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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 |
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.
We also welcome letters by post to:
Andrew Ehrkamp, News Editor
Grandin Media
8421 – 101 Avenue NW
Edmonton AB T6A 0L1
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.
We also welcome letters by post to:
Andrew Ehrkamp, News Editor
Grandin Media
8421 – 101 Avenue NW
Edmonton AB T6A 0L1
Easter Message
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In his Easter message to Canadian Catholics, Bishop Lionel Gendron of Saint-Jean-Longueuil, president of the CCCB, likens the darkness of the sexual abuse crisis to the darkness of the tomb of Jesus before the Resurrection.
"We are called to humbly place our trust in God's promise that evil, sin and death will not have the last word on the human experience," says Bishop Gendron. "As men and women of faith, who hold on to the promises of eternal life, our excruciating pain, suffering and confusion can give way to tremendous joy. From the reality of sin and evil, we are introduced into goodness and grace, holiness and life. "With Easter the darkness of the tomb is transformed by the light of the Resurrection. The Pascal Mystery is clearly present in many ways today: the suffering of death and the joy of life; the passage of Christ from the tomb to eternity and the passage from the pain of child abuse to the experience of healing." Download the full text (PDF) |
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Easter Message
In his Easter message this year, Archbishop Smith reflects on the experience of Mary Magdalene, who was overcome with sorrow and distress when she found the empty tomb. "Like Mary Magdalene, a lot of us find ourselves searching, wondering, and indeed sorrowful." he writes. "So we need the message of Easter, because Easter brings to us what it brought to Mary Magdalene: the truth that Jesus is the answer to all of this longing, this questioning; the truth that our search can end now, because the answer has come looking for us, and wants to encounter us. That answer is a person. It’s Jesus, who is risen and alive, who remains with his people." To save the video so that you can show it without an internet connection, click here to access it on Vimeo and then click on the Download button. "When Mary Magdalene encountered the Risen Lord and realized who it was, all those tears were transformed into joy, and she ran away to proclaim the good news. That’s what happens with us when we meet the Lord. We realize the search has ended, we’ve found the one for whom we have been longing, the one we have been seeking. |
"...My prayer is that this be for you an occasion, as it was for Mary Magdalene, of encountering the Risen Christ and finding in him the answer to your deepest search, the answer to everything for which you are longing. Open your heart to Him, so that in Him, you will find that peace and joy for which every human heart longs.
"A happy and blessed Easter to each and every one of you." Archbishop Richard W. Smith |
Many of us are thinking this week of the people of France, as they deal with the devastating destruction at the beloved Notre Dame Cathedral. We've had a number of inquiries from people who want to contribute to the rebuilding efforts. It is probably best to wait to find out what is actually planned.
It's interesting to note that under France’s laws regarding secularization, the French government owns all churches built before 1905, including Notre Dame. The government lets the Archdiocese of Paris use the building for free, and will continue to do so in perpetuity. So it's government that will do the rebuilding. That is one of five things you may not know about Notre Dame Cathedral, which we list on Grandin Media this week.
It's interesting to note that under France’s laws regarding secularization, the French government owns all churches built before 1905, including Notre Dame. The government lets the Archdiocese of Paris use the building for free, and will continue to do so in perpetuity. So it's government that will do the rebuilding. That is one of five things you may not know about Notre Dame Cathedral, which we list on Grandin Media this week.
French leaders pledge to restore Notre Dame Cathedral
Church leaders joined government officials in saying they expect that Notre Dame Cathedral’s grandeur will be restored as firefighters extinguished the last flames of a fast-moving blaze that seriously damaged much of the iconic structure. “We are living through an extreme moment. This is Holy Week and it isn’t an accident,” Paris Archbishop Michel Aupetit said. “Having marked the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are now experiencing our own passion, but we know that after it will come the resurrection."
Read more
Baby Kateri reflects mom’s devotion to Canada’s first Indigenous saint
Canada’s first Indigenous saint left such an impact on Lily Hunter that she named her newborn daughter after her. Deeply drawn to the life of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, Hunter was among hundreds who attended the annual Keteri Mass at St. Paul Cathedral. "It’s nice to have someone with a similar background and the same ancestors. Someone we can look up to and aspire to be like. My hope is that growing up, my Kateri will emulate the beautiful soul we honoured here today.”
Read more
Church focus on tradition and truth offers new appeal for young people
The saying goes, ‘If you don’t hear crying, the church is dying.’ A Pew Research study shows that Canada’s church membership is becoming an aging demographic and the number of people identifying as non-religious in Canada is growing, particularly among those under the age of 40. While the data may appear discouraging, many young Catholics in Alberta are bucking that trend.
Read more
CSS honours Kevin Feehan for lifetime of commitment
Kevin Feehan still recalls the early days of Catholic Social Services, when board meetings would take place around the dining room table at the home of Monsignor William Irwin, who founded the agency. Now 34 years later, Feehan has been honoured as the first-ever recipient of the Archbishop J.H. MacDonald Distinguished Lifetime Contribution Award. “I’m proud to brag about the great work that we’ve done and are still doing," he says. "This organization has grown to serve so many people in so many walks of life.”
Read more
Don’t be ashamed to show your enthusiasm for Jesus
At the Vatican and in many parts of the world, Palm Sunday also is marked as the local celebration of World Youth Day, so Pope Francis spoke specifically to young people in his homily that day. “Dear young people,” the pope said, “do not be ashamed to show your enthusiasm for Jesus, to shout out that he is alive and that he is your life.” At the same time, he said, “do not be afraid to follow him on the way of the cross. When you hear that he is asking you to renounce yourselves, to let yourselves be stripped of every security and to entrust yourselves completely to our Father in heaven, then rejoice and exult! You are on the path of the kingdom of God.”
Read more
Hope for a lot of Peter, amid a little bit of Judas
This week columnist Mike Landry offers a challenging Holy Week reflection on Judas. "Each year, as I pray and celebrate our way through the momentous events of Holy Week, I spend some time putting myself into Judas’ shoes, and I find it’s not that much of a stretch. It would seem that there is a little bit of Judas in all of us. ... Much like the Jerusalem crowd, we find ourselves singing 'Hosanna' while at Mass on Sunday, but in many other moments turning our hearts away from him.
Read more
Elsewhere in the News
Did you know that a Christian sacrament was brought to moon back in 1969? History.com reports on how astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who was an elder at his Presbyterian church, got special permission to take bread and wine with him to space and give himself communion -- and why NASA decided not to make it public.
Read more
The walk towards the end of life is an emotional journey. For residents at Calgary’s Dulcina Hospice, it is made a little easier by a dedicated family of volunteers who bake their favourite pastries on weekends. Cathie James says they're just giving back in memory of her husband, who died in a loving and caring hospice.
Read more on The Vital Beat
Church leaders joined government officials in saying they expect that Notre Dame Cathedral’s grandeur will be restored as firefighters extinguished the last flames of a fast-moving blaze that seriously damaged much of the iconic structure. “We are living through an extreme moment. This is Holy Week and it isn’t an accident,” Paris Archbishop Michel Aupetit said. “Having marked the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are now experiencing our own passion, but we know that after it will come the resurrection."
Read more
Baby Kateri reflects mom’s devotion to Canada’s first Indigenous saint
Canada’s first Indigenous saint left such an impact on Lily Hunter that she named her newborn daughter after her. Deeply drawn to the life of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, Hunter was among hundreds who attended the annual Keteri Mass at St. Paul Cathedral. "It’s nice to have someone with a similar background and the same ancestors. Someone we can look up to and aspire to be like. My hope is that growing up, my Kateri will emulate the beautiful soul we honoured here today.”
Read more
Church focus on tradition and truth offers new appeal for young people
The saying goes, ‘If you don’t hear crying, the church is dying.’ A Pew Research study shows that Canada’s church membership is becoming an aging demographic and the number of people identifying as non-religious in Canada is growing, particularly among those under the age of 40. While the data may appear discouraging, many young Catholics in Alberta are bucking that trend.
Read more
CSS honours Kevin Feehan for lifetime of commitment
Kevin Feehan still recalls the early days of Catholic Social Services, when board meetings would take place around the dining room table at the home of Monsignor William Irwin, who founded the agency. Now 34 years later, Feehan has been honoured as the first-ever recipient of the Archbishop J.H. MacDonald Distinguished Lifetime Contribution Award. “I’m proud to brag about the great work that we’ve done and are still doing," he says. "This organization has grown to serve so many people in so many walks of life.”
Read more
Don’t be ashamed to show your enthusiasm for Jesus
At the Vatican and in many parts of the world, Palm Sunday also is marked as the local celebration of World Youth Day, so Pope Francis spoke specifically to young people in his homily that day. “Dear young people,” the pope said, “do not be ashamed to show your enthusiasm for Jesus, to shout out that he is alive and that he is your life.” At the same time, he said, “do not be afraid to follow him on the way of the cross. When you hear that he is asking you to renounce yourselves, to let yourselves be stripped of every security and to entrust yourselves completely to our Father in heaven, then rejoice and exult! You are on the path of the kingdom of God.”
Read more
Hope for a lot of Peter, amid a little bit of Judas
This week columnist Mike Landry offers a challenging Holy Week reflection on Judas. "Each year, as I pray and celebrate our way through the momentous events of Holy Week, I spend some time putting myself into Judas’ shoes, and I find it’s not that much of a stretch. It would seem that there is a little bit of Judas in all of us. ... Much like the Jerusalem crowd, we find ourselves singing 'Hosanna' while at Mass on Sunday, but in many other moments turning our hearts away from him.
Read more
Elsewhere in the News
Did you know that a Christian sacrament was brought to moon back in 1969? History.com reports on how astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who was an elder at his Presbyterian church, got special permission to take bread and wine with him to space and give himself communion -- and why NASA decided not to make it public.
Read more
The walk towards the end of life is an emotional journey. For residents at Calgary’s Dulcina Hospice, it is made a little easier by a dedicated family of volunteers who bake their favourite pastries on weekends. Cathie James says they're just giving back in memory of her husband, who died in a loving and caring hospice.
Read more on The Vital Beat
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Resisting Temptation
Just in time -- this week Sister Marie Therese Langer talks about the three best ways to fight the devil, during Lent and throughout our lives. |
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Our own Good Friday
In this week’s column, Father Rolheiser offers a moving reflection on Good Friday. The crucifixion, he writes, was the ultimate humiliating form of execution. “Like Jesus, we will all suffer humiliation in life, we will all drink the cup, and it will make us deep; but then we have a critical choice: Will this humiliation make us deep in compassion and understanding or will it make us deep in anger and bitterness? That is in fact the ultimate moral choice we face in life – not just at the hour of death but countless times in our lives.”
Read more
Mercy, prayer and faith sustain Syrian Christians
Since 2011, Syrian Christians have endured horrendous persecution – their villages have been bombed, churches destroyed, and more than 1,000 lives taken. But even in the midst of so much suffering, their faith is unshakeable, said Rev. Ephrem Kardouh, a Syrian-born priest who led a Lenten mission at the Dormition Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edmonton.
Read more
Music ministry is more prayer than performance
We have some beautiful music ministry in the Archdiocese, so it’s understandable that parishioners might applaud at the end of Mass to show their appreciation. But actually, it’s not really appropriate, says Father Paul Kavanagh, Director of Divine Worship. “Our music ministers are sharing in a liturgical ministry. They are leading people in prayer, and they themselves are also sharing in prayer.” He says the best way of showing appreciation is to speak with them personally after Mass.
Read more
Indigenous reconciliation continues despite political setbacks
Although some observers see the ouster of Jody Wilson-Raybould from the Liberal caucus as a setback for reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Canadians, others say the real work is continuing outside of government – in churches, businesses and communities. “The churches have made some really major moves and adaptations of policy, and have reached out to Indigenous communities in ways people thought impossible even two or three years ago,” said Ken Coates, an expert on Indigenous rights at the University of Saskatchewan.
Read more
New head of Southdown Institute ministers to the ministers
The vocation of serving vocations is little understood and rarely appreciated, but it’s something that appealed to Rev. Stephan Kappler like nothing else. Kappler took over as president of the world-renowned Southdown Institute treatment centre for priests and religious on Feb. 1. The former parish priest brings a PhD in psychology and five years experience in private practice to his new job. “What I bring as a diocesan priest to this is, I think, an insight into the unique needs and struggles that diocesan clergy go through,” he says.
Read more
Palm Sunday suppliers find a flourishing business year-round
Palm leaves and fronds decorate churches everywhere Palm Sunday as Christians prepare for the most solemn time of the liturgical year. Just as Jesus received a royal welcome from the people of Jerusalem days before His passion, Palm Sunday involves much preparation in order for parishes to give Holy Week the welcome it deserves.
Read more
In this week’s column, Father Rolheiser offers a moving reflection on Good Friday. The crucifixion, he writes, was the ultimate humiliating form of execution. “Like Jesus, we will all suffer humiliation in life, we will all drink the cup, and it will make us deep; but then we have a critical choice: Will this humiliation make us deep in compassion and understanding or will it make us deep in anger and bitterness? That is in fact the ultimate moral choice we face in life – not just at the hour of death but countless times in our lives.”
Read more
Mercy, prayer and faith sustain Syrian Christians
Since 2011, Syrian Christians have endured horrendous persecution – their villages have been bombed, churches destroyed, and more than 1,000 lives taken. But even in the midst of so much suffering, their faith is unshakeable, said Rev. Ephrem Kardouh, a Syrian-born priest who led a Lenten mission at the Dormition Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edmonton.
Read more
Music ministry is more prayer than performance
We have some beautiful music ministry in the Archdiocese, so it’s understandable that parishioners might applaud at the end of Mass to show their appreciation. But actually, it’s not really appropriate, says Father Paul Kavanagh, Director of Divine Worship. “Our music ministers are sharing in a liturgical ministry. They are leading people in prayer, and they themselves are also sharing in prayer.” He says the best way of showing appreciation is to speak with them personally after Mass.
Read more
Indigenous reconciliation continues despite political setbacks
Although some observers see the ouster of Jody Wilson-Raybould from the Liberal caucus as a setback for reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Canadians, others say the real work is continuing outside of government – in churches, businesses and communities. “The churches have made some really major moves and adaptations of policy, and have reached out to Indigenous communities in ways people thought impossible even two or three years ago,” said Ken Coates, an expert on Indigenous rights at the University of Saskatchewan.
Read more
New head of Southdown Institute ministers to the ministers
The vocation of serving vocations is little understood and rarely appreciated, but it’s something that appealed to Rev. Stephan Kappler like nothing else. Kappler took over as president of the world-renowned Southdown Institute treatment centre for priests and religious on Feb. 1. The former parish priest brings a PhD in psychology and five years experience in private practice to his new job. “What I bring as a diocesan priest to this is, I think, an insight into the unique needs and struggles that diocesan clergy go through,” he says.
Read more
Palm Sunday suppliers find a flourishing business year-round
Palm leaves and fronds decorate churches everywhere Palm Sunday as Christians prepare for the most solemn time of the liturgical year. Just as Jesus received a royal welcome from the people of Jerusalem days before His passion, Palm Sunday involves much preparation in order for parishes to give Holy Week the welcome it deserves.
Read more
Elsewhere in the News
Convivium this week has an excellent piece by Brett Fawcett, explaining the history of publicly funded Catholic schools in Canada and constitutional protections for religious liberty. He writes: "Citizens need to learn why our Constitution is written the way it is, and why it matters. And we need to be ready to let our politicians and government know that we know, and that they should, too."
Read more
The Regina Leader Post reports that a Catholic priest who served for decades in Saskatchewan could be facing extradition on sexual abuse charges relating to his time as a Benedictine monk in Scottish boys’ schools. The allegations against Father Robert MacKenzie span roughly 30 years — from the 1950s to the 1980s — and involve several complainants who attended two boarding schools in Scotland. MacKenzie’s lawyer stressed that his client maintains his innocence.
Read more
Convivium this week has an excellent piece by Brett Fawcett, explaining the history of publicly funded Catholic schools in Canada and constitutional protections for religious liberty. He writes: "Citizens need to learn why our Constitution is written the way it is, and why it matters. And we need to be ready to let our politicians and government know that we know, and that they should, too."
Read more
The Regina Leader Post reports that a Catholic priest who served for decades in Saskatchewan could be facing extradition on sexual abuse charges relating to his time as a Benedictine monk in Scottish boys’ schools. The allegations against Father Robert MacKenzie span roughly 30 years — from the 1950s to the 1980s — and involve several complainants who attended two boarding schools in Scotland. MacKenzie’s lawyer stressed that his client maintains his innocence.
Read more
New Priest Appointments
Archbishop Smith has announced the following new appointments:
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St. Mary's Parish, Red Deer
Father Liju Jose serves as Administrator, in addition to his responsibilities as Pastor of Our Lady of Peace Parish in Innisfail until April 8. Father Leonard Cadieux has resigned as Pastor of St. Mary’s and is now retired from active ministry. Father Miroslaw Kostarzewski, (pictured) Pastor of Christ the King Parish in Stettler, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Bashaw, and Our Lady of Graces Parish, Castor, is appointed Pastor of St. Mary's Parish, replacing Father Leonard Cadieux. Effective April 8. |
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Christ the King Parish, Stettler
and Bashaw, Castor Father Roger Niedzielski, (pictured) Associate Pastor of St Joseph’s Basilica, is appointed Pastor of Christ the King Parish in Stettler, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Bashaw, and Our Lady of Graces Parish, Castor, replacing Father Miroslaw Kostarzewski. Effective April 8. |
Update on D&P review
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) and Development and Peace – Caritas Canada have released a joint statement in anticipation of Lenten collections in parishes across Canada. (In some parishes, a separate Share Lent collection is taken on Fifth Sunday of Lent; in the Archdiocese of Edmonton, we offer our support through the Together We Serve appeal.)
"Share Lent is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Development and Peace, and is
vital for long-term community development projects to support those in need in the Global South and for education work in parishes across Canada," the statement reads.
The statement provides an update on the ongoing review of a number of D&P's partner organizations, which began after questions were raised about some partner activities that were possibly contrary to the Church’s social doctrine and moral teaching. While no questions were raised about any projects that D&P is helping to fund, 52 partner organizations are undergoing a detailed further study by a joint committee. In 2018, D&P placed a funding moratorium on those 52 partners until all questions have been resolved.
"All funds collected for the 2019 Share Lent campaign (and Together We Serve), as also was the case last year, will be used to support other justice, solidarity and peace projects fully in keeping with the values and principles of the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching," the statement reads.
Read the full statement
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) and Development and Peace – Caritas Canada have released a joint statement in anticipation of Lenten collections in parishes across Canada. (In some parishes, a separate Share Lent collection is taken on Fifth Sunday of Lent; in the Archdiocese of Edmonton, we offer our support through the Together We Serve appeal.)
"Share Lent is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Development and Peace, and is
vital for long-term community development projects to support those in need in the Global South and for education work in parishes across Canada," the statement reads.
The statement provides an update on the ongoing review of a number of D&P's partner organizations, which began after questions were raised about some partner activities that were possibly contrary to the Church’s social doctrine and moral teaching. While no questions were raised about any projects that D&P is helping to fund, 52 partner organizations are undergoing a detailed further study by a joint committee. In 2018, D&P placed a funding moratorium on those 52 partners until all questions have been resolved.
"All funds collected for the 2019 Share Lent campaign (and Together We Serve), as also was the case last year, will be used to support other justice, solidarity and peace projects fully in keeping with the values and principles of the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching," the statement reads.
Read the full statement
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Our Deceased Priests
We pray in a special way for all our priests who have died in the month of March. (Name is followed by date of death) Rev. Charles F. OKHUYSEN - Apr. 1, 1930 Rev. Ernest R. BATTLE - Apr. 1, 1971 Rev. Patrick L. ROONEY - Apr. 3, 1973 Rev. Clement GAUTHIER - Apr. 3, 2008 Rev. Michael McANALLY - Apr. 7, 1963 Rev. Mark E. MURPHY - Apr. 8, 1979 Rev. Kenneth. V. DYLKE - Apr. 8, 1988 Rev. B. Gerard MacINNIS - Apr. 9, 2017 Rev. Lorenz MAIER - Apr. 10, 2007 Rev. John McNEIL - Apr. 13, 2006 Rev. Denis HÉBERT - Apr. 14, 2015 Rev. Daniel W. MARTIN - Apr. 15, 1961 Rev. Stanley V. ZENKO - Apr. 18, 1984 Rev. Dominic Richard ROWLAND - Apr. 21, 1945 Rt. Rev. Albert D. O’BRIEN - Apr. 21, 2000 Rev. Henry B. PEET - Apr. 25, 1985 Rev. Maurice Anthony HARNETT - Apr. 28, 1965 |
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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Celebrate Holy Week and Easter with Salt+Light TV Free Preview April 14 – May 12
Salt + Light TV, the Canadian Catholic network, is available on a free preview from participating cable and satellite providers across Canada, from April 14 to May 12. During this month-long free preview, in addition to Holy Week and Easter live Vatican events, you are invited to view the premiere of Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation's new documentary, The Francis Impact, on Sunday, May 5, at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. MST. To subscribe to S+L TV, check your local cable provider or visit saltandlighttv.org/subscribe. |
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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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Quebec’s Bill 21 a disturbing development for all people of faith, says Archbishop
Faith leaders in Edmonton are speaking out against Quebec’s Bill 21, which would ban public servants from wearing religious attire or symbols, saying it’s an outright challenge to the constitutional right to religious freedom.
Read more
Attacks should prompt us to embrace one another more closely
Archbishop Richard Smith said he found it humbling and moving to be invited to address Muslims before their Friday prayers. In his March 29th speech, Smith confronted the massacres, assaults and vandalism wrought against many Islamic and Christian communities in the world, but he also emphasized the compassion that faith communities can use to offer comfort during these incidents.
Read more
Extra efforts help raise $2.25 million for Sign of Hope
Despite a nationwide mail strike and a struggling Alberta economy, Catholic Social Services finished their 2018 Sign of Hope campaign with $2.25 million. Sign of Hope funds a variety of CSS initiatives and programs throughout the province, including counselling, health services and immigrant and refugee support.
Read more
Euthanasia numbers in Canada skyrocket in just one year
Canada’s euthanasia statistics for 2018 have shown an alarming 50 per cent rise over the previous year’s figures, says Alex Schadenberg of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition. “We have almost caught up to the Netherlands and Belgium in a very short time,” Schadenberg said in an interview. “We seem to have a complete acceptance of euthanasia in our country.”
Read more
Montreal councillors remove crucifix from city hall after more than 80 years
Montreal’s city hall doesn’t need Christ, officials say. A crucifix that has hung on the wall of Montreal’s city hall since 1937, reminding city officials to let God guide their decisions, will be taken down for a renovation project, never to be put back.
Read more
Clergy abuse crisis won’t be over in our lifetime: organizer of Pope’s summit
The clergy abuse crisis will not be over in our lifetime, particularly in countries where it is just being acknowledged, according to Jesuit Rev. Hans Zollner, a lead organizer of the Vatican’s February summit on abuse. However, a growing understanding of the issue among church leadership and commitment to concrete measures that include lay participation will help dispel anger and eventually restore trust, he said.
Read more
Pope praises Moroccan Catholic community’s outreach to Muslims and migrants
Celebrating Mass with members of Morocco’s tiny Catholic community, Pope Francis praised them for the many ways they “bear witness to the Gospel of mercy in this land.” Catholics, although much less than one per cent of the population, reach out to help their Muslim brothers and sisters and the thousands of migrants who pass through, hoping to reach Europe.
Read more
Experiencing God’s love in 'an autistic way’
When Father Matthew Schneider, originally from Calgary, was asked to move on after just one year of a three-year assignment as a school chaplain and youth ministry leader, he was shocked. His superiors believed the assignment was not a good fit, citing his struggles with social communications. Then he was diagnosed with autism, and has now opened up about his personal challenges. (With video)
Read more
Faith leaders in Edmonton are speaking out against Quebec’s Bill 21, which would ban public servants from wearing religious attire or symbols, saying it’s an outright challenge to the constitutional right to religious freedom.
Read more
Attacks should prompt us to embrace one another more closely
Archbishop Richard Smith said he found it humbling and moving to be invited to address Muslims before their Friday prayers. In his March 29th speech, Smith confronted the massacres, assaults and vandalism wrought against many Islamic and Christian communities in the world, but he also emphasized the compassion that faith communities can use to offer comfort during these incidents.
Read more
Extra efforts help raise $2.25 million for Sign of Hope
Despite a nationwide mail strike and a struggling Alberta economy, Catholic Social Services finished their 2018 Sign of Hope campaign with $2.25 million. Sign of Hope funds a variety of CSS initiatives and programs throughout the province, including counselling, health services and immigrant and refugee support.
Read more
Euthanasia numbers in Canada skyrocket in just one year
Canada’s euthanasia statistics for 2018 have shown an alarming 50 per cent rise over the previous year’s figures, says Alex Schadenberg of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition. “We have almost caught up to the Netherlands and Belgium in a very short time,” Schadenberg said in an interview. “We seem to have a complete acceptance of euthanasia in our country.”
Read more
Montreal councillors remove crucifix from city hall after more than 80 years
Montreal’s city hall doesn’t need Christ, officials say. A crucifix that has hung on the wall of Montreal’s city hall since 1937, reminding city officials to let God guide their decisions, will be taken down for a renovation project, never to be put back.
Read more
Clergy abuse crisis won’t be over in our lifetime: organizer of Pope’s summit
The clergy abuse crisis will not be over in our lifetime, particularly in countries where it is just being acknowledged, according to Jesuit Rev. Hans Zollner, a lead organizer of the Vatican’s February summit on abuse. However, a growing understanding of the issue among church leadership and commitment to concrete measures that include lay participation will help dispel anger and eventually restore trust, he said.
Read more
Pope praises Moroccan Catholic community’s outreach to Muslims and migrants
Celebrating Mass with members of Morocco’s tiny Catholic community, Pope Francis praised them for the many ways they “bear witness to the Gospel of mercy in this land.” Catholics, although much less than one per cent of the population, reach out to help their Muslim brothers and sisters and the thousands of migrants who pass through, hoping to reach Europe.
Read more
Experiencing God’s love in 'an autistic way’
When Father Matthew Schneider, originally from Calgary, was asked to move on after just one year of a three-year assignment as a school chaplain and youth ministry leader, he was shocked. His superiors believed the assignment was not a good fit, citing his struggles with social communications. Then he was diagnosed with autism, and has now opened up about his personal challenges. (With video)
Read more
Elsewhere in the News
CBC has a great story on Sister Maggie Beaudette of Hay River, NWT, who raises about $2,000 every year for music and humanitarian projects by recycling beer cans, pop bottles and milk jugs. Read more
The Washington Post reports on Catholic universities that are pushing for debate and research on the sex abuse crisis. Read more
Zenit has an exclusive interview with a Jewish man who once hated Pope Pius XII, but now calls him a hero for saving almost a million Jews from the Nazis. Read more
CBC has a great story on Sister Maggie Beaudette of Hay River, NWT, who raises about $2,000 every year for music and humanitarian projects by recycling beer cans, pop bottles and milk jugs. Read more
The Washington Post reports on Catholic universities that are pushing for debate and research on the sex abuse crisis. Read more
Zenit has an exclusive interview with a Jewish man who once hated Pope Pius XII, but now calls him a hero for saving almost a million Jews from the Nazis. Read more
Help for Cyclone Victims
A devastating cyclone that hit Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi has claimed more than 700 lives and left more than two million people homeless. Development and Peace is now accepting donations, which will go to Caritas partners working on disaster relief in the region. Donations can be made online at devp.org, specifying Emergency - Cyclone Idai, by phone to 1-888-234-8533, or by cheque to Development and Peace, 1425 René-Lévesque Blvd West, Third Floor, Montréal, Québec, H3G 1T7.
Read more in Grandin Media
A devastating cyclone that hit Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi has claimed more than 700 lives and left more than two million people homeless. Development and Peace is now accepting donations, which will go to Caritas partners working on disaster relief in the region. Donations can be made online at devp.org, specifying Emergency - Cyclone Idai, by phone to 1-888-234-8533, or by cheque to Development and Peace, 1425 René-Lévesque Blvd West, Third Floor, Montréal, Québec, H3G 1T7.
Read more in Grandin Media
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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. |
SAVE THE DATE:
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Are we listening?
In the Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent, we hear of the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness, where he was repeatedly tempted by the devil, and where he repeatedly responded with words from Scripture. Sometimes we may be tempted to ignore the truth of the Word of God we hear every Sunday; after all, how many times have we heard the same old thing? Lent offers an opportunity to renew ourselves in the Word, and examine the times when we have ignored it to our spiritual peril. Day of Confessions, Tuesday, March 12 Schedule at caedm.ca/day-of-confessions Parish Penitential Services Schedule at caedm.ca/lent Lent: Time to Clean up
Columnist Brett Fawcett draws from his experience as an elementary school teacher and on lessons from C.S.Lewis for his Lenten reflection. "In the course of doing what we need to do – in the course of learning and growing – we make a mess," he writes. "Lent is a time to clean ourselves up," so we can be the people we are meant to be. Read more Psst! Lent is time to give up gossiping and finding fault
Lent is a good time to concentrate on fighting the urge to gossip about others and instead trying to correct one’s own faults and defects, Pope Francis said after praying the Angelus on March 3. “We all know it usually is easier or more comfortable to notice and condemn the defects and sins of others rather than seeing our own with that kind of clarity,” he said. Jesus teaches us to not go looking for others’ defects, but look first at our own. Read more |
Lent: the Annual Checkup
In his blog post this week, Archbishop Smith writes that Lent reminds us of the need for a 'spiritual checkup.' "The soul grows very ill indeed when attacked by the virus we call sin . . . an interior examination is required, but no lab test or X-ray will give us the information we need. The light that fully exposes our inner truth, and which points the way to both diagnosis and healing, is the Word of God. There we find all the elements of a good medical examination: symptoms, diagnosis and the way forward to healing and prevention of recurrence." Read more |
Office of the Archbishop
New Vision for Camps
In a letter dated March 12, Archbishop Smith announced that "after much prayer, research and review, we have begun planning for improvements to programming and facilities at both Camp Encounter and Our Lady of Victory Camp. In order to give our full attention to this work, both will remain closed for the 2019 season.
"I appreciate that the news about the upcoming season will be received with some sadness and disappointment, and also that it has been difficult to wait more than year to hear news on something about which you care deeply. But I hope you will join with me in building a better and more sustainable future for camps ministry in the Archdiocese..."
Read the full letter from the Archbishop
New Vision for Camps
In a letter dated March 12, Archbishop Smith announced that "after much prayer, research and review, we have begun planning for improvements to programming and facilities at both Camp Encounter and Our Lady of Victory Camp. In order to give our full attention to this work, both will remain closed for the 2019 season.
"I appreciate that the news about the upcoming season will be received with some sadness and disappointment, and also that it has been difficult to wait more than year to hear news on something about which you care deeply. But I hope you will join with me in building a better and more sustainable future for camps ministry in the Archdiocese..."
Read the full letter from the Archbishop
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Marriage Encounter
View the Poster A weekend of discovery. A lifetime of love! Are you and your spouse looking to deepen your sacramental love? Do you want to give one another the gift of the WWME Weekend? Do you want to learn the tools to nurture your own marriage? Are you interested in being part of a community of couples that are committed to growing in and through the sacrament of marriage? For more information about the WWME Weekend on April 27-28, visit www.wwme.org or call 780-464-2878 or email gvankup@telus.net. |
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Living in the Word through Music
Steve Bell is a Canadian songwriter, storyteller, and troubadour whose inspiring performances celebrate Christian faith and thoughtful living. The Archdiocese is pleased to present a series of concerts this April that that will develop the main theme of Archbishop Smith’s Pastoral Letter, Living in the Word of God. Concerts are set for Thursday, April 4, at Corpus Christi Parish, Edmonton; Friday, April 5, at Sacred Heart Parish, Red Deer; and Saturday, April 6, at Holy Trinity Parish, Spruce Grove. You are invited to attend one of these evenings, invite your friends, and enjoy Steve's message of love, hope and faith. Tickets are $20, available at each of the 3 parishe, by phone 1-800-854-3499, or online at www.stevebell.com. |
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New Life for Philippines Typhoon Survivors
Six years after the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan, the people of Tacloban, Philippines, are starting a new life thanks in large part to the generosity of Canadian Catholics. A small Canadian delegation recently visited the city to celebrate the inauguration of Pope Francis Village, a new housing compound for 566 survivor-families who lost their livelihoods from the typhoon. The village, built with the help of Development and Peace – Caritas Canada, Caritas Philippines and other local partners, includes a small business area, a school and a chapel. Development and Peace is one of 11 different charitable partners we support through Together We Serve. Read more about Pope Francis Village in Grandin Media |
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Bishops' Roundtable In this episode the Alberta Bishops talk about how they've addressed the sexual abuse crisis in their dioceses, and some possible next steps. (Note: recorded before the Vatican summit on abuse) Missed an episode of Bishops' Roundtable? Check out the full playlist |
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Looking for a Job?
Or know someone who is? Check out our postings at https://caedm.ca/Careers:
Custodian - Edmonton Catholic Cemeteries
Catechesis Coordinator (part-time) - Archdiocese of Edmonton
Parish Office Administrator - St. Mary Parish, Red Deer
Providence Renewal Centre is looking for a Program Team Member, a dynamic and energetic person who wants to make a difference in people’s spiritual growth.
Check out the full posting at https://providencerenewal.ca/job-posting.
Or know someone who is? Check out our postings at https://caedm.ca/Careers:
Custodian - Edmonton Catholic Cemeteries
Catechesis Coordinator (part-time) - Archdiocese of Edmonton
Parish Office Administrator - St. Mary Parish, Red Deer
Providence Renewal Centre is looking for a Program Team Member, a dynamic and energetic person who wants to make a difference in people’s spiritual growth.
Check out the full posting at https://providencerenewal.ca/job-posting.
Save the Date: Ursulines Centennial
The Ursuline Sisters announce the 100th anniversary of their Foundation at Prelate, SK. A celebration of thanksgiving will take place on Saturday, June 1, at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, 123 Nelson Road, Saskatoon.
12:45 p.m. - Historical Presentation
1 p.m. - Mass with Bishop Mark Hagemoen, Presiding Celebrant
Reception, program and open microphone
(Open invitation to follow)
Rejoice! One hundred years of blessings!
The Ursuline Sisters announce the 100th anniversary of their Foundation at Prelate, SK. A celebration of thanksgiving will take place on Saturday, June 1, at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, 123 Nelson Road, Saskatoon.
12:45 p.m. - Historical Presentation
1 p.m. - Mass with Bishop Mark Hagemoen, Presiding Celebrant
Reception, program and open microphone
(Open invitation to follow)
Rejoice! One hundred years of blessings!
Volunteer Management: Online Refresher Training (Safety Equation)
Are you a volunteer, 18 years or older, who attended Called to Protect training more than a year ago? If you have not yet completed the online refresher course, please contact your Parish Volunteer Coordinator for instruction on how to complete the online refresher training “The Praesidium Safety Equation.” This training is part of the archdiocesan commitment to protect children, youth, vulnerable persons, and those who minister to them through the development and implementation of screening measures and ongoing training in abuse prevention. Read more at https://caedm.ca/protect.
Are you a volunteer, 18 years or older, who attended Called to Protect training more than a year ago? If you have not yet completed the online refresher course, please contact your Parish Volunteer Coordinator for instruction on how to complete the online refresher training “The Praesidium Safety Equation.” This training is part of the archdiocesan commitment to protect children, youth, vulnerable persons, and those who minister to them through the development and implementation of screening measures and ongoing training in abuse prevention. Read more at https://caedm.ca/protect.
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Life and Family
The Humanum Series Are you tired of the same old stuff on cable…nothing new on Netflix? Humanum is a video series commissioned by the Vatican and produced in 2014 by Ecce Films. Humanum is a beautiful quest into the heart of what it means to be human; to see it for yourself, go to www.eccefilms.com/humanum. |
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Pope and the Grand Imam:
Historic declaration of peace, freedom, human rights On Monday afternoon, Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed el-Tayeb, signed a historic “Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together” during the Holy Father's visit to the United Arab Emirates. Not only a milestone in relations between Christianity and Islam, the document invites “all persons who have faith in God and faith in human fraternity to unite and work together.” |
In their call for peace, dialogue and understanding, the leaders call upon the "leaders of the world as well as the architects of international policy and world economy, to work strenuously to spread the culture of tolerance and of living together in peace; to intervene at the earliest opportunity to stop the shedding of innocent blood and bring an end to wars, conflicts, environmental decay and the moral and cultural decline that the world is presently experiencing”.
They ask all people of religion and culture, as well as the media, to rediscover and spread “the values of peace, justice, goodness, beauty, human fraternity and coexistence.” And they affirm their belief “that among the most important causes of the crises of the modern world are a desensitized human conscience, a distancing from religious values, and a prevailing individualism accompanied by materialistic philosophies.”
Read more
They ask all people of religion and culture, as well as the media, to rediscover and spread “the values of peace, justice, goodness, beauty, human fraternity and coexistence.” And they affirm their belief “that among the most important causes of the crises of the modern world are a desensitized human conscience, a distancing from religious values, and a prevailing individualism accompanied by materialistic philosophies.”
Read more
FAMILY LIFE
Text to Save a Life
Join ALIES & The Back Porch in prayer for preborn babies and their abortion-minded parents. There are currently over 300 people signed up for "Text to Save a Life" to increase prayer at the exact moment when Back Porch clients, staff and volunteers need it the most. Text BACKPORCH to 555-888 to sign up! You will receive specific prayer requests via text message from that same number. If you're already signed up, you might notice that this is a new phone number. Don't worry, you'll receive the text messages as usual and they will all end with - BP, so you know the text is a prayer request from The Back Porch.
Marriage Encounter
Loved the Wedding. Rekindle the Romance. Love God. A Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend can help you do just that. WWME is a two-day retreat where married couples can get away from all the busyness, and focus on each other. If you desire a greater depth, personal growth, and lasting romance in your marriage, join us for a retreat weekend: the next one in Edmonton will be April 27-28. For more information call 780-932-2874
or email gvankup@telus.net or visit www.wwme.org.
Join ALIES & The Back Porch in prayer for preborn babies and their abortion-minded parents. There are currently over 300 people signed up for "Text to Save a Life" to increase prayer at the exact moment when Back Porch clients, staff and volunteers need it the most. Text BACKPORCH to 555-888 to sign up! You will receive specific prayer requests via text message from that same number. If you're already signed up, you might notice that this is a new phone number. Don't worry, you'll receive the text messages as usual and they will all end with - BP, so you know the text is a prayer request from The Back Porch.
Marriage Encounter
Loved the Wedding. Rekindle the Romance. Love God. A Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend can help you do just that. WWME is a two-day retreat where married couples can get away from all the busyness, and focus on each other. If you desire a greater depth, personal growth, and lasting romance in your marriage, join us for a retreat weekend: the next one in Edmonton will be April 27-28. For more information call 780-932-2874
or email gvankup@telus.net or visit www.wwme.org.
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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) |
Life after RCIA
Are you a relatively new Catholic? Would you like to share your faith journey? Novalis Publishing is looking for stories from new Catholics about your experience of living out the faith after RCIA, to publish in an upcoming book. Send no more than 300 words to neophyte@novalis.ca, and let them know if you prefer to remain anonymous.
Are you a relatively new Catholic? Would you like to share your faith journey? Novalis Publishing is looking for stories from new Catholics about your experience of living out the faith after RCIA, to publish in an upcoming book. Send no more than 300 words to neophyte@novalis.ca, and let them know if you prefer to remain anonymous.
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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
