Happy 90th birthday, Fr. Ray Lowing!

Last month, we gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of Fr. Ray Lowing, a beloved priest whose life has been one of profound service and dedication to God and the people of our diocese. Since his ordination in 1959, he’s worn many hats in our diocese – from directing the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine to serving as Chancellor, Judicial Vicar, and pastor of several parishes. His heart for ministry and commitment to the Church have touched so many lives over the years.

The birthday celebration on Tuesday, October 29 at the Pastoral Centre was filled with joy and gratitude. Bishop McGrattan and the staff at the Catholic Pastoral Centre joined in honouring Fr. Ray, who has given, and keeps giving, so much of himself to the Church. The appreciation from his friends and colleagues was a beautiful reflection of the impact he’s made.
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Even though he’s officially retired, Fr. Ray continues to live out his vocation daily. He celebrates Mass at the Pastoral Centre, where his quiet strength and deep faith are a blessing to everyone. In addition to this, he contributes his expertise to the Clergy Pension Plan, helping to ensure the well-being of his fellow priests in retirement. He also continues to serve the Ecclesiastical Tribunal as an advocate and judge.

Fr. Ray has been a gift from God to our diocese, embodying the virtues of humility, wisdom, and compassion in his ministry. For all of us, he is a constant source of inspiration, demonstrating that faith in action can touch countless lives. His example calls us to deepen our own commitment to God and to serve others with the same joy and dedication.

Personally, I feel immensely blessed to count Fr. Ray as a mentor. With his sharp mind, unremitting wit, and expertise that has stood the test of time, he has guided me, both in my work with the tribunal and in my canon law career. He is a role model not only as a priest but as a person who, through decades of faithful service, has shown us the true meaning of discipleship. His life reminds me daily of the beauty found in a life devoted to serving Christ and His people.

As we celebrate Fr. Ray's 90th year, we give thanks for his lifelong dedication and pray that God will continue to bless him abundantly. His life of faith and service will inspire our diocese for years to come, reminding us all of the profound impact one dedicated servant can have on the world around them.

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Written by Louis Meléndez​ for Faithfully. Louis is a Case Instructor for the Ecclesiastical Tribunal of the Diocese of Calgary. He and his wife Cathleen are members of the Spanish Community at Holy Spirit Parish in Calgary, where he serves in the music ministry as a choir director. He is currently studying Canon Law at St. Paul University in Ottawa. His hobbies include translating works from the early Church Fathers into Spanish, playing the piano, and learning languages | Photos: Office of Communications