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Come and stay: Relationship Rooted in Love

4/27/2025

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Throughout the Gospels, we read of people’s encounters with Christ, where He invites them to “come and see” who He is. Jesus continues to extend this invitation to each of us today — but how easy is it for us to “stay” in relationship with Him when trials come our way? Furthermore, what does it look like for us to follow in Christ’s footsteps, seeing our interactions with others as opportunities to reveal the Father's love to them?

The theme of this year’s Beloved Daughters Ministry conference is “Come and Stay: Relationships Rooted in Love.” As Rikka, Maria, and Jessica (the founders of Beloved Daughters Ministry) were praying and reflecting on the theme, they considered the many roles women hold. As daughters, friends, mothers, and sisters, women are presented with ample opportunities throughout daily life to cultivate and maintain authentic relationships. Yet often, comparison, fear, insecurities, and responsibilities can get in the way of developing these relationships.

Maria, Rikka, and Jessica have been friends for over ten years. They can attest to the challenges of nurturing their friendship while fulfilling multiple roles and responsibilities. In the midst of it all, they strive to remind each other that disagreements are opportunities to grow in virtue — to help one another become saints and truly see each other in God’s image.

Having previously volunteered together in youth and young adult ministry, we saw the formation of Beloved Daughters Ministry as an opportunity to journey alongside other women as we grow in our identity as beloved daughters of God. As we’ve mentioned at just about every one of our events, we are on the same journey as every other woman — we don’t have it all figured out.
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Alongside running this ministry, each of us also has a career: Rikka and Jessica work as registered nurses, and Maria is a dental hygienist. Rikka is also blessed with the roles of wife and mother to four children. Although Maria and Jessica are in a different state of life, the three of us strive to live out the roles of “sister” and “friend” to each other. Oh, how much wisdom we have received from one another amidst our different seasons of life!

As we juggle our many roles, there have been times when our friendships were neglected or tested. In the midst of these challenges, it can be so easy to focus only on your own perspective — on how someone has hurt you or failed to appreciate your efforts.  
Slowly but surely, each of us is learning that every disagreement offers the opportunity to stay, be present, and see things from another’s point of view. We can each attest that this is often challenging and frustrating in the moment. Yet by God’s grace, He continues to open our eyes to truly see one another as daughters of Christ, rather than turning inward on ourselves. This has expanded our capacity to extend love and mercy to each other. Vulnerability has led us to listen more deeply, empathize, and understand. There is a natural delight that comes with sharing life and choosing to stay with the friend placed before us.
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Planning ministry events together reminds us that we are on the same team. We share the same mission: to grow in love for Christ and to share that love with others. This ministry has provided space and opportunities for us to grow in holiness and virtue.


More recently, as we plan our upcoming conference, we have also been reminded of the simple joy of having fun together! Sharing laughter has helped us not to take ourselves so seriously — and to remember that when we live under the freedom of being beloved daughters, God’s grace makes up for all that we lack. Within the Father’s love, there is freedom to make mistakes and to allow Him to transform them into opportunities to increase our capacity to give and receive love.

Written by Jessica, Beloved Daughters Ministry, Calgary.
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Beloved Daughters Ministry’s third annual women’s conference will be held this coming May 9-10, 2025 at Saint Michael Church. Over the course of the two day conference guest speakers, and mother-daughter duo, Rachel and Debbie Herbeck, will accompany women as they explore what it looks like to come, and stay, in relationship with Jesus. From this they will be unpacking how remaining rooted in Christ’s love enables the flourishing of all other relationships. 
 
Throughout the conference there also will be opportunities to participate in praise & worship, prayer ministry, adoration, the sacrament of Confession, as well as a local Christian vendor market. For more information regarding this event, visit: www.beloveddaughtersyyc.com. 

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2025 Fun with the Sisters: A Night of Laughter, Prayer, and Friendship

1/26/2025

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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. 
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SFXC: Truth, Goodness, and Beauty

12/14/2024

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It is a difficult time to be a young adult in our world today. Statistics show that 70–85% of high school students leave the faith when they get to university. For every Catholic who joins the Church, six leave, and 80% of them leave before the age of 23. If your RCIA course brought in 20 people this past Easter, it would also mean that 120 young people left the faith that year. It is a staggering reality to face.

Despite these bleak circumstances, I see the grace of God slowly calling His children back. Even when the world pushes atheism, hedonism, and nihilism, the desire for Truth, Goodness, Beauty, and God can never be fully stifled in the hearts of our young people. God is calling His children, and here at St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy, we are helping them hear and deepen that call in their hearts.
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Bishop McGrattan issued an official decree on January 21, 2019 to form the St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy (SFXC) under the leadership of Fr Cristino Bouvette.

What began as a small community of 50 people at St. Bernard’s has now grown to over 200 young people at St. Mary’s Cathedral, with hundreds of alumni now serving their parishes throughout the Diocese of Calgary. SFXC works closely with Catholic Christian Outreach, and we aim to help students know the God who loves them and inspires them to share that same message with others.
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This is precisely the vision of SFXC: to encounter, equip, and evangelize. 
  • Encounter: To know the length, breadth, depth, and height of the love of Jesus and His healing power through a reverent celebration of the Mass, Eucharistic adoration, and confession, to name a few.
  • Equip: To form young people to become saints by developing their intellect with solid teaching, fostering human virtues, and growing in an intimate spiritual life with the Lord.
  • Evangelize: To form their apostolic heart so they see their life as a gift to be shared with others—whether through priestly or religious vocations, through marriage and family life, or especially in their parish communities.

This vision, which began many years ago, has borne much fruit. In just one week, we engage with approximately 200 people! We have 50 of our members formed through intellectual formation, 75 people attending our Wednesday night Mass and Adoration, 50 people at our university Masses, 40 people at our young professionals’ events, 50 people at our Pints with Aquinas gatherings, and over 200 people at our Sunday Mass. Our fellowship events also draw a large crowd, with our opening BBQ bringing in over 150 people, our farewell party for Fr. Cristino welcoming well over 200, and our SFXC Dance hosting over 100 attendees. Additionally, our RCIA program has grown from 11 participants in 2022 to 25 in 2024!

We have an excellent choir that can move you to tears, a hearty band of dedicated altar servers, numerous alumni working in key roles within our diocese, and many vocations to married life, as well as to religious and priestly vocations. One of the greatest blessings of the chaplaincy is that, in the past three years, 6 out of 7 of our seminarians have come from SFXC, with many more discerning the priesthood this year!
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But we need your help. These programs have grown so much that they now require a dedicated team to manage and work with our dozens of volunteers. Until now, these programs have been sustained by the generous gifts of so many people. Previously, we only needed to cover programming expenses, but now we also need to support the staff who manage these programs.

We are so grateful to those who have contributed to the mission of SFXC, and we warmly invite you to join us if you’re not yet part of the mission. Consider becoming monthly donor or giving a one time gift. Every contribution makes a difference, and your prayers, donations, and support will ensure that our young people continue to have the opportunity to know the God who loves them.
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Listen to Fr. Troy's latest message!
DONATE TO SFXC
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Written by Fr. Troy Nguyen, Chaplain of St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy  Photos courtesy of SFXC Calgary.
DONATE TO SFXC
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Cardinal Collins unpacked the Book of Revelation in Calgary: A call to choose Christ

10/13/2024

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The room was packed. The evening before, it had sold out, and the next day, some extra seats were released, which also sold out. People from all different demographics were present: seniors, families, young couples, and students. They all came because they were fascinated by one of the most intriguing topics in the Bible: the Book of Revelation. Additionally, Cardinal Collins had completed his PhD on the Book of Revelation, so the audience was set to receive a professional, in-depth look at a book that has puzzled so many.
The Cardinal spoke about how the Book of Revelation needs to be understood within its historical context. Many Christians at the time it was written were being persecuted for their faith. So John, the writer of the book, was trying to encourage them to give their lives for Christ. John sought to provide them with an eternal perspective amidst their current struggles by helping them see that they were choosing to worship the Lamb or the Beast, to strive for the Heavenly Jerusalem or the Lake of Fire. This stark choice, and the contrast between the glory of heaven and the pains of hell, was meant to inspire the Christians of that time to give their lives for Christ, for the Lamb who conquered death by His death. 

Then he tied it marvelously into our own context by pointing out that the struggles of the Christians in the 21st century are not that much different from the Christians in the 1st century. Although we as Christians might not have to choose between life and death (at least in the Western world), we are still given the choice to choose between the Lamb or the Beast, between Jesus and Satan. The battle between these two options is symbolized by the woman in scarlet, the prostitute who rides on the Beast. The Cardinal pointed out that this symbolized an aspect of the spiritual life where we are allured by sin and not just outright rebellion against God. Therefore, we need to be aware of this path as well, because it also leads us towards the Beast and the Lake of Fire, and therefore, choose to live for Christ in a world that rejects him.  
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All in all, it was a great evening of formation and community, as we were treated to some great snacks and food from St. Mary's University! St. Mary's aspires to become that place where meaningful conversations about faith and faithfulness to the teachings of the Church intersect.

​I am excited for our next speaker, Fr David Bellusci O.P, who is a Dominican priest and a biographer for one of the great young saints of this century: Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassatti. If you want to learn more about this amazing saint for the young, please come out to St. Mary's on Jan 23, 2025!
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Written by Fr. Troy Nguyen for Faithfully. Fr. Troy is the Vicar of Young Adults and chaplain for St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy | www.sfxc.ca | Photos courtesy of St. Mary's University
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Climbing for a new church: The 2024 Stanley Glacier journey

9/7/2024

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Just east of Banff, near the start of Highway 93, thirty one intrepid hikers gathered to trek up Stanley Creek and gaze up at the Stanley Glacier. ​
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We were joined by many other hikers, including those participating in Parks Canada tours to the other notable feature of this trail, the Stephen Formation.

​The Stephen Formation is a thin layer of rock closely related to the famous Burgess Shale, containing equally impressive Cambrian fossils, such as trilobites
It’s fascinating to think that colliding continents, about 100 million years ago, brought ocean floor sediments dating back 400 million years to the surface! The hike began with a steady climb through alpine forest, lasting about an hour. ​

​​Although moderately challenging, it was necessary to keep going as people had pledged for us to complete the hike and help build our parish church! Along the way, a curious grouse watched our progress.
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​As a person who gets out hiking and climbing up to 75 times a year, it was a highlight of the season to share the trail with the Members of the Seeds of the Word Community. To spend time with people committed to God, discerning priesthood, and consecrated life is awesome, as we were on a wonderful trail taking in the beauty of God.”  ~Kevin Papke, Angels on High Hike organizer
Our group stood out, with many of us wearing Angels on High t-shirts from previous years. We were also joined by members of the Seeds of the Word Community, making us a noticeable presence among fellow hikers. 

After about an hour, the trees thinned, and we crossed Stanley Creek. We made our way up the valley to a beautiful waterfall and cave system at the base of the mountain wall.
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Some of us explored the caves, while others admired the waterfall or simply took in the views. The top of our hike was our lunch spot, a small meadow which looked up to the Stanley Glacier. While not as massive as the Columbia Icefield between Banff and Jasper, it’s impressive to see a glacier that even summer heat can’t fully melt. Each winter, new snow adds to the ice, continuing the glacier’s growth.​
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The descent proved to be a bit more challenging, as the loose scree (small rocks along the slope) left more than one hiker with dirty pant legs. But once we were down from the glacial overlook, we made the final hour-long trek through the trees back to the parking lot, where our companions awaited the last hikers.
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I am deeply grateful to our organizing team and to the faithful from St. Gabriel’s, along with all the diocesan parishioners, who joined us on this memorable hike. In this season of Renewal, it is truly uplifting to experience the strength of our diocesan community—to share the gift of presence and embody a church rooted in encounter and witness. Our next fundraising event will be a special dinner on Friday, October 25, 2024 at the St. Gabriel’s School gym in Chestermere. If you feel moved to support our efforts in building a new church, please visit: saintgabrielparish.ca

Written by Fr. James Hagel, pastor of St. Gabriel the Archangel parish in Chestermere. Photos courtesy of Fr. James Hagel, Andreas Berko, and Pat Cooper. 
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Mary's Festival: A Celebration & Consecration of St. Mary's University to Our Blessed Mother

5/12/2024

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As I shared when I wrote for Faithfully a few months ago, I learned about Calgary and the wonderful Catholic community in the diocese here when I was invited to apply for the job to become St. Mary’s University’s next president in early 2022.
See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
– Isaiah 43:19
From my home in Texas, as I was preparing to share with the search committee a vision for the university, the scripture that came to my mind was the following: See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? – Isaiah 43:19​
We are so very drawn to fresh starts and new beginnings as humans, aren’t we? ​The liturgical calendar itself, remembering our Baptismal calling, the sacrament of reconciliation - each of these permit us to start anew. I believe that that is a large part of the reason that it has been so refreshing and life-giving to experience a movement of Renewal across the diocese following the synodal process.

St. Mary’s University is embarking on a renewal of its own as we launch our 
2024- 2029 Strategic Plan Expanding Minds, Inspiring Hearts. With our sights set on becoming the preeminent Catholic university in Canada, many new things are springing up, as the prophet Isaiah invites us to realize.
To that end, I’m very pleased to share that we have a special event that everyone in the diocese is invited to: Mary’s Festival on June 1. If you have not ever been to our beautiful campus before, mark your calendar and purchase your tickets today!

We are opening our doors wide for a fun family day with live music, food trucks, and games on Saturday, June 1 from 11 am to 4 pm. If you haven’t heard about it yet, consider this your personal invitation from the president! From food trucks to a dunk tank, a vendor marketplace and live musical entertainment, we want Mary’s Festival to be a joyful celebration and I invite everyone to come for what will be a whole lot of fun for the whole family including junior and senior high programming with FacetoFace Ministries!
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I encourage you to help us spread the word to your friends, family members, and colleagues!  ​
​The first time people visit St. Mary’s University, they often say, “Wow! This place is amazing. I had no idea that this was here.” For that reason, those of us who work here often call St. Mary’s a “hidden gem.” Our aim is to help people discover the wonderful community and excellent education that is offered at St. Mary’s. 

​From our campus, we have a stunning view of Fish Creek Provincial Park as well as the Sisters of Providence lands. If you don’t want to drive to the SE Quadrant, consider taking the LRT and getting off at the Lacombe / Fish Creek stop. What a great opportunity we have to come together, in the spirit of renewal and community, to draw strength from one another and to invite others under God’s big, beautiful tent! ​
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We thank the Calgary Diocese, God Squad Canada, and St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy for coming alongside us in co-sponsorship of this event! Importantly, I also invite you to come the evening before, Friday, May 31, at 7 pm for a Consecration Mass where we will officially consecrate St. Mary’s University to Mary on the Feast Day of the Visitation. Bishop McGrattan, University Chancelor, will be presiding and will be joined by Diocesan Chancellor, Fr. Nathan Siray, and St. Mary's University Chaplain, Fr. Troy Nuygen.
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The Mass and reception will take place in McGivney Hall, M100.
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Written by Dr. Sinda Vanderpool, President and Vice Chancellor, St. Mary’s University, for Faithfully.  ​
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Nurturing the culture of vocations

4/27/2024

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"We urgently need more vocations in our diocese—to Consecrated life and the Priesthood. Without everyone's involvement, how can we hope to see an increase in vocations?" Sr. Dianne, Assistant Director of Vocations, posed this compelling question at the Vocations Rally on Good Shepherd Sunday, April 21, at St. Michael’s Parish in Calgary.
 
“We really need to get that soil prepared so that the seeds of vocation can fall into it, and they can flourish,” she continued. Indeed, this was the driving force behind gathering the faithful at the Vocations Rally, aiming to enlighten us all on how to create such nurturing conditions.

The event, co-hosted with the Benedict XVI Institute from Newman Theological College, was a hopeful beginning for fostering vocations within our diocesan community. With more than 400 attendees, including pre-registrants and walk-ins, the Rally kicked off with Mass at 11 am, led by Fr. Edmund Vargas. Afterward, attendees were invited to enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the Knights of Columbus in the narthex, and explore various booths featuring Religious brothers and sisters, seminarians, and vocations advocates before the start of the presentations.
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Fr. Cristino, Director of Vocations, shared his astonishment at the turnout and the discussions he had in the days following the rally. “It was impressive to me, first of all, how many people were in attendance. But the follow up conversations I've been having with people all week clearly indicate that they were deeply impacted by all of the sharing they received in that brief time together!”

But this comes as no surprise. The insights shared by each speaker, combined with the sense of community encountered at the Rally, were a true renewal experience.
If you want vocations, build a strong catholic culture." ~Dr. Ryan Topping
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Dr. Ryan Topping, Director of the Benedict XVI Institute in Newman Theological College opened the Rally with a strong message: "If you want vocations, build a strong catholic culture." He went on to share findings from a study on new Canadian priests, highlighting both concerning and hopeful trends in the vocational landscape. His talk underscored the vital importance of parish priests and families in guiding young people toward considering vocations to Consecrated life and Priesthood.
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Dr. Topping highlighted that priests emerge from the community, the People of God. Therefore, to encourage more vocations, the Church must foster a vibrant Catholic culture that cherishes family, promotes unapologetic faith teaching, engages in active devotions, and cultivates a communal spirit that is receptive to God’s call.  Read more about the report “Meet Our new Priests” here.
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Fr. Santiago Torres, our recently ordained, affirmed the communal roots of vocations, stating, “Vocation is not something that just comes out of nowhere. It comes out from communities, it comes out from families, and it comes out from a faith that is shared, and that is lived authentically, and in a manner that is joyful and intriguing to those whom the Lord is calling to His service.”
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He shared stories from his own vocational journey, which began in his final year at university, supported by the nurturing environments of both his family and the parish community at St. Bonaventure, as well as the University of Calgary Catholic Community at the time.
Vocation is not something that just comes out of nowhere. It comes out from communities, it comes out from families..." ~Fr. Santiago Torres
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We live as a couple in the world, but not of the world. And that's important to remember.” ~Cedric & Greta De Souza
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A particularly impactful presentation was given by Cedric and Greta De Souza, parents to Fr. Raymond De Souza of the Diocese of Kingston and Sr. John Mary of Sister of Life in Toronto, two married children, and grandparents to seven children. They shared, “We live as a couple in the world, but not of the world. And that's important to remember.” Rooted firmly in their Catholic faith, they highlighted how Catholicism has been a constant and reassuring force in their lives.

The De Souzas discussed the concept of a 'domestic church' within their home. They spoke about the significance of imbuing their children’s lives with daily faith practices, remaining actively involved in church life, prioritizing Sunday as the day of worship and family, and adhering to the principle that "the family that prays together stays together." Their regular practice of hosting priests and devout Catholic friends for meals and fellowship not only integrated their family more deeply into the wider Catholic community, but also showcased to their children the normalcy and dignity of a life devoted to religious faith.  
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The Seeds of the Word's Brother John Paul and Sister Ana Sophia, along with a panel comprising Religious and Diocesan priests, Religious Sisters and a Brother, a Diocesan seminarian and a Religious Sister novice, also took the Rally stage. They took turn in sharing their vocation stories and key moments in their discernment process, offering us a deeper understanding of the vocation call to Consecrated life and Priesthood. 
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The event culminated with a closing keynote by Bishop McGrattan, who reflected on one of the diocese's priorities of #Renewal. A key component to this renewal, he pointed out, is strengthening family life, which plays a vital role in fostering vocations.

Bishop McGrattan highlighted the essential role of the family in vocational discernment, expressing gratitude towards parents and teachers who have nurtured vocations. "Every vocation begins in the family. And for those who have parents who have nurtured your vocation to this point, I want to thank you. For the teachers that have nurtured that sense of a vocation in a young person. I want to thank you."

Echoing Dr. Topping's earlier remarks, the Bishop spoke about the significant role Priests and Religious play as vocation directors and encouragers. "The greatest vocation directors, encouragers, are Priests and Religious. And that's why you have been treated to what I consider to be the culture of vocations. It's the life and the witness of our Priests and our Religious in the Diocese of Calgary."

In his concluding remarks, Bishop McGrattan drew inspiration from the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the flock, urging all the faithful to remain open and attentive to God's calling. “Let us always attune our ears to be open to hear the voice of the Good Shepherd, who is calling our young people to a path of deep vocation and service for the church.”
The greatest vocation directors, encouragers, are Priests and Religious. " ~Bishop McGrattan
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SEE ALL PHOTOS
Videos from the Vocations Rally are available here:
  • Video #1 - Featuring Dr. Ryan Topping, Fr. Cristino Bouvette & Fr. Santiago Torres; Greta De Souza
  • Video #2 - Featuring Cedric & Greta De Souza, Seeds of the Word, Consecrated Life panel members
  • Video #3 - Featuring Consecrated Life Panel members and Bishop McGrattan

​Videos courtesy of St. Michael's Catholic Community. 

The Office of Vocations is very thankful for the Vocations Rally Planning Team, Benedict XVI Instittute of the Newman Theological College, St. Michael’s Parish and Diocesan staff, video and photography team, Knights of Columbus, Seminarians, Consecrated Life members, Serra Club of Calgary, and many others who supported the Vocations Rally and came to support our Diocesan effort to create a culture of vocations! We wouldn’t be able to do it without you. 

Photos: Bandi Szakony, for the Diocese of Calgary
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If you feed them, they will come

2/19/2024

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​After a successful launch of Alpha at the parish as part of our community’s response to the synodal process, it was a natural progression to bring Alpha Youth to the students at St. Joseph’s Collegiate (SJC). SJC is a grade 9-12 Catholic school in Brooks, with about 460 students. We cater to a diverse community, with a wide range of cultural and language backgrounds, as well as varying practices of faith – most students non-practicing, many nominally and some practicing Catholics, some ethnic orthodox denominations, as well as a growing number from other Christian church communities.
 
Just before the start of the school year, we committed to running the Alpha Youth series in our school during our 42 minute lunch break. Four staff were recruited to facilitate groups, the supervision schedule was adjusted to free us all up at the same time, and we started online training and promoting. The Alpha Canada website has training videos, print resources, digital and print media for promotion, suggested schedules and to-do lists based on the timeline of one’s Alpha session, with access to mentorship and online support. It is all high quality, and user-friendly – even the copyright guidelines.  
 
Alpha has a simple format for success: share some food, watch a video, discuss.
There are 13 videos recommended for 9 sessions with a retreat day or weekend. The youth series is set up with similar themes and the same overall format as the adult series, but the youth videos, roughly 20minutes long, have spots to pause and discuss three questions per episode. Often the first acts as an icebreaker: “If you could have a superpower, what would it be?” deepening to: “Have you ever tried praying? How did it go?”. The videos are high production quality, with goofy, relatable hosts, that open up the Christian faith at its most fundamental, non-denominational level. Alpha discussions are not to answer every question, or to stage a great apologetic defense, but to facilitate authentic conversations and be a comfortable place to challenge and ask questions.
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If it is true that if you feed them, they will come, it is even truer with teenagers. When we first started promoting our series at the school, the initial uptake was from a few practicing Christians looking for a place to gather with other faithful students – many of them already familiar with Alpha from other home churches – but as we started to get community commitments to provide food, and let the students know lunch was included, more students showed up. Overall, we have had a consistent 24 students who have made most if not all of the sessions, and probably had another dozen or so who checked it out a couple of times at the start.
 
We have had three consistent small groups and the students are really receptive to the topics and getting into good discussion with their peers. Feedback consistently sounds like: “I love my group, so my favourite part is discussing ideas, expressing my thoughts, and listening to other’s opinions.” Or, my favourite part is “the connection and community.” Reassuringly we even gotten, “the food is great, but I also enjoy hearing other people’s perspective on the questions.” Almost half of the students are in one group, and do all of the discussion in Spanish; we are so blessed to have diverse staff as well as students so that we can facilitate this! (The first version of the Alpha Youth series is available dubbed in Spanish and other languages, so we will be looking at using that for an all-Spanish session in semester II.)
We are nearing the end of our first session, and have just had our retreat day. It ended up working best to run after school on a Friday, to save the need for rides. With our short lunch hours and the gradual introduction to prayer, it was our first opportunity to really dig into prayer with each other.

It was such a blessing to hear students praying for each other and to have the opportunity to pray within small groups. We had worship with great participation, led by one of our staff, and we were so blessed by members of our parish with meals and snacks for the day. The spring session at the church had such a positive impact on participants, that they have been very quick to support our youth session at the school – mostly by helping with food! Overall, just like the spring session at the church, our first Alpha Youth session has been awesome!

 
The smiles on student faces as they come in for lunch, and join with their groups, are such a reassurance that Alpha has been an appreciated opportunity our school. Furthermore, the participating students are keen to get involved in hosting and helping with the next session, and are starting to prayerfully consider who they will invite to the next round. One thing emphasized in the planning is to make sure participants have a way to continue involvement after Alpha, so we will run the next session with them as the hosts of the small groups. They are excited to keep the conversations going to continue to explore and deepen their own faith, and to share it with their peers. God is Good!

Submitted by Natalie Sturch, teacher at St. Joseph's Collegiate, Brooks,
​Photo credit: St. Joseph's Collegiate. Poster: Alpha Canada. 
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2024 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

1/3/2024

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The Catholic Churches in Canada and all Christians are called to celebrate The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity from January 18-25. The importance of unity​ among Christians and the responsibility of the people of each parish. Throughout this Week, parishes and all the faithful are to pray for Christian Unity, and seek a deeper understanding of ecumenism. 

The 2024 theme of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (WPCU), chosen by an ecumenical team from Burkina Faso with the facilitation of the local Chemin Neuf Community (CCN), is “You shall love the Lord your God … and your neighbour as yourself”. 
“It is not shared identities that should prompt us to come to the aid of the other, but love of our ‘neighbour’. However, the vision of love of neighbour that Jesus puts before us is under strain in the world today. ... It is by learning to love one another regardless of our differences that Christians can become neighbours like the Samaritan in the Gospel.” ~WCPU International Booklet (Theme intro)
Resources:
  • Order of Worship (Word, unformatted)
  • International Hymn Suggestions
  • Canadian Hymn Suggestions (English)
  • "Eight Days of Prayer" (daily Scripture readings, reflections, discussion questions, and prayers)
Prayer Services during Week Day of Prayer for Christian Unity in Calgary:
  • Wednesday, January 24 at noon at the University of Calgary Chapel 
  • Thursday, January 25 at noon at SAIT Chapel
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  • Poster (bilingual fillable PDF)
  • Graphic for social media (bilingual PNG)
  • Graphic for social media (English PNG)

Contact Fr. Adrian Martens at [email protected] if you have any questions.
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Behind the Shield - Warming Station Volunteer

10/31/2023

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The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary) Mobile Warming Station is looking for volunteers! If you have a passion for working with vulnerable populations, this position may be for you!

​Volunteers will meaningfully engage with participants accessing the Mobile Warming Station, support Warming Station staff, monitor center activities, and provide a safe and clean space for all.
  • ​Click here to learn more about the Warming Station Volunteer Position and to apply today!
  • For more information, contact [email protected]
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As well, here is a list of items the team has come up with that you could hand out at the warming station:

  • Men’s winter jackets
  • Winter gloves
  • Warm socks
  • Blankets
  • Boots for men and women
  • Scarfs or neck warmers
  • Snow pants
  • Backpacks
 
You are invited to collect these items and drop them off at the Warming Station. For more information, contact Volunteer Services at (403) 410-1109 or email: [email protected]
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Ready, Set, Fly: Pilgrims anticipate a transformative trip to World Youth Day 2023

7/30/2023

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Daniel Tang confesses, “I have never left the continent before, nor have I ever camped outside; I have not flown across the ocean, and I am usually uncomfortable in large crowds.”  Yet in this monumental leap, Tang is prepared to step beyond his comfort zone. He is one of the 40 pilgrims from St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy (SFXC) leaving  for Lisbon, Portugal for World Youth Day (WYD) 2023, accompanied by Fr. Cristino Bouvette and Fr. Santiago Torres. 

He further shares, “This theme that Mary arose and went with haste (Luke 1:39) reminds me to trust in God's providence on every step of the way - to have no fear of the unknown, and to have peace and know that He will provide.”
The SFXC pilgrims are eagerly looking forward to representing the Diocese in the World Youth Day, together with 8 young adults from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Calgary, and representatives from numerous lay associations throughout the Diocese. Inspired by Pope Francis, the young adults are thrilled to partake in this global Catholic youth event with the support of their families fuelling their enthusiasm. 
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"It was very influential in both of my parents' lives when they were younger," shares Francis Van Uden.


​For Jessica Brummelhuis, her family's excitement about the possibility of attending a World Youth Day together was contagious. "Their faces would all light up when talking about WYD. I didn't understand then; I didn't know what it was or why it excited them so much. But their excitement sparked my interest, and now I'm the one attending out of all of us. They couldn't be happier for me," she shares.

​Fr. Cristino Bouvette is particularly thrilled about the opportunity to connect and journey alongside the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie, led by his close friend who also serves as his counterpart. Fr. Cris'
 experience with World Youth Day is extensive, as he shares, “This will be my fourth World Youth Day, spanning back to WYD 2002 in Toronto (though for that I only attended days in the diocese) but I got to experience Pope St. John Paul II's last WYD, Pope Benedict XVI's first WYD in his homeland of Cologne, Germany, and with Pope Francis in 2016, Krakow, during the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy." 

“After closely organizing the Holy Father's visit to Canada last year, being part of a papal event this year will offer a new perspective, especially knowing the inner workings and hopefully even meeting and introducing our group to the Pope's collaborators who will be attending WYD with him in Lisbon.”

​Asked about what excites them in Portugal, the pilgrims express their eagerness to experience new culture, connecting with fellow young Catholics globally, and enjoying the excitement of being in a new location.


Kathleen Brul, Elvin Limpin, and Andrew Min look forward to pray together with young Catholics worldwide. Kathleen shares, “I am thrilled about the prospect of joining the overnight vigil and eucharistic adoration with everyone.”

Andrew, too, is eager to unite in prayer and worship with other young adults.  He says, “Being a young Catholic in today's world can be challenging. Sharing this pilgrimage with other young adults passionate about their faith is a wonderful way to rejuvenate one's own convictions."
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WYD delegation from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Calgary. Photo courtesy of OLPH Parish, Calgary.
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The SFXC pilgrims getting ready to fly to Portugal from YYC airport.
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Follow the SFXC pilgrims on their Instagram feed and stories - instagram.com/sfxchaplaincy
A special visit to Our Lady of Fatima

While many are keen to explore Portuguese culture, encompassing its food, architecture, music, and history, a significant part of the excitement surrounds visiting the Fatima apparition site and understanding the miracles of Our Lady of Fatima during World Youth Day 2023. 

Group leader Catarina Avila, a native Portuguese, is especially excited to share her culture with fellow pilgrims. “As a Portuguese citizen who grew up in a faithful Portuguese family and vibrant Portuguese culture, I am thrilled that I am able to share my culture with my fellow pilgrims going to World Youth Day!” she exclaims. She adds, “Above all, I am honoured to be able to have the opportunity to delve more deeply into the message of Fatima with the pilgrims.” Her anticipation for visiting the Fatima site resonates with many, including Kathleen Brul who says, “I've never visited a Marian apparition site before, and Our Lady of Fatima holds such a vital place in Portuguese history.”

Kathleen also reveals that a pivotal moment occurred during a Mass at the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton last year, when she was navigating a difficult period in her life. This experience ignited her journey of faith. ​“Pope Francis' papal visit set my heart on fire for Jesus … I finally felt free from all the things that had kept me away from true joy and fulfilment,” she says. “I decided to go to World Youth Day to celebrate the joy and peace God has blessed me with throughout this past year…”
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SFXC held a WYD dinner fundraiser in June 2023. Photos courtesy of Daniel Tang.
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Mary Arose and went with haste (Luke 1:39)

The theme for World Youth Day 2023, "Mary arose and went with haste," has sparked various interpretations among participants. Some view it as a motivational call to disseminate the Gospel promptly, while others perceive it as an encouragement to trust in God's divine plan.

This theme truly encompasses Mary's faith and obedience, inspiring participants to leave their comfort zones and welcome the unknown with joy. Cameron Bluekens reflects on this, saying, “Mary didn't delay in spreading the Gospel. It was the presence of God in her that moved her to share the Good News with zeal and generosity - I would like to be blessed with the same virtues.”

For pilgrim Jonathan Dobek, the theme for WYD 2023 speaks into a specific action. He says, “After WYD, with Mary’s help, I will get up and in haste go to seminary to discern and learn what God has in store for me.” Jonathan has been accepted by Bishop McGrattan to enter St. Joseph Seminary in Edmonton as a seminarian for our Diocese, beginning the last week of August.

Our young adults have also shared a variety of hopes for their attendance at World Youth Day. Some express a desire to strengthen their faith, charity, and zeal, while others aim to better incorporate their faith into daily life. 

Elizabeth Spiess and Mark Oswald look forward to forging new friendships during the World Youth Day 2023 pilgrimage. "I also hope to deepen my connections with old friends," adds Mark. Simultaneously, Elizabeth envisions contributing to the growth of youth ministry in her parish. 

Andrew Min concluded his thoughts by sharing that he aims to inspire other young adults with his experiences from this spiritual journey. He hopes that his stories might encourage them to consider embarking on this pilgrimage themselves in the future. 

Despite their individual aspirations, there is a shared openness to the spiritual journey that this pilgrimage may offer. Daniel Tang wraps it up by saying, “I truly believe that witnessing the Living Universal Body of Christ would bear much fruit to be shared back in our respective Dioceses.”
PRAY FOR OUR PILGRIMS
WATCH WYD COVERAGE
DONATE TO COVER PILGRIMAGE COSTS

CCCB press release: More than 5,000 Canadian Youth are making their way to Lisbon, Portugal to be with Pope Francis, from 1 to 6 August 2023. The Holy Father will join more than one million young people for World Youth Day (WYD). The first international World Youth Day was held in 1986, and the event was hosted by Canada in 2002, with Pope Saint John Paul II making the pilgrimage to Toronto. Read more 


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His mercy is from age to age

7/20/2023

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My 95 year old mother did not know a grandparent, a cousin, an aunt or an uncle growing up.  But it is like the Lord is making up for what she did not have, as now there are close to 90 of us with our families and children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Truly, the blessings of abundance are bountiful!

Celebrating the third World Day for Grandparents and the elderly is especially heartwarming for me this year. First, to be a grandparent to 11 on earth, and to have my own mother still with us as a grandmother and great grandmother is truly a blessing.
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The alignment of the World Youth Day preparations with the celebration of this day serves as a reminder for young adults to appreciate the gift of their grandparents. As they participate in the festivities in Lisbon, Portugal, this year's World Day for Grandparents and Elderly theme, "His Mercy is from age to age" (Luke 1:15), echoes a message that God’s eyes are always on us. Taken from the Visitation of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth, this verse speaks volumes of the generations who celebrate in this Mercy.
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The connection between the young and the old is vitally  important. Whether it is being there as a grandparent to offer support and wisdom, or whether it is accepting the outstretched hand of the young offering help, both are so very necessary. Even if your grandparents are no longer with you, there are many elderly waiting to receive the touch of a grandchild figure, or for them to be a grandparent to a child.
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During the pandemic when care facilities, and other living accommodations were closed off to visitors, our family came up with an idea to be able to see mom everyday by using FaceTime.  This allows us to pray the daily rosary with her, to bring to prayer those who had special needs, and to remain connected.  For over 2.5 years we have continued the practice as a family, and those who are able to join in can do so on any given day.

There are countless ways to maintain strong connections with our elderly loved ones, and each small effort can make a significant difference. Looking for ideas?
  • Invite your elderly loved ones to Mass or rosary prayers in your community, especially this Sunday, July 23, the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Be sure to share the message of our Holy Father to them for the World Day. 
  • Enjoy outdoor activities with the elderly - a leisurely stroll or a picnic can offer quality bonding time.
  • Virtual visits (via FaceTime, Zoom, etc.) have become easier to navigate due to COVID. Many elderly individuals are now zoom-savvy, and some can ask friends or neighbours for help setting up these platforms.
  • Play games! Engage in board games, card or online games (like Pogo or even Minecraft). You can help set it up on their iPad or computer, and let the fun begin! 
  • Cooking together is a wonderful activity to engage in with grandparents or elderly loved ones. Compile favourite recipes with your elderly loved ones and cook them together. It's a fun way to spend time together while preserving family traditions. 
  • Assisting the elderly with errands - such as grocery shopping, driving to appointments, household repairs, or garden pruning - is a gesture that they're sure to appreciate greatly.
  • Write letters to your elderly loved ones - The art of writing letters may seem archaic, but its charm is timeless. The experience of holding and reading from a piece of paper filled with personal thoughts and sentiments can be deeply moving. It's a unique way to share your life and express your love. 
  • Last but not least, make the time to call your grandparents or someone elderly, and engage in a sincere conversation. This seemingly small act of connection will undoubtedly be cherished.

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As grandparents  we experience the joys and sufferings of each of our children and grandchildren.  There are special needs, and there are many ways that we can be a blessing to our grown children and our grandchildren. I always recall with great gratitude the many times my own parents took our children, and the mercy shown to us when we were  young parents. It is this boundless mercy shown to us that I desire to pass on to our own children and grandchildren.  Those blessings that we received as young parents are still felt today, as I reach out to, and try to provide a place of secure welcome to our own grandchildren.
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To witness to, and to be there for our grandchildren, as our presence is required, allows our grandchildren to receive so many benefits of family living united in the hope and the promise of the gospel message.

We are called to be there, and to especially be there for our aging parents / grandparents. To be a sign of hope in a culture that wants to cancel people is so very important.  It means taking a stand and to pray through our current culture, while keeping our focus on what brings life. To be people of hope, when all hope seems diminished stands as a beacon for the world.  God’s plan is so much bigger than what we can imagine, and we can be that sign of hope for others.  It is not about a “perfect” life, it is about allowing God’s will and His plan to unfold for our lives, having the cross at the centre. It is about caring for those that God puts in our path. The love and respect given to and from grandparents can never be diminished.

When cultures are cancelling the weak and the vulnerable, it is time to stand up, and be counter cultural. Let us be the “voice of one crying out in the wilderness” (Isaiah 40:3). Do not be afraid to be the one to show His Mercy, and to respect the life we have been given from conception to natural death.

My grandfather, when asked how to raise children, simply said, “teach them their faith, and use good common sense.” Today this is still sound advice, so simple and yet so true. His words of wisdom have stood the test of time.
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As we navigate through this complex and unforgiving world, let’s revisit this advice, and may we proclaim with boldness the message of mercy to our grandchildren.

Written by Mary Ann Donaleshen for #CatholicYYC. Mary Ann is a wife, mother, and grandmother, and has been married to Roland for 43 years. Mary Ann and Roland are parishioners of St. Joseph's Parish in Calgary. They have 4 children and 11  grandchildren. Mary Ann retired after working 15 years for the Diocese of Calgary, and spends her time caring for the needs of family, and volunteers for refugees coming from Turkey. Photos courtesy of Mary Ann Donaleshen.
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Has dishonor crept into the way we relate with our elders?

Join Archbishop Richard Smith for a discussion about his grandparents, the art of storytelling across generations, the troubling societal trend of neglecting our elders, how older Bishops have mentored him, the connection between World Youth Day and strengthening the relationship between different generations of Catholics, and much more.  https://caedm.ca/upfront/
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Let the little children come to me

6/8/2023

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I heard the advice that if we want to grow in spiritual childhood and the gift of prayer, we should ask God to show us children at play, or with their parents.

I used to work as a recreation leader for free after-school programs and day camps. What a treasury of memories this experience holds for me! Upon reflection, I feel compelled to share my experiences with the young children, as they served as a reminder of how I was called to rely on his presence as the Caring Adult in my life, especially during this special month dedicated to His Most Sacred Heart.

One young man I knew from the after-school program, who I’ll call John, was 12 years old. I could see that his life was full of pressures: from his teachers who misunderstood him, abusive parents, and friends who pulled him down into the foolishness of youth. During our program, he would chat my ear off while simultaneously refusing to listen to my clear instructions. He really was quite challenging to manage, but I knew that God had made him good, and that the best place he could be during those evenings was our safe little room in which we held the program.

The after-school program room was full of posters with positive sayings and chairs for the children to sit in. It was no larger than the average Adoration chapel. I loved sitting at the front, teaching the children simple social and emotional skills, and seeing their little eyes attend to me. I was delighted in every face I saw and the voices that I heard. Every so often, John would miss our program after school, preferring the excitement of his friends or video games to the calm order of the program. Because I knew he belonged there, I remember standing at the door and watching for him, allowing my heart to hope that he would come again.

I also treasure the memory of a little girl who I’ll call Mary. She delighted us leaders very much, because she was always following us around, or sitting with us, telling us everything that came to her mind. Though she could be mischievous at times, whenever we corrected her, she would genuinely apologize and make an effort to do better. She was not discouraged when we reprimanded her but stayed as close as ever and audaciously expected to be loved, which she certainly was.

My least favourite part of the job was giving First Aid to the children. One time, a young girl came to me with a splinter in her palm. I thanked her for her bravery in showing me, then reluctantly retrieved the First Aid kit. Using the plastic tweezers, I removed the splinter out of her hand. I cringed as she cried out in pain, but we both knew that it had to be done. She left my little “doctor’s office” smiling and calm, free to play again.

During some professional development sessions, I learned about the importance of each child having a caring adult in their life. This person would be someone who sees and understands the child, expresses personal interest in their life, fills them with hope for the future, and encourages them amid the inevitable challenges of childhood. The mere presence of such a person in a child’s life, I was taught, can determine their capacity to flourish as a human being. Without receiving love in such a way, the likelihood of a fulfilling and happy adult life may diminish.
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Jesus reveals Himself as the Caring Adult whose Sacred Heart has a special spot for each of us. When we ask for the grace to approach Him in Adoration with faith and repentance, He knows how to teach, encourage, forgive, and heal us.

This year, I signed up for a holy hour at St. Anthony’s after reading on their website that “Many rich blessings are bestowed on those who regularly adore Jesus, truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.” With a hopeful heart, I committed that time to be with Jesus, a little like the children who chose to come to our programs. He has not disappointed me. He will not disappoint you.

​In our diocese, a wide range of Adoration hours are offered at parishes across the Diocese. Adoremus! Let us adore Him! 

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Written by Angela for Faithfully. Angela Blach is a member of the St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy. She is studying history at St. Mary's University. She loves to read and write, and her favourite author is Michael O'Brien. Angela also likes to go for walks and spend time with her family and friends. She hopes to someday be a "polymath" like St. Hildegard of Bingen, who learned Latin through immersion in the Sacred Liturgy!

Adoration Hours schedule (Summer & Fall 2023)
Monday
  • 9:30 am to 4 pm at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.com
  • 8:30 am to 4 pm, 7:30 pm to 9 pm - St. Luke's Church, Calgary - stlukeschurch.ca
  • 9:30 am to Midnight - St. Bonaventure Parish - stbonaventureparish.ca
  • 8 am to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca ​

Tuesday
  • 9:30 am to 4 pm at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.com
  • 8:30 am to 4 pm, 7:30 pm to 9 pm - St. Luke's Church, Calgary - stlukeschurch.ca
  • 9:30 am to Midnight - St. Bonaventure Parish - stbonaventureparish.ca | Use NW entrance to access the chapel. 
  • 2 pm - 6:45 pm - St. Mary's, Brooks - saintmarysbrooks.com
  • 5 pm to 6 pm, followed by rosary prayer, and Mass at 6:30 pm - St. Gerard's, Calgary - stgerards.ca
  • 6 am to 8 pm (Adoration Chapel) - St. Anthony Church, Calgary - stanthonysyyc.ca | Register here to obtain the access code to the Adoration Chapel located in the back of the church off the North Parking lot. Access to the main church on Thursday is via the Office door off the South Parking lot. 
  • 8 am to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca

Wednesday
  • 6 am to 8 pm (Adoration Chapel) - St. Anthony's church - stanthonysyyc.ca | Register here to obtain the access code to the Adoration Chapel located in the back of the church off the North Parking lot. Access to the main church on Thursday is via the Office door off the South Parking lot. 
  • 8 am to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca
  • 8:30 am to 4 pm, 7:30 pm to 9 pm - St. Luke's Church, Calgary - stlukeschurch.ca
  • 9:30 am to 4 pm at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.com
  • 7 am to midnight - St. Bonaventure Parish - stbonaventureparish.ca  | Use NW entrance to access the chapel. 
  • 7:45 pm to 8:30 pm - St. Mary's Cathedral - stmaryscalgary.ca (not in July & August, will commence on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023)
  • Third Wednesday of the month - 1:00 pm - 6:45 pm (Main Sanctuary), 2:00 pm - 6:45 pm (Adoration chapel) - St. Mary's, Brooks - saintmarysbrooks.com

Thursday
  • 8 am to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca
  • 8:30 am to 4 pm, 7:30 pm to 9 pm - St. Luke's Church, Calgary - stlukeschurch.ca
  • 9 am to 9 pm - St. Francis De Sales Parish - francisdesaleshighriver.com
  • 9:30 am to 4 pm at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.com
  • 9:30 am to 5 pm - St. Mary's, Brooks - saintmarysbrooks.com
  • 10 am to 6 pm (Main church) - St. Anthony's Church - stanthonysyyc.ca | Register here to obtain the access code to the Adoration Chapel located in the back of the church off the North Parking lot. Access to the main church on Thursday is via the Office door off the South Parking lot. ​
  • 12 am to midnight - St. Bonaventure Parish - stbonaventureparish.ca  | Use NW entrance to access the chapel. 

Friday
  • 6 am to 8 pm (Adoration Chapel) - St. Anthony's church - stanthonysyyc.ca | Register here to obtain the access code to the Adoration Chapel located in the back of the church off the North Parking lot. Access to the main church on Thursday is via the Office door off the South Parking lot. 
  • 8 am to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca
  • 8:30 am to 6:45 pm and 7:30 pm to 9 pm - St. Luke's Church, Calgary - stlukeschurch.ca
  • 9 am to Noon - St. Peter's, Calgary - st-peters.ca
  • 9:30 am to 4 pm at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.com
  • 9:30 am to 6:00 pm - St. Cecilia Parish in Calgary - stceciliacalgary.com
  • 9:30 am to 10 am - St James Church in Calgary - stjamescalgary.org
  • 9:30 am to 10:30 am - St. Albert the Great, Calgary - stalbertthegreat.ca
  • After Noon Mass to 3 pm - St. Joseph's Church, Calgary - stjosephcalgary.com
  • 1:30 pm to 3 pm - St Gabriel, Chestermere - saintgabrielparish.ca
  • 3:30 pm to 4:45 pm - St. Mary's Cathedral - stmaryscalgary.ca (not in July & August, will commence on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023)
  • 6 pm to 7 pm - Paroisse Sainte-Famille, Calgary - saintefamille.ca (use south side door, next to Villa Jean-Toupin)
  • 7  am to midnight - St. Bonaventure Parish, Calgary - stbonaventureparish.ca  | Use NW entrance to access the chapel. 
  • First Friday of the month - Mass at 9 am followed by Adoration until 10:10 am and ending with benediction -  - St. Gerard's, Calgary - stgerards.ca
  • First Friday of the month : 9:30 am to 2:00 pm (Main Sanctuary), 9:30 am to 2 pm(Adoration Chapel) - St. Mary's, Brooks - saintmarysbrooks.com
  • First Friday of the month - 9:35 am - Noon (Main sanctuary) - St. Thomas More Parish, Calgary - stthomasmore.ca
  • First Friday of the month - 6 pm - Our Lady Queen of Peace, Calgary - queenpol.org

Saturday
  • 8 am to 6 pm (Adoration Chapel) - St. Anthony's Church - stanthonysyyc.ca | Register here to obtain the access code to the Adoration Chapel located in the back of the church off the North Parking lot. Access to the main church on Thursday is via the Office door off the South Parking lot. 
  • 8 am to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca
  • 9 am to 9:45 am - St. Peter's, Calgary - st-peters.ca
  • 9:30 am to 4 pm at Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.com
  • First Saturday - 5:15 pm - Our Lady Queen of Peace - queenpol.org
  • Overnight Adoration on First Saturday from 8 pm to Sunday 8 am - Holy Spirit Parish, Calgary - holyspiritcalgary.comPlease use the far NW entrance to access the chapel. There is plenty of adoration resources in the back of the chapel for you to borrow during your hour. Please contact our Adoration Coordinator Heather Burdeyney at 403-278-0394 or email [email protected]

Sunday
  • 8 am to 3 pm (Adoration Chapel) - St. Anthony's Church - stanthonysyyc.ca | Register here to obtain the access code to the Adoration Chapel located in the back of the church off the North Parking lot. Access to the main church on Thursday is via the Office door off the South Parking lot. 
  • Noon to 8 pm - St. Michael's Catholic Community - saintmichael.ca

Note that hours may change without notice. Please contact the Parish Office if you are not sure.
  • Check out the full schedule and contact information for parishes with Adoration hours. 

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2023 Daily Prayers for Families #NFLW

5/7/2023

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Let us spend the National Week of Family and Life (NFLW) 2023 united in prayer, reflection, and action, demonstrating our active support for family and life. Indeed, families are “guardians of life” when we love one another within our families and in wider society when we show kindness toward and care for the vulnerable and marginalized.
Note: Day 1 can begin anytime! We want to ensure everybody has the opportunity to join in and take part in this wonderful experience. Don't worry if you missed the start of NFLW, you can join in and start participating in the daily prayers and activities from any day.
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6

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Day 1 
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Prayer Intention: For single parents | 
God of love and tenderness, we pray for single parents, that you may be their guide, their protector, and their safe refuge. Grant them the grace to provide for the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of their children. In your loving mercy comfort all single parents in times of need and bring healing to their unique suffering. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Daily Activity for families
Single parents can often struggle with feeling isolated or marginalized. If you know someone who is a single parent in your community or church, consider extending yourself to them and their children. You can reach out to them to introduce yourself and get to know them. Other ideas could be dropping off a meal, offering babysitting for an hour, or inviting them over for dinner.

In the parish community
In your parish community, is there an opportunity to establish a network of single parents and their children with others in similar situations? Monthly prayer events or online scripture studies can be a good way to bring single parents together with each other, as well as other families.

Today’s prayer intention and family activity was developed in collaboration with Momentum, a ministry supporting Catholic single mothers. 
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Day 2 
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Prayer Intention: For those living with mental health challenges, including mental illnesses | Loving Jesus, you walk with us along the valleys and peaks of life. Be near to those living with mental health challenges, including mental illnesses. May they hear the still, small voice of calm whisper through the silence,“You are loved. You are not alone.” Strengthen and sustain caregivers and others who accompany those living with mental health challenges, including mental illnesses. May the joy of your Resurrection offer lasting hope and healing, as we await the coming of your kingdom where you live and reign with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.

Daily Activity for families
As a family, take time to check in on your individual mental health and share it with each other while practicing active listening. If you were to describe how you are feeling as a colour, what would it be and why? Recognizing that it’s okay not to be okay, are you experiencing a season of flourishing or of languishing? Can you care for your mental health together today? Perhaps go for a walk, have a kitchen dance party, make a visit to a Eucharistic chapel, bake your favourite muffins, or take a holy nap!

In the parish community
In your parish community, is there an opportunity to organize an outreach program or event to promote the wellbeing of every person? Wellbeing is about supporting the mental, physical, and spiritual health of persons and
families. What are some creative ways your parish community can promote wellbeing? Some examples could include a time of Eucharistic Adoration followed by a time of hospitality and fellowship. For an example ministry, see more information below about Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries. 
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Today’s prayer intention and family activity was developed
in collaboration with Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries,
a ministry equipping the church to support mental health and
wellbeing. 
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Day 3

Prayer Intention: For marriage accompaniment and enrichment | Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of my spouse and for the gift of each one of our children. You know our hearts and our needs. You know we desire to live faithfully our promises to you and to each other. We oftentimes find ourselves hurting each other and creating wounds in each other’s heart that we never wanted to cause. We recognize the gaps in our family caused by selfishness that have made us live distantly from you and each other. We want to invite you to fill our hearts with your presence and make us a family united in you. Inspired by the example of the Holy Family may our family always be a living gospel, giving witness to your love in our world. Amen.
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In the parish community
In your parish community, is there  an opportunity to connect with couples preparing for marriage with couples who have been married for a number of years? What can the parish community facilitate to celebrate and recognize couples who have been married one year, or two years? An example is to host a special Mass for couples celebrating one year of marriage alongside mile-stone anniversaries like 10, 25, or 35 years of marriage. Host a special reception following Mass!
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Today’s prayer intention and family activity was developed in collaboration with Witness to Love, a Catholic marriage mentoring and preparation program.
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Day 4

Prayer Intention: For persons with disabilities and their families | Father in heaven, you created us in your divine image. May every person living with a disability experience true belonging in a loving community. Guide us to pursue our call to work for justice and fullness of life for all persons with disabilities. Graciously help us to open new and creative spaces to invite all persons to participate meaningfully in parish and community life. Help us to contribute to the Church and, together, be a sign of the unity of the Body of Christ. Amen. 
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Daily Activity for families
On 3 December 2022, in his message for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Pope Francis spoke about a “magisterium of fragility ... a charism by which you—dear sisters and brothers with disabilities—can enrich the Church. Your presence ‘may help transform the actual situations in which we live, making them more human and more welcoming. Without vulnerability, without limits, without obstacles to overcome, there would be no true humanity.’” 

As a family, watch together the 4-minute video below. You will get to know a priest from Australia who was born legally blind and is a witness to a joyful faith lived within human fragility and limits. “We” not “they,” disability in the life of the Church www.bit.ly/IamChurch​
Discussion Questions for Families
  • What surprised you about Fr. Justin Glyn, SJ?
  • In your own life, do you live with certain limitations or vulnerabilities? How does your faith help you with these experiences?
  • After hearing Fr. Justin’s story, do you have any ideas about how to open creative spaces to promote the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in your faith community?
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In the Parish Community
In your parish community, can you identify ways to open creative spaces for persons with disabilities to foster a sense of belonging for everyone? For some practical ideas in your parish, explore “Beyond the Ramp: A Parish Guide to Welcoming Persons with Disabilities”, written by Connie Price.

Additional Resources
  1. David Rizzo, Faith, Family and Children with Special Needs
  2. Megan Gannon, Special Saints for Special People: Stories of Saints with Disabilities
  3. For Catechists, teachers, parents, families: Loyola Press Resources for Special Needs Ministry: Special Needs | Loyola Press
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Day 5

Prayer Intention: For an increase of good palliative care and end-of-life care | Compassionate and healing God, We pray for all those who are sick and those nearing the end of this earthly life. Draw near to them and extend your consoling presence. Bless them with family and friends to care for and accompany them, skilled caregivers to ease their suffering and lessen their burden, and volunteers to lend a listening ear and steady presence. May your loving embrace be a light to their lives. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
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Daily Activity for families
Start a conversation in your family about what’s most important to you at the end of life. Health care and end-of-life planning conversations are a powerful entryway to connect meaningfully about life and death. Note: This activity is most appropriate between young adults, parents and grandparents; however, mature teenagers may also find these types of conversations helpful.
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In the parish community
In your parish community, have you launched the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops' Horizons of Hope: A Toolkit for Catholic Parishes on Palliative Care? The open access program includes a facilitator’s guide and four modules that are easy to follow and offer high-quality medical and theological information on palliative care. It is so important to talk about end-of-life are today—don’t delay in opening these conversations in your parish community.
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Day 6 

Prayer Intention: Offering compassion for those grieving the loss of little ones | 
O loving God, out of the depths, we cry to you. Your Spirit intercedes for us even when we do not know how to pray. Come near to those who mourn the loss of a preborn infant or child, for you know our hearts and share our tears especially in times of grief and sorrow. Guide us with your grace to recognize you are always with us, even as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Almighty God, who knew us and formed us in the womb, we ask that you enfold every grieving heart and every child in heaven into your tender loving care; by your Spirit, we ask for your kindness and grace. Amen.

Daily Activityfor the family
Create a ‘Rooted in Love’ Memory Garden Start with talking about how each family member feels about having a memory garden to honour their sibling. Young children can help plan and draw what it might look like. Choose a special tree and plant it together as a family and create a garden so everyone can contribute and participate.

You can symbolize the family unit with pots or other objects such as DIY stepping stones for each family member. Hummingbird feeders and wooden hand-painted bird feeders can attract feathered friends to visit. Be creative and decorate pots, stones etc. with pens or paint. Use ribbons to represent memories, laminate drawings or pictures and hang them off branches.

Make it your own! You may wish to include a statue of the Holy Family and/or design a Rosary garden using painted rocks. Add a prayer bench and table to read, journal or meditate with a candle. It can be healing to sit around a firepit and pray together.

Here are ideas on how families can decorate the tree together; 
  • Advent | Jesse Tree Symbols and/or a numbered bag for each day of Advent with a surprise such as mini pieces to create a small nativity scene to display under the tree
  • Christmas | Have children create their own decorations using clear ornaments and add mini outdoor lights
  • Valentine’s Day | Hang hearts and notes of love and gratitude for family members to find
  • Lent/Easter | Use Easter eggs with scripture verses inside for each day of Lent, have an Easter egg hunt
  • Birthdays | Add streamers, have a picnic in the yard that includes birthday cake  

Additionally, the same plant/tree can also be sent to extended family members so they can also be part of honouring the lost child. Flower seeds can also be sent to those who are farther away. It's a beautiful way to remember loved ones and also create a new life and memories together. How meaningful would it be to exchange pictures of the memory gardens each Christmas? 
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In the Parish Community
In your parish community, can you find ways to gently raise awareness and support for those grieving the loss of preborn and born children?

​Sometimes the best people to lead these outreach programs and initiatives are those who have also experienced the grief of losing a child. Consider working closely with these parents and families and seeking guidance from them in your pastoral approaches and ideas.  

Today’s prayer intention and family activity was developed in collaboration with Elizabeth Ministry BC, which offers faith-based, peer support after loss of a baby during pregnancy, at birth, in infancy and toddlerhood. Visit Elizabeth Ministry BC’s website here: elizabethministrybc.ca
Source: National Life & Family Week Daily Prayers & Activities, CCCB, 2023
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Let's hang out with the Sisters

12/18/2022

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An invitation from Sr. Dianne Turner (Assistant Vocation Director of the Diocese of Calgary) to young and unmarried women:

Maybe you have a sister, and you have fun times with her, but this is about Religious Sisters having fun together, you know, the ones people call Nuns (though Nuns are a type of Religious Sisters who live a cloistered life in a monastery. If you want to know more about this distinction, just ask). So, we Sisters decided that we would gather for a night of fun and conversation, pizza supper, and Night Prayer. Personally, I am looking forward to playing some games because I truly enjoy card games, board games, charades, etc.  

Then we thought it would be great to invite young, unmarried women to hang out with us for this evening, so that we could get to know each other in a lighter setting and build our friendship. What a blessing it would be to meet young women who want to get to know us. It's an opportunity to make new friends, and catch up with some old acquaintances! 

Perhaps you have questions you would like answered without anyone knowing that you are talking to the Sisters. Maybe you want to meet Sisters from a variety of communities. You might simply want to have a lovely evening of free pizza and conversation, fun activities, and night prayer at the end. You might even consider bringing along a friend and your favourite game to play with the Sisters. What could be a better way to spend a Friday evening?  
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The FCJ Sisters have kindly offered Sacred Heart Convent for the evening, located behind St. Mary’s Cathedral at 219-19th Avenue SW, Calgary from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023.

​Please let us know if you are coming by Thursday, January 12, 2023, by contacting Sr. Dianne at 403-218-5504 or email [email protected] so that we can order the right amount of pizza (meatless of course, because it is Friday).  

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Dear October

10/23/2022

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If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health, suicide or substance use crisis or emotional distress, reach out to Alberta Mental Health Helpline 24/7 to 1.877.303.2642 or Access 24/7 at 780.424.2424
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Dear October,

​For the past two years I’ve lost a loved one to suicide inside your month. There – I said it. 

It’s been a quiet grief. These have been difficult deaths to process and, not knowing what’s acceptable to say in public, I’ve kept mostly quiet out of respect for those who mourn. 

And yet, I am also mourning. My pain is real and it remains. Same too with the unanswered questions which linger, like debris that’s sunk to the bottom of the ocean – still there, but normally out of sight. 

Autumn has been unusually warm and charming this year. The golden leaves that glisten skyward in the hot sun. Jupiter hanging out at sundown next to the moon. It’s been hard to reconcile today’s beauty with yesteryear’s yearning for one more chance to show that it’s worth waiting for brighter days. This October, a new chance presented itself. 

My heart began to pound when I missed a call from my friend, a single male in his 30s. His profile resembling that of the ones I’ve lost to suicide. In haste, I dropped everything to call him back. Once the initial catch-up chit chat tapered, I expressed my concern and asked: “How are you doing?”​
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He said he feels fine for several weeks. Then for a week he can barely drag himself out of bed. The depression. The anxiety. This time of year is worse than the dead of winter, at least then he can skate and ski. The warmth and light of summer is exchanged for cooler, darker, shorter days. These destabilizing changes upset familiar routines. Autumn is the toughest time of year for him. 

​I felt sincere gratitude that he put words to his pain. I was so thankful that he reached out. Because, if he hadn’t, I wouldn’t have known how he was feeling and I wouldn’t have known he needed support. Only God saves, however, I can be a source of support pointing toward the light. 

I want him to know what I wanted my cousin and friend to know, and what I want you to know too: You are loved. You are wanted. You are an irreplaceable gift. The world needs you. Your pain is not a burden. It unlocks compassion in this oftentimes cruel world. You are responsible for your wellness, but I want to be present to you. You are not alone. This too will pass. I’ll stand alongside you until it does. I love you. And God loves you more. 

October, my eyes used to be unaware of your underbelly. Until the shock. The agony. The confusion. The guilt. The anger. The reflection. The compassion. The remembrance. The magnitude of these feelings that were once foreign but have now become familiar. Lost innocence. No turning back. This is what it means to be human in relationship with other humans. Love has shattered my heart. 

Yet, my faith grounds me, especially in times of violence, oppression, suffering, loss and grief. I remain firm in hope – a supernatural hope rooted in mercy and forgiveness.

As believers, our hope ultimately rests in the promise that Christ will come back for us one day and make all things new.” Rev 21:5.  
In the meantime, October, as I’ve tried to mend my heart, it’s now softened and sensitive to the intricacies of your rising and falling. Thank you for holding the warm glow of the daytime sun. But after suffering these losses, I’m more aware of the shadows the sun casts on the once glittering golden leaves now fallen and dead. I will never experience you the same. Now, you remind me of endings, but also a longing for new eternal beginnings. 

I walk through this autumn season praying for increased compassion and kindness toward those around me. Is it not the least I can do to honour the memory of those I’ve loved and lost? May we strive for the same peace in our hearts that we hope and pray our Merciful Father is showing our loved and lost ones. 

I miss them. Requiescat in pace.  

Sincerely, 

Sara Francis ​
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​​Resources
  • Suicide Prevention Help Lines
    • Mental Health Help Line:
      1-877-303-2642
    • Talk Suicide Canada:
      1-833-456-4566 | text 45645
    • Mental Help Support Canada
      ​1-866-585-0445 | text 686868 (youth) or 74141 (adults)
  • Suicide Prevention Resources
  • How to recognize suicide signs and what to do to help
  • Assessing if you are depressed

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Written by Sara Francis for Faithfully. Sara is a writer living in Calgary with her husband Ben and their six children. They attend St. Bernard's / Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. 

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Pastoral Letter for Young People

10/11/2022

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Young people are important to the Church of today and tomorrow. Their faith, creativity, dynamism, and vitality are a surge of hope that can change the world. It is to young people that this Pastoral Letter from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) is addressed.

Issued on the anniversary of the death of Blessed Carlo Acutis, 12 October 2022, this Pastoral Letter is meant to inspire young Catholics to live their faith in an extraordinary way, encouraging them to strive toward holiness, and assuring them of the steadfast support and accompaniment of their Bishops along their individual journeys of faith.
  • Download the Pastoral Letter (PDF)
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Read now
15 Minute Video Presentation of the Pastoral Letter
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Knowing the right things to say

10/3/2022

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Perhaps you have gone through difficult times and received unhelpful but well-meaning comments. Maybe you just heard yourself say something that didn’t come across as well as you thought it would as you tried to console someone.
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Watch this video and learn some tips on knowing the right things to say as a personal mini sensitivity training.
Consider this…
Then Job answered: 
“I have heard many such things; miserable comforters are you all…” Job 16:2
Job’s comforters were not very present to him in his misery, instead they were trying to find a way to provide a rationale for what he was going through. When we are suffering, we do not need commentators around us. We just want someone to accompany us with what we’re going through. Be a friend who focuses on the feelings and needs of the other.
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Feeling anxious in social settings?

9/3/2022

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Feeling socially anxious? This video may help.

​Learn about the spotlight effect and see if this applies to you and your thoughts. If it does, calm down, walk into the room, and be yourself.

Consider this…

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”
Psalm 139:14
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Each one of us is wonderfully by God. We have different personalities and styles. So don’t be afraid to showcase your gifts and your talents while you discover the gifts and talents of others. And if you happen to stand out, use it for the glory of God!
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The transfigured heart

8/7/2022

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Five o’clock. First light was beginning to peek through the blinds of our fifth wheel camper. I pushed past the temptation to remain snuggled under the blanket and forced myself out of bed. I was going to do it - I was going to climb a mountain (okay, a hill) to watch a sunrise and sit in the presence of my Heavenly Father. 

My family was spending the first week of August at Dinosaur Provincial Park, joining my in-laws for a four-day adventure in the hoodoos. Our first evening at Dinosaur Park, we’d trekked to the highest point to get a full 360 of the oddly picturesque World Heritage Site. It’s an incredible anomaly among the flattest of prairie, and it’s one of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever experienced. Anybody who’s been to Dinosaur Provincial Park, 43 kilometers northeast of Brooks, knows exactly what I’m talking about: after driving through miles of prairie, the world suddenly opens up. Sandstone-striped hills, hiding who knows how many millions of fossils, seem to go on forever. Standing at the top of the mountain (okay, again, hill) and breathing in the majesty of God’s creation, I had the bright idea to climb again one morning during our trip to take in a prairie sunrise over the hoodoos and hills. 

Our first night camping was fraught with high winds, deafening thunder, and sheet lightning, which encouraged me to sleep in snugly that first morning (cozied up to my nine-year-old daughter, who tucked in with us at the first roll of thunder.) The following day, however, my internal alarm went off three times before I finally arose to first light at 5 am, pulled on a hoodie, and quietly slipped out of our camper while the rest of my family snoozed away.

It was quiet and dark enough that I felt a little bit disconcerted (I’ve seen a rattlesnake or two at the park), but as I began my ascent, my desire to be with God on a mountaintop (hoo-doo top?) outweighed my fear. The climb was steep and slippery in running shoes, and I laughed at myself as I huffed and puffed towards the top, bolstered by Al McGuire’s quote: “There’s no one who’s dropped on top of the mountain. You’ve got to work your way to the top.” After slips and slides and gratitude that I had no witnesses, I arrived at the apex, took a deep breath, looked around, and prayed:
Lord Jesus Christ,
Take all my freedom,
My memory,
My understanding,
And my will.
All that I have and cherish
You have given me.
I surrender it all to be guided by Your will.
Your grace and love and wealth enough for me.
Give me these, Lord Jesus,
And I ask for nothing more. Amen
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I’d never heard Saint Ignatius of Loyola’s prayer until Father Raul Hernandez, former pastor of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Brooks, introduced me to it. It’s a prayer that I hold dear to my heart; it’s the prayer that I turn to most often, especially when I’m experiencing something uncomfortable or discouraging. 

I’m writing about a mountaintop experience, which juxtaposes quite jarringly with the valleys my soul had been experiencing as of late. I’d been suffering from bouts of crippling anxiety since school let out. When I’m not teaching, my mental health tends to take a dip - I slug through the valleys of dark days, sustained prayer and platitudes (as well as adherence to exercise and diet.) God has given me many tools to help me keep my head above water when anxiety sets in. 

When I’d finally made it to the top of the hill, I realized that I wasn’t alone: having neglected a good dose of Deet, I was joined by mosquitos, happy to keep me company as I attempted to pray and settle quietly into God’s presence. It was almost laughable - I’d stolen a moment to myself to be still, and I was busily swatting away the most loathesome of insects. It was tempting to sink into defeat, something that anxiety preys on greedily, but my repeated dedication to Jesus kept me mountaintop for over an hour. Praying… and swatting. 

I watched the sandstone ground warm from grey to brown as the slow light began spreading its way westward over the hills, painting everything the colour of morning. I listened to coyotes howl from the south, answered by packs from the north. I watched a flock of Canada geese in their V formation, and listened to birds honk along the shores of the Red Deer River. I sank into the majesty of God’s kingdom here on Earth. Mosquitoes and all, it was a literal mountaintop (okay, hilltop) experience. 

On August 6, we celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration. After I shared that I was writing about my mountaintop morning, a dear friend of mine noted how, when prompted by Peter to set up camp at the top of the mountain, Jesus and His disciples came back down shortly after. They didn’t even stick around much longer after God acknowledged His Son. “We can’t stay in the mountaintop experiences. Even the disciples didn’t,” she noted sagely. She then asked, “what kind of transfiguration did you experience that morning?”

My mountain morning allowed for a transfiguration of my hurting heart. Anxiety doesn’t just slip away at will, but God always brings me back to His love, despite the temptation to despair. Climbing the mountain may not have entirely quelled my anxiety, but I was reminded of God’s great love for me as He painted the skies, and I returned to my family with an assuaged soul (and a million mosquito bites.) His grace and his love were in abundance that morning. Give me these, Lord Jesus, and I ask for nothing more. Amen.


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Written by Olivia Liboiron for Faithfully. Olivia is a committed Catholic educator, wife and mother of two precious children.  She has been in the community of Brooks since 2007.  She currently teaches at Christ the King Academy, Brooks’ Catholic middle school. Olivia’s passion for Catholic education makes her an ideal advocate; her strong and obvious faith allows her to witness to each student, colleague and parent she encounters.
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Lessons from my Gong Gong

7/13/2022

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CJ and his Gong Gong
One of the most interesting things I learned from my Gong Gong, which is Chinese for “grandpa”, was that he grew up as the tenth child in his family. That came as a profound struggle for him since his family wasn’t well-off, and as the tenth child he usually perceived or felt the lack of parental comfort that his older siblings would get more regularly. He told me this story because I, on the other hand, have grown up as an only child. This difference in growing up is how a lot of my conversations with him have centered around life advice founded in the principles of gratitude, perseverance, and honesty. I am only able to see him in person every summer for about a week or so, and I take his lessons to heart, especially now that I have been unable to go visit him in precaution of his health.

Gratitude was the first and often returned to principle that my conversations with my grandpa would go. Primarily since I was an only child, I had no siblings to worry or quarrel with regarding attention or care from my parents, which is why my grandpa instilled into me how wholly grateful I should be when I’m looked after regarding all matters of my life: food and water, shelter, education, and most importantly, a parental devotion to forming my initial relationship with God. Since my grandpa told me tales of feeling neglect, I understand that he instilled this value into me because he wanted to emphasize how extremely blessed I am and should never take it for granted.

There still are, unfortunately, times when I do take blessings for granted. However, this is where the principle of perseverance becomes critically important. I have to admit and take responsibility for arguments and mistakes I make, which is embodied by the occasions where I would argue with my grandpa since I couldn’t quite understand what he was talking about. The key takeaway from these admittedly unpleasant interactions is that after I apologize and more closely listen to him, I do not beat myself up over the argument or misunderstanding. This also goes for when I am trying to convey something to him; something that I perhaps have great difficulty explaining to him in a way he can understand, and the perseverance he helped instill in me allows me to find that way. I still cannot imagine how much he had to persevere as the tenth child in order to make his views or opinion known to his parents. This perseverance can then be carried over to many other pursuits in my life such as education and career.
           
As I’ve discussed with my grandpa, these two principles of gratitude and perseverance become tightly interwoven with the principle of honesty. Gratitude for blessings must be genuine, it cannot be flippant or sarcastic as that is not only disingenuous, but also a new source for arguments or making ungratefulness even more apparent. When it comes to perseverance, my grandpa helped me to draw a line between the two unhelpful extremes: giving up or setting boundaries too early, or not setting proper boundaries for myself. Honesty is required to temper both extremes and find a proper balance. For example, a particular lesson my grandpa gave me over one summer vacation was regarding the emotional drama that I found myself wrapped up in during my high school years. He told me that it was good that I wanted to do my best to help my friends through the drama, but that it should not come at a cost to my own emotional well-being. I realized after that particular conversation that I had to give up and properly step away from the emotional turmoil I had gotten entangled in during high school; and that ended up preserving my emotional health so that I could graduate from high school.

I haven’t been able to visit my grandpa in a long time, and even though we do video calls and occasionally send emails, nothing is comparable to being able to physically talk with him face to face. In honour of 2022’s World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly, I wish to convey my heartfelt gratitude to my grandpa for all the lessons and advice he has given me so far in life. I pray to be able to visit him again soon and catch up on all the time we’ve missed.

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​Written by Christopher James (CJ) Panlilio for Faithfully. He is a full time student at St. Mary’s University in Calgary, who recently graduated from the Bachelor of Arts program of Social Justice and Catholic Studies. He has further plans to take the after-degree Bachelor of Education (Elementary) program at St. Mary’s. Apart from writing fiction, he enjoys good food and drink, spending time with both children and elderly, and making puns.
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Created in the image of God

6/20/2022

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After three challenging years, the 2022 graduates gathered last month at Holy Family Parish to celebrate their graduation Mass.  These students were in grade 10 when the pandemic hit, having the entirety of their high school education impacted. But they focused on opportunities rather than challenges, and persevered to reach this wonderful milestone.

Our division's theme this year was “Created in the Image of God”.  Throughout the year, staff and students focused on the dignity, beauty, and uniqueness of each person.  This theme was embedded in the graduation Mass in many facets.  On the steps near the altar, each student’s graduation picture was displayed. In the homily, Fr. Rodel Abanto spoke of graduation being a commencement, i.e., a beginning.  He reminded the students that they have all been made in the image of God and have been given unique gifts to impact the world in countless ways. At the conclusion of the Mass, Fr. Rodel prayed a special blessing over the cross necklaces, which were given by the Administration for each graduate as a stirring reminder of Jesus’ abounding love for them.
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This graduation was a celebration of a community of members with unique backgrounds, experiences, and stories, all coming together in a beautiful tapestry. Many students have been part of Catholic education since kindergarten. Other students joined our Catholic division at various points in their educational journeys. In a recent religion review performed in our division, Dr. Dean Sarnecki asked students who had attended school in both the public and Catholic schools if they found a difference between the school systems. The students could not specifically identify the difference but noted that there was a special feeling in the Catholic system - that it was “just different” and offered “something more.” Hard to put their finger on, perhaps, but that “difference” was pervasive. 
 
Another tremendous aspect of celebrating our graduating class was the 16 international students who graduated alongside their Canadian classmates.  These students came from  Germany, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Denmark, Columbia, Ukraine, Japan, and Poland.  They forged friendships that will last a lifetime and span many miles across the globe. Each one of these students was an important piece of the patchwork, the tapestry, of the Graduating Class of 2022.

We do not know what the future holds for our graduates, but we do know we are sending them out with numerous lessons learned. They have learned to be flexible; they have learned the value of working together; they have learned perseverance pays off; they have learned to be welcoming to others in their midst, and they have learned that they are created in the image and likeness of God.  With these experiences woven together, forever a part of the tapestry of the Class of 2022, undoubtedly, they will thrive. 
Photos from the Monsignor McCoy High School Graduation for Class 2022

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Written by Heather Irvine for Faithfully. Heather is the Religious Education Coordinator for Medicine Hat Catholic School Division.  She and her husband, Brad, along with their three sons, are parishioners at Holy Family Parish, Medicine Hat.
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​Photos courtesy of Medicine Hat Catholic School Division. 
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Faith-filled young people

5/15/2022

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Photo: Confirmation Mass - at St. Peter's, Calgary.
This Easter Season I will once again have the opportunity to visit parishes, meet young people and their families, and confer the Sacrament of Confirmation.  In the months preceding the celebration of Confirmation at the parish, young people have completed a period of catechesis through a parish-based sacramental program which was offered in person or on-line due to the pandemic. The reception of this sacrament completes their initiation into the life of Christ and the Catholic Church. They are prepared by the priests and lay catechists in learning about the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit which they receive in the Sacrament. They deepen their understanding of the Faith through study, by engaging in apostolic service activities, and exploring the lives of the Saints who witnessed to Christ in ways that they can relate to in their lives.

The candidates also write a letter to the Bishop and express in their own words why they are choosing to be confirmed.  In many instances they describe the example of sacrifice that they recognize in their mother or father a concrete sign of love that supports the family. In their own words they also sense that they are called to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, and to be more faithful in living their faith by becoming a better person in drawing closer to Christ. These are the seeds of hope that I read and which are inspiring young people in the Church now.
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During this Marian month of May, Pope Francis offers this prayer for young people, “We pray for all young people, called to live life to the fullest; may they see in Mary’s life the way to listen, the depth of discernment, the courage that faith generates, and the dedication to service.”

Young people are naturally inclined to identify with our Mother Mary. Our Blessed Mother faced a challenging moment of discernment in her youth, a moment that tested the strength of her faith and trust in God, the Father.  Yet courageously, with her ear inclined to listen to the Lord, and her heart open to serving the purpose He set before her, she answered, “yes.”  Young people can reflect this courage and determination. In their zeal for social justice initiatives, their care of creation, and their commitment to building a more just and peaceful world, young people give witness to their Faith. And to pursue and accomplish these good works, young people need to engage in prayerful discernment supported by their families and the faith community of our Catholic schools and parishes.
 
It is this invitation that Pope Francis extended to young Catholics in his prayer intention for the Marian month of May which has been captured on video.
The video begins with six empty chairs which quickly become filled by three generations of a family: grandparents, parents and children – all of whom share a role in the discernment process. As Pope Francis speaks about the importance of family, a girl draws an image which gradually is revealed to be the Blessed Virgin Mary. Addressing the youth, Pope Francis points to Mary as a role model for young people.  The Holy Father highlights the attributes and gifts of Mary’s faith that continue to inspire young people today.
 
Pope Francis issued a pastoral document entitled, Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment in 2018.  The three sections of the document provide a much deeper reflection upon the themes presented in the video.
  • The first section presents the importance of schools and parishes in the lives and spiritual development of young people while stressing the need for authentic witnesses to the faith especially the laity who are formed pastorally to accompany young people alongside the clergy.
  • The second section examines the development of the mission and vocation of young people and the essential elements of accompaniment and discernment which can support them at critical times in their personal and faith development.
  • The third section outlines the synodal dynamic of “listening” for the Church and the need to move from "I" to "we", from “me” to “us”. The Holy Father recognizes that this is important to help young people understand the varied perspectives and cultures which they will experience in society today and in which they will be required to engage in dialogue and collaborative service throughout their lives.
 
In Christus Vivit, Pope Francis states, “If we journey together, young and old, we can be firmly rooted in the present, and from here, revisit the past and look to the future. To revisit the past in order to learn from history and heal old wounds that at times still trouble us. To look to the future in order to nourish our enthusiasm, cause dreams to emerge, awaken prophecies and enable hope to blossom. Together, we can learn from one another, warm hearts, inspire minds with the light of the Gospel, and lend new strength to our hands.”  (Christus Vivit #199)
 
Young people are the future of the Church at a time yet to be and they are the now in the present moment. Through receiving Confirmation and being sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit we cannot underestimate young people in their contribution to the ongoing synodal process of the Church. I encourage every youth ministry group, school, classroom, campus ministry group and others to see the synodal process as one that invites a dialogue with the voice of our youth and their experience of living the faith. The Church, especially the Bishop, needs to hear the voices of our faith-filled young people!
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Written by Most Rev. William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary
​
​May 15, 2022
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Santiago Torres

5/11/2022

7 Comments

 
Mr. Santiago Torres will be ordained to the Transitional Diaconate by Bishop McGrattan on Saturday, May 21 at 11 am at All Saints Parish in Lethbridge. Earlier this month, Chris Moraes, the President of the Serra Club of Calgary sat down with Santiago at his home parish of St. Bonaventure to ask him about his vocations journey and his upcoming ordination.

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
“I am currently 33 years old. I was born in Colombia and moved to Canada when I was 16 years old with my mother, step-father and my younger twin sisters. My parents separated in my youth and moving to Canada was a challenge. At that time I was not practising my faith. I enjoy making visits to my native Colombia and visiting my father when I am there.”

Who is your favourite Saint? 
My grandparents have always been very influential on me and my faith. When I was young they gave me a book about St. Dominic Savio. At his first holy communion St. Dominic said to God that he never wanted to sin again which was a very inspiring message for me. I took him as my confirmation saint and his story has inspired me to always trust in the Lord and has given me strength many times throughout my life.

When did you first become aware of your call? Who was instrumental in encouraging you to explore it?
At the age of 16 I met a girl at my school who was also from Colombia. We grew close and eventually began dating. She was very strong in her faith and brought me to Mass and encouraged my prayer life. Eventually we ended our relationship but my faith remained because of her. On one occasion I heard about a CCO Mission at my parish. My first deep conversion took place when I attended an evening of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. I was invited to take part in a Faith Study and that was when I really started to connect all of the aspects of my faith and especially came to discover a real relationship with our Lord Jesus. After that I started to get involved with CCO and I joined the executive of the campus ministry group at the UofC. This allowed me to share with others the encounter that I had personally experienced with Christ.

How has the Diocese of Calgary been instrumental in the discernment of your own vocation? 
The Blessed Sacrament chapel at St. Bonaventure is where I really began to hear the Lord calling me to his service. It was also the witness of several priests that allowed me to be open to this call. Around the time of my conversion, Father Cristino was on his pastoral internship at St. Bonaventure and he likes to recall the story that he began praying for my vocation way back then. The spiritual direction from Fr. Wilbert Chin Jon was instrumental in navigating fears, doubts and feelings of unworthiness for such an important calling. The friendship of Fr. Troy Nguyen in the early days of discernment also helped to ease some anxieties about going to spend the first few years at Mount Angel Abbey in Oregon to begin my priestly studies. \

What has been the greatest challenge that you have gone through as in your Seminary formation?
The seminary is a place that really helps you to get to know yourself. It is an interesting balance of guidance, formation, and evaluation. At times it can magnify your shortcomings, and there are times when you find yourself comparing yourself to the other gifted and faith filled young men. It does, however, also help to discover the great gift of the priesthood and to accept that despite feelings of unworthiness, that God can indeed call you to serve him in this vocation.
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What has been your greatest joy or consolation in this journey?
The abiding understanding that God always responds to openness with faithfulness and that he wants to fulfil you with happiness. The relationships that are forged with your brother seminarians allow you to wrestle with the doubts. It is a true brotherhood and gives you strength for the journey of discernment.

In the few months that it has been established in our Diocese, have you been aware of the Serra Club and its activities?
Yes, absolutely. Sometimes the seminary can become a bit of a bubble and you just keep your head down and keep working towards the goal. It is a wonderful realisation that you are not alone on your journey and that there are many dedicated people out there praying with and for you. The letters of encouragement from students and lay people have been a great blessing to me and I am grateful for the presence of the Serra Club and the work that its growing membership is doing to promote and support vocations in our Diocese.

What is the thing you are most anticipating as your ordination to the transitional diaconate it approaches?
The thing I am most excited for is simply just “Living it” and being entirely dedicated to the ministry of the deacon. I am sure it will bring new questions, new challenges, and new learning. The ordination brings both a sense of finality of one process but also a new beginning of a new one in the ordained ministry.

What piece of advice would you give to a young person who feels like they might have a call to a religious vocation?
First of all, talk to someone about it. A spiritual director, vocations director or your parish priest will help encourage, guide, and help you to know that you are not crazy for thinking you might be called to the priesthood. Fr. Wilbert was able to reassure me that despite my insecurities, that God would sustain and inspire me to keep saying “Yes.” Secondly, Give the Lord the chance to show you that He is God and that he  knows and loves you and that wants what is absolutely best for you.


Photo credit: Chris Moraes.

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Santiago Torres, currently in seminary formation and studies at St. Joseph Seminary, Edmonton, has been called to Ordination to the Transitional Diaconate.

​He will be ordained  a transitional deacon by Most Rev. William T. McGrattan, at the parish where he completed his pastoral year, All Saints’ Parish, Lethbridge, on 
Saturday, May 21, 2022 at 11 am. 
​
  • To attend the Ordination, please register online here
7 Comments

Are you always running late?

1/8/2022

0 Comments

 
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If you struggle with always being late.... It's a new year and an opportunity for an improved version of you!
Watch this video and learn from Jackie Angel (Ascension Press) on some practical tips on how to overcome this bad habit.  
​
How to combat this habit?
  • Find the underlying cause of why it's hard to be on time so that you can have it addressed:
    • Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? 
    • Is it the result of procrastination? 
    • Are you having a hard time with time management?
  • If not the above, think about how you perceive and respect other people's time.
    • Evaluate your punctuality when you meet an important figure or someone you look up to versus your friends or family. 
    • If you are only late when meeting those who aren't 'important', know that you might be dealing with the sin of pride. 
  • Let's do something about it. Reach out to your friends and tell them about your efforts to be punctual. Let them know that you need their support. If you haven't already, start the habit of notifying others if you are running late, even if it's only for 5 minutes. 
  • To those with friends who are always late, help them by letting them know of your expectation for being on time and the consequences of being late. Charitably of course. ​

Be considerate and respectful of other people's time and resources. 'Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.' Philippians 2:4"
Source: Jackie Angel, Ascension Press
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