My parents were very supportive of my desire to enter Religious life. I entered the novitiate of the community in Medicine Hat and my three years of formation there confirmed God’s call to me.

As a professed Sister, I taught senior and junior High School students for eight years and then was asked to lead the formation programme for the community. I was in that role for six years. I had always deeply desired to become a counsellor, and with the support of my community, I went to Ottawa to take a Masters degree in Pastoral Counselling. For 10 years in Edmonton, I did individual and marital counselling at the Pastoral Institute, an ecumenical counselling centre. It was very important and broadening for me to work with our Protestant brothers and sisters. During that time, a colleague and I worked with women’s spirituality groups and facilitated ecumenical women’s retreats.  

Most of my life in the community has been spent in service to the community itself through leadership positions: twice as Provincial Leader, one term on the General Council, and more years than I can count as Local Coordinator in various communities of our Sisters.
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As I reflect upon my many years of Religious life, I am filled with awe and deep gratitude for God’s unfailing daily fidelity and loving presence in my life. People often say to me: Thank you for your fidelity, but it is God who is faithful to me. It has been a very rich life. Every new ministry, even though it called me to uproot my life, has been filled with such blessings. I thank and praise this great God of ours!

Written by Sr. Yvette Plessis, SCSL

Yesterday, today, and forever… The goodness of the Lord never ceases to amaze me as His love and mercy work very powerfully in my ministry as His priest: unworthy yet chosen by the Lord; unworthy but graced by a new life in Christ in the priestly service; unworthy, however, called to serve our community.

My vocation began in our family. My father was a civil engineer, Elias Canete, who died when I was 5 years old, and my mother, Fidela Canete, was a registered nurse. I am the third of four siblings. My mother died in March 2021 during the peak of COVID when I moved to St. James, Calgary, from Taber. My parents were deeply involved in their communities and the people they worked with.

I saw love and passion in their hearts, finding meaning and purpose in their noble services and humble works. Attending regular Sunday Masses in the Church, praying the rosary, and helping parishioners in need became the family’s regular routine and tasks.

And so, when I took the exam and passed the entrance exam to St. Anthony High School Seminary, my Mom was so happy. I was 12 years old when I started my seminary years. It was through my mother’s encouragement, daily prayers, and support that helped me sustain my vocation.
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Moreover, with my grandmother’s constant guidance and influence through prayers and love for the Sacraments, I pursued my vocation. With the grace of God and the support of friends, close families, and prayer warriors, I did finish my studies.  However, it is through the maternal intercession of Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help, that my love for the priesthood has been sustained. Now, I look back with gratitude to the three great women who influenced and continue to impact my priestly vows and commitment: my mother, grandmother, and Mary, my spiritual mother.

In the church of St. Mary’s, Brooks,  we have a beautiful icon of Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help, holding the hand of her Son, Jesus. The serenity of Mary’s face reflects not only maternal love but a depth of peace in the midst of knowing. Mary holds both joy and sorrow in her arms just as Jesus invites His disciples, and me, to do.

25 years of service… I see and live the best and worst of my life. I encounter the highs and lows of my journey. I walk with people who were wounded but healed. In a day of my life as a priest, I celebrate the joy of baptism and later on administer the anointing of the sick and pray for the dying. At the end of the day, I find comfort and consolation in the words of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, “Everything is grace in the eyes of our God,” with family, friends, and fellowship nourishing the gift of my service in the Lord.

I would like to share with you a beautiful letter I received in our priests’ retreat this year 2025 from the Triumph Retreat Team. It begins saying:  

Written by Fr. Eli Canete

Written by Fr. Joseph Showry Raju Nagothu

I thought I was doing well in the seminary when, suddenly, in my second year of theology, before the school year ended, the rector called me and asked me to take a one-year regency because I was receiving a lot of fan mail at the time. I was sent to a parish in our diocese to teach in a Catholic high school for one year. Then I returned to the seminary for my third year of theology. When I got to the fourth year of theology, I was caught having a mobile phone, and that was not allowed at that time. So, I was threatened with being sent out of the seminary. I really prayed hard about it because I wanted to be a priest. Eventually, I graduated, but I had to wait for some time while the bishop decided whether to ordain me. I waited for more than a year to be ordained as a deacon, and after seven months, on December 12, 2000, I was ordained a priest in my home parish, Holy Infant Jesus Parish, San Fernando, Masbate, Philippines. Deo Gratias!

I was an associate pastor for almost 12 years in the Diocese of Masbate in the Philippines in different parishes and served also as a Youth Director of the Diocese for two years. Then I became a pastor for 11 years in three different parishes before I decided to take a sabbatical leave from my home diocese. Finally, I applied to come to the Diocese of Calgary.

Prayer is important to me. I love the prayer of St. Francis; it is one of my favourite prayers, as is Psalm 23. I also have a great devotion to the Blessed Mother; I pray the rosary every day. I also make a habit of praying every day for the poor souls in purgatory, especially in my rosary and my daily Mass.

​There is only one thing I tell people who ask for advice on how to be closer to Jesus or on how to discern whether they have a vocation to be a priest. I tell them: Keep on praying. There is no better way than to ask God to guide and enlighten us in everything we do and every decision we make for ourselves. Ask the intercession of the Blessed Mother. Pray for the poor souls in purgatory as well because, when they get to heaven, they will intercede for us as the saints.

Written by Fr. Paolo Cervantes. Fr. Paolo is the current administrator of St. Patrick's Parish in Medicine Hat. 

So, in 1963, at just 13 years old, I left for Saigon to enter the Dominican Minor Seminary. At first, I cried almost every day because I missed my parents, siblings, and friends. But young hearts adjust quickly. Soon, I embraced the new life of prayer, study, discipline, and community with over 300 students living and learning together.
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I graduated from high school in 1972 and entered the novitiate in Vũng Tàu. In 1973, I made my first vows and continued my philosophy and theology studies in Thủ Đức. But in 1975, when the communists took over the South, everything changed. Religious houses were closed, properties were confiscated, and we had to continue our formation in secret, at great risk. Those were years of uncertainty. Many Dominican brothers left; some who tried to escape Vietnam by sea or land made it, while others died trying.

In 1980, I, too, left by boat and ended up in the refugee camp in Palawan, the Philippines. Two years later, I was sponsored by the Dominican Vicariate Abroad and resettled in Calgary, Canada. Those first years were tough, studying English, working to support myself, and adjusting to an entirely new culture. But God was with me.

In 1984, Bishop Paul O’Byrne ordained me a deacon, and on July 28, 1985, I was ordained a priest by the same bishop at St. Vincent Liem Church in Calgary. That was one of the happiest days of my life, the fulfillment of my dream.

Later, my superior sent me to Rome to study at the Angelicum. I graduated in 1991 and returned to Canada, where I served in vocations and communications. Then, in 1997, I returned to Vietnam to teach at various institutes for seminarians and religious sisters in Saigon.

Over the years, God continued to call me to different places of service outside of the Diocese of Calgary:

• In 2004, I was assigned as pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish in Vancouver, Canada.
• In 2010, I served as pastor of Our Lady of La Vang Parish in Richmond, Virginia.
• In 2014, I was appointed pastor of Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Parish in Arlington, Virginia.

Fr. Peter Huong Pham, OP is currently on sabbatical leave until 2026. 

Sr. Mae completed her initial years of formation and her theological studies in Manila and Quezon City, Philippines. During this time, she was actively involved in diverse ministries, serving as a parish catechist and working with children with physical and mental challenges, street children, and the abandoned elderly in various institutions. These early experiences profoundly shaped her compassionate heart and commitment to mission.
 
She later served as Pastoral Care Coordinator at Bahay Puso, a Home for the Abandoned Elderly, under the Diocese of Balanga, Bataan, Philippines. Accompanying residents, especially those nearing the end of life, Sr. Mae worked tirelessly to reunite them with their families, offering emotional and spiritual care and bringing dignity to their lives. In preparation for this ministry, she obtained Clinical Pastoral Education.
 
As a final professed Sister, she served in the Diocese of Balanga, Bataan, Philippines, volunteering at Klinika ni San Jose, a clinic for the poor. Initially, as a full-time patient screener, she met and assisted patients from various towns and remote areas. Later, she became the clinic co-director, continuing her screening duties. Known for her diligence and integrity, she ensured that those most in need received appropriate care and services.
 
She also worked at Bataan General Hospital as an employee, assigned to the Medical Social Services Department, where she served in the charity wards. There, she conducted bedside interviews and strongly advocated for patients who could not pay their medical bills, defending their dignity with unwavering compassion, even when it involved personal risk.
 
In 2007, Sr. Mae came to Holy Angels Province in Western Canada for a seven-month Cross-Cultural Formation Program before her final vows. After returning to the Philippines, she felt called to minister in Western Canada. In 2012, she joined Holy Angels Province and was missioned in Midnapore, Calgary. She earned her Health Care Aide certification in 2013 and ministered at Father Lacombe Care Centre. Simultaneously, she was appointed Vocation Director of Western Canada, a role she embraces with unwavering commitment.
 
Elected as Provincial Councillor in 2017, Sr. Mae has devoted her life to service, faith, and mission. Today, as one of the Local Leaders of the Sisters of Providence of Western Canada and as Director of the Congregational Vocation Ministry Committee, she continues to guide and support communities, offering a living witness of God’s call and the joy of saying “yes.”
 
“Every day is a chance to respond to God’s call with faith and joy.”

Because of the Communist rule in the former Yugoslavia, there was no electricity or shops in our village. Electricity came only in 1985, and a road in 2004. The communist government ignored our village because we were considered “too strong as Catholics.” We even had school on Christmas Day, though I did not attend. The next day, the teacher asked why I had missed school. When I replied that it was Christmas Day, the teacher said, “There is no God and there is no Christmas,” and hit me on the fingers ten times with a stick until blood formed under my fingernails.

Feast days were very important to us. We would go to confession on saints’ days several times a year. The special feast in our parish was for St. Anthony of Padua. The whole Diocese was Franciscan. To honour the saint, people walked on their knees around the church while praying the Rosary. We fasted from meat on Fridays and before special feasts such as Christmas, Saints Peter and Paul, and the parish patronal feast.

We supported the village's poor by cutting hay with sickles and scythes to feed their animals. Families kept sheep, cows, horses, and chickens. When wood was cut for winter, the branches were stored for feeding the sheep. We grew fruit trees and large vegetable gardens to feed ourselves, and we made wine from grapes and brandy from plums to sell, paying taxes, and buying clothing and school books.

In 1973, my cousin was ordained a Franciscan priest. I attended his first Mass, and that is when I first felt called to the priesthood. I was 13 and had just finished eighth grade. I went to our parish’s Franciscan priest to ask about becoming a priest. He asked whether I wanted to be a Franciscan, a Jesuit, or a diocesan priest. I said I didn’t know the difference, we simply called them all “priests.” He then sent me to a Jesuit college, where there was a minor seminary (a high school) for boys.

I studied there for four years, then attended university, where I completed two years of philosophy and psychology and four years of theology. After finishing all exams, the bishop ordained me along with other young men: six were ordained as Franciscans and six as diocesan priests. At my first Mass, the concelebrants were my parish priest, Fr. Pavo; my cousin, Fr. Nikola; and my neighbour from home, Fr. Vlado, who was also the godfather of my first Mass. My mother prayed many Rosaries each day and fasted four days a week for priests and nuns. She was very happy that I became a priest.

At ordination, I promised the bishop that I would obey him and all bishops to whom I would be missioned. After ordination, I spent one year in Bosnia-Herzegovina, then was sent to Australia at the request of the Bishops’ Conference to minister to the Croatian people living there. I had volunteered to go. After a year, my mother came to join me and lived with me until she died in 2012 on the Feast of the Archangels. She and my aunt supported me through prayer and fasting throughout my priesthood.

In Australia, I served at Holy Spirit Parish in Melbourne for six years and then at St. Ana Parish in Perth for four years. Australia is a good country with good people, but I was happy to go to my next mission in Calgary on December 10, 1996. I have been here for 29 years as a missionary priest. It is good work, but difficult, because Croatians in Calgary live across the entire city and beyond. We have both old and new immigrants, two distinct groups with different needs. The newer generations do not speak Croatian as well as the older ones. I try to support the community through Mass and the sacramental life, emphasizing the importance of Sunday Mass.

Every Friday during the school year, we have Croatian school for language learning and catechism. Three teachers instruct the children in the Croatian language, and I teach catechism in both English and Croatian.

I often pray: “Jesus, give me strength for my priesthood and patience for listening to my people.” I am a parish priest, but also a psychologist for parishioners, a taxi driver, and a hospital visitor. I receive many calls for the Anointing of the Sick. Once, I was called three times in one night to the Foothills Hospital. I write reference letters for Catholic teachers and letters for the Croatian Consulate for those seeking citizenship. I help parishioners find work, and I bless homes every year after Christmas.

Because I serve Croatians in both Alberta and Saskatchewan, I travel to Lethbridge before Christmas and Easter for confessions and Mass, and sometimes for funerals, baptisms, and weddings. I also travel to Saskatoon for the same reasons. 

My great joy is celebrating Mass every day, praying the Liturgy of the Hours, and praying the Rosary. I love daily meditation and reading spiritual books. My advice to a young man discerning the priesthood is this: If you become a priest, this community will be so proud of you. The church will be full, and they will respect you. It is easy to think the work is too heavy or requires too much patience, but if God calls you, He will “catch you,” just as He caught me. Pray, and God will show you. I have no problem serving the Church because I pray every day for patience. I have no time for sin because I am so busy. It is the joy of my life. I thank God and the Blessed Virgin Mary for my priesthood.

Being accepted into nursing school brought me immense joy, and I dedicated my heart and energy to this new path, feeling once again that I was fulfilling my calling. At this point in time, I was certain that I had found my vocation in nursing and had completely dismissed the possibility of religious life, believing it was not aligned with God's will for me. 

That was until I heard a homily preached by a Dominican friar on November 2, 2022, for All Souls’ Day. There was something about this homily that made me leave the church feeling so passionate about living my life for souls, and only for souls. I began to pray more and offer more sacrifices for the souls in purgatory. Perhaps it’s because the love of God and the love of souls go hand-in-hand that somehow my heart was opening up to Him and His ways again, without me even realizing it.
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Since the day I heard the homily, I kept hearing the words “dòng kín” (Vietnamese for “cloistered life”) deep within the silence of my heart. I brushed this off as a funny thought, but it persisted every single day for about two weeks. During these two weeks, I found myself engaging in conversations with various friends on topics unrelated to religious life. Interestingly enough, these discussions invariably shifted towards religious life.

Out of curiosity, I started researching cloistered Dominican nuns and ended up on the Archdiocese of Vancouver's webpage, looking at the link to the Dominican nuns in B.C. There was something inside of me that couldn’t stand being bothered anymore, so I finally clicked on the link and contacted the vocations director. However, I was still doubtful about this and, upon sending the email, made a small condition with God. I told God that the nun must respond to me within less than 24 hours, thinking that since nuns prayed all the time, they probably would not check their emails often. Then God turned the tables on me as the vocations director responded to me within 12 hours. I chuckled a couple of times when this happened and decided to play along with God a little longer. I met with the vocations director via Zoom, and by the end of the call, she told me I should consider visiting them to see for myself.

I thought there was no way this nun was telling me I might have a vocation to the cloistered life. Yet again, I thought I’d humour God by playing along with Him for just a little more. I booked a flight ticket to Squamish, B.C., in February 2023 to visit the Dominican nuns. I went with the thought that as long as I just go, maybe I could get God off my back about this whole idea of cloistered life.

I arrived on a Saturday by 2 pm, and I remember as I entered the chapel to greet Jesus, I felt a burden lifted off my shoulders. It felt as if I went someplace far away and finally came home. I initially ignored this feeling, thinking that wherever Jesus was, that was home. However, by 8 pm on that same Saturday, I walked back to my room thinking, “God, this is all I ever wanted, but I never knew that I wanted it.” As soon as I thought that I knew what God was asking of me.

I spent the time in the monastery by myself in silence, following the nuns’ schedule while also giving myself ample time for personal prayer and leisure in silence. Perhaps in the eyes of the world, living the same schedule day-in and day-out seems boring; but for me, each day brought about a new adventure with God, making life so fulfilling. Living the life in silence showed me that I can be hidden from the world, yet fully present and attentive to its needs. The silence in the monastery brought a fulfillment and satisfaction in my life in which I have never experienced before. So, when my visit to the monastery was coming to an end, I couldn’t bear to leave.

In obedience to God’s Holy Will, the guidance of my spiritual director, and the recommendation of the monastery, I did leave. Back in Calgary, I focused on finishing my studies in nursing school very diligently. I eagerly counted down the months and days until the time that I could finally enter the monastery as an aspirant. Although it was difficult at times with many temptations, it only solidified my conviction in following God’s will in discerning with the Dominican nuns.
Over the past couple of years, I encountered many different people in the hospital through my schooling and in the work I did with the Serra Club, and everything pointed back to my purpose: to offer myself as a living Holocaust for the sake of souls. I am very grateful for my past discernment with the Dominican Sisters in Houston and for the years spent earning my nursing degree, because it all showed me the need for prayer and that every sacrifice offered is very worthwhile for God’s glory and for the salvation of souls. I can say that everything started because of God’s generosity in being patient with me and even allowing me to play with Him along the way.

I never thought I would ever be called to the cloistered life, but God has a good sense of humour. As someone who desires to be His spouse, I should also have a sense of humour so I can play along with Him. I hope I can spend the rest of my life making God laugh by living the life that I initially thought was funny, offering every moment of it for His glory and for the salvation of souls. Most importantly, I hope that when the time comes, God will also say to me, “My love, what a good sense of humour you’ve got there.”

As the years went on, he was sent as associate pastor at St. Michael’s parish in Pincher Creek, then St. Anthony’s parish in Drumheller. His first appointment as pastor was at St. Peter’s parish in Milk River, where he stayed for several years. After this, he was sent to serve as pastor at St. Augustine’s parish in Taber, and then at St. Rita’s parish in Rockyford, where he oversaw the construction of a new rectory.

Then new responsibilities were on the horizon. Fr. John was sent to study Canon Law at St. Paul’s University in Ottawa. From there he received his licentiate in Canon Law in 1989. This degree prepared him for the next assignment that the Lord had in store for him.

Bishop Paul O’Byrne appointed the newly-trained canon lawyer, Fr. John, as Moderator of the Diocesan Curia. In this role, he oversaw various aspects of the Diocese as assigned to him by the Bishop. The Bishop also appointed him as Vicar General, which assigned him the task of overseeing all Diocesan matters under the direction of the Bishop. He held this office throughout the time of Bishop O’Byrne and Bishop Henry. Fr. John retired as the Moderator of the Curia in 2018.

Since retirement, Fr. John has been involved in the administration of the clergy pension plan. He also took part in a committee composed of clergy and laypeople to establish Dorchester Square as a residence for clergy, some of whom are retired. At present, he is still living in Dorchester Square and is helping to manage the administration of this residence.
Over the years, Fr. John enjoyed travelling and was fortunate to be on several cruises, particularly in Europe. On one of those trips, he visited an area in Ukraine near Odessa, the place from which his immediate ancestors came to Canada. His grandfather was the first in the family to come from Odessa to Canada when the Soviet revolution endangered the people of German background. This experience of connecting with his roots was of great worth to Fr. John. 

It began with a request in Grade 9 to serve at Bishop Francis Carroll’s weekday Masses. Three of the altar servers in St. Joseph’s Parish, Calgary, took weekly turns, serving the Mass and having breakfast with Bishop Carroll before going off to school. Around my 11th Grade, Bishop Carroll, and my pastor, Monsignor Neville Anderson, initiated the plot to have me consider the priesthood. That I couldn’t imagine. Yet upon graduating from St. Mary’s High School, Bishop Carroll registered me in St. Joseph’s Seminary in Edmonton. He counselled me not immediately to buy a black suit but to cooperate with the seminary staff in the discernment of a vocation.
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Five years later, on a stairway landing, the seminary rector, Monsignor Howard Griffin, asked me if this (Ordination through Subdiaconate, Diaconate and Priesthood) was right for me. I had come to a realization that the practice of Faith had enriched my life, and if I could facilitate such enrichment, refuge and identity for others, I should answer yes.  And I did.

Upon ordination in 1965, too young to be entrusted with parish responsibilities, I was asked to serve as a chaplain at Camp Cadicasu for the summer. It turned out to be some 18 years of fun and adventure, attempting to open eyes to the world and the people around them. In the fall of 1965, at the ripe age of 23 and a half, I was assigned to St. Michael’s Parish in Calgary. The following years were spent at St. Mary’s Cathedral, St. Augustine’s, Taber; St. Francis High School, Calgary; St. John’s, Calgary; St. Basil’s, Lethbridge; St. Michael’s, Pincher Creek; and retirement from parish responsibilities in the summer of 2010.

In 2011 until 2021, I served a chaplaincy in the Calgary Catholic School District. Gary Strothers, the superintendent at the time, asked Bishop Henry if he could ask me to help out. Bishop Henry told me as he was leaving the dining room table one evening: “Strothers asked me if he could approach you. I told him, you could do worse.” So, with that resounding endorsement, I served again in a rich, engaging environment. From it, I resigned when they took Bishop Vital Grandin’s name from the second-oldest Catholic high school in the City of Calgary.

It has been a climb, rich in memories and in supportive and challenging relationships with families of origin and families of choice. I am deeply grateful to my Mom and Dad, my sister and brother and all who have engaged in the struggle with me. The Church and beyond have provided enabling encouragement and support. For all those who read this, I hope an abiding experience of gratitude for their outstanding goodness.

Written by Fr. Eric Nelson for Faithfully.

​On Sunday, Oct 5, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Bishop William T. McGrattan installed four permanent diaconate aspirants into the Ministry of Candidate during the Sunday Mass at noon.
 
The Rite for Admission to Candidacy is an important step for each aspirant on his journey toward becoming a permanent deacon in the Catholic church. Having already completed one year of formation training, this rite is an opportunity for these aspirants to express publicly their intention to continue in the diaconate formation program.
 
Here is the list of candidates who have just begun their second year of formation and were instituted as candidates on Sunday:

• Abdul Kingsley (Spouse: Bukola Abdul) – Our Lady of the Assumption, Calgary
• Florian Bernardo (Spouse: Ydelle Bernardo) – St. Albert the Great, Calgary
• Lars Duck Chief (Spouse: Jocelyn Duck Chief) – Holy Trinty, Cluny AB
• Paul Smith (Spouse: Deborah Smith) – St. James, Okotoks AB

 
We ask the faithful to keep these men and their families in prayer as they continue their journey toward ordination and a life of service as permanent deacons in the Diocese of Calgary.

Written by Deacon Dale Laing for Faithfully. Photography by Victor Panlilio for the Diocese of Calgary. 

So, on the second of June, 1970, I came to Lumsden, Saskatchewan, where the postulancy and novitiate were located. I was 39 years old. It was unusual at that time for someone to enter at that age because 35 was the cut off age, but they took the “old boy” anyways because I was already a teacher. They gave me an opportunity to see if I would fit in and I have been here ever since.

I have served as a Franciscan Friar in Edmonton, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Regina, mostly in either pastoral work in the parish or preaching retreats and giving spiritual direction. I am still doing spiritual direction. My preaching took me all over the world: New Zealand, United States, England, across Europe, the West Indies. Here in Canada, it was my work for about 22 years to preach retreats to many Religious communities every summer, both men’s and women’s communities of various spiritual families: Benedictines, Carmelites, and Franciscans. I also preached for a laywomen’s fraternity, the Kingship of Christ, and was the spiritual director for lay Carmelites.

I believe that the foundational success of my priesthood’s ministry is due to the lay people. I was never anywhere that I was not supported by the lay men and women who listened and responded. I made a point of wanting to hear what their hearts wanted to say. I continue to hear from these people even decades later. It matters so much for people to be heard. 

​My advice to people who ask “Father, how do I become close to Jesus?” is to spend time with Him in adoration or in the tabernacle. During our Friars’ retreat recently, we had two hours of adoration each evening and I was there. I also recommend my favourite prayer, the Peace Prayer of St. Francis, which is such a beautiful, heartfelt prayer!
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My advice to young people about their vocation is: Pray, pray, pray, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. I carry the young people in my heart. 

​Based on an interview with Fr. Bob Mitchell, compiled by Sr. Dianne Turner, OSE.

A Legacy of Service to Canada
In his opening remarks, the Emcee, Brian Montes, 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.

Unity in Faith
Bishop William McGrattan’s presence at the banquet was a reminder of the unity between the Church’s spiritual leaders and the religious sisters, who form the backbone of so many ministries. His participation spoke of the importance of collaboration between the shepherds of the faith and those who devote their lives to prayer, teaching, healthcare, and charity.

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 deep 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 virgin candidates, priests, deacons, and laypeople, all engaged in fellowship, united in their devotion to serving others.

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, five sisters that were celebrating a jubilee of vows were:

• Sr. Margaret Mary Benoit, FCJ          75 years
• Sr. Yvette Plessis, SCSL                    60 years
• Sr. Gloria Sarol, DM                          25 years
• Sr. Szymona Grosicka, OP                 25 years
• Sr. Mae Valdez, SP                            25 years
  
  

As the 46th 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. This was both a celebration and an inspiration to carry forward the mission of love and service that the sisters embody so beautifully.

Submitted by Renwick de Souza. Photos courtesy of Victor Panilio. 

This fall, ten young women accepted the invitation from the Religious and Consecrated Sisters of the Diocese of Calgary to deepen their understanding of how to discern the Will of God in their lives. The day offered an opportunity to meet others on a similar journey and to encounter Sisters from various communities who have dedicated their lives to following Jesus and serving His Church. Each participant began by sharing a grace she had received, helping everyone get to know one another a little better.

Newly ordained Fr. Peter An offered an engaging presentation on discernment, drawing from his own journey to the priesthood. His reflections resonated deeply: “I got so much direction from his presentation,” said one participant. Another shared, “It helped me know the importance of knowing who you are and of God’s calling.”

Prayer was central throughout the day. We began the retreat with the morning Mass with the parish. During the time of Adoration, passages of Scripture were provided for reflection, so the participants were able to engage deeply with the Lord. One reflected, “A benefit I received was being close, very close to Jesus,” while another added, “I got the right Scripture to answer my question.”

Written by Sr. Dianne Turner, OSE. Photos courtesy of ​Sr. Mary Fernanda of the Providence Sisters. 

Written by Fr. Paolo Cervantes.

Name one blessing in your life as a priest.
One of my favourite parts of being a priest is being able to share life alongside my parishioners, to be included in moments: sacred moments, happy moments, tragic moments, all the moments life brings as a spiritual father with his people.

The blessing of being invited into the lives of the families in my parish brings me joy. People call priests “Father” on purpose, and over time, I have developed a sense of being a spiritual father to my parishioners. This is a true gift that has helped me in my vocation.

What encouragement could you offer to young men who may consider the vocation to the priesthood?
To offer your life to Christ is a beautiful thing. Keep an open heart and mind to the possibility that God may be calling you to the priesthood. Let God lead you in unexpected ways and to unexpected places.

See in the priesthood a life offered to God through sharing Christ with the world. Even if the world does not understand the vocation of a priest, the People of God understand.

No matter where you end up in your life, you are called to be of loving service to others and to have a holy purpose in life.
You have a place in the church. Continue to pray to discover the place God has in store for you.

Thank you, Fr. Matthew, for answering the call of our Lord to be His priest and for all the years of faithful service you have already offered in this Diocese. God bless you. 

Photos courtesy of Fr. Matthew Emmelkamp.

Why the Move?

The new house, located at 15206 Township Rd 262 in Rocky View County, was formerly the Divine Mercy Centre. With their community growing, Seeds of the Word needed more space. 

“As we are growing, there was a need to move to a new location that would better suit and accommodate the needs of our mission,” said Sr. Mary Elisabeth. “We had outgrown the old location, and this new house is a blessing that allows us to continue our mission with greater capacity.”

Looking Ahead

The change excites the community. “It feels like a new beginning, and we are looking forward to seeing how the Lord will call us and our mission to grow with these new opportunities,” Sr. Mary Elisabeth shared.

One detail ties the new residence to Seeds houses worldwide: the yellow wall in the chapel. For the Seeds of the Word Community, yellow is more than a design choice. It symbolizes the presence of God, divine light, faith, renewal, and hope.
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“In every Seeds house, our chapels share the same colour and pattern,” Sr. Mary Elisabeth explained. “It is intentional, the same cross, the same icons.”

Sisters of Divine Mercy in Bowness

While the former Divine Mercy Centre, located north of Calgary, is now home to the Seeds of the Word, the Sisters of Divine Mercy continue their mission from Bowness, where they have been based since last year. Their current residence in Bowness is now the Divine Mercy Centre (7608 39 Avenue NW, Calgary), which includes the Divine Mercy Chapel, a place of perpetual adoration.

Situated in Calgary’s Bowness neighbourhood, the Sisters remain closely connected to people from all walks of life in the spirit of accompaniment. They offer perpetual adoration at the Divine Mercy Chapel, provide an online portal for adoration for shut-ins, visit schools and parishes, and host spiritual programs and regular activities of prayer and formation at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, with the support of the pastor, Fr. Matthew Emmelkamp, and the parish community.

Founded in 2015 during the Jubilee Year of Mercy by Bishop Frederick Henry, the Sisters of Divine Mercy are a Public Association of the Faithful in the Diocese of Calgary. Their life combines contemplative prayer, especially Eucharistic adoration, Marian devotion, and the Divine Mercy devotion, with active witness to the New Evangelization. 

To find more information about the Sisters of Divine Mercy, their charisms and activities, visit sistersofdivinemercy.org

Photos & Video courtesy of Bandi Szakony, Seeds of the Word Community, and Sisters of Divine Mercy.

​On Sunday, Sep 7, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Bishop William T. McGrattan installed seven permanent diaconate candidates into the Ministry of Acolyte during the Sunday Mass at noon.

This ministry entrusts candidates with a more prominent role in the Church’s liturgy. As acolytes, they are instituted to serve at the altar and to assist the priest and deacon. In particular, it is their responsibility to prepare the altar and the sacred vessels and, if necessary, serve as extraordinary ministers and distribute the Eucharist.

The installation marks another step forward in their formation for the permanent diaconate. Having previously been instituted as lectors in 2024, the candidates now continue their preparation for candidacy and, in time, ordination.

Here is the list of candidates who have just begun their fourth year of formation and were instituted as acolytes on Sunday:

• Rafael (Rafa) Dadivas (Spouse: Katherine [Kay] Dadivas) – Ascension, Calgary
• ​Carlo Alejandro (Carlo) Flores Gil (Spouse: Bertha Gonzalez) – Holy Spirit, Calgary
• Grant Gay (Spouse: Kelsey Gay) – St. Albert the Great, Calgary
• Jose Cruzel (Cruzel) Lacao (Spouse: Famela Lacao) – St. Thomas More, Calgary
• Jason Openo (Spouse: Leisha Lesko-Openo) – St. Patrick’s, Medicine Hat
• Roy Rebustillo (Spouse: Maria Paz Lourdes Rebustillo) – St. Patrick’s, Calgary
• Alberto (Abe) Sia Lu (Spouse: Eva Sia Lu) – St. Mark’s, Calgary

 
We ask the faithful to keep these men and their families in prayer as they continue their journey toward ordination and a life of service as permanent deacons in the Diocese of Calgary.

Photography by Victor Panlilio, for the Diocese of Calgary.

On August 16, 2025, I made Perpetual Vows with the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJs), an international congregation of women religious, at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Calgary. It was, for me, a day of great joy and the culmination of a journey of many years. I was reminded that St. Mary’s was my first parish when I moved to Calgary in 2001, and I was also struck by the fact that the FCJ Sisters have been part of this same parish for 140 years, when they came to the region to found the first Catholic schools in 1885.

I was never someone who always knew she would be a Religious Sister. I was 37 years old when I first heard the call to religious life. Up until that time, I had been working as a teacher and living a very pleasant existence in Calgary, Canada.  I was aware that something was missing from my life, although I wouldn’t have been able to put my finger on exactly what that missing element might be. “Church” and “God” were both parts of my life, but certainly not my highest priorities.

I then entered a particularly difficult time in my life, dealing with the sickness and death of a loved one.  It was in that space that I had a profoundly personal experience of Jesus, an experience that could not be ignored or forgotten, and it spurred me over the coming weeks and months to want to know God more deeply. As St. Augustine wrote, “You touched me, and I am set on fire to attain the peace which is yours.” 

My journey eventually led me to meet the Sisters Faithful Companions of Jesus. The FCJ charism of accompanying people in the experience of their contemporary crosses takes its roots from the witness of the women, like Mary of Magdala, who journeyed with Jesus during his ministry, stayed with him at the foot of the cross, and then went on to spread his message of the joy and hope of the resurrection. For me, this charism mirrored my own extraordinary experience of Jesus entering with me into my suffering to lead me to new life. So, over the next several years, I took the plunge, entering into the formal stages of religious life. 

Written by Sr. Michelle Langlois, FCJ for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of FCJ Sisters. 

Thus Jieo became a candidate at Orange, N.J., in August 2022 and a prenovice at Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, N.J., in August 2023. During his prenovitiate year, he taught catechism at St. John Bosco Parish in Port Chester, N.J.
“The best part of my novitiate year,” says Bro. Jieo, “was the spirit of brotherhood I experienced with my fellow novices, in moments both of praying and of playing.” He also found a lot of satisfaction in ministry to the students at Salesian College Prep, adjacent to the novitiate house.

After professing as a seminarian, he will continue his religious and priestly formation in Orange, N.J., while studying philosophy at Seton Hall University. There “I hope to deepen my relationship with God, better assimilate the spirit of Don Bosco, and continue cultivating my skills for ministry among the young. With God’s help, I wish to become more and more conformed to Christ, especially in his obedience, poverty, and chastity, and to learn truly what it means to be a sign and bearer of his love for young people.”

Further down the road, Bro. Jieo hopes that he might become a missionary in some foreign land. “Most of my favourite saints were missionaries (the Canadian Martyrs among them!),” he states. But his ultimate aspiration is to become a saint.

The Eucharistic Celebration

Forty priests concelebrated the profession Mass, assisted by numerous members of the Salesian Family, family members of the newly professed, students from Salesian schools, and other friends. The 470-seat chapel was about two-thirds full.

Introducing the Mass of Our Lady’s Assumption, Father Dominic (in three languages) voiced thanks to God for calling us, thanks to our mother Mary, thanks to our brothers for their “yes” to God, and thanks to their parents—who were commended a couple more times during the rites.

Fr. Dominic’s homily focused on God’s initiative. On our own, he said, we’d never be ready to do God’s work. The Virgin Mary shows us that he can do great things in us, which he illustrated through several of Mary’s virtues and applied them to religious life.

Written by Fr. Michael Mendl, SDB

On Sunday, August 24, 2025, Bishop William T. McGrattan presided at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary for the Installation of Bennett Chacko and André Boudreau to the Ministry of Lector. The celebration was an important step in their vocational journey and a sign of encouragement for the whole diocesan community.

The ministry of Lector is the first of the instituted ministries that prepares men for Holy Orders. By this rite, the Church calls them to proclaim the Word of God during Mass, apart from the Gospel, and to help others grow in love for Scripture. It is not only about reading well in public but also about living the Word, allowing it to shape one’s life and witness.

Following this step is the installation of a seminarian as an Acolyte, which entrusts them with service at the altar and preparing the Eucharist. After completing their studies and formation, they enter the Vocational Synthesis Phase in the Diocese, a period of pastoral immersion that prepares them for ordination as deacons. From there, they continue toward priesthood, supported by their bishop, priests, and the wider Church.

We extend our congratulations to Bennett and André on their installation as Lectors. May their love for Scripture deepen, and may they continue to be strengthened by the prayers of the faithful as they advance toward service as deacons and priests in the Diocese of Calgary.

Photos courtesy of Victor Panlilio. 

​In all the gospels, we see a woman, Mary of Bethany, who broke the vessel of precious balm to anoint Jesus. We also hear the criticism of witnesses, “Why was the ointment thus wasted?” (Mk 14:4).

This gesture, defended by Jesus as coming from the overabundance of love, is repeated in every religious profession. Commenting on the Gospel passage, Mother Mary Francis, a Poor Clare and spiritual author, once said: “There will always be Christ’s need for those who will in the world’s eyes waste their lives on him, who will break their love over him and let it run over him for no other reason than because he is all-lovable, because there is no better thing to do with one’s life than to break it and let it run all over Christ and his Church.”

I believe every religious sister has been asked more than once in her life what she would do differently if she could start again and whether she would choose this path. Yes, we would; over and over again, we would choose Christ, or rather, we would recognize His choice of us, and follow Him, wherever He goes. 

In our Calgary community, we celebrated the Silver Jubilee of Sr. Szymona (also known as Sr. Simon). It has been 25 years since she first professed her vows in the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Dominic. A jubilee year, whether in religious life or any person’s journey, is a time of grace. It offers a sacred opportunity to thank God for the many blessings received over the years and to reflect deeply on the commitment made and faithfully lived.

​Consecrated life is, above all, a profound encounter with Christ, who draws near to His wide-open Heart and assures us, “I am with you always,” regardless of the circumstances. It also provides a witness to others that Christ can truly be “enough,” and that life given to Him can be fulfilling and joyful. It is the life of those who have chosen Him to be their only love, both now and in eternity. 

During the celebration, Sr. Szymona said that the various aspects of life in the convent surprised her. This life proved to be more challenging but also more beautiful than she could ever imagine: “totally worth it!” God truly gave her a hundredfold of fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, children, and lands, just as He promised (Mt 19:29). He is never outdone in generosity. She encouraged the families present to pray for new vocations, especially within their households, so that their sons and daughters, siblings, and grandchildren could discover for themselves the goodness of the Lord and the richness of His love and mercy for His chosen ones.

As Sr. Szymona, surrounded by many of our parishioners and friends, as well as priests and consecrated men and women who gathered at our church, renewed her vows, we accompanied her with our prayers. Her Jubilee coincided with a special time in the Church, the Year of Hope.

As we reflected on the meaning of this celebration, we gave praise to the Sacred Heart of Jesus for the gift of our Sister’s vocation. We prayed that she continues to walk the path of hope with unwavering faith and conviction. We entrust her to the care of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, that through her intercession, Sister may continue to bear witness to God’s love wherever He sends her.

​The Second Annual Diocesan Vocations Rally was, from the opening Mass with Bishop McGrattan, until the end with his blessing, a very blessed and Spirit-led event for our diocesan community. Almost 400 people gathered at St. Michael’s church in Calgary to celebrate Pentecost Sunday Mass, to hear inspiring talks about creating a culture of vocations in our Diocese and about various vocations within the Church, and to interact with faith-filled people in those vocations. We were skilfully led through the series of talks and panel discussion by two MCs: Deacon Peter An and Francesca Ambrosino.

Prayer and baptism were main messages that ran through the talks.  At the Mass which began the Vocations Rally, the Bishop performed the sprinkling rite to remind us of our baptism. Every speaker connected our vocations with our baptism.

Fr. Troy Nguyen began the presentations with a talk on the culture of vocations and discernment of vocation. His three main points were living our baptismal call, living a life of sacrifice, and creating a culture of joy.

He was followed by Sr. Mary Elisabeth Pinochet, SOW, who spoke on the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. She explained that all of us are called to live out these gospel counsels. This is a call from our baptism; those who are Consecrated are just living this call radically.

Dr. Thomas and Chanèle Bouchard gave the third talk on the topic of marriage, family, and building a vocation culture in the home. They emphasized the important point that a relationship founded upon friendship is the basis of a good marriage.

The final talk was given by Fr. Derek Remus. He presented on the theologically profound responsibilities and realities of the ministerial priesthood and how the royal priesthood of the faithful and the ministerial priesthood further enhance each other. 
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Then it was time for the panel discussion with Sr. Zacharia Hryc, OP, Br. Michael Perras, OFM, Fr. Anthony Sortino, LC, and Deacon Stephen Robinson. Lots of great questions were asked by the participants and we received many thoughtful and helpful answers from the panelists. 

Kemuel Perez who participated in the Rally said, “The Vocations Rally really got me inspired to discern my vocation because it has been a long time for my discerning to what God is calling me. It really helps to hear the testimonies and the speakers of different vocations. If you are ever discerning for whatever God is calling you, it really helps to talk to the different people who are living that vocation.”

Sr. Carol Forhan, RPB, shared, “I was heartened to see the number of people who were there for the first time!  I found that the program was well-planned, and the MCs were excellent. The participants who gave the talks, or who were on the panel, did so well, whether giving a teaching or sharing personal experiences of God's work in their own lives.  One happy surprise was the great number of people who asked questions of the panel!  I pray and trust that many young people will be helped through this event and others like it, to listen within their hearts to God's Call, whatever that will be for them.”

Mara Capili brought her children to the Rally. She told us, “Especially when Fr. Troy teared up during his talk, it was very moving; you could almost feel him when he was talking. He was grateful that he followed his vocation. Sr. Mary Elisabeth’s talk about the evangelical counsels was a teaching moment for me. I had not heard of the term 'evangelical counsels' before. I was so happy to be there. I made sure that I brought my kids to hear the talks. My eldest collected a lot of brochures from the display tables and is eager now to study theology after high school. We loved it. It was very worthwhile.”

Fr. Troy commented, “It was inspiring to see so many people excited to learn about vocations in all its forms. I hope that it sparks a renewal in our Diocese.”

We offer a tremendous thank you to Bishop McGrattan who has been so supportive of this event, who presided at the Mass and provided us spiritual nourishment in his homily, as well as offering final comments and giving us his blessing at the end of the Rally. Bishop McGrattan spoke of this event as being a celebration of a Vocations Pentecost and he tied the Diocesan renewal in which we are engaging into a sort of Pentecost in the Holy Spirit.

We also thank the many priests who concelebrated the Mass, the seminarians who served at the altar, St. Michael’s community parishioners who assisted in so many ways, and the choir led by Heather Blair who provided inspirational music for the liturgy.

We are grateful for the tremendous effort of those who staffed the display booths and interacted with the participants. This is an aspect of the Vocations Rally for which many people expressed their appreciation. It really provides a venue for talking about vocations.

Thank you to the Benedict XVI Institute at Newman Theological College for their generous donation. Thank you to the God Squad and volunteers who served the lunch.

We were happy to see so many young adults and families who participated. We are very happy to see those who came of the newly baptized and confirmed. The Vocations Rally was for those discerning their vocation, but also for everyone to support vocations and to help to create a culture of vocations in our Diocese, welcoming vocations, praying for vocations. Thank you to everyone who contributed to and attended the Rally.
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The Office of Vocations encourages people to pray the vocation prayer and to contact us if they need more prayer cards. Please pray for our seminarians, candidates for permanent diaconate, and consecrated virginity. If you are wondering about your vocation, you are welcome to contact the Office of Vocations to come to talk to us. 

Written by Sr. Dianne Turner, Office of Vocations. Photos courtesy of Luke Fuentebella & SFXC Lethbridge. View Photo Album