 What do candles and Consecrated Life have in common? The faithful of St. Albert the Great Parish who attended the 5 pm Mass on Sunday, February 2, 2025 certainly know. February 2 is an important feast day in the Church’s liturgical calendar, the 40th day after Christmas when we celebrate the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple. This day, also known since the Middle Ages as Candlemas Day, begins with the blessing of the candles as we celebrate Jesus the Light of the World. In 1997, Pope St. John Paul II also dedicated this day as the World Day for Consecrated Life. He wrote that the purpose of this day is “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” [of poverty, chastity, and obedience] as well as “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” (St. John Paul II, 1997; Ordo 2024-2025 p. 61) 
At St. Albert the Great Parish, over 40 of the Religious and Consecrated persons in our Diocese were present with Bishop McGrattan to celebrate. What a joy it was to carry a lighted candle as the Religious and Consecrated processed with the Bishop, singing “Christ be our Light”! This was a truly significant action in the liturgy because Jesus Himself calls those vowed to this life “to show that the Incarnate Son of God is the eschatological goal towards which all things tend, the splendour before which every other light pales, and the infinite beauty which alone can fully satisfy the human heart.” (Vita Consecrata 16) Our Bishop in his homily, beautifully explained the origins of this feast day and how it relates to the Consecrated Life in the Church. After the homily the Religious and Consecrated Communities renewed their vows. “The counsels, more than a simple renunciation, are a specific acceptance of the mystery of Christ, lived within the Church.” (Vita Consecrata 16) Bishop McGrattan invited everyone to pray for the Religious and Consecrated men and women present who then stood together and renewed their vows to the Lord.
Not only did we feast together at the Table of the Eucharist, but we broke bread together with a great variety of food at the reception! The generous parishioners hosted this delicious feast with an opportunity to rejoice together and enjoy each others’ company. This was truly a day of joyous celebration! On behalf of the Religious and Consecrated of our Diocese, the Assembly of Women Religious, and the Renewal Team for Religious, thank you to the Salvatorian priests, parish staff, all who had a role in the liturgy, and parishioners at St. Albert the Great parish for making us welcome and offering us a life-giving and beautiful celebration of the Feast of the Presentation and World Day for Consecrated Life. We are filled with gratitude! May the Lord bless you abundantly! Written by Br. Michael Perras, OFM, and Sr. Dianne Turner, OSE. Photos: Victor Panlilio, for the Diocese of Calgary.
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 If you're wondering what “Fun with the Sisters” is, it’s exactly that: an opportunity to meet religious sisters in a casual setting and enjoy time together. We recently held our “Fun with the Sisters” evening at the FCJ Centre on Friday, Jan 24, 2025. Young women from the Calgary area attended the event, and many religious communities were represented, including the Faithful Companions of Jesus, the Sisters of Providence, the Dominican Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Province, the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, and the Seeds of the Word, along with the young women currently in the sabbatical program.
We took our time to introduce ourselves and engage in meaningful conversations over a pizza dinner. The sisters shared brief presentations about their congregations and ministries in Calgary. After dinner, we divided into groups to play Pictionary, filling the room with laughter and creativity. Toward the end of the evening, we gathered in the chapel for a time of prayer, singing hymns and spontaneously sharing our favorite Bible verses. Finally, it was time to say good night to friends, both old and new. While “Fun with the Sisters” may not be strictly vocational, it provides a wonderful opportunity to meet the sisters and engage in conversations about discernment with them, as well as with like-minded women in attendance. The next event on the horizon is “Movie Night with the Sisters” on Feb 15 at St. Luke’s Parish, sponsored by the Serra Club. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity! Written by Sr. Simon Grosicka, O.P.
 We’re excited to share Deacon Peter’s inspiring journey as he opens up about his vocation and the experiences that shaped his calling! From childhood moments in Seoul to serving as a deacon today, Deacon Peter’s stories are filled with faith, family, and incredible moments of grace. Can you tell us a little about yourself—where you grew up and about your family?
 Deacon Peter’s family and friends What inspired you to pursue priesthood? Was there a moment or experience that sparked your calling?
Many young people wonder how to recognize God’s call in their lives. How do we know God is calling us?
Now that you’re a deacon, what’s been the most awesome part of serving so far?
 Litany of the Saint - during the Ordination
Deacon Peter’s story is a beautiful reminder of how God calls us in unique and personal ways. May God, who began His good work in him, bring it to completion and fulfillment.
 Our small rural parish communities of St. Augustine’s in Taber and St. Joseph’s in Vauxhall recognized the great need to increase vocations. Often, our smaller communities are deeply affected by the shortage of priests, limiting opportunities for worship in the sacred liturgy, as our existing priests are stretched thin, often covering two or three parishes that may be as much as an hour apart. In response, we decided to take up the call to come together for 40 hours of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, with special intentions for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. What initially seemed like a tall order for us to cover turned into a blessing as the call went out. We were overwhelmed by the response of our parishioners, some of whom took this opportunity for Adoration for the first time in a long while—or, for some, for the very first time. We began our adoration on November 25, 2024, at 3 am and concluded on November 26 with Benediction at 6:45 pm. This was followed by a Memorial Mass offered for the special intentions of all deceased members of the Knights of Columbus. A time of fellowship was shared by all following the Mass.
 Answering the call to participate in the Year of Prayer leading up to the Jubilee of Hope, over 100 people came to pray before the Lord in His Blessed Sacrament and asking Him to provide more vocations for our Diocese for the Religious and Consecrated life. This 24-Hour Adoration for Vocations held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Polish Church from November 12th to 13th was a blessed time of silent personal and communal prayer. It was sponsored by the Assembly of Women Religious, the Religious Renewal Team involved in the Diocesan renewal process, and the Office of Vocations. Thank you so much to those who took part in this wonderful time of prayer. The Society of Christ priests graciously opened their parish church and offered morning Mass in English to begin and to end the 24-hour devotion as well as the regular Polish evening Mass. The church and Blessed Sacrament were so beautifully set up, making the environment most conducive for prayer. Representatives from most of the men’s and women’s Religious and Consecrated Life communities were alongside faithful members of the parish, deacons, seminarians, and other faithful adults who came to pray throughout the day and night. Religious from the Franciscans, Carmelites, Salvatorians, Legionaries, Pallottines, Providence, Daughters of Mary, and Faithful Companions of Jesus communities came from far away to participate 
Notably, a candidate for Consecrated Virginity with the Diocese, a Franciscan Sister, and the Dominican Sisters of the Immaculate Conception were present for much of the time. The Dominican Sisters and Polish priests beautifully sang the Liturgy of the Hours in the early morning. The Seeds of the Word community along with some dedicated others covered the night hours from midnight on. The Precious Blood Sisters, being a cloistered community, joined instead from their monastery chapel. It was truly an opportunity to rest spiritually in the Lord and to join with others in asking Him for more vocations. Prayer for vocations involves all of the faithful. As Pope Francis said, “I invite you to listen to and follow Jesus, and to allow yourselves to be transformed interiorly by His words, which ‘are spirit and life’ (Jn 6:62). Mary, the Mother of Jesus and ours, also says to us: ‘Do whatever He tells you’ (Jn 2:5). It will help you to participate in a communal journey that is able to release the best energies in you and around you. A vocation is a fruit that ripens in a well cultivated field of mutual love that becomes mutual service, in the context of an authentic ecclesial life. No vocation is born of itself or lives for itself. A vocation flows from the heart of God and blossoms in the good soil of faithful people, in the experience of fraternal love. Did not Jesus say: ‘By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another’ (Jn 13:35)? Let us dispose our hearts therefore to being ‘good soil’, by listening, receiving and living out the word, and thus bearing fruit. The more we unite ourselves to Jesus through prayer, Sacred Scripture, the Eucharist, the Sacraments celebrated and lived in the Church and in fraternity, the more there will grow in us the joy of cooperating with God in the service of the Kingdom of mercy and truth, of justice and peace. And the harvest will be plentiful, proportionate to the grace we have meekly welcomed into our lives.” (Source: news.va, From the Vatican, 15 January 2014)
Written by Sr. Dianne Turner, OSE, Assistant Vocations Director, Diocese of Calgary. Photos courtesy of Sr. Dianne.
 First Religious Profession of our novice, Sr. Faustina (Sara) Majkowski! Here’s a wonderful vocations milestone to celebrate with the Dominican Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Province! Sr. Faustina (Sara Majkowski), O.P., made her first profession of vows on November 7, 2024 - on the Feast of All Saints of the Dominican Order. Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Sr. Faustina began her initial formational journey with the Dominican Sisters here in Calgary in 2022. During her formation in Calgary, she discerned her vocation while working alongside the sisters at their daycare. She later entered the novitiate in Justice, IL, to continue her formation. Having spent significant time in Calgary, Sr. Faustina is no stranger to our diocese. We thank God for her generous and joyful "yes" to her call and pray for her perseverance in religious life! 
 Last month, we gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of Fr. Ray Lowing, a beloved priest whose life has been one of profound service and dedication to God and the people of our diocese. Since his ordination in 1959, he’s worn many hats in our diocese – from directing the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine to serving as Chancellor, Judicial Vicar, and pastor of several parishes. His heart for ministry and commitment to the Church have touched so many lives over the years. The birthday celebration on Tuesday, October 29 at the Pastoral Centre was filled with joy and gratitude. Bishop McGrattan and the staff at the Catholic Pastoral Centre joined in honouring Fr. Ray, who has given, and keeps giving, so much of himself to the Church. The appreciation from his friends and colleagues was a beautiful reflection of the impact he’s made. Even though he’s officially retired, Fr. Ray continues to live out his vocation daily. He celebrates Mass at the Pastoral Centre, where his quiet strength and deep faith are a blessing to everyone. In addition to this, he contributes his expertise to the Clergy Pension Plan, helping to ensure the well-being of his fellow priests in retirement. He also continues to serve the Ecclesiastical Tribunal as an advocate and judge.
 Fr. Ray has been a gift from God to our diocese, embodying the virtues of humility, wisdom, and compassion in his ministry. For all of us, he is a constant source of inspiration, demonstrating that faith in action can touch countless lives. His example calls us to deepen our own commitment to God and to serve others with the same joy and dedication.
 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
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  A note from writer and compiler, Solomon Ip: Once again, we arrive at the yearly celebration of our jubilarian priests. What this jubilee class lacks in terms of quantity, it most definitely makes up for in quality. This year, we have four well-respected pastors, among whom we find two Vicars General of our diocese, the current Bishop's Delegate for Sexual Misconduct, a former refugee, the founding pastors of parishes, and priests who pastored their congregations as they built new churches. This year, I am also extremely excited to be able to collaborate with one of my seminarian brothers on these jubilarian interviews. Jeffrell Painaga is a perfect candidate to write about Fr. Jack Pereira, and I am so grateful finally to share this experience with one of my brothers. It is through the witness of many great pastors that young men are inspired to follow in their footsteps. Fathers, please think of these articles that the two of us wrote as our gratitude and our admiration; we can only hope to follow Christ so boldly, should we one day share in Christ’s priesthood. Brothers and sisters, please join us in prayer for an increase in vocations. ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’ ~Matthew 9:37
Written by Jeffrell Painaga for Faithfully.
Written by Solomon Ip for Faithfully.
Written by Lauretta Dearing, OFS, member of St. Paul's Parish in Airdrie.
 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.
Many people know about Religious Life in the Catholic Church, but did you know that there are other types of Consecrated Life as well? While Religious Life is the largest component of the Consecrated Life recognized by the Catholic Church, there is also an Order of Consecrated Virgins Living in the World, the Ordo Virginum. Unlike the celibate Religious who make vows within their communities and live the common life according to the spirituality of their Institute, these women live independently while consecrated through a holy resolution to be dedicated solely to the Lord their Bridegroom and obedient to the directives of the Bishop of their Diocese. They live according to the Rule of Life they draw up and they support themselves through their work in the world as does any independent person. Why would a woman choose to be a Consecrated Virgin instead of a Religious Sister? First of all, it is a call from God, a true vocation to follow the Lord and to be of service to His Church. Women who have other responsibilities, specific careers, or circumstances that would preclude them from entering a Religious community have found this vocation to be one specially suited to them. These women take up the task of praying for the Bishop and the needs of the Diocese, making them particularly close to the Diocese and its Bishop. We are blessed in our Diocese to have five women who have entered into the formation process to become Consecrated Virgins. Unlike single women living in the world, Consecrated Virgins make a public holy resolution during which they will be consecrated during the Holy Mass by the Bishop. (To be consecrated means being set apart exclusively for God.) This is a supernatural vocation that sets the woman apart for the needs of the people of her own time. Consecrated Virgins have assumed the docility of the Virgin Mary through prayer, contemplation, and a life of holiness that is open to the promptings of God’s grace and animated by charity for the sake of others. There are many exemplar virgin Saints after which the Consecrated Virgin can model her life for Christ, such as St. Catherine of Siena and virgin Saints from the early Church who are mentioned in the canon of the Mass such as St. Anastasia, St. Lucy, and St. Agatha. Since Consecrated Virginity lived in the world is new to many people, it seems helpful to provide some information about the why of such a way of life.Consecrated virginity is a way of being totally for Christ, to be married to Christ the Bridegroom of the Church, and to live the reality we will all, hopefully, experience in the life to come with Christ. As explained in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, "Virgins who, committed to the holy plan of following Christ more closely, are consecrated to God by the Diocesan Bishop according to the approved liturgical rite, are betrothed mystically to Christ, the Son of God, and are dedicated to the service of the Church. By this solemn rite…, the virgin is constituted . . . a sacred person, a transcendent sign of the Church's love for Christ, and an eschatological image of this heavenly Bride of Christ and of the life to come." (CCC 923) When seeking to explain this vocation, the candidates for Consecrated Virginity expressed some important understandings:
The Consecrated Virgin, in her spiritual motherhood, is dedicated to Christ and His Church. Her heart is to be open to God’s people, showing forth facets of the love of the Church, our true Mother. Fundamental to her vocation is praying for the needs of the Church, in particular the needs of the Diocese, the Bishop and its priests. Like the priests, deacons, and Religious men and women in the Church, the Consecrated Virgins pray the Liturgy of the Hours (the official prayer of the Church), praying for the Church and with the Church. As one candidate said, “Our hearts are open for Christ’s people, as we walk with them in compassion, accompanying them.” This initiative of the Diocese of Calgary of offering the opportunity for women to become Consecrated Virgins according to the ancient practice of the Church is in line with the new evangelization and the Pastoral Renewal of the Diocese. Consecrated Virgins exemplify the accompaniment of the People of God and witness to Christ and His Church.
 Canadian archdiocesan and diocesan vocation directors assembled at the FCJ Retreat & Conference Centre in Calgary from Oct. 1-4 to contemplate how they can join forces to inspire more calls to the priesthood and consecrated life. Organized by Newman Theological College’s Benedict XVI Institute for the New Evangelization, the “Awakening Vocations" Conference offered the approximately 30 clerics expertise on how to craft a strategic plan and constructively dialogue about what is and is currently not working with vocational ministries. Apostolic Nuncio to Canada Archbishop Ivan Jurkovič and Cardinal Thomas Collins, the Archbishop of Toronto from 2007-23, delivered keynote addresses. Jurkovič analyzed the Dicastery of the Clergy’s 2016 document Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis - The Gift of the Priestly Vocation. As for Collins, in addition to presenting his remarks, he also led a lunchtime working session centred on spotlighting the efforts of the lay vocations organization Serra Canada.
 Fr. Cristino Bouvette, the vocations director for the Diocese of Calgary and a conference coordinator, said attendees gained important insights from the four-day symposium, but perhaps the most significant gift was the companionship. “In many cases, we are facing similar things, similar challenges, and it is very encouraging to realize that we’re not doing our work alone even though it sometimes feels like you are a bit isolated in your diocesan context,” said Bouvette. “To be with other vocation directors to share similar things you are facing and working on is encouraging and uplifting.” Fr. Connor O’Hara of the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall echoed Bouvette’s sentiments by saying it was “consoling” to learn that all of the vocational directors have “very similar experiences, challenges, blessings and scopes of work that they’ve been asked by their bishop to see to.” All the priests unanimously agreed that this spirit of solidarity cannot be constrained to just a four-day event in Calgary. An Oct. 3 working session was devoted to considering the structure and vision of a potential nationwide vocations director association or confraternity. Additionally, there was also deliberation about creating various clusters with three to five vocations directors so these clerics could engage in concentrated conversations about their respective diocesan situations and keep each other accountable. “I am looking forward to putting together groupings of priests that will work and meet together going forward from this conference,” said Fr. Daniele Muscolino of the Diocese of Sault. Ste. Marie. “We can continue to share resources, update each other about how things are going and talk about best practices.” Bouvette and Muscolino both told The Catholic Register there are advantages to having these clusters being regionally based, but there is also inherent value in having a vocations director from Toronto routinely gleaning insight from a peer in Victoria, B.C. The priests received a glimpse of what an ongoing working relationship could look like during a breakout group session to craft a strategic vocations plan for the next year. These roundtable discussions were facilitated by Bill Tomiak, the executive director of the local Catholic Christian preparatory school Clear Water Academy — managed by the Legion of Christ — and Dr. Sinda Vanderpool, the president and vice-chancellor of St. Mary’s University. Other presenters included Peter An, a seminarian in Calgary; Fr. Kris Schmidt, the Archdiocese of Edmonton vocations director; and Fr. Geoffrey Young and Fr. Murray Kuemper of the Diocese of Saskatoon. Bouvette presented the research on the state of vocations authored by the Benedict XVI Institute for the New Evangelization, specifically its former director Dr. Ryan Topping. The Register reported earlier this year how the revelations within "Meet Our New Priests: 12 Key Findings about the Background, Discernment, and Seminary Formation of Canada’s Recent Ordination Classes" paint an alarming picture of the state of priestly vocations. Alluding to The Vatican Central Office of Church Statistics’ replacement ratio for seminarians to priests (RRSP) equation, Rome suggests there should be “12.5 seminarians for every 100 priests.” As of October 2023, Topping tabulated there are 6,025 active or retired priests in Canada. The RRSP required to replenish that total is 753, but there were only 211 active seminarians a year ago. Yet-to-be-published research about the Canadian vocations director landscape was also presented. The Benedict XVI Institute anticipates publishing its "Fishers of Men" report within several months. Written by Quinton Amundson, Catholic Register. First published in Catholic Register on Oct. 11. Published with permission. Photos courtesy of Newman Theological College, Benedict XVI Institute.
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.
 This year brings an important step for the eight permanent deacon candidates in the Diocese of Calgary’s Permanent Diaconate Formation Program. As these men and their wives enter their third year of a four-year journey, they are called to a deeper engagement with the Word of God through the Rite of Institution of Lector, a significant milestone on their path to ordination. “The Rite of Institution of Lector is the second of three rites in the formation program,” Deacon Laing, member of the Permanent Diaconate Formation (and Mission) Council explained. “This step marks a growing level of commitment for these men as they prepare to serve the Church in a unique way.” The first rite is the Call to Candidacy, and the third, which comes next year, is the Institution of Acolyte. For Deacon Laing, the beauty of this rite lies in the candidates’ deeper immersion in scripture. "These eight men have accepted the task to become ‘readers and bearers of God’s Word,’” he said. This year of formation, with a focus on sacred scripture, prepares them to bring the living Word to the community in a profound way. Here is the list of candidates who have just begun their third year of formation (of 4 years) and were instituted as Lectors this fall:
A Journey of Transformation When asked about the personal reflections of the candidates, Deacon Laing shared, “A few have mentioned that this journey in formation has brought them closer to God, to their families, and friends.” It’s clear that this experience is transformative, not only for the men, but also for their loved ones. Family plays a significant role in the candidates' journeys, as many of them attend formation sessions alongside their wives. The support system extends even further, with the parish community and clergy contributing to the preparation of the ritual. “Every liturgy requires preparation and rehearsal,” Deacon Laing mentioned, emphasizing the work behind the scenes that helped with the execution of the Rite of Institution of Lector. At the Mass, Bishop McGrattan’s words resonated deeply with the candidates. Deacon Laing recalled part of the bishop’s prayer: “As readers and bearers of God’s Word, you will assist in this mission, and so take on a special office within the Christian community.” The bishop reminded the newly installed Lectors of their responsibility to instruct others in the faith, proclaim God’s Word, and bring the message of salvation to those who have yet to hear it.
What’s next? As the candidates move forward, their formation continues to deepen. “Part of year three is dedicated to the ‘Principles of Liturgy,’ and ‘Introduction to Preaching,’” Deacon Laing said, explaining that these lessons begin to prepare them for year four, which focuses on homiletics—learning to prepare and deliver homilies. For now, though, the candidates are focused on becoming true bearers of God’s Word, guided by the scripture that continues to shape their vocation. With each step they take, they are drawn deeper into their mission of serving the Church and proclaiming the message of salvation. Welcoming 5 new aspirants In addition to the permanent deacon candidates, five aspirants have just begun their first year of discernment in the Permanent Diaconate Program. "The journey to ordination as a Permanent Deacon begins with a year of “Aspirancy” or discernment, followed by three years of formation guided by the pillars of Theological, Spiritual, Pastoral, and Human development," explained Deacon John Walsh, chair of the Permanent Diaconate Formation Council. Here is the list of the aspirants who have embarked on this path:
These men have now taken their first steps on a journey that will shape their lives as they discern God’s call to serve as deacons within the Church. As they begin this important path, let us remember them in our prayers. For more information about the Permanent Diaconate program, visit catholicyyc.ca/permanentdiaconate
Photography by Victor Panlilio, for the Permanent Diaconate team. 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)
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