In April, Holy Spirit Parish hosted a 40 Hours Adoration for Vocations, drawing an impressive number of participants and receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback. "The number of people registered through the 40 hours Adoration was 378," Pauline Jensen, Adoration coordinator, shared, "However, I would put that number up and over 500 as many did not register either from this parish or other parishes. There were many new faces and I surmise the notice on the Diocesan website was instrumental in appealing to those wanting to attend an Adoration at certain hours." This prayer event is a part of the broader diocesan initiative. In his letter promoting the 40 Hours, the Bishop emphasized, "In the spirit of our Diocesan Renewal, I wish to promote the 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations in the Diocese of Calgary. This Devotion is a longstanding tradition of forty hours of continuous prayer before the solemn Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in a succession of churches for special intentions. In the Diocese of Calgary, the special intention will be for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life." Pauline noted that the event ran smoothly without any issues, thanks to the help of their dedicated volunteers. "The night hours went well," she said. "The Knights arrived at midnight and were in the chapel when I arrived at 7 am." Special prayer sessions marked the devotion. "On Saturday, the Spanish community led the rosary at 5 pm, and the prayer group at 6 pm," Pauline mentioned. Additionally, the Divine Mercy prayer was recited at various intervals throughout the 40 Hours. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the experience as "calm, peaceful, holy" and expressing eagerness for future events. "When can we do this again?" was echoed by many attendees. Fr. David Meadows expressed his gratefulness for the prayer, stating, "Our 40 Hours Adoration for Vocations was a great success. I was impressed by the number of people, and their enthusiasm." The 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations at Holy Spirit Parish not only demonstrated the strong sense of community within the parish but also highlighted the power of collective prayer and devotion. As the Bishop underscored Matthew's Gospel passage in his letter, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest” (Matt. 9:37-38). He added, "Through this initiative of the 40 Hours Devotion for Vocations, we will in time see the fruits of our prayer as the Lord sends out labourers into his harvest, including into the local church of the Diocese of Calgary."
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Submitted by Deacon Greg Barcelon, Parish Renewal Team, St. Mary's Cathedral
In the intricate dance of community engagement, one often encounters unexpected challenges and opportunities. This was precisely the case for St. Mary's Cathedral parish as we embarked on facilitating the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal Survey. Conventional wisdom will tell us that "Strategic" would not come out as one of the top.3 leadership traits listed under Question 15 of the survey. This revelation sparked our curiosity and drove us to delve deeper into thinking strategically. However, before we could delve into details of our strategy, we had to address a pressing concern: how to incentivize participation and ensure that the survey resonated with our parishioners. Understanding the age-old question of "What's in it for me?" was pivotal. With meticulous planning, we tailored our approach to emphasize the tangible benefits of participating, from shaping the future of our parish to fostering a sense of belonging and ownership. Then, we realized we faced a significant hurdle, i.e., the clash between the prescribed June 1/2 survey weekend and the much-anticipated Lilac Festival in the vicinity of the Cathedral. Recognizing the potential impact on attendance, we sought a solution that would accommodate the schedules of our parishioners. Thanks to the advocacy of our Rector, Fr. Avinash, we secured a postponement, allowing us to have a better chance at success, plus it afforded us to observe best practices from other parishes who were doing the survey one week ahead of us. Drawing from this observation period, we refined our approach with three strategic pillars: proactive engagement before Mass, integration of the survey into homilies, and innovative distribution methods to ensure simultaneous participation. These tactics not only streamlined the survey process but also fostered a sense of collective responsibility and engagement among our parishioners. However, our efforts did not end with tapping our regular Mass-goers. We recognized the importance of reaching out to every corner of our parish community, including newly registered parishioners, volunteers of various ministries, parish groups, parents of sacramental preparation classes and newly initiated RCIA attendees. Leveraging digital platforms and personalized communication, we cast a wide net, inviting all voices to contribute to our collective narrative. Looking ahead, our focus shifts to rekindling connections with those who have drifted away from the fold. We envision a grassroots movement where every parishioner becomes an ambassador, reaching out to friends and family members who may have lapsed in their attendance. It's a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the collective strength of a unified parish. In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this endeavor, from our dedicated Parish Renewal Team to the countless volunteers and parishioners who recognized the value of our survey. Together, we have embarked on a journey of self-discovery and renewal, paving the way for a blessed future for our beloved parish.
I started going to mass at St. Michael's last February when I was at a very low, and lonely place in my life. I was surrounded by people constantly who love me, and I was never actually alone, but inside, I had this empty feeling with this deeper hole that I didn’t know how to fill.
Over the last seven months, every aspect of my life has changed as I learn and become closer to God. My faith has challenged me in ways I have never thought possible, and I have been put through a lot of tests and have had a lot of thoughts about giving up , but then I remember that it really is true: “The closer we get to God, the more the enemy draws near”. Which in truth makes me lean even harder on the Lord for strength and protection. Through the RCIA program I was given a deeper meaning to hope and to life. As the year moved on toward Easter Vigil, I found my relationship with Jesus growing stronger and stronger. I also found myself becoming humbled as I thought I knew how to pray and connect to God through conversation - but as I moved through RCIA I came to realize that I didn't know how to have a meaningful relationship with God. What I learned through RCIA changed my fundamental idea of who I want to be and how I want to live in connection with God and his children. At the Easter Vigil when Father Edmund prayed over me with his hands pressed to my head, I felt utterly and completely filled with peace and love. An overwhelming sense that this is exactly where I belong… In His Kingdom and His Glory. I will forever be grateful to be known as His. Submitted by Eryn Minifie. Eryn was baptized Catholic on Easter Vigil 2024 at St. Michael's Catholic Community in Calgary. RCIA photos courtesy of Larry Fisher.
“How are we going to talk to seekers?” Fr. Tim Boyle asked his audience at a recent Art of Accompaniment presentation. He was speaking about how we can address one of the Renewal goals to “Be a Church of Encounter and Witness”, specifically when engaging with people outside our parishes. Fr. Boyle elaborated, “What we are looking for is a common language we can use to talk about the presence of God in the world.” As I listened, I thought of one possible answer. It is literature, specifically Catholic literature. When people read they connect with the words on a personal level; they ponder, they feel emotion and their hearts as well as their minds open up. It might not result in conversion but it may create curiosity, and that’s a good place to begin to encounter God.
Where God leads, God provides
This spring Maria released two board books in the Baby Virtues series, Baby Hope and Baby Courage. They depict preschoolers epitomizing virtue in their daily lives. In June 2024, Maria will release The Amazing Power of Girls which showcases multi-cultural girls embodying science concepts. Maria can identify with this. “In school I was a creative writer but I was also drawn to math and science. There are so many parts to us that contribute to who we are.” Maria’s vocation as wife and mother is most important to her but she also values her Sri Lankan heritage and her Catholic faith. “My faith informs everything that I write, it’s impossible that it wouldn’t,” she said. Future books will further reflect Maria’s diversity, including her upcoming middle-grade novel No Purchase Necessary. Ironically when this novel was first shown to publishers, one asked if she could “tone down the Christianity”. She insisted, “Kids should think it’s okay to be living with these values. You can celebrate your ethnicity and your Christianity. You can have strong faith and be a scientist.” Asked about her faith journey as a writer, Maria was unequivocal. “God’s grace provided me with so many amazing opportunities. Where God leads, God provides. Prayer is so key. There were lots of possibilities I was considering, a home business, blog, etc., until I really listened to the Holy Spirit. We need to be open, even if God seems to be blocking what we want to do, so that we don’t keep knocking on the door that’s closed instead of heading to the door that’s open.” Any person or group in the Diocese of Calgary who wishes to purchase Maria’s books can get signed copies at Owl’s Nest or Indigo Market Mall bookstores. Learn more about Maria’s upcoming events and connect with her through her website marianayagam.com If you feel inspired, take the shot
Ben’s own history has always been guided by his faith. “I think it’s important to open space in your life to discern God’s plan,” he said. “For me, I made a fundamental shift in my career leaving school administration and going back to classroom teaching, which allowed me the time and mental bandwidth to explore new avenues like writing. I also have a very supportive wife who encourages me and is my #1 fan.” This father of five older children carved out time to write every day from December to February. “Maybe I’m a winter writer!” he joked
To Ben and Maria and all Catholic writers, I say, “Thank you! Keep whispering truth and goodness one page at a time.”
From Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Calgary Photos courtesy of Anne Lam, OLPH Parish Renewal Team From St. Martha's in Lethbridge Photos courtesy of Cristiana Crestani, St. Martha's, Lethbridge From Canadian Martyrs, Calgary Photos courtesy of Victor Panlilio, Parish Renewal Team, Canadian Martyrs, Calgary From Our Lady of Fatima, Calgary Photos courtesy of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Calgary From St. Albert the Great, Calgary Photos courtesy of St. Albert the Great's Parish Renewal Team St. Michael's Catholic Community, Calgary
The Good Shepherd communicates with and deeply understands his sheep. In this Pastoral Renewal Survey, the Church endeavours to truly listen to the thoughts, needs, concerns, and hopes of our parishioners, so that we may better serve and accompany God's people on their journey. "My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27.
Following all weekend Masses on June 1 and 2 (Corpus Christi Sunday), parishioners aged 18 and older are invited to participate in the Pastoral Renewal Survey.
About the Pastoral Renewal Survey
Your voice matters! Help shape the future of our faith community and the journey of discipleship. Thank you for your support! Rewind to June 2023. Out of pure luck, I saw a posting for a teaching position with Christ the King Academy, a middle school in the same small town where I lived. I happened to know the vice principal, Errin Nelson, and took a chance and emailed him to ask some questions. Fast-forward to the end of that week, and I had accepted a brand-new teaching position in another school division! I was leaving my home division, which brought me to Alberta in 2011. Scared? A little. Excited? Definitely. I felt in my heart that I was called to make this big change. My daughter, Anna (8), joined me. She and I are glued at the hip, and she wanted to move to Holy Family Academy to remain close to her momma. This is when I began to notice incredible divine intervention. It sounds so strange to say out loud, but there is no doubt in my mind that I was called to this position. Several signs appeared over the next little while that made me know for certain I had made the most incredible choice. Jumping forward again, I learned about RCIA, which was going to begin in October. I have always had a ton of questions and often wondered if there was 'more'. Out of my personal and very private fear of death, which only grew stronger once I became a mother, I reached out and signed myself and my daughter up. Once my journey of learning about the Catholic faith began, I have not looked back. One particular example illuminated for me was this; my classroom saint is St. Joseph; I was born in Saint Joseph's Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario; and my grandfather's name was Joseph. This Easter, my incredible daughter Anna and I were baptized and fully initiated into the Catholic Church at St. Mary's in Brooks. We were baptized together and received the Sacraments. My heart is so full and so incredibly grateful to several amazing people who have made me feel more like a family than I can ever express.
The teachers and staff of CTK welcomed my daughter and I with open arms. I am forever grateful and will hold the CTK and Christ of the Redeemer School Division families in my heart and prayers forever. Submitted by Sarah Parkin, Teacher at Christ the King Academy. Photos courtesy of Sarah Parkin.
![]() A Personal Calling Michelle Haywood has been with Elizabeth House since 2007, initially joining as a volunteer coordinator. Her passion for the ministry is palpable. “I myself was a very young single mom. When I heard about this place that provided care and support for young moms, it felt like a calling,” shares Michelle, Program Manager at Elizabeth House. Elizabeth House. was founded by the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis in response to a surge in teenage pregnancies. The Sisters recognized a pressing need for housing and support for young mothers, leading to the creation of Elizabeth House. Elizabeth House, a transitional home in Calgary, offers a lifeline to pregnant and parenting women experiencing homelessness. This ministry, which has been a vital support for hundreds of women and children, has been helping generations thrive since 1996. Over the years, the ministry has evolved significantly. Initially operating out of a small duplex, Elizabeth House has moved several times to accommodate growing demand. “We’ve supported approximately 600 women and children,” Michelle notes. The Diocese of Calgary has played a crucial role in this evolution, providing financial and administrative support. This has allowed Elizabeth House to offer 24/7 care and expand its services. Success Stories and Challenges One of the key strengths of Elizabeth House is its ability to offer long-term stays, allowing mothers to stabilize their lives. Michelle shares several success stories that illustrate the transformative power of extended support. “Women who typically would have had their child apprehended at birth or struggled considerably after birth are now able to stay with us and gain foundational skills,” she explains. This holistic approach helps women build lifelong resilience. Michelle also acknowledges the diverse backgrounds of the residents. “Since COVID, we’ve had three women complete their post-secondary degrees while staying with us. Two of them graduated with honours,” she proudly states.
Revamping the Digital Presence Jen Schultz, through her volunteer work, has been essential in modernizing Elizabeth House’s digital presence. Her involvement began when her family foundation connected with Elizabeth House through the Knights of Columbus. Recognizing the need for a website overhaul, Jen brought her expertise in marketing to the project. “The old website was very black and white and not as hopeful as it could have been,” Jen recalls. The new website features a warm, earthy colour palette and an inviting design. “We wanted to make it really clear and actionable,” she explains. The redesigned website includes essential features like a safe exit button for women in unsafe situations and clear application instructions. It also provides detailed information on how to get involved. “The team feels like the new website truly reflects the welcoming environment of Elizabeth House.” A Call to Action Elizabeth House thrives thanks to the unwavering support of the Calgary community. Michelle and Jen both recognize the importance of raising awareness about the work of this ministry. “Come get to know us,” Michelle invites. Whether through prayers, donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, there are many ways to support this vital ministry. “Also, we’re hiring!” Elizabeth House’s journey reflects the power of compassion and community. Through their dedicated efforts, they provide not just shelter, but a brighter future for Calgary’s mothers and their children. As Michelle concludes, “We are helping two generations at a time.”
When my husband Jim and I moved back to Calgary, I needed to find a way to meet like-minded, faith-filled women. I thought, what better way to do so than to join the CWL? So I did. At my first meeting with CWL, I volunteered to be the treasurer, and thus began my journey with CWL. Our council holds many activities and projects to help our parish, St. Peters; be it ministry masses where my League sisters serve as lectors, ushers, greeters, Extraordinary Ministers of Communion or sacristan; the fundraisers to help our beloved charities; collecting items for KARA or Elizabeth House, or offering an education bursary for girls going into post-secondary education. As I grew in my knowledge of the Catholic Women’s League, I realized that we were not just funeral lunch ladies, although this service that we provide to grieving families is very important to us. But we are much more than that. Our three pillars—Faith, Service, and Social Justice—perfectly describe what we are all about. We hold powerful prayer services, living rosaries, and annual spiritual retreats, to name a few. We advocate for important issues such as the sanctity of life, from conception to natural death. In 2012, I was honoured to attend the National CWL Convention in Edmonton, as a resolution that our own council researched and presented “to increase Employment Benefits for Adoptive Mothers” was adopted and then presented to the federal government. It has since come to fruition, as adoptive parents now receive the same benefits as parents who have their biological children. I was proud to serve as the President of St. Peter’s CWL council, as I loved working with and building relationships with my League sisters. As a servant leader, I grew in my faith, especially with the support of our spiritual advisors. In 2013, I was appointed diocesan CWL secretary by president Carol Schlachter. Jim said he’d support me, and my CWL journey with Calgary Diocesan Council began. I had no idea what I had agreed to, but it changed my life. Reflecting on this eleven-year journey, there were many highlights. Here are just a few:
Yes, there were sad moments too, when we bade farewell to two of our diocesan presidents, Carol Schlachter and Sharon Malec, as well as many other League sisters. And grieving alongside our sisters when they lost loved ones. Crying together is part of this amazing sisterhood we belong to.
When I went into a bookstore to buy my first ever physical Bible, I noticed also a Catholic Bible on the shelf. The man who was looking through books beside me saw that I was searching for a Bible and he told me to stay away from “that one” while he pointed at the Catholic Bible. So I was soon baptized in an evangelical church. On Saturdays, you would find me with a mic and speaker preaching the gospel with a group of people. I had a strong desire to share the love of God with others. I found work at Hope Mission, a non-denominational Christian ministry, working with children and youth. But then I was introduced to the teachings of the early church and Catholicism through YouTube. I soon became convicted of what I knew to be true and true teachings of Jesus and the apostles. I learned more and more about Catholic theology and saw how beautiful it was, and how it was all in scripture, contrary to what many people would say. I wasn’t shy to share what I learned with others. My friends and co-workers, who were mostly Baptists and Pentecostals, were confused that a non-Catholic would hold to Catholic beliefs. “Why is this guy talking about Mary and defending the idolatrous Catholic worship of Mary?” While my entire theology was being tested, something odd happened at work. I kept seeing a rosary in my workplace. I told myself, “This isn’t the right place for it.” One day, I found it on my work desk and I took it home. As I wrapped the rosary around my hands, I was hesitant to pray the Hail Mary. Then I thought to myself; I can defend the intercession of Mary with scripture, so why couldn’t I pray the prayer? Then I slowly began to pray the rosary and lots of it. It led me to see the Blessed Mother in a new light. As I went on, the Lord revealed to me his presence in the Eucharist. As I learned more and more of scripture and the faith, I started to see the truth of the Eucharist and the Lord’s true and real presence on the altar. After this, I didn’t want to be anywhere other than in front of the altar of a Catholic church. He truly did answer my prayers. I inquired with the RCIA at St. Mark’s Parish in Calgary, and went to morning masses as much as I could. The Easter Vigil was around the corner, so I made the decision to become Catholic. I was confirmed and received the Body and Blood of Christ on March 30th, 2024. Three weeks later, I ended up getting fired from my job after serving there for one year, simply because I was openly praying the Hail Mary with the children I worked with. Right now in my faith journey, I want to grow closer to the Lord in the Eucharist. Despite uncertainties I’m experiencing, my faith and hope in the Lord continues to grow stronger and he continues to pour his graces on me through his sacraments. I have no doubt that God was the one who sought me first and continues to call me. Written by Rooben Aurumugam, St. Mark's Parish, Calgary. Photos courtesy of Rooben.
Let us stir the longing for renewal in our own lives and families as we seek a closer relationship with Jesus. Let us continue to mentor our parishes, through the “genius of women” as we create a church of encounter and witness, as we strengthen our families and create missionary disciples. To our dear Catholic Women’s League: Thank you! Bonnie Annicchiarico Photo credits: Catholic Women's League. For more photos, click here
Volunteering Opportunities at Calgary Remand Centre
Volunteering Opportunities at Calgary Correctional Centre
As with any volunteering opportunities, we require a Vulnerable Sector Police Information Check (VSPIC), the completion of the Praesidium Academy sexual abuse prevention training, and the agreement to the Code of Pastoral Conduct and Accountability for Volunteers. This information will be provided to you after submitting your application. Prioritizing content review before our children/students view content is a wise and responsible approach. Much content can also help Catholic school teachers (including Alberta) reach many Student Learning Outcomes in the religious education resources. Please use these services and other resources to review what children/students are watching from a Catholic perspective:
Free and Paid-for Streaming Services
Programs outside of streaming services AGES 2-7/Grades K-2 and above
Compiled by the Office of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, Diocese of Calgary.
While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing Him." ~ Luke 24:15-16 This was a passage that many parishioners, who participated in St. Albert the Great’s Parish Renewal Gathering on May 4, 2024, pondered deeply and discussed heartfully during the Lectio Divina. One parishioner said, “How many times do we fail to recognize Jesus in one another? Yet He is with us all the time.” Another one expressed, “we were given the beautiful gift of sight, but we often close our eyes and fail to see the beauty of Jesus present in us.” Last Saturday’s gathering at our parish was indeed an eye-opener for many of us. While in the facade of our beautiful church we seem lively and vibrant, and indeed we are, there are areas we may be failing to recognize in our parish community. It could be families struggling in their relationships, our youth getting lost in their paths, our young adults who don’t know where to start, friendships strained and broken by past hurts, the elderly who may have been forgotten, or even one’s struggles with work in a weakening faith life. These are some of the “things” that are happening in the lives of parishioners. When Cleopas answered Jesus, “are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” Jesus replied, “What things?” Well, we can talk to Jesus and tell Him, Lord these are the things! Very quickly, Jesus will probably tell us how foolish we are because it is necessary for those things to happen so “He can enter into His glory”. In another small group conversation, a parishioner reflected on the presence of sufferings in our lives as a way of God to reveal His glory. “What’s important is to know that we are not alone and that we have Jesus and the entire community to walk with us in our journey and the sufferings that come with it. It is comforting to know that I have a home and that if I experience some suffering, I have an entire community that prays for me.” That hits the note!
What a great day it was for our parish, you can strongly sense the Holy Spirit’s presence. “I didn’t know what to expect for attendance, but everyone’s presence here is truly a blessing to our parish. St. Albert the Great parishioners are the best!”, said Fr. Andrew who gave his full support and guidance throughout the planning of the gathering. When asked what his vision is for the Renewal, he said, “my goal is for everyone in the parish to call this home.” Sounds like we are on the right track! The journey to Renewal is long and not easy. Bishop McGrattan said and was quoted many times throughout the gathering, “Renewal is not a sprint, but is a marathon.” St. Albert the Great is gearing for it! As a renewal team member said, it is not an 8-member team but an entire parish that will run the marathon. To affirm that, everyone in the gathering expressed their enthusiasm when the word You was changed to We, as they exclaimed, “WE are Called, WE Matter, and WE Belong!” Thank you Jesus! Submitted by Florian Bernardo, St. Albert the Great Parish Renewal Team.
Mary's Festival: A Celebration & Consecration of St. Mary's University to Our Blessed Mother5/12/2024
![]() The CRSC delegation consisted of leaders met with Bishop McGrattan in April 2024. Brian Sullivan, the CRSC President from Ontario; Melvin De Paz from Manitoba; Gerard MacDonald from Prince Edward Island; Richard Dunstan from British Columbia; Joannie Farrell from Newfoundland, and Corrine Yakimovich from Edmonton. April 2024 was a significant month at the Calgary Catholic Charismatic Renewal Society (CCCRS), marking our 36th anniversary. We were thrilled to finally host the much-anticipated conference with the Charismatic Renewal Services of Canada (CRSC), a plan delayed since 2020 due to the pandemic. The event's theme, "Come and See," which was inspired by Isaiah 43:18-19, resonated deeply with us. The CRSC team, comprising leaders from various Canadian provinces and part of the global Charismatic Renewal International Services (CHARIS) in Rome, brought us invaluable guidance. Their presence bolstered our local prayer groups with new confidence and deepened spiritual journeys. Brian Sullivan, the president of CRSC, shared, "It truly felt like an upper room experience, with the Holy Spirit moving among us." He talked about how everyone was keen to focus more on charisms during the meetings with the prayer group leaders. On April 11, 2024, the CRSC delegation was honoured to meet with Bishop McGrattan. His warm reception and expression of support were meaningful to us, serving as an encouragement and confirmation for our mission. This was followed by our "ALIVE" event, graciously hosted by Fr. Adam Bobola at Our Lady Queen of Peace, Calgary. It was a night that went deep into our hearts, sparking a revival fire in everyone there. Brian shared how he was touched by Fr. Adam's openness, witness to hope, and his need for prayers in the midst of a battle with cancer. He then continued, "The ministry time following the Mass was particularly moving. The physical layout of the church allowed people to come forward, kneel before the Blessed Sacrament, and present their needs to the Lord while the team prayed for them. It was a profound and powerful moment of blessing and healing." The main conference was hosted at St. Thomas More Parish, and it was the highlight of our week. Fr. Jerald (Jerry) D'Souza and members of the CRSC team, including Brian, Melvin De Paz, Gerald MacDonald, and Corrine Yakimovich, tackled some important topics about personal and communal transformation. "This conference has been a testament to the power of community and the Holy Spirit. It's inspiring to see so many individuals coming together with a shared purpose," someone noted. Brian also added by praising Fr. Jerry for his passionate and insightful talks, saying that his words and presence had a lasting impact on everyone there. In my own reflection, our conference really brings us back to the importance of #Renewal within us. "You are called, you matter, you belong," our diocesan Pastoral Renewal theme, is not just a catchy line. Every single one of us is invited on a spiritual adventure, reminding us that we all have value and a place where we fit in. Accepting this invitation means understanding that we're not just another face in the crowd. We are known by name, appreciated for who we are, and warmly welcomed into a community where we find belonging. It's about moving forward together, towards a closer relationship with the living God. We thank our team members and our hosting parishes for their support. This conference was truly a testament to the power of faith, community, and renewal. As Brian remarked, "Your team's exceptional hospitality made us feel honoured and cared for." I would like to take this time to express my gratitude for our team members. Sunitha and Sheeja, dedicated leaders of the Divine Shepherd and Divine Spirit Prayer Groups, did an amazing job organizing the April 13th Conference. Dick, along with his St. Luke's Charismatic Music Ministry team and Liza from the CCCRS music ministry, created a beautiful space for us to sing and feel uplifted. Also, a huge thanks to Rudy, Kanthi, and many others who ensured the transportation for our guests went smoothly. Despite the challenges encountered along the way, the team improvised in the face of unforeseen circumstances, and the spirit of generosity and friendship prevailed. We really couldn't have pulled it off without our dedicated team and those who prayed for us, and for this, we are thankful. Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." ~Isaiah 43:18-19
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Pontifical Academy for Life, and other key partners are organizing an international interfaith symposium on palliative care. Entitled “Towards a Narrative of Hope”, this symposium will take place on May 21-23, 2024, in Toronto. With the objective to educate and build a culture of social responsibility in palliative care, experts from medical, ethical and pastoral contexts will focus on translating insights from the presentations and discussions into concrete strategies of actions. You can already watch a short video on the purpose of the symposium and the vital role of faith-based organizations and communities in promoting human dignity, compassion, and respect for patients and their families through the illness and dying process. Please find below, for your information the videos announcing this international interfaith symposium on palliative care. Video in French by Bishop Noël Simard, Bishop of Valleyfield QC, and Member of the Pontifical Academy for Life (PAV), and Chairman of the Scientific Board for the Symposium: https://youtu.be/zBYKDGrvDlE?si=bHQYZ51-Ol0cuazQ In preparation for the great feast of Pentecost, let us ask for an outpouring of grace into our hearts, and implore the Holy Spirit to send the grace of renewal to all the parishes in the Diocese of Calgary. Novena to the Holy Spirit starts this Friday, May 10, 2024.
A message from CCMA - submitted by Dr. Monique Withers: The CCMA ( Calgary Catholic Medical Association ) was honoured to host a very informative Bishops Breakfast on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Heritage Park. It was good to see so many people at the breakfast. The need for in-person social contact was so high that after the three-hour Breakfast was concluded, some attendees kept on socializing on the Heritage Park Plaza. 56 attendees were able to meet and mingle around a talk given by our beloved Bishop W. McGrattan. The topic chosen by the Bishop was: 'Social Media and wise use of computer-generated stories, data and opinions.' This was a timely topic as we are trying to regroup after the lengthy Covid lockdown. For many people, the Covid lockdown is a 'thing of the past.' However, healthcare workers are still dealing with the aftereffects of the Covid pandemic. These effects include burnout and the loss of a healthy daily rhythm of rest and contemplation. Contemplation and reflection are needed to wisely use all the information that is now available at a fingertip through computer programs, phone apps, etc. The Bishop provided some examples of activities that promote daily Prayer and other activities to assist in healthy choices and decision making. God is a good Father and always provides us with good gifts. This breakfast was an example of one of these gifts through the timely advice given by our shepherd, Bishop William McGrattan. The Bishop highlighted the need for the right spiritual disposition to use the internet and computer generated data in Healthcare. We need to stay focused on the dignity and personal needs of our patients. The Canadian Bishops as well as the Vatican have published on this topic, "Pastoral Letter on Social Media." https://www.cccb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Pastoral-Letter-on-Social-Media_EN-2024-01-22.pdf For the CCMA Executive, the effects noted in the week or so after this breakfast have been very encouraging. A Health Science student was able to use the Bishop's talk to write a paper for a mandatory paper. A Christ-centered physician was pleased with the clear message that physicians are meant to be healers, not technicians providing consumers with ' health products.' One attendee found that the information from the Bishop's talk made it easier to participate in a discussion on this topic at another Catholic meeting. It was good to see the students at this breakfast. They are our future and need to become ethical users of the computers we use in our daily lives. Some of the conversations with and comments from medical students at the breakfast were used by the CCMA President when communicating with the College of Family Physicians of Canada in the last couple of days.. We may sometimes think that Calgary is an isolated region in Western Canada. However all Healthcare providers are connected throughout Canada by the actions of the Holy Spirit. Wise use of the internet and computers will keep these connections vibrant and healthy.
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July 2024
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