 My parish, St. Anthony's, has recently started up a young adults’ group where we meet twice a month for fellowship and formation. Our last event was called "Meet the Religious", where we invited Religious Priests, Brothers, and Sisters to give a testimony of their vocation to the youth of our parish and talk about the beauty of Religious life through the practice of the evangelical counsels to which they have vowed themselves. The young men and the women alike were visibly engaged and enthralled by the passion with which the Religious spoke about their vocations, and the uniqueness of their respective Order's charisms. The vocation stories were followed by a Q and A, where participants had the chance to ask the Religious pressing questions they had on things like why some Religious take on new names, the unique charisms of each Order, and a glimpse into what community life is like for each. We, at St Anthony's, are immensely grateful to the Religious present at our event for witnessing to the beauty of celibate Religious life, which is a life modeled by Christ Himself. Written by Michael Ocenar, parishioner of St. Anthony's Parish, Calgary. Upcoming Vocations Events
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On September 28, 2024, 13 young women participated along with ten Sisters of five different communities in the FIAT Day retreat on vocations to the Consecrated Life. The retreat day began with the 9 am Mass with St. Luke’s parish community. As one women said, “Everything is better when you start with God.” After the welcome and introductions, Fr. Derek Remus, Assistant Diocesan Vocation Director, spoke on our baptismal call and how it relates to Religious life. Much appreciation was given for his talk and answers to our questions.
After a time of questions and answers, the participants took part in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and reflected upon selected Scripture passages. As some women said, “It is always beneficial to spend time with the Blessed Sacrament” and the Scripture passages on vocations were helpful to guide our prayer. Pizza lunch gave much opportunity for good conversations among the women and with the Sisters. In the afternoon session, the Sisters had set up table displays on their communities. This allowed the young women to visit each table and talk with the Sisters about their communities without having to travel to each community’s convent. Following the community visits, the women were given three talks, starting with Sr. Azenette Trongco, a Sister of Providence novice, who spoke on discernment of her vocation and nourishing the vocation. The next talk was from Sr. Rezebeth Noceja, a newly professed Sister of Providence, who spoke on preparation for final commitment. Sr. Dianne Turner, a Franciscan Sister of St. Elizabeth who has been a Religious Sister from decades, completed the talks by focusing on perseverance in the vocation for life. The women were grateful for the experience and the chance to learn of different charisms that are present in our Diocese, as one woman said, “Thank you all for volunteering your time to come and meet with us and answer our questions. Very well run, and has left me a lot to ponder.” Written by Sr. Dianne Turner, Assistant Vocation Director for the Diocese of Calgary. Photo courtesy of Sr. Simon Grosicka, OP.
In my heart, the Lord spoke that I may be called for single-blessedness or religious life. I remember crying out of fear and anxiety, but what I felt next was a sense of peace. I knew then that it was something that I should seriously consider. But I told the Lord He needed to show me the way, because if it was up to me, I would never dare do anything far beyond my comfort zone. It was a bold move on my part because I am that kind of person who is not courageous to try new things, let alone make major changes in life. He knew I needed some time while He prepared my heart, until I had the courage to say ‘YES’ to the call of Jesus, “Come, follow Me.” He used many people to help me along the way, to help me grow deeper in faith and love. I can identify two aspects of my life that led me to my religious vocation. First was joining Singles for Christ, CFC’s family ministry for single men and women aged 21 to 40 years old. It was where I first experienced being part of a faith community. There we had opportunities to deepen our knowledge and understanding of our Catholic faith through our small groups called households, retreats, assemblies, conferences and teaching nights. We were also highly encouraged to serve our Diocese, parishes and local communities through various volunteer opportunities.
 Sr. Charisse worked as St. Mark's parish secretary from 2014-2021 Second was my seven-year work experience as a secretary at St. Mark’s Parish in the Diocese of Calgary. It gave me the opportunity to witness, understand and appreciate the great blessing of the priest’s anointing. They had given up their lives for the sake of others. The clear answer to my discernment came when I learned that the Precious Blood Sisters pray for priests. We are called to carry them in our prayers as they carry God’s people, in all that they will have to give, suffer and live. On Thursday evenings, our Office of Readings is celebrated within an hour of Eucharistic Adoration – praying especially for our Priests and for Vocations to Priestly and Consecrated Life. I was officially accepted in October 2020, but my entrance was delayed by more than a year. First it was because of the pandemic and then the untimely death of my Mother in February 2021. We lost her 28 days after she was diagnosed with the rare and aggressive type of thyroid cancer. I had to retract my resignation from work to help my siblings pay off the accrued medical and funeral expenses in the Philippines. During this period, in the midst of uncertainties, profound sorrow and pain, I only did what I already knew would help, holding on in prayer. I am also indebted to those who have been praying for me. I am here because many people have been praying for me and with me. I am sustained by their powerful intercessions especially when I am struggling. I have learned that community life is a daily call to humility; religious life would be a daily commitment to do what God is asking of me, particularly those I find challenging. But these challenges are gifts, that even though it is hard for me at times, through God’s grace and by the love and support of my Sisters and other people, it is helping me grow in self-knowledge and in deeper understanding of our vows of chastity, poverty and obedience.
 First Profession of Vows, 2024. Sr. Charisse Cilos - fourth from the left. At the beginning of my two-month community experience in 2019, I was overwhelmed with fear and doubt. I just wanted to go home and not finish it. I kept asking God, “Why should I do this? How can I do this?” Thankfully, I came across the writings of our foundress, Mother Catherine Aurelia, “What is urging them to make this sacrifice? Ah, I understand. It is their hope of winning even one more soul for our Lord and glorifying the Precious Blood.” That gave me the strength to continue, and, up to now, I would remind myself of this in moments of difficulty and discouragement. “Why should I do this? How can I do this?” I know better now: It is not ‘I’ but the Lord. It is only by His grace that I am able to live the life of a religious. My First Profession was last October 12th, which also happened to be my birthday. What a remarkable day to celebrate God’s gift of life and His gift of vocation with those who have been part of my journey. All glory and praise to God forever! Written by Sr. Charisse Cilos for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Precious Blood Sisters.
 St. Mark’s Parish is very pleased and proud that one of their parishioners who has been their secretary, Charisse Cilos, has gone through her profession of first vows. On behalf of St. Mark’s Parish. I would like to wish you on your profession of first vows that you are going to make from the Sisters of Precious Blood. We, the parishioners of Saint Mark, greatly appreciate your service to this parish for the seven years that you have worked here. The parishioners cherish all the memories that you have given and developed. They appreciate your service. You have made a greater choice, following the Lord and you wanted to make full commitment by taking up the vows today. Along with the parishioners I would like to wish you all the best and congratulate you for your great commitment to the Lord.” ~Fr. Venil D'Souza, St. Mark's Parish Pastor  On September 20th, Saint Luke's Parish became the gathering place for an important and cherished tradition: the 45th Annual Sisters Night, hosted by the Knights of Columbus. This banquet is a special occasion where the religious sisters from the Calgary Diocese, along with clergy and lay faithful, come together to honour the immeasurable contributions these women have made to the Church and society. It is the only time each year that all the religious sisters of the diocese gather in one place, making the night a unique and uplifting celebration of faith, dedication, and service. The event drew a total of 101 attendees, including 34 religious sisters, Bishop William McGrattan, three priests, three deacons, and four consecrated virgin candidates. For decades, the Knights of Columbus have been committed to organizing this event, recognizing the sacrifices and impact of religious sisters across Canada. This year's gathering was no different, reflecting both the gratitude of the community and the enduring legacy of service carried on by the sisters.
 In his opening remarks, the Emcee spoke of the deep historical contributions of religious sisters and nuns to the development of Canada. From the earliest days of European settlement, these women were pioneers in building many of the country's foundational institutions. The sisters established the first schools, providing education to countless children, including those in remote and underserved areas. They also played a key role in building hospitals, offering compassionate care long before public health systems were established. Orphanages, too, were built by religious orders, where the sisters provided homes and care for children without families. But beyond their tangible contributions, the sisters have also been steadfast in their spiritual roles, offering guidance, wisdom, and prayers in every corner of the country. Their quiet yet transformative presence has been a pillar of the Church’s mission, and the Knights of Columbus feel it is essential to recognize their enduring influence. In his address, Bishop McGrattan spoke warmly of the sisters’ dedication and expressed the diocese's deep gratitude for their work. He acknowledged the unique role they play, not only in providing spiritual support but also in being a visible example of Christ's love in action. His words resonated with the room, where there was a sense of respect and admiration for the sisters' ongoing efforts. The event was also an opportunity for attendees to connect and reflect on the shared mission of the Church. Alongside the sisters, consecrated virgins candidates, priests, deacons, and laypeople all engaged in fellowship, united in their devotion to serving others. This sense of community is one of the hallmarks of Sisters Night, reminding everyone present of the collective strength that arises from shared faith. Honouring courage and faith The highlight of the evening was the tribute to the religious sisters. The Knights of Columbus ensured that the event was not only a time of celebration but also one of reflection on the profound courage it takes to embrace the consecrated life. In a world that often prioritizes material wealth and individualism, the sisters' lives of selflessness stand as a powerful counterpoint. They have chosen to live by the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, dedicating themselves entirely to the service of God and others. Of note, two sisters that were celebrating a jubilee of vows were Sr. Paula Mullen, FCJ, 60 years and Sr. Emelyn Rosento, DM, 25 years. As the 45th Annual Sisters Night came to a close, it was clear that the event had once again succeeded in honouring the profound legacy of the religious sisters. For all in attendance, the night served as both a celebration and an inspiration to carry forward the mission of love and service that the sisters embody so beautifully. Written by Kevin Dick, member of Knights Of Columbus Council #6994.
Children attending our educational program at the Dominican Sisters Daycare Center learn about God's creation and redemption through daily Bible stories and actively discover God's presence in our world through various activities. One of the areas where they experience the significance of creation is our garden. Vegetables and flowers planted by the Sisters are not only a sight to behold but also an opportunity for the children's active participation in the beauty, effort, and fruit of God's work. Their hands-on involvement is a source of pride and joy for everyone and an essential aspect of our educational approach.
For the Sisters and children, spring is a time for preparing the soil and planting seeds. It is also a time to learn patience, observation, and systematic care for the tiny seed hidden in the ground, trusting that God will sustain it. By observing the growth process firsthand, children develop a deeper understanding of botany, ecology, and environmental science. This knowledge enlightens them and helps them feel like participants in creation and co-creators of God's work, inspiring a sense of connection and shared purpose among parents and educators. Focusing on the children's active role in the growth process strengthens the support for the educational approach. So, where do the veggies come from? They grow up, down, and around! Summer is when we first see the results as vegetables grow. The children taste fresh cucumbers, smell carrots, and compare the size and weight of green zucchini. In autumn, during harvest, the children also learn to give thanks for God's gifts of fruits and vegetables. By collecting potatoes, beets, and carrots from the field, they learn to work together and appreciate the beautiful gifts God has given us. They also check what items from our garden made it to the lunch table and eagerly try all the veggies on their plates! There are many smiles at the Sisters' table as we share stories about the daily moments we witness during this process. For example, not everyone wants the items they collect to end up in the kitchen.
Here’s a great story from our garden lessons: As the children poured potatoes into the shared basket, Sister Zacharia noticed Antoni hiding a bucket of potatoes behind him. She approached and said, 'Antoni, you can put the collected potatoes into the basket here.' Antoni shook his head and replied, 'These are my potatoes; my mom will cook them for dinner.' There was no question of adding them to the basket—what Antoni collected was already his. He was delighted to provide dinner for his family and proudly placed the fruit of his labour in his locker!
Written by Sr. Zacharia Hryc, OP. Sister Zacharia is a Dominican Sister of Immaculate Conception Province. She is an Early Childhood educator at the Dominican Sister Daycare Centre, Calgary.
Bishop William McGrattan celebrated two significant liturgical events for seminarians Peter An and Andre Boudreau on their vocational journey. On August 9, 2024, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, he presided over the Mass for Installation to the Ministries of Lector and Acolyte for seminarian Peter An. This Mass is an important step for candidates as they move closer to Holy Orders. As a Lector, Peter is entrusted with proclaiming the Word of God during Mass, while his role as Acolyte involves assisting at the altar, helping priests and deacons, and distributing Holy Communion as well as bringing the Blessed Sacrament to the sick or shut-in. These roles in divine worship highlight his progression toward the priesthood. Peter An currently serves at St. Mary’s Cathedral in his final stage of formation, the newly implemented Vocational Synthesis Phase. 
Later, on August 23, 2024, Bishop McGrattan celebrated the Mass of Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders for Andre Boudreau at St. Luke’s Church where he has been assigned for summertime pastoral experience on the weekends. The Rite of Admission to Candidacy is another important milestone in a seminarian's journey. This rite allows Andre to declare publicly his intention to persevere in his formation in order, one day, to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders, first as a deacon and eventually as a priest. The rite includes three key elements: the call to candidacy, the candidate's scrutiny, and the candidate's blessing. Andre Boudreau is currently studying at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Edmonton for his fourth year of formation and just began his first year of theological studies.
We invite you to join us in prayer for Peter An, Andre Boudreau, and all 13 seminarians in our Diocese. May God, who has started this good work in them, guide it to fulfillment! (cf. Phil 1:6) Photos courtesy of Jun Li (Installation of Peter An as Lector and Acolyte) and Victor Panlilio (Candidacy of Andre Boudreau).
 Friar Aldin's First Vows, 2022 (Mount St. Francis, Cochrane)
Some surprising things happened when the Religious Sisters of the Calgary Diocese invited young women to tea on June 29, 2024. So many young women showed up that the dining room of the Providence Sisters’ convent was packed with Sisters and guests, all happily engaged in interesting conversations. Since we had asked that those under 18 be accompanied by a responsible adult, three mothers came with their girls to join in the visit. Two of those mothers brought five little girls with them.  Sr. Huong, a new Precious Blood Sister in our Diocese, found the event delightful and inspiring. She was happily surprised by the number of young women and mothers with their little girls who were interested in meeting Sisters from various communities and engaging in conversations about Religious Life. "We have different missions and charisms in the Church, but this gathering expressed how we can work together and help one another in the name of Jesus. We took part in order to ‘be there’ for these young women, to help them to further their understanding of and appreciation for this great gift of a Religious Vocation," said Sr. Huong. The tour of the Providence convent took participants throughout the building, into the chapel for prayer, to see a bedroom, and even outdoors to the Marian grotto (more prayer!) and the cemetery. While outside, we had an unexpected visitor: Bishop McGrattan, who spoke to the participants, though he was unable to join us for tea and treats after the tour. Finally, we arrived at the tea and treats. There was an overflowing number of women and girls present, so we moved the young girls and their mothers to a separate room, and two of the Sisters went with them. After some time of tea and conversation, the young women and the Sisters engaged in an exploration of the Religious communities present, while the young girls were invited to use drawing paper and felt pens to draw themselves as if they were to become Sisters. Despite being encouraged to consider a number of Sisters they might know, they all decided to depict themselves in brown Franciscan habits!
Sr. Carol, a Precious Blood Sister, expressed her joy and gratitude for the event: "Our Diocese is blessed to have a great variety of Religious Communities in various ministries for the service of God and His people. It was a joy and privilege to spend this afternoon with the Sisters and with all the participants. May God’s Spirit bestow the gift of a Religious Vocation on many young women of our day, we pray." As we said farewell to the young women, mothers, and girls, we gave them a going-away present: an envelope containing brochures for many Sisters’ communities. Hopefully, through the grace of God, many of these young women and girls will be called to Religious life for the sake of our Diocese. It would be a great blessing to have more Religious Sisters here among us. 
 Written by Sr. Dianne Turner, Assistant Vocation Director. Photos courtesy of Serra Calgary and Noëlle McCusker.
 "We urgently need more vocations in our diocese—to Consecrated life and the Priesthood. Without everyone's involvement, how can we hope to see an increase in vocations?" Sr. Dianne, Assistant Director of Vocations, posed this compelling question at the Vocations Rally on Good Shepherd Sunday, April 21, at St. Michael’s Parish in Calgary. “We really need to get that soil prepared so that the seeds of vocation can fall into it, and they can flourish,” she continued. Indeed, this was the driving force behind gathering the faithful at the Vocations Rally, aiming to enlighten us all on how to create such nurturing conditions. The event, co-hosted with the Benedict XVI Institute from Newman Theological College, was a hopeful beginning for fostering vocations within our diocesan community. With more than 400 attendees, including pre-registrants and walk-ins, the Rally kicked off with Mass at 11 am, led by Fr. Edmund Vargas. Afterward, attendees were invited to enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the Knights of Columbus in the narthex, and explore various booths featuring Religious brothers and sisters, seminarians, and vocations advocates before the start of the presentations.
 Fr. Cristino, Director of Vocations, shared his astonishment at the turnout and the discussions he had in the days following the rally. “It was impressive to me, first of all, how many people were in attendance. But the follow up conversations I've been having with people all week clearly indicate that they were deeply impacted by all of the sharing they received in that brief time together!” But this comes as no surprise. The insights shared by each speaker, combined with the sense of community encountered at the Rally, were a true renewal experience.
Videos from the Vocations Rally are available here:
Videos courtesy of St. Michael's Catholic Community. The Office of Vocations is very thankful for the Vocations Rally Planning Team, Benedict XVI Instittute of the Newman Theological College, St. Michael’s Parish and Diocesan staff, video and photography team, Knights of Columbus, Seminarians, Consecrated Life members, Serra Club of Calgary, and many others who supported the Vocations Rally and came to support our Diocesan effort to create a culture of vocations! We wouldn’t be able to do it without you.
Photos: Bandi Szakony, for the Diocese of Calgary  This year, the 28th World Day for Consecrated Life was especially marked with great reverence and joy. Friar Michael Perras shared, "The Franciscan Friars invited all religious of the Diocese to join in this special commemoration. We gathered for the Eucharist, took time to connect, and enjoyed a noon feast together. I believe there were nine different communities represented. It was such a gift for us to gather and celebrate our vows!" The World Day for Consecrated Life is celebrated every year on February 2. It is intended to "help the entire Church to esteem ever more greatly the witness of those persons who have chosen to follow Christ by means of the practice of the evangelical counsels and, at the same time, is intended to be a suitable occasion for consecrated persons to renew their commitment and rekindle the fervour which should inspire their offering of themselves to the Lord." (Pope St. John Paul II) Following the gathering at Mount St. Francis in Cochrane, many of the religious priests and consecrated men and women of the Diocese joined Fr. Avi at the Cathedral to celebrate the Mass of the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas. After the gathering at Mount St. Francis in Cochrane, many religious priests and consecrated men and women of the Diocese joined Fr. Avi at the Cathedral to celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas. Fr. Avi led the Mass and invited people discerning a call to consecration to come forward for a blessing alongside those who had already taken vows. He encouraged the congregation to invite young people to consider the Consecrated Life and prayed especially for more vocations in the Diocese.
   The Fun Night with Sisters, initially set for Friday, January 12th, had to be cancelled due to the extreme weather. But our Sisters were quick on their feet, rescheduling the event to the following Friday. While some had to pull out due to scheduling conflict, it also opened the door for others who couldn't make the initial date. In the end, the group comprised of 10 young women and 8 Sisters - which turned out to be an ideal group size, as it allowed for more personal interactions. The evening kicked off with a prayer led by the Dominican Sisters, followed by a delightful dinner including pizza (meat-free since it was Friday), vegetables, cookies, and engaging conversation. Each attendee had the opportunity to introduce herself, and the Sisters briefly spoke about their respective communities. The communities represented were the Faithful Companions of Jesus who sponsored the event in their large parlour, the Dominican Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, the Providence Sisters, the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, and the Franciscan Sisters of St. Elizabeth. Ting, our game maestro and a postulant from the Providence Sisters guided the evening's entertainment. First up was 'Name the Song', but with a twist - the tunes were hilariously mimicked with animal sounds, leading to roars of laughter and cheers. Much like last year, we also enjoyed a round of Pictionary, but with a sweet reward - candies for all participants! As the evening drew to a close, we concluded the event with a silent prayer session in the chapel, followed by the collective recitation of the Night Prayer. Please stay tuned for future events organized by the Sister of the Assembly of Women Religious of the Diocese of Calgary.
Submitted by Sr. Dianne Turner, Office of Vocations.
Photos courtesy of Sr. Dianne. Bishop McGrattan marked the religious life anniversaries of Sr. Pat MacDonald, FCJ, and Sr. Ann Marie Walsh, FCJ, who have dedicated 65 and 60 years respectively to their service. The celebration took place on August 26 at the FCJ Centre with the Holy Mass, followed by a beautiful reception.
 I did not think much about the question the first time because I was confident that religious life was not for me. I have been actively involved in the Church and a charismatic community called Singles for Christ. I was trying my best to walk the talk and live the faith. I want to be a living witness to how I overcame trials and used them to fuel the desire to become a better version of myself. I never mentioned the stirring within about religious life to family or friends but to my spiritual director. At the time, I was advised to process the idea: know the reasons for pursuing the vocation and that I was not running away from something. I took the advice to heart. Yet at the back of my mind, maybe this is just a phase in my life, and eventually, this question will gradually disappear from my thoughts. However, in the past six years or so, the question stayed. It lingered. I would ask this question during my quiet time, prayer time, when I am on the bus, train, or driving, especially when I see religious people, and I would laugh at myself every time. There is no way I am heading in that direction!  Azenette being blessed by the Sisters of Providence community at Providence Centre Chapel on February 18. At a retreat organized by CFC-Singles for Christ, I had the opportunity to hear a Sister of Providence speak about their mission. Their charism of serving the underprivileged - those who are ignored, victims of injustice, marginalized, and voiceless - spoke deeply to me. Over time, the asking, “What if religious life is for me?” became frequent. I want to believe that the best tool for discernment is action. So, I mustered the courage to act and reached out to the Sisters of Providence. In November 2021, I started my Come-and-See journey with the Sisters in Calgary, and by February 2022, I moved to Edmonton to continue the journey. I was immersed in community life. The experience became an occasion of growth and self-knowledge—an opportunity to understand others and myself. I felt loved and supported by the Sisters, and it caused me to appreciate the vocation to religious life. On February 18th, 2023, I entered as a candidate and the ceremony was held at the Providence Centre Chapel in Edmonton, with friends, family, Sisters of Providence, and Sisters from other congregations present. As I continue to learn about myself in the context of religious life, I trust in divine providence in this journey of unfolding the question that led me here, “What if religious life is for me?”.  Azenette and the Sisters of Providence
Learn more about this unique vocation here.
On February 2nd, 2023, religious from eight different communities gathered to celebrate the World Day of Consecrated Life on the Feast of Presentation of the Lord. It was a joy-filled day with the celebration of the Eucharist, meaningful conversations that deepened connections, and a delightful meal shared between those present. 
Submitted by Sr. Dianne Turner, Assistant Director of Vocation
 An invitation from Sr. Dianne Turner (Assistant Vocation Director of the Diocese of Calgary) to young and unmarried women:
Maybe you have a sister, and you have fun times with her, but this is about Religious Sisters having fun together, you know, the ones people call Nuns (though Nuns are a type of Religious Sisters who live a cloistered life in a monastery. If you want to know more about this distinction, just ask). So, we Sisters decided that we would gather for a night of fun and conversation, pizza supper, and Night Prayer. Personally, I am looking forward to playing some games because I truly enjoy card games, board games, charades, etc. Then we thought it would be great to invite young, unmarried women to hang out with us for this evening, so that we could get to know each other in a lighter setting and build our friendship. What a blessing it would be to meet young women who want to get to know us. It's an opportunity to make new friends, and catch up with some old acquaintances! Perhaps you have questions you would like answered without anyone knowing that you are talking to the Sisters. Maybe you want to meet Sisters from a variety of communities. You might simply want to have a lovely evening of free pizza and conversation, fun activities, and night prayer at the end. You might even consider bringing along a friend and your favourite game to play with the Sisters. What could be a better way to spend a Friday evening? The FCJ Sisters have kindly offered Sacred Heart Convent for the evening, located behind St. Mary’s Cathedral at 219-19th Avenue SW, Calgary from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023. Please let us know if you are coming by Thursday, January 12, 2023, by contacting Sr. Dianne at 403-218-5504 or email [email protected] so that we can order the right amount of pizza (meatless of course, because it is Friday).  Sr. Helen Hengel, SCSL I was born in 1922 and raised in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. I attended High School in Swift Current where I met the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis. Soon after I felt called by God to begin my life with the Sisters in Bienville, Quebec. After the time of formation and profession of vows (1942), I returned to Western Canada teaching In Saskatchewan and Alberta until 1958. Then I moved to Medicine Hat to the Novitiate Formation community as Director until 1964. I was further blessed with the opportunity for religious studies in Rome, and then further studies in psychology and counselling in Calgary, Ottawa, and New York. My journey then was focused on spiritual direction, youth counseling (University of Calgary) and helping those who suffered from addiction and their families through recovery, counselling with AADAC, the 12 Step individual and group counselling. I also served those attending serenity retreats, and those in personal growth groups and retreats for women.
Submitted by Sr. Helen for Faithfully.
 Sr. Clemence Liboiron, SCSL I have been abundantly blessed, as I was born and raised in Ponteix, Saskatchewan in a faith-filled family where love, prayer and acceptance were the dominant forces molding me and guiding me in my early life. In my teen years I was privileged to be asked to be responsible for looking after the cleanliness of the sanctuary in our parish church. Years later when I was finishing my high school there were moments when I felt God's love and presence in my life and a deep desire to follow Him. So it was. I joined the congregation of sisters who taught me at St. Theresa Academy in Medicine Hat, the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis. For my formation and I went to Bienville, Quebec and in 1947 I made my profession of vows. I then returned to western Canada for my initial training to become a teacher, and in later years earned a B. Ed and B.A in Alberta. In my 30 years as a teacher, mostly in Saskatchewan, I was blessed to work with many wonderful teachers and many eager students. After a wonderful sabbatical in Ottawa, I had the privilege of taking biblical sessions in Jerusalem and time to visit the Holy Land. Shortly after this wonderful experience I was ready to accept the position as parish leader in parishes in the Archdiocese of Regina, Saskatchewan, as well as working with Father Sullivan in the task of training lay people to lead the parishes for Sunday liturgy in the absence of a pastor. In 2011 I retired in Medicine Hat. I was a member of St. Patrick's Parish as well as had the time and privilege of visiting my relatives and friends. Presently I am retired and enjoying life in Swan Evergreen Village Senior Home in Calgary with other Sisters from my community. Submitted by Sr. Clemence Liboiron for Faithfully.
 Br. Michael Perras. Photo: Solomon Ip. Above his bedroom door, Br. Michael Perras, OFM, has a small banner made by his great-aunt who was an Ursuline sister which reads: “To Radiate Christ”. For him, it serves as a reminder to put on Christ when putting on his habit every day. Yet it also speaks to something deeper, the call for Christians to radiate Christ to the other. Those in consecrated life have chosen this as their life’s work, whether contemplative or active, ordained or not, male or female. The feast of the Presentation makes this clear to us — that we are to live in imitation of Christ, the “light to enlighten the nations”. This feast has long fascinated Br. Michael (Mount St. Francis, Cochrane), in particular the figures of Sts. Simeon and Anna. In Br. Michael’s words, they serve as reminders: reminders to be amazed and to give praise, reminders to hope and trust, reminders of the elders in our lives, reminders of those who pass on the amazement of encountering Christ, and as reminders of those who call out the truth of who we are — in many ways, they are types of the consecrated life itself. The feast itself is a reminder: the hints of our baptismal promises in the liturgy are a reminder that we live as children of God, in the dignity of being anointed priest, prophet and king as Christ was in his Incarnation among us. Finally, Candlemas has been traditionally seen as the tail end of Christmas, with its themes of light-bearing. It is only right then, that the consecrated life and the Presentation of Christ are celebrated together, serving to remind us that we are all called to be bearers of light, and to witness to the light — to radiate Christ into the world. When we think of the consecrated life, the mind quickly turns to nuns and religious sisters, and for good reason. Women far outstrip men in North America to the vocation of consecrated life, both in number of vocations and variety of orders. However, they do not comprise the only groups under the term “consecrated life”. Rather, the consecrated life includes all who profess public vows of poverty, chastity in the form of celibacy, and obedience, within a permanent state of life recognized by the Church. Compared with sisters and nuns, brothers, monks and friars are far less common in North America, especially within this diocese. Some orders have come and gone quite quickly, such as the Benedictines, while others enjoyed enduring tenures among us, such as the Brothers of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Franciscans have maintained a steady presence in Cochrane from the 1940s until now, and among them lives the sole non-ordained religious brother currently in the diocese: Br. Michael. For Br. Michael, the call to religious life “came out of nowhere”. He grew up in a parish which receive Redemptorist missions regularly, and had two great-aunts who had been Ursuline sisters, but these seemed to be more “stepping stones” to the consecrated life, not “runway moments”. His parents owned the grocery store in Glenavon, SK, which was a primer in the life of service, and this continued in his life into youth ministry work throughout Saskatchewan. However, several things drew him to the Franciscans. Having tried to live simply during his pre-Franciscan life, an added depth was encountered in religious life, where the continual call to simplicity means to live out of who one is. Community and fraternity naturally grow out of this simplicity, with the discovery that “I can live out who I am in this way” among the messiness and the goodness of community, not changing who God has asked him to be. The centrality of the Incarnation to the Franciscan charism also drew Br. Michael. St. Francis’ life was centred upon the humility of the Incarnation and the charity of the Passion, and for Br. Michael, who has been drawn to the Incarnation since childhood, this aspect of the charism is central: “God with us”, Emmanuel. Flowing out of this incarnational reality comes a broader understanding of living the Gospel as good news, in everything done in everyday life. Br. Michael sums up his experience of consecrated life quite succinctly in the phrase “big brother, little brother, always a brother”. As the eldest of four, being the big brother has always been a part of his life; and joining the Order of Friars Minor, the experience of “minority”, of being little and simple, is central to the charism. From this place of being a biological brother flows the life of being a religious brother. Biological siblinghood calls us to the importance of relationship and building bridges, and questions how we build links, how we forgive and reconcile, and how we engage with others with different viewpoints; it is only natural that religious brotherhood does the same in different dimensions — being present to others, listening to others on their journey, encouraging what they have and offer. Br. Michael sees his vocation as that of a link in a chain — being others’ connection to faith and to the Church, the Church’s connection to the world, and linking these together in new and unexplored ways. Each religious brother and sister lives out their vocation in a different way, stemming from the consideration of what they have and what they offer. Historically, unordained brothers were manual labourers who made life function for their order; nowadays, many are engaged in academic pursuits or in active ministry work — Br. Michael himself works in retreat ministry and spiritual direction. Despite changing situations, the most important facets of consecrated life have not: to announce the Good News, and to witness to the Good News lived out in the lives of the people of the broader community. For Br. Michael, consecrated life is an invitation for us to deeper listening and awareness of God’s working in our lives and those around us. In our noisy world of instant gratification, consecrated life gives us pause to reflect on what and who we are listening to. The work of fraternity, hospitality and service that so many religious carry out points out that all Christians have a vocation to community and to being the Church. The ordained priesthood can often seem removed to some, and so the accessibility of consecrated life speaks to the connection, approachability, inclusivity and dialogue that all Christians are meant to embody, to the centrality of relationship in humanity. To sum it up, consecrated life is a sign for us to live life for the other, and not for the self. In Br. Michael’s words, consecrated life is one of “witness and connection, being present and listening” — a life remarkably similar to those of Sts. Simeon and Anne. As we approach the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, let us grow in the lessons that consecrated life teaches us: chiefly, let us grow “To Radiate Christ”.
 Sr. Bridget (formerly Alissa Going) in her profession to Consecrated Life in Brazil. Over the past few months as I have become acquainted with the members of the Seeds of the Word, I have come to see Our Blessed Mother in each one of them: a joyful young woman dressed in simple blue clothes, her life overflowing with the Life of God. The Seeds of the Word is a Brazilian contemplative and missionary community whose mission in Calgary began in 2014. Visiting their home, I have peeked into the community’s life of prayer, penance, and mission, which they live in cheerful hiddenness. Their contagious smiles reveal the treasure of their courageous hearts which have opened to receive and give the gift of God. The focus of the community is intimacy with Jesus Christ through the Word of God. For them, Jesus is the Precious Seed, whom they receive in personal and communal prayer, and then share with the world. Christmas is the most important feast for the community because of the centrality of the Word of God in their spirituality. Sr. Ana Sophia shares her experience: “I always get emotional at Christmas time when we contemplate that Baby... the Word of God Who came to save the world. It is so powerful to look at Him.” One of the newest sisters, Sr. Bridget, formerly Alissa Going, from Vauxhall, AB, professed her first vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience on December 3, the feast of St. Francis Xavier. Through these vows, she has made a commitment to her first year of consecrated life. As Sr. Ana Sophia explains, “the call to consecrated life is a special call from the Lord, not to everyone, but just a few people who He separates from the world to Himself because these people need more than what the world offers us. That’s why we leave everything behind for Him: because those good things are not enough. We need more.” Consecrated men and women show each of us, whatever our state in life may be, that it is only in giving ourselves to God that we can receive Him. At Christmastime, the Child Jesus reaches His sweet hands out to us in love. In order to truly hold Him in our arms, we must release our mortal grasp on all the things that pass away. If human weakness trembles at the prospect of such self-emptying, it is still when it senses the warmth of love shared in the manger. Ana, one of the postulants said, “We do not lose anything. We just gain everything.” Sr. Mary Elisabeth remarked that as Sr. Bridget consecrated herself to God, “she was so happy, she was glowing!” It is nothing less than the radiant glow of heaven, in which consecrated people participate on earth. The community follows Our Lady’s Christmas-time model in being both contemplative and missionary. After receiving the Word of God in her heart and in her womb, our strong and selfless Mother travelled with haste over rough hills to share the gift of God with her cousin Elizabeth. If it is contemplation to receive the embrace of God, it is mission to offer this embrace to others. The community’s Rule of Life states that “there is no mission without contemplation.” The generous prayer lives of the Seeds of the Word overflow into their lives of mission. They are missionaries in everything they do, lovingly offering each moment of their day for the salvation of souls. “If during the day we don’t go anywhere, we are still missionaries in the house.”
The specific apostolate of the community varies based on the diocese they are in. In Calgary, the Seeds visit schools, parishes and groups to share the Word of God. Their sabbatical year program, which currently takes place internationally, is an opportunity for people of all ages to grow closer to the Word of God and to find their places in the Church. Sr. Bridget took part in the program as a way to take a step forward in discerning her call to the consecrated life. Ana said of Sr. Bridget, “It was very beautiful to see her courage because if you want to follow Christ you need to be very courageous... to go to another place where God is calling you. It was very beautiful to see how she said yes to God’s plan, whatever it was, even if it was hard for her. We pray that many other people here in the diocese will also answer the call of God, even if it is difficult.” Each sister in Calgary has left her family and country to share the Word of God in our city. Like Our Blessed Mother, they are eager to travel long distances and surmount tall hills for the sake of sharing the Gospel. I was blessed to be present to bid farewell to Sr. Bridget and Sr. Edith Mary as they left the St. John Paul II house in Calgary to go to the community’s new mission in the Philippines. As the door closed behind them, one of the remaining sisters said with a sad smile on her face, “this is the life of the missionary.” “Religious life,” Sr. Mary Elisabeth insists, “takes courage to embrace, to say that I will say no to the things the world gives me and to say yes to a life that is hidden many times, a life with sacrifices many times, but a real life, a life with Jesus who is real. It's not a life of dreams. It's a real life in which you love God through people. It’s a life offered to others. It’s a life that is given 24/7.” Regardless of the state of life to which God calls him or her, each Christian is called to a courageous life of contemplation and mission. As Christmas draws near, we are each invited to open our hearts to the Infant Jesus, that Adorable Little Seed, Who wishes to be planted firmly in our souls and to bear the fruits of love, peace, and joy in our lives.
 The kids gave Fr. Marek a thumbs-up for his pizza. Photo: M. Widmeyer.  Fr. Marek Paczka, SDS. Shareable and delicious, pizza is a dish for friends. Parishioners and staff at St. Joseph’s in northwest Calgary know this from experience. This year their priest, new to the parish since August 2020, served them up over one hundred of his own homemade pizzas, spread over several occasions. Fr. Marek Paczka described himself as “not a cook,” but nonetheless decided he might be able to learn to make something as simple as pizza. The story behind the pizzas is both sad and hopeful. Fr. Marek spoke about an Italian couple who befriended him when he was a parish priest in Port Alberni, BC. “They invited me to dinner and we became friends. I would dine at their house at least once a week for 15 years, even when I moved parishes and had to drive 110 kilometers.” Having fallen in love with Italian culture while spending 2 years in Rome, Fr. Marek found it easy to spend time with this special couple and their friends around the dinner table, and was even included on special occasions like Christmas and Easter “There is something about sitting down together and just facing each other,” he said, adding that in Italian culture it is common for families and friends to spend thousands of hours together at the table. He spent many hours with his friends eating wonderful meals at dinner parties, and mentioned mushroom picking and enjoying produce from their vegetable garden. This past year, the husband half of this couple passed away fairly suddenly from cancer. Fr. Marek was shocked. “I didn’t make it to see him before he died,” he said, “but I did make it to his funeral.” Because he wanted to preserve something of the friendship he had with this man and his wife and guided by his feelings for Italian cooking, Fr. Marek said he asked another mutual friend, Elvia Orli, how to make pizza. “I could never cook the wonderful Italian meals that my friends made,” he explained, “but I thought I could try to make pizza,” he said. “I tried and tried and tried and it never worked. I gave up when my dough didn’t rise. I had done something wrong. But this year I thought I’d try again, so I phoned Elvia and asked her again for the recipe and had her tell me what to do. “I realized it was simple, and this time I was successful. I was shocked because I’m not a cook. It’s just flour and water, yeast and salt and a little bit of oil.  Fr. Marek's pizza, hot from the oven. Photo: F. O'Hara  Fr. Marek delivered his pizzas to a parishioner's home. Photo: Fr. Marek. “I made four pizzas with ham and veggies and some chives from the garden here (at St. Joseph’s) and I tested it first myself, secretly. Then I shared with my secretary and eventually a few of the other staff. “Then one Sunday after Mass I shared pizzas with the parish.” Thus far, Fr. Marek has made over one-hundred-and-ten pizzas for various people in his parish. “I thought that once I’d made one-hundred, I could be comfortable with it.” “I was just fascinated by the fact that I was making pizza. I have used over 30 kilograms of flour, not to mention the meat and other ingredients.” Inspired by a friendship and helping his relationship to his parish, pizza making has become a hobby, though Fr. Marek said that cooking has never been his passion. He also cites the attitudes that bring communities together as another inspiration for the pizza. “I learned this growing up and also from my time building houses in Zambia, that material things are not as important as people. The poor appreciate things, and they have a culture of making things themselves, and sharing, contributing to community life.” “My mother grew up in a poor family and we were poor, but she shared what she had, and I suppose I wanted to share what I can do with the people around me. There is a joy in helping someone with the essentials, and I guess I am feeding people.” A few parishioners had great things to say about Fr. Marek’s pizzas, “The pizza is delicious, writes Susan Couture, “but what makes it so special is the love that goes into it. “The topping is always a nice surprise. We had one that had leek on it which I’ve never seen on a pizza before but it was delish.” Mia Drewniak writes, “I love the crust and the healthy toppings. Lots of garden herbs and even leeks made it on to the pizza. Inspiring!” Out of a desire to honour dear friends, to honour a mother’s example and to serve his parishioners, Fr. Marek has in a unique way brought together tradition and connection.
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
August 2026
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