renewal is truly taking root across the Diocese of Calgary. As of the end of June, over 30 parishes submitted their Pastoral Renewal Plans, each a beautiful expression of faith, discernment, and commitment to parish life. To mark this milestone, parishes that submitted by June 15 were entered into the BBQ with the Bishop's draw. And now, the moment everyone’s been waiting for has arrived! Watch the video below, revealing the winner to a visit from Bishop McGrattan, complete with BBQ and celebration in the Fall! While submitting a plan is not an approval process, each parish submission will receive supportive insights and feedback next month to help parishes strengthen and grow their efforts. Every plan is a parish community's response to their call to renewal, and we’re excited to witness what unfolds. So, what’s next? This fall, parishes will begin sharing their renewal plans more widely within their communities. We’ll also mark the third anniversary of the Diocesan Renewal Launch with parish-wide announcements and celebrations at Masses on Sunday, Oct. 4–5. We hope that these moments will inspire renewed commitment and invite everyone to take part in the journey. From there, parishes will begin putting their action items into motion, and trusting that the Holy Spirit will continue to lead them, one faithful step at a time.  On Saturday, June 14, 2025, pastoral staff and lay ministers from across the Diocese gathered at the Martha Retreat Centre in Lethbridge for a day of reflection, renewal, and rest. Guided by Fr. Tim Boyle and supported by the Pastoral Ministry Office, the retreat offered sacred time to encounter God’s love more deeply, through prayer, beauty, silence, and sacramental insight. Below are reflections from participants who share how the day stirred their hearts and strengthened their calling to serve. Letting God Work Through Me: A Sacrament Coordinator’s Insight I attended the retreat at Martha Retreat Center in Lethbridge on June 14, 2025 organized by the Pastoral Ministry Office of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary, and I find myself still inspired by what I experienced and learned. Guided by Fr. Tim Boyle, I was reminded of the profound depth of God’s love especially as it manifests in the Holy Trinity and the figure of Sophia, wisdom itself. As he reflected on these truths, I was struck by how central God's love is to everything we do in ministry. It made me realize that without this divine love, the sacraments, creation, and even our efforts in faith formation would lack their true purpose. Throughout the retreat, I became more aware that my role as a Sacrament Coordinator is not about hierarchy or titles, but about reflecting God's boundless love to those I serve. This shift in perspective was powerful for me. It challenged me to approach my ministry with humility and a renewed sense of selfless service rooted in divine benevolence. I felt a deep calling to see my work as an extension of God's love, as an act of sharing His goodness, patience, and compassion. The icon of the Transfiguration especially resonated with me. It reminds me that transformation is possible, not just for the figures in the Bible, but for myself as well. Seeing Jesus at the center of the icon inspires me to emulate His example, to become more Christ-like in my attitude, words, and actions. It encourages me to assess my strengths and weaknesses honestly; trusting that through God's grace, I can grow and improve in serving others. Most profoundly, I was reminded that true service is humble. It’s about echoing God's humility, serving others not for recognition, but out of love. This retreat has rekindled my passion to serve with renewed enthusiasm, knowing that my work is part of a larger divine story. I am encouraged to lead with love, to emulate Christ’s humility, and to allow God's transformative power to shape both my ministry and my life. This experience has deepened my understanding that Sacramental ministry is not just about tasks, but it's about creating space for God's love to work through me, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those I am privileged to serve. Carlo Peregrina, Sacrament Coordinator Sacred Heart Parish, Calgary
For others on the retreat, the day brought a similar sense of grounding and grace. Cristiana from All Saints Parish in Lethbridge shared how the retreat met her in a moment of spiritual weariness. “I’m sincerely grateful for the day spent at Martha Retreat Centre, it was grace that quenched my thirst for Truth,” she wrote. Surrounded by a culture that pushes self-achievement and image, she said it was easy to slip into promoting a version of Catholicism that’s more about appearances than the cross. Yet the retreat pulled her back to the heart of the Gospel: “Instead of being a herald of a triumphant faith, I was reminded to be a witness to a Saviour who enters into our suffering to bring real life.” Mimi, from St. Mark’s Parish in Calgary, described the retreat as a much-needed chance to breathe and be still. “It was a blessing to be welcomed into a holy time and space,” she shared. She appreciated the rhythm of the day, especially Fr. Boyle’s gentle and creative approach. “His use of imagery and the contemplation of photographs coaxed the mind to expand its understanding, while the celebration of Holy Eucharist, followed by a period of meditation with the aid of an icon, encouraged the heart to open to the promptings of the Lord." Both Cristiana and Mimi expressed deep gratitude for the space to pause, pray, and be reminded of what really matters. “Thank you for setting the meeting time and space for this unforgettable encounter with the Lord,” Mimi added. As Cristiana put it, “What a magnificent God we have: only He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the humble!” 
Among the participants were the oldest couple at age 67, and a pair who have been civilly married for 27 years. With humility and tenderness, they joined others in lovingly revisiting their commitment to one another, now preparing to sanctify that bond through the Sacrament of Matrimony. This course is not a standalone event—it is a gateway. All participating couples are now on a common path, eagerly anticipating their Church wedding during one of three upcoming Sacred Grace Wedding Masses this year: September 13, October 25, and November 8. Each of these Masses will be a profound celebration—not only of marital love but also of God’s grace alive in our midst, renewing the very foundation of family life in our parishes. A second offering of the Marriage Integration Course is scheduled for July 19, 2025, where another forty or so couples will revisit their own commitment to each other. We invite all parishioners across the Diocese to keep these couples in your prayers—that their journey toward the Sacrament may be filled with grace, healing, and joyful anticipation. May our collective prayer sustain and bless them as they take this sacred step forward. The primary purpose of marriage is not to make husband and wife happy, but to make them holy… a means of growing in virtue and helping each other on the path to heaven.”
Written by Deacon Greg Bercelon, Coordinator for Sacred Grace: Church Wedding for Civilly Married Couples.
Watch now!
 Our new Holy Father’s words in his first homily to the College of Cardinals contains much food for thought and prayer as we prepare for the great feast of Pentecost and develop our pastoral renewal plans. “We are called to bear witness to our joyful faith in Jesus, the Saviour. It is essential to do this first of all, in our personal relationship with the Lord, in our commitment to a daily journey of conversion, then to do so as a church experiencing together our fidelity to the Lord and bringing the good news to all. … Reflection:
Let us pray the Novena to the Holy Spirit with these actions in mind.
 I’ve always been a bit of a dreamer. Since I was young, I’ve been fascinated by books like “Set All Afire” by Louis de Wohl. If you haven’t read it, this novel, which tells the story of St. Francis Xavier’s missionary journeys, is a page-turner and will set your heart on fire, too. St. Francis traversed much of Asia, through storms at sea, jungles on foot, risking life and limb to spread the Gospel of Christ. And he succeeded. Sometimes it's hard to connect the dots, but the Renewal Plans being created by your parishes are contributing to this very same mission of saving souls. Keep an eye out as the Parish Renewal Team in most parishes is sharing a draft of their Renewal Plan with you at any time. You won’t be asked to sail the ocean or dodge poisonous snakes (so far as I know). Still, the plan will be filled with action items to help your parish create more missionary disciples, strengthen family life and foster an urgent sense of mission by becoming a Church of encounter and witness. Just like in Asia in the time of St. Francis Xavier, so many souls in our families and communities are aching for the healing love of Christ, and our Lord is asking us to help Him reach them. If we pursue our Renewal Plans with vigour, they will bear fruit and change lives, and we will know the joy of helping this to happen. As you review the draft Renewal Plan for your parish, think and pray about the action items you see and give feedback to your Renewal Team. Do they meet the needs of the parish? Do they go far enough? A key to a good plan is to have action items that you can count on to have an impact. One way to evaluate an action item is to ask, "What concrete result will this action achieve?” If you have no way of determining whether the action has been accomplished, that means it's too vague and risks not making a real impact. For example, if an action item states simply, “Be a parish that prays”, it is too vague. However, if it includes main steps similar to “Each lector commits to spend 30 minutes weekly in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament”, it has become specific, causing a concrete action and therefore result to occur. Similarly, “Be a more welcoming parish” is too broad if left at that. However, if it is replaced by, or has as a main step “Establish a greeter/usher ministry”, it has become something actionable, concrete. You will know if you did it or not. If our parish plans are filled with action items that accomplish objectives and are measurable, we will see our parish take great strides. The same goes for our own personal renewal. Big change starts with small, concrete steps—like committing to a daily prayer time or inviting someone back to church. Vague goals won’t get us far, but specific actions done with love transform our lives! When St. Francis Xavier arrived in India, he did so with a specific actionable plan. First in Goa, and then beyond. And if we were to put it in one of our Renewal Plans, it would look like this: ==== Action Item: Evangelize Goa Main Steps:
Responsible Person: Francis Xavier ==== As our parishes finalize their Renewal Plans, let us ask the good Lord to give each of us the same love for souls as St. Francis Xavier! Written by Ryan Schmidt, Director of Pastoral Renewal, Diocese of Calgary.
Painting: André Reinoso, St Francis Preaching in Goa, 1619, oil on canvas, 96 × 162 cm, Museu de São Roque/Santa Casa da Misericórdia, Lisbon.  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. 
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.
 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. 
  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.
Ryan is a passionate and proven leader with a heart that aches for renewal in our parishes and for evangelization, so that all may experience the healing love of Christ. After a life changing encounter with the Lord in his early twenties, Ryan spent two years in formation with the Companions of the Cross, followed by the completion of a Bachelor of Philosophy degree and a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy from Dominican University College in Ottawa. He won the Governor General’s Medal for each of those degrees.
Over the past 20 years through roles in the public and private sector as well as corporate and community organizations Ryan has become a trusted leader who has led positive transformational change. From senior advisory roles to federal cabinet ministers to corporate roles in charge of government and aboriginal relations, business development and mergers & acquisitions, Ryan developed, led and executed on key strategies. Most recently, Ryan spent the last six years as CEO of the Strathmore & District Agricultural Society (Strathmore Stampede) where he has led the transformation and renewal of the Society for its 400+ employees and volunteers. Ryan is most proud of his prominent role in negotiating and coordinating the Government of Canada’s formal Apology to former students of the Indian Residential School Systems, developing the Kent Hills 3 Wind Project, as well as establishing the Cowboy Town Concert Series, founding Canada’s largest Rodeo School, and the construction of Infield Suites at the Strathmore Stampede. Ryan attributes the accomplishment of these projects to prioritizing and focusing on relationships and people. Throughout his professional career, Ryan has prioritized his and his family’s relationships with Christ and has focused his efforts on evangelization and spiritual growth for men, establishing new ministries in each area. He believes that his own formation, experience and education have all been part of a plan to prepare him as a leader to assist with renewal in the Calgary diocese. He is currently a parishioner at Sacred Heart Parish in Strathmore and he and his wife raise their four children on a small farm outside of town.  The Information Session crowd at St. Albert the Great Parish last Feb 9, 2025. The Diocese of Calgary is moving forward with preparations for a Sacred Grace: Church Wedding for Civilly Married Couples - to be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sep 13, 2025 with Bishop William T. McGrattan. This initiative, led by the Diocesan Renewal Team and the Permanent Diaconate community, aims to strengthen family life and welcome Catholic couples into the full sacramental life of the Church. Central to the Renewal mission is the dedicated involvement of the Diocese's Permanent Deacons, who are playing an important role in every step of the process. This event addresses the needs of Catholic couples whose civil marriages have not yet been recognized as sacramental unions. It offers a compassionate response to families seeking to fully participate in the Church's sacramental life, including those who desire to have their children receive the sacraments. The Deacons are taking on a wide range of responsibilities to ensure the success of this initiative. Their contributions extend from administrative tasks to pastoral roles:
Your marriage is a Gift - Make it a Sacrament.
Join the last two info sessions of Sacred Grace
For more information, visit the Sacred Grace page. 
Consider these simple ways to pray for renewal in our heart, our parish, and our diocese this Lenten season:
Prayer to the Holy Spirit Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. Renewal Intentions
 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...  On Saturday, January 25, 2025, in the context of our diocesan Renewal, Ascension Catholic Parish with Regnum Christi hosted a faith formation day entitled Building a Better Life. This “Integral Formation” Day provided an opportunity to nourish various aspects of the Christian personality. It touched upon four themes, each corresponding to one of four “pillars” of development, namely our human, spiritual, apostolic, and intellectual formation. The presentations offered insights as well as practical tools to deepen the daily living of our faith. The day began with a session on The Language of Apology, led by Eileen Coady. She explored the profound impact of sincerity and vulnerability in relationships. Later on in the morning, Fr. Janick Caouette, LC spoke on Living Our Baptismal Promises. This delved into the extended rite of baptism from the Roman Missal. “Understanding more of the baptismal promises was incredibly insightful,” said one participant, “Everyone should hear them.” Michelle Hoffman guided participants through Ignatian Meditation Using Art, providing a structured and transformative way to pray. We listen to God in his Word, with art helping to open new intuitions, through Beauty. 
The closing session was an invitation to continue learning the Faith. David Keep delivered a moving talk on Intellectual Formation, sharing how learning about his Catholic faith led to his conversion—and to his ongoing journey, of continual conversion. His testimony highlighted the call to strive for holiness in everyday life, and it was “a reminder that growth takes time, guidance, support, and grace.” The day concluded with opportunities for fellowship and moments of quiet reflection, allowing participants to integrate the day’s insights into their own spiritual journeys. Each participant was also given a Jubilee virtue card, encouraging them to entrust themselves to the care of a patron saint for the year. Ascension Catholic Parish plans on continuing to provide content that is engaging, thoughtful, and relevant so that parishioners might develop different areas of their lives. As an activity aimed at personal growth and formation, the Formation Day fosters a greater awareness of the diocesan renewal by both teaching the great story of Jesus and His Church, as well as listening to others’ lived experiences of our life as Catholics. The lay association Regnum Christi was instrumental in organizing this event, in its mission to educate and prepare youth and families for joy-filled lives of mission, service and prayer through excellent integral formation. Other follow-up activities will be arranged over the course of this Jubilee year. Written by Fr. John Paul Luxbacher, LC. To receive invitations to Regnum Christi activities, please feel free to contact [email protected], with the tag “Formation Day.”
|
Author
Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
November 2025
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
