Parish Renewal Teams: Blessed Beginnings

What an exciting time for us in the Diocese! Over 44 parishes sent their Parish Renewal Team members to an orientation which took place simultaneously on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, at St. Luke's and St. Albert the Great's in Calgary, St. Martha's in Lethbridge and Holy Family Parish at Medicine Hat. Close to 300 parish renewal team members joined in the orientation day, which was filled with lively conversation and learning opportunities.

The sight of so many new faces, all eager to start their journey of renewal on behalf of their parishes, was truly uplifting. 

For many attendees, this was their inaugural experience with Parish Renewal. Over at St. Martha's in Lethbridge, it was a warm and welcoming atmosphere despite the cold weather. "It was a cold Saturday - but 43 people from 9 different parishes gathered at St. Martha in Lethbridge to begin a four-year diocesan-wide renewal program," shared Fr. Tim Boyle, a member of the diocesan Renewal Leadership Team (RLT). 

The staff and volunteers at all sites had prepared tables with signs welcoming each parish as well as an overflowing hospitality table. Parishioners were able to enjoy delicious treats and beverages as they caught up with old friends and welcomed newcomers from across the diocese.  

Organizing the Zoom conference to facilitate discussions and prayers across four sites proved more challenging than anticipated. The Renewal Leadership teams definitely had their fair share of anxiety. However, when the day of the event arrived, everything ran smoothly! "The technology was amazing and left us all with a feeling of being connected to the whole diocese without any of us having to drive for hours," shares Fr. Tim.

The orientation included a morning prayer, a viewing of the Pastoral Renewal launch video, followed by a session with Bishop McGrattan on the Diocese's Parish Renewal process. "The presentation from Bishop McGrattan encouraged the participants as they learned more about the process and vision of the diocese’s renewal," shares Bonnie Annicchiarico, RLT chair who attended the orientation from Holy Family Parish, Medicine Hat.

Then we heard the testimonies of three fellow parishioners who shared their personal experiences. Sarah Stamp from Vauxhall, AB spearheaded the testimonies, focusing on the primary goal of Pastoral Renewal: Strengthening Family Life. Lorand Szojka from St. Peter's Parish in Calgary spoke about Forming Missionary Disciples in Christ. Lastly, Liisa Honish, a parishioner from St. Albert the Great's Parish shared her experiences on being a Church of Encounter and Witness. 

The speakers emphasized the significance of personal connections and mutual care, rather than relying solely on programs. They highlighted the profound and lasting impact of simple acts performed with love within parish communities and families. Furthermore, they provided insights on integrating faith into daily life, embracing our roles within families, and fostering welcoming parish environments.

Post-testimonies, participants discussed pastoral priorities that resonated with them, displaying evident passion and enthusiasm. "The discussions were very lively, and it was clear that the Holy Spirit was helping participants express their heartfelt views," noted Marc O'Loughlin, a member of the RLT who attended the orientation at St. Albert the Great's Parish.  

One member found the testimonies inspiring, stating, "There are people out there already living it. That means it’s possible!"

Bonnie added, "Participants were really inspired by the testimonies of Sarah, Lorand, and Liisa and relished the opportunity to discuss renewal ideas in their small groups. They left feeling enthusiastic and encouraged by their colleagues and peers, and most especially by the leadership and support provided by the Diocesan Leadership Team."

One participant said, "It’s a renewal, we have always been called, we have always mattered and we always will belong but we need to be reminded." Another added, "I feel some hope of moving forward in a concrete way to enliven our entire parish, not just separate groups."

Following the grouop discussion, the sites were filled with a contagious enthusiasm. After getting an overview of what the next several months will look like for the teams, they were sent out with a prayerful commissioning by the Bishop.

The pilgrimage has begun and we are greatly comforted knowing we walk together. We left with these encouraging words ringing in our hearts: We can make renewal happen! Here's to a future filled with love, growth, and renewal! 

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Photo credits: Office of Communications, Marc O'Loughlin, Fr. Iqbal Khurshid, Bonnie Annicchiarico, and Fr. Tim Boyle.