Important News and Events!For more news and events happening around the Archdiocese of Edmonton subscribe to: http://grandinmedia.ca
Letters to the Editor
Some readers have asked whether they can write a Letter to the Editor of Grandin Media. Yes you can -- and we'd love to hear from you! Because Grandin Media is a digital platform, you can send your message through the contact page at https://grandinmedia.ca/more/contact-us, or you can share your comments with other readers by typing in the Comment box at the bottom of each page. |
Archbishop's Blog has Moved
Archbishop Smith's blog, The Reason for our Hope, is now being published at Grandin Media, at grandinmedia.ca/archbsmith. You can still find a link to the latest post on the front page of the archdiocesan website at caedm.ca. To subscribe to an RSS feed, use this link: grandinmedia.ca/category/voices/voices-reason-for-our-hope/feed We also welcome letters by post to:
Andrew Ehrkamp, News Editor Grandin Media 8421 – 101 Avenue NW Edmonton AB T6A 0L1 |
Advent & Christmas Service Times
Thanks to all parishes who have already contributed their Advent Penitential Service and Christmas Mass times (Dec. 22-Jan.1) for the online schedules on the archdiocesan website. Who knows? Someone who finds your Mass times there may become your next parishioner …
Our Advent Penitentials schedule can be found at caedm.ca/advent. The Christmas schedule is now posted at caedm.ca/Christmas. If your parish isn't listed there, or if we've gotten something wrong, be sure to drop a note to Alan at webmaster@caedm.ca.
Thanks to all parishes who have already contributed their Advent Penitential Service and Christmas Mass times (Dec. 22-Jan.1) for the online schedules on the archdiocesan website. Who knows? Someone who finds your Mass times there may become your next parishioner …
Our Advent Penitentials schedule can be found at caedm.ca/advent. The Christmas schedule is now posted at caedm.ca/Christmas. If your parish isn't listed there, or if we've gotten something wrong, be sure to drop a note to Alan at webmaster@caedm.ca.
Choice in Education Survey: A Message from ACSTA
The Alberta government has recently distributed an online survey regarding Choice in Education. Its purpose is to “protect, improve and enhance education choice in Alberta.” The Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association advises that this survey is an important opportunity for all Catholics to speak up for publicly funded Catholic education as a solid educational choice in Alberta. The survey closes on Friday, December 6. Please complete the survey ... and pass it on to others. Find it at alberta.ca/choice-in-education-engagement.aspx.
The Alberta government has recently distributed an online survey regarding Choice in Education. Its purpose is to “protect, improve and enhance education choice in Alberta.” The Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association advises that this survey is an important opportunity for all Catholics to speak up for publicly funded Catholic education as a solid educational choice in Alberta. The survey closes on Friday, December 6. Please complete the survey ... and pass it on to others. Find it at alberta.ca/choice-in-education-engagement.aspx.
Retrouvaille
There is a better way to communicate. Rediscover your commitment. Put your marriage back on track. Learn how to forgive and trust. Whatever your issues, no marriage is beyond hope. Consider a different kind of Christmas gift to each other this year. The next Retrouvaille program (in Edmonton) begins March 13-15, 2020. For more information email info@helpourmarriage.ca, call 587-598-4357, or check the website retrouvaille.org.
There is a better way to communicate. Rediscover your commitment. Put your marriage back on track. Learn how to forgive and trust. Whatever your issues, no marriage is beyond hope. Consider a different kind of Christmas gift to each other this year. The next Retrouvaille program (in Edmonton) begins March 13-15, 2020. For more information email info@helpourmarriage.ca, call 587-598-4357, or check the website retrouvaille.org.
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Archbishop Smith: Readiness for the Lord As we heard in the Gospel passage on Sunday (Matthew 24: 37-44), Jesus makes clear that he will come again, though we know not when. Indeed, we proclaim in the Creed our expectation of the Lord’s return, when he will come as judge of the living and the dead. This begs the question: how do we get ready? Since we know neither the day nor the hour of the Lord’s return, we need to be in a perpetual state of readiness. How do we prepare ourselves? Sacred Scripture itself gives the answer. |
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Archbishop Smith: Where Are They Now? This week the Archbishop reflects on some of the great dynasties of history, many of which have disappeared only to be replaced by others, which, in their turn, faded away. "I found myself reflecting upon this again in the context of the Solemnity of Christ the King, which the Church celebrated this past weekend. His is a dynasty – the only one – that does in fact endure forever, because it is established not by human conquest but by divine decree. It cannot be defeated." |
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Archbishop Smith: 감사합니다 For over 20 years, the Archdiocese of Gwangju, in southwestern Korea, has been making priests available to care for the members of St. Jung Ha Sang Parish, the Korean Catholic community in Edmonton. This week Archbishop Smith writes about his trip to the Korean diocese to express gratitude for “this wonderful expression of solidarity and support towards our Korean parish and our local Church in general. |
Abuse Updates
The Archdiocese has posted a brief update on a review of files pertaining to sexual abuse by clergy who served within our boundaries from 1947 to 2018. In parallel to this work, we have conducted a comprehensive review of our abuse prevention policies and protocols with an eye to clarifying them, ensuring they meet the CCCB guidelines issued in 2018, and assuring our people that abuse will not be tolerated. We expect to publish these new policies in December. The update also addresses the issue of publishing the names of known offenders, and includes the assurance that no priest who has been credibly accused of sexual abuse of a child is serving in active ministry in the Archdiocese of Edmonton. The CCCB has also posted an update on this issue from the national perspective. Please visit caedm.ca/PastoralScene to accesss full text of both statements.
The Archdiocese has posted a brief update on a review of files pertaining to sexual abuse by clergy who served within our boundaries from 1947 to 2018. In parallel to this work, we have conducted a comprehensive review of our abuse prevention policies and protocols with an eye to clarifying them, ensuring they meet the CCCB guidelines issued in 2018, and assuring our people that abuse will not be tolerated. We expect to publish these new policies in December. The update also addresses the issue of publishing the names of known offenders, and includes the assurance that no priest who has been credibly accused of sexual abuse of a child is serving in active ministry in the Archdiocese of Edmonton. The CCCB has also posted an update on this issue from the national perspective. Please visit caedm.ca/PastoralScene to accesss full text of both statements.
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Left Footers: Morman Missionary to Catholic Priest
In this episode of Left Footers, Father Marc Cramer, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Edmonton, shares his faith journey from Catholicism to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, back again to Catholicism, and eventually to to the priesthood. Along the way, he gives some great insights into where we find God in everyday life. |
Advent is a wake-up call to make time for Christ
Columnist Mike Landry writes this week about the ‘wake-up call’ he got when he installed an app on his phone that tracked his time spent on the phone screen. “This moment of self-realization has resulted with my making some significant change to my phone use, with the simple goal of making more space for the things that really matter to me. In many ways, it’s been an excellent preparation for Advent."
Read more
Archbishop’s first South Korea visit strengthens ties that bind
The Archdiocese of Gwangju has sent priests to minister at St. Jung Ha Sang – the Korean parish in Edmonton — for more than 20 years. Recently Archbishop Smith visited the South Korean archdiocese to say thank you. He was struck not only by the country’s hospitality but by a culture of honour and respect for the Church, and for each other.
Read more
Debate over conscience rights hasn’t cooled off in Alberta
United Conservative Party MLA Dan Williams says he plans to advocate for Bill 207, the Conscience Rights (Health Care Providers) Protection Act, well into the new year. The private member’s bill has drawn criticism from those who think it could restrict access to medical care – most recently from a group of health care professionals from two Catholic hospitals. With the end of the fall legislature session drawing near, it is likely the bill will die on the order paper.
Read more
Faith and politics a volatile mixture among voters – poll
An Angus Reid poll after the election suggests that most Canadians think a candidate’s religious beliefs should not be an issue during a federal election campaign. At the same time, a small majority (51 per cent) of those polled said Andrew Scheer’s Catholic faith negatively impacted their opinion of him as a possible prime minister. While Scheer was often confronted on the election campaign trail about his personal beliefs as a Catholic, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau – who is also Catholic – did not come under the same scrutiny.
Read more
Quebec may expand eligibility for medically assisted death
Quebec’s health minister says the province will open a consultation on allowing medically assisted death for people who can no longer give informed consent or who will die of an illness in the more distant future. Right now, Quebec permits Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) for terminally ill adult residents with an incurable disease who are undergoing great suffering, face imminent death, and give informed consent. The Quebec law took effect in December 2015.
Read more
Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s beatification postponed
Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria said Vatican officials have told him that the upcoming beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen has been postponed. The Vatican decided to postpone the Dec. 21 ceremony at the request of some U.S. bishops, but no details were given. The Peoria Diocese did note that “In our current climate it is important for the faithful to know that there has never been, nor is there now, any allegation against (Archbishop) Sheen involving the abuse of a minor.”
Read more
Pope returns fragment of Jesus’ crib to Holy Land
As Advent approached, Pope Francis gave a small fragment of Jesus’ crib back to Catholics in the Holy Land. In Bethelehem, West Bank, Franciscan Father Rami Asakrieh of St. Catherine Church welcomed the relic’s return and called it “a great blessing.” The relic, given to the Vatican in the seventh century, has been kept in a chapel under the main altar at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Read more
Pope encourages more nativity scenes in homes and public places
Pope Francis has issued an apostolic letter on the meaning and importance of nativity scenes, calling for this “wonderful sign” to be more widely displayed in family homes and public places throughout the world. “With this letter, I wish to encourage the beautiful family tradition of preparing the nativity scene in the days before Christmas, but also the custom of setting it up in the workplace, in schools, hospitals, prisons and town squares."
Read more
Columnist Mike Landry writes this week about the ‘wake-up call’ he got when he installed an app on his phone that tracked his time spent on the phone screen. “This moment of self-realization has resulted with my making some significant change to my phone use, with the simple goal of making more space for the things that really matter to me. In many ways, it’s been an excellent preparation for Advent."
Read more
Archbishop’s first South Korea visit strengthens ties that bind
The Archdiocese of Gwangju has sent priests to minister at St. Jung Ha Sang – the Korean parish in Edmonton — for more than 20 years. Recently Archbishop Smith visited the South Korean archdiocese to say thank you. He was struck not only by the country’s hospitality but by a culture of honour and respect for the Church, and for each other.
Read more
Debate over conscience rights hasn’t cooled off in Alberta
United Conservative Party MLA Dan Williams says he plans to advocate for Bill 207, the Conscience Rights (Health Care Providers) Protection Act, well into the new year. The private member’s bill has drawn criticism from those who think it could restrict access to medical care – most recently from a group of health care professionals from two Catholic hospitals. With the end of the fall legislature session drawing near, it is likely the bill will die on the order paper.
Read more
Faith and politics a volatile mixture among voters – poll
An Angus Reid poll after the election suggests that most Canadians think a candidate’s religious beliefs should not be an issue during a federal election campaign. At the same time, a small majority (51 per cent) of those polled said Andrew Scheer’s Catholic faith negatively impacted their opinion of him as a possible prime minister. While Scheer was often confronted on the election campaign trail about his personal beliefs as a Catholic, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau – who is also Catholic – did not come under the same scrutiny.
Read more
Quebec may expand eligibility for medically assisted death
Quebec’s health minister says the province will open a consultation on allowing medically assisted death for people who can no longer give informed consent or who will die of an illness in the more distant future. Right now, Quebec permits Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) for terminally ill adult residents with an incurable disease who are undergoing great suffering, face imminent death, and give informed consent. The Quebec law took effect in December 2015.
Read more
Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s beatification postponed
Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria said Vatican officials have told him that the upcoming beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen has been postponed. The Vatican decided to postpone the Dec. 21 ceremony at the request of some U.S. bishops, but no details were given. The Peoria Diocese did note that “In our current climate it is important for the faithful to know that there has never been, nor is there now, any allegation against (Archbishop) Sheen involving the abuse of a minor.”
Read more
Pope returns fragment of Jesus’ crib to Holy Land
As Advent approached, Pope Francis gave a small fragment of Jesus’ crib back to Catholics in the Holy Land. In Bethelehem, West Bank, Franciscan Father Rami Asakrieh of St. Catherine Church welcomed the relic’s return and called it “a great blessing.” The relic, given to the Vatican in the seventh century, has been kept in a chapel under the main altar at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Read more
Pope encourages more nativity scenes in homes and public places
Pope Francis has issued an apostolic letter on the meaning and importance of nativity scenes, calling for this “wonderful sign” to be more widely displayed in family homes and public places throughout the world. “With this letter, I wish to encourage the beautiful family tradition of preparing the nativity scene in the days before Christmas, but also the custom of setting it up in the workplace, in schools, hospitals, prisons and town squares."
Read more
Last Week:
Legislature committee stops bill aimed at protecting doctors’ conscience rights
A United Conservative Party MLA has lost his bid to strengthen the rights of health care providers in Alberta to refuse procedures contrary to their moral beliefs. Dan Williams’ Bill 207, the Conscience Rights (Health Care Providers) Protection Act, was shot down by his fellow members of the legislature who sit on the assembly’s standing committee for private members’ bills. Eight of the 10 committee members voted against the bill’s second reading, including some of Wiliams’ UCP colleagues.
Read more
Bill 207 commentary: How 4 UCP MLAs helped kill it
Jason West writes that “Somehow, in Alberta, the protection of conscience rights was presented by media and the Twitteratti as a plot of the social conservative fringe. This seems rather odd, given that Bill 207 was supported by many physicians and by retired Supreme Court Justice John Major.”
Read more
Bill 207 is dead. Now what?
Ryan Topping writes of his dismay over the failure of Bill 207, saying the cause is not just the controversy highlighted in the media. “The main reason we lost is because, for a long time now, we’ve trusted that our institutions will stand even when we ignore their foundations.”
Read more
Infant Memorial Mass offers parents consolation, strength
As a tree of remembrance was blessed and holy water splashed against a tag bearing the name of her stillborn son, Bliss Boisvert was overwhelmed by a sense of peacefulness in the knowledge that he was safe in God’s arms. She was among more than 100 parents and family members who attended a special memorial Mass for infants who have been lost due to miscarriages, abortions, stillbirths or an early death.
Read more
150 years of White Fathers missionary order
Bishop Albert Thévenot of Prince Albert says members of his Missionaries of Africa order work themselves out of job ̶ across the continent, they build up a local Church and then let the local inhabitants bring it to fruition. The missionary priests, known as the White Fathers, are celebrating 150 years of evangelization this year.
Read more
Revised abuse reporting and prevention policies planned
The Archdiocese of Edmonton will soon publish revised policies and protocols on abuse prevention and reporting. The plan follows a pledge made by Archbishop Richard Smith in 2018, after the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops released its new guidelines on Protecting Minors from Sexual Abuse. The Archdiocese has also conducted a review of sexual abuse files in order to be able to assure the parishioners that no priest who has ever had a credible allegation of abuse lodged against him is serving in ministry.
Read more
Archdiocese of Vancouver names 9 priests who sexually abused
A groundbreaking report by an Archdiocese of Vancouver review committee on clerical sexual abuse has concluded that 26 sexual assaults of minors “likely occurred” in the diocese since 1950 and identifies nine priests who were criminally convicted, named in lawsuits or were the subject of other public cases. The report also includes archdiocesan responses to the committee's 31 recommendations.
Read more
Be intentional about living Advent in your family
In their recently published book, authors John Kostoff and Patricia Dal Ben offer several suggestions for families to celebrate the season of Advent. “Nothing is helped by rushing through Advent to reach Christmas Day,” they say. “This only brings exhaustion and sometimes an empty feeling. Advent should be experienced with intentionality, with a resolve to savour each day and each occasion as we make the pilgrimage to Christmas.”
Read more
Christmas Around the Fire shares the gift of great stories
As Advent approaches, author Ryan Topping invites us to share his family’s tradition of reading together around the fireplace. In his new book, Christmas Around the Fire, Topping shares great works — from the solemn to the heart-warming — from renowned poets and novelists including G.K. Chesterton, Charles Dickens, Canadians Catherine Dougherty and the humourist Stephen Leacock, as well as the thoughts of great religious figures from Pope St. John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI.
Read more
A United Conservative Party MLA has lost his bid to strengthen the rights of health care providers in Alberta to refuse procedures contrary to their moral beliefs. Dan Williams’ Bill 207, the Conscience Rights (Health Care Providers) Protection Act, was shot down by his fellow members of the legislature who sit on the assembly’s standing committee for private members’ bills. Eight of the 10 committee members voted against the bill’s second reading, including some of Wiliams’ UCP colleagues.
Read more
Bill 207 commentary: How 4 UCP MLAs helped kill it
Jason West writes that “Somehow, in Alberta, the protection of conscience rights was presented by media and the Twitteratti as a plot of the social conservative fringe. This seems rather odd, given that Bill 207 was supported by many physicians and by retired Supreme Court Justice John Major.”
Read more
Bill 207 is dead. Now what?
Ryan Topping writes of his dismay over the failure of Bill 207, saying the cause is not just the controversy highlighted in the media. “The main reason we lost is because, for a long time now, we’ve trusted that our institutions will stand even when we ignore their foundations.”
Read more
Infant Memorial Mass offers parents consolation, strength
As a tree of remembrance was blessed and holy water splashed against a tag bearing the name of her stillborn son, Bliss Boisvert was overwhelmed by a sense of peacefulness in the knowledge that he was safe in God’s arms. She was among more than 100 parents and family members who attended a special memorial Mass for infants who have been lost due to miscarriages, abortions, stillbirths or an early death.
Read more
150 years of White Fathers missionary order
Bishop Albert Thévenot of Prince Albert says members of his Missionaries of Africa order work themselves out of job ̶ across the continent, they build up a local Church and then let the local inhabitants bring it to fruition. The missionary priests, known as the White Fathers, are celebrating 150 years of evangelization this year.
Read more
Revised abuse reporting and prevention policies planned
The Archdiocese of Edmonton will soon publish revised policies and protocols on abuse prevention and reporting. The plan follows a pledge made by Archbishop Richard Smith in 2018, after the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops released its new guidelines on Protecting Minors from Sexual Abuse. The Archdiocese has also conducted a review of sexual abuse files in order to be able to assure the parishioners that no priest who has ever had a credible allegation of abuse lodged against him is serving in ministry.
Read more
Archdiocese of Vancouver names 9 priests who sexually abused
A groundbreaking report by an Archdiocese of Vancouver review committee on clerical sexual abuse has concluded that 26 sexual assaults of minors “likely occurred” in the diocese since 1950 and identifies nine priests who were criminally convicted, named in lawsuits or were the subject of other public cases. The report also includes archdiocesan responses to the committee's 31 recommendations.
Read more
Be intentional about living Advent in your family
In their recently published book, authors John Kostoff and Patricia Dal Ben offer several suggestions for families to celebrate the season of Advent. “Nothing is helped by rushing through Advent to reach Christmas Day,” they say. “This only brings exhaustion and sometimes an empty feeling. Advent should be experienced with intentionality, with a resolve to savour each day and each occasion as we make the pilgrimage to Christmas.”
Read more
Christmas Around the Fire shares the gift of great stories
As Advent approaches, author Ryan Topping invites us to share his family’s tradition of reading together around the fireplace. In his new book, Christmas Around the Fire, Topping shares great works — from the solemn to the heart-warming — from renowned poets and novelists including G.K. Chesterton, Charles Dickens, Canadians Catherine Dougherty and the humourist Stephen Leacock, as well as the thoughts of great religious figures from Pope St. John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI.
Read more
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Our Deceased Priests
We pray in a special way for all our priests who have died in the month of November. (Name is followed by date of death) Rev. Martin VOLK Dec. 2, 1985 Rev. James Robert CARSWELL Dec. 6, 1983 Rev. John Joseph AHERNE Dec. 9, 1959 Rev. Kenneth George McLELLAN Dec. 10, 1976 Rev. John Joseph NOLAN Dec. 11, 1929 Rev. Thomas KROETCH Dec. 17, 2009 Rev. William A. MacLELLAN Dec. 18, 1988 Rev. Augustine HICKEY Dec. 18, 1988 Rev. Louis L. TREMBLAY Dec. 23, 1934 Rev. Terrence J. WALL Dec. 23, 1977 Rev. Maurice Joseph O’CONNOR Dec. 27, 1956 Rev. Adam PRZYSIEZNIAK Dec. 27, 1995 Rev. Albert LAISNEZ Dec. 31, 2017 |
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen |
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Left Footers: A Catholic veteran reflects on waging war and peace
Steven Defer, a Catholic veteran and former military chaplain, talks about the accuracy of war movies, the Catholic position on war, and his personal experience in Afghanistan. He is the guest of Mike Landry and Father Marc Cramer in this latest episode of Left Footers. |
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An Update on Camps Renewal Project
Planning for the redevelopment of the two archdiocesan camps has entered a new phase with the Archbishop’s approval of a 10-year business plan for the renewal project and resumption of operations at Our Lady of Victory Camp for the 2020 camping season. Archbishop Smith reiterated his commitment to OLVC and Camp Encounter at the first annual Archbishop’s Dinner on October 4, noting that they have played life-shaping and life-changing roles in the lives of many of the young people who have attended the camps. On October 30, the Camps Renewal Committee presented His Grace and archdiocesan leaders with a concrete plan for moving forward. The plan calls for $5 million in capital improvements to both sites, to be completed in three phases as the required funds are raised. We are pleased to report that this plan has now been reviewed and approved. Read the full Update (PDF 2 pages |
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend
Experience may be the answer!
Looking for a weekend refresher? A way to increase the love and romance in your marriage? Need time just for the two of you? Know a couple that does? Come and learn how to improve your marriage, learn practical techniques and rediscover your hopes and dreams for your marriage. For more information about WWME please visit wwme.org. To register for a local weekend (in Edmonton, December 19) email wwme.edmonton@gmail.com
Women of Dignity Conference: Be His, Be Brave, Be You
The 2019 Catholic Family Ministries Women’s Conference is a weekend with Mary Bielski, national speaker and evangelist. She has spoken to more than 100,000 Catholics around the nation at retreats and conferences, and has appeared on Catholic radio and television interviews including EWTN and Catholic Crossroads Radio. Mary draws her audience to the beauty of our Catholic faith, a deeper love for Christ, the Eucharist, and the call to holiness. Join us November 29-30 at Holy Trinity Parish, Spruce Grove. For more information, and to register, please visit catholicfamilyministries.com
Experience may be the answer!
Looking for a weekend refresher? A way to increase the love and romance in your marriage? Need time just for the two of you? Know a couple that does? Come and learn how to improve your marriage, learn practical techniques and rediscover your hopes and dreams for your marriage. For more information about WWME please visit wwme.org. To register for a local weekend (in Edmonton, December 19) email wwme.edmonton@gmail.com
Women of Dignity Conference: Be His, Be Brave, Be You
The 2019 Catholic Family Ministries Women’s Conference is a weekend with Mary Bielski, national speaker and evangelist. She has spoken to more than 100,000 Catholics around the nation at retreats and conferences, and has appeared on Catholic radio and television interviews including EWTN and Catholic Crossroads Radio. Mary draws her audience to the beauty of our Catholic faith, a deeper love for Christ, the Eucharist, and the call to holiness. Join us November 29-30 at Holy Trinity Parish, Spruce Grove. For more information, and to register, please visit catholicfamilyministries.com
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Pictured above are the priests who most recently arrived to serve in the Archdiocese of Edmonton. Now you know what they look like ̶ be sure to say Hi when you see them. And pray for them of course; for most it will be their first experience of an Alberta winter! They are, left to right:
Rev. Benjamin Obetta CFIC, Associate Pastor, St. Joseph Basilica, from Nigeria, Congregation of the Sons of Immaculate Conception Rev. Simmy Joseph CMI, Associate Pastor, St. Joseph Basilica, from India, Carmelites of Mary Immaculate Rev. Wilson Thankachan, Chaplain, Royal Alexandra Hospital, from India, Archdiocese of Trivandrum Rev. Sergio Mafra Santos, Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima Parish, from Brazil, Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro Rev. Balraj Antony Samy SDB, Associate Pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, from India; Salesians of Don Bosco Rev. Felix Devasia, Associate Pastor, St. Theresa Parish, Edmonton, from India, Diocese of Vijayapuram Rev. Danial Dsouza SAC, Associate Pastor, Our Lady of the Angels Parish, from India, Pallotine Fathers For the updated full list of 2019 Priests Appointments, visit caedm.ca. |
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New Canadian Cardinal Rev. Michael Czerny, a Canadian Jesuit and social justice expert who once volunteered to take the place of brother priests murdered in El Salvador, is among 13 men Pope Francis will elevate to the position of cardinal next month. Read More |
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Online Faith Formation
Through the Benedict XVI Institute for New Evangelization, Newman Theological College offers a comprehensive selection of short courses on various aspects of the Catholic faith. All are offered online, so you can study from the comfort of home and work around your personal schedule. Each course runs five weeks and costs just $85; the next cycle begins on Monday, January 6, 2020. Take an individual course for interest, or work toward one or all of the 22 specialized Certificates in Catholic Studies. This program is open to adults and youth of all backgrounds and education levels. For list of courses, details, and online registration, visit newman.edu/ccs. For more information, contact Sandra Talarico at 780-392-2450 ext. 2214. See the Poster for more Details |
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Asia Bibi calls for help for Pakistanis accused of blasphemy
The “whole world” should put pressure on Pakistan to either scrap or reform its controversial blasphemy laws, said Asia Bibi, a Catholic mother freed after eight years on death row. In her first newspaper interview since her release in May, Bibi says she believes innocent people are in jail in Pakistan after being falsely accused of blasphemy. Bibi and her family plan to leave Canada, where they have found temporary refuge, to set up a new life in an undisclosed European country. Read more |
Above: Daughters of Asia Bibi, a Catholic eventually acquitted of blasphemy, pose in 2010 with an image of their mother. (Catholic News Service)
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Step by step restoration
Our Lady of the Assumption Church - founded in 1767 - is steeped in history. But now the Windsor, Ont. church needs some help to continue in the future. The total restoration cost is $20 million and the first phase has already started. Read More |
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'Unplanned' hurdles
The directors of Unplanned, the true story of a Planned Parenthood clinic director turned pro-life activist, describe the hurdles they have surmounted - and are still facing - as they bring the movie to the big screens. Read More |
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Are you a 'Practising' Catholic?
That's the question Father Kris poses in this week's video blog. And he also has some answers -- but be forewarned: no one said it was going to be easy! |
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Email Scam
An email scam has surfaced again in the Archdiocese. The scam email purports to be from your parish priest, who is asking for money or gift cards because of some urgent need; for example, to help someone in hospital. Please be assured that no priest of the Archdiocese would ever legitimately ask for money in this way. We encourage you to report such incidents to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and delete the email message. |
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Love Unscripted: Being Catholic in College
In Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), Pope Francis presents us with three pastoral imperatives concerning human life and the family: we are called to accompany, to discern, and to integrate weakness. Love Unscripted is a video series about discovering, listening, seeking understanding and addressing the real, day-to-day concerns of the faithful as they live in the Gospel. Join Archbishop Richard Smith as he meets a variety of young adults and explores the many ways that together we can live in the Word of God. This week, the Archbishop visits St. Joseph's College and talks with Theresa about the needs and fears of Catholic students at the U of A. |
Did You Know?
Your gifts to the Together We Serve appeal help support Campus Ministry at St. Joseph's College. |
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Make a Call for Conscience
Sometimes we hear that since euthanasia is now legal in Canada, health care professionals should have to provide it. But many doctors and nurses don't think so. Check out some of their reasons in this video from the Coalition for HealthCARE and Conscience. |
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Congratulations to our 2019 Jubilarians
The following priests are celebrating jubilees this year. Please remember them in prayer! 60 Years of Priestly Service: Rev. Gilles Gauthier OMI Ordained June 28, 1959 Retired, St Albert 50 Years of Priestly Service: Rev. Vernon Regis Ordained March 25, 1969 Retired, Sri Lanka Rev. Dino Benedet CSsR Ordained September 27, 1969 Retired, Edmonton 25 Years of Priestly Service: Rev. Paul Burchat Ordained September 10, 1994 Chaplain, Marian Centre Edmonton |
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Permanent DiaconateThe Form of a Servant
Have you ever wondered about the ministry of permanent deacons? Who are these men and how are they called? Check out this new video, released on the Feast of St. Stephen. It features some of the 33 permanent deacons here in the Archdiocese of Edmonton -- maybe some you know! (Runs 21 min.) |
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HOME VISITATIONS
Are you new to the parish or a seasoned veteran of St. Stephen’s and perhaps, would be interested in receiving a visit from our Pastoral Assistant. All you are asked for is to share with Donna your thoughts, needs, concerns, etc. regarding the parish. All comments will remain confidential. She will not be recruiting for parish positions nor will she be asking for donations. To set up a time and date you can contact Donna between 8:30 and 3:30, Monday thru Friday at
403-556-3084 (ext. 4) or leave a message and she will get back to you.
Are you new to the parish or a seasoned veteran of St. Stephen’s and perhaps, would be interested in receiving a visit from our Pastoral Assistant. All you are asked for is to share with Donna your thoughts, needs, concerns, etc. regarding the parish. All comments will remain confidential. She will not be recruiting for parish positions nor will she be asking for donations. To set up a time and date you can contact Donna between 8:30 and 3:30, Monday thru Friday at
403-556-3084 (ext. 4) or leave a message and she will get back to you.
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What does poverty look like?
Hilarie Fortune is a single mom who has struggled with abuse, homelessness and addiction. But thanks to her faith and the community around Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples, she is not only surviving but helping others through parish outreach. See what poverty looks like through her eyes and those of Father Susai Jesu, pastor at Sacred Heart. Read their story (with video) |
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What keeps a Bishop up a night?
That was one of the questions posed to the Alberta-NWT Bishops when they sat down with the Grandin Media team in June to discuss the challenges they face in their dioceses. This is the first video in a four-part series. In this episode, we hear some surprising thoughts on who is evangelizing whom! |
New feast day: Mary, Mother of the Church
The Catholic Church doesn’t often add new celebrations to its pretty full liturgical calendar, but this year’s new feast day, Mary, Mother of the Church on May 21, has Catholics gearing up to mark the day or at least think a little more about Mary.
The new feast day, which will be celebrated annually the day after Pentecost, was announced in a March 3rd decree by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments.
“I think Pope Francis recognizes the importance of the Blessed Virgin Mary, her association with the Apostles and Christ, and the feast of Pentecost,” says Father Paul Kavanagh, director of the Office of Divine Worship for the Archdiocese.
Read more
The Catholic Church doesn’t often add new celebrations to its pretty full liturgical calendar, but this year’s new feast day, Mary, Mother of the Church on May 21, has Catholics gearing up to mark the day or at least think a little more about Mary.
The new feast day, which will be celebrated annually the day after Pentecost, was announced in a March 3rd decree by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments.
“I think Pope Francis recognizes the importance of the Blessed Virgin Mary, her association with the Apostles and Christ, and the feast of Pentecost,” says Father Paul Kavanagh, director of the Office of Divine Worship for the Archdiocese.
Read more
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The Word in an instant The Archbishop asks us all to make Scripture reading a part of our daily lives. That's not always easy, but a new smartphone app from Novalis can make it pretty effortless. The Living With Christ Prayer app is available free of charge on iPhone and Android devices. In addition to the daily Mass readings from the Canadian lectionary, the app offers collections of daily prayers, daily meditations with attractive images, and a liturgical calendar with feast and saints’ days. If you like, it will even send you reminders to take time out to pray! Read more in Grandin Media |
Lots more at grandinmedia.ca
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Venerable Men
Two giants of Catholic history in Alberta continue to be considered for possible sainthood by Pope Francis. Most Rev. Vital Grandin (left) was the first bishop of St. Albert when the diocese was erected in 1871 and was instrumental in the establishment of the Catholic Church in Western Canada. Brother Anthony Kowalczyk worked with indigenous and Métis people in Alberta and later served as a beloved custodian and handyman at College St. Jean in Edmonton. Both were members of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. “Let’s continue to promote the advancement of these causes by our prayers,” Archbishop Richard Smith wrote in his blog Wednesday, after meeting with the head of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints at the Vatican. Both Bishop Grandin and Brother Anthony are considered venerable, meaning they have lived heroic virtues. Candidates are required to have two miracles attributed to them before being declared a saint. Read more |
Wondering about Religious Life?
Abide YEG is a great new resource for young adults in the Year of Consecrated Life. The blog includes excellent podcasts by Father Glenn and a young student who is discerning, and answers to all kinds of questions about religious life. Be sure to share with anyone you know who may be wondering ...http://abideyeg.blogspot.ca/
Abide YEG is a great new resource for young adults in the Year of Consecrated Life. The blog includes excellent podcasts by Father Glenn and a young student who is discerning, and answers to all kinds of questions about religious life. Be sure to share with anyone you know who may be wondering ...http://abideyeg.blogspot.ca/
St Stephen Catholic Parish 4302 57 Avenue Olds, AB T4H 1C5
403-556-3084
ststephen102@gmail.com
403-556-3084
ststephen102@gmail.com
