The Divine Messenger

A Contact with Divine Infant Parish

Vol. 16 No.1 November 2019

You are invited... If you do not attend church at this time but would like to renew your church connections, please call 613-824-6822 to discuss anything with Father Waldemar, Father Tavis or Deacons Jeff, Bill, Gary, Stephen, Mike, Gerry or Jim. We would love to hear from you! Divine Messenger - 2 - November 2019 A Message from Our Pastor

Dear Friends in Christ, prolonged survival is accompanied by pain and suf- The Christmas season gives us some of the fering due to various organic, mental and emotional most beautiful celebrations: Nativity of Our Lord, dysfunctions. Our Lady of Guadalupe, Holy Family, Mary, Mother of God. Each of these feasts has a great religious sig- • The fundamental change in the patient-physician nificance. It also helps us to celebrate and relationship from a paternalistic approach to an au- acknowledge life, in all of its dignity and im- tonomous one. portance. A very interesting document was prepared by the Pontifical Academy for Life and released on • The fact that most people in developed countries October 28th. I’d like to share it with you for your nowadays die in hospitals or nursing homes, which personal reflection for the month of December. are frequently strange and unfamiliar surroundings for them. Many patients are attached to machines, Representatives from the Catholic and Ortho- surrounded by busy people unknown to them. This dox churches and the Muslim and Jewish faiths situation contrasts with that in the past when people signed a joint declaration at the Vatican reaffirming usually died at home, surrounded by their loved ones each religion's clear opposition to euthanasia and in their customary and recognized environment. physician-assisted suicide. The joint statement also encouraged promoting palliative care so that dying • The greater involvement of various professionals patients could receive the best, most comprehensive in the treatment of the dying patient, as well as the physical, emotional, social, religious and spiritual involvement of the media, the judicial system and care and appropriate support for their families. the public at large. These often reflect different cul- tural backgrounds, outlooks, and varying and even Pope Francis met Oct. 28 with the signato- conflicting opinions as to what should or should not ries, who presented him with a copy of the declara- be done for the dying patient. tion they signed a few hours earlier at a Vatican cere- mony. The signatories included representatives from  Cultural changes, particularly in Western socie- the Vatican, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constan- ties. tinople, the Patriarchate of Moscow and All Russia, Muslim and Jewish scholars and leaders. The decla- • The growing scarcity of resources due to expen- ration is titled, sive diagnostic and therapeutic options.

"Position paper of the Abrahamic monotheistic The dilemmas concerning the care and treat- religions n matters concerning the end of life" ment of the dying patient are not primarily medical or scientific ones, but rather social, ethical, religious, Preamble legal and cultural dilemmas. While physicians make The moral, religious, social and legal aspects decision based on the facts, most of the decisions of the treatment of the dying patient are among the concerning the dying patient are not of a medical- most difficult and widely discussed topics in modern scientific nature. Rather, they are based on personal medicine. They have generated intense intellectual values and ethics. Hence, caring for the dying patient and emotional arguments and a very large body of by families and health-care providers within societal various publications throughout all cultures and soci- norms is a challenging task. eties. The principles and practices of the Abraham- The issues concerning end-of-life decisions ic monotheistic religions, and particularly their un- present difficult dilemmas, which are not new, but derstanding of the proper balance between conflict- they have intensified greatly in recent years due to ing values, are not always in accord with the current several factors and developments: secular humanistic values and practices.

• The enormous scientific-technological advances The aims of this position paper are: enable significant prolongation of life in ways and • To present the position of the Abrahamic monothe- situations never previously possible. However, often istic religions regarding the values and the practices relevant to the dying patient, for the benefit of pa- stave off death seems unreasonably burdensome, we tients, families, health-care providers and policy must do whatever is possible to offer comfort, effec- makers who are adherents of one of these religions. o tive pain and symptoms relief, companionship, emo- enhance the capacity of healthcare professionals to tional and spiritual care and support to the patient better understand, respect, guide, help, and comfort and his/her family in preparation for death. the religious patient and the family at life’s end. Re- specting the religious or cultural values of the patient The medical team and society at large should is not only a religious concern but is an ethical re- respect an authentically independence wish of a dy- quirement for staff at hospitals and other facilities ing patient to prolong or preserve his/her life even where there are patients of diverse faiths. for an additional short period of time by clinically appropriated medical measures. This includes the • To promote a reciprocal understanding and syner- continuation of respiratory support, artificial nutri- gies of different approaches between the monotheis- tion and hydration, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, tic religious traditions and secular ethics concerning antibiotics, pressors and the like. This wish can be beliefs, values, and practices relevant to the dying expressed either by the patient him/herself, in "real patient. time"; or, if not competent at the time, by advance medical directive, by a surrogate, or by testimony of Definition close family members. This approach represents A dying patient is defined as a person suffer- both the respect for life as well as the respect for in- ing from a fatal, incurable and irreversible disease, at dependence, which should not only be respected a stage when death will in all probability occur with- when it is in agreement with the health-care provid- in the space of a few months as a result of the dis- er. Clergy are often consulted by the family to aid in ease or its directly related complications, despite the this decision. In cases of religiously practicing/ best diagnostic and therapeutic efforts. devout patients or where the immediate next-of-kin are religiously observant/devout, a relevant member Suffering and Dying of the clergy should be consulted. While we applaud medical science for ad- vances to prevent and cure disease, we recognize The Rejection of Euthanasia and Physician- that every life will ultimately experience death. Assisted Suicide Care for the dying is both part of our stewardship of Matters pertaining to the duration and mean- the Divine gift of life when a cure is no longer possi- ing of human life should not be in the domain of ble, as well as our human and ethical responsibility health care providers whose responsibility is to pro- toward the dying (and often) suffering patient. Holis- vide the best possible cure for disease and maximal tic and respectful care of the person must recognize care of the sick. the uniquely human, spiritual and religious dimen- sion of dying as a fundamental objective. This ap- We oppose any form of euthanasia – that is proach to death requires compassion, empathy and the direct, deliberate and intentional act of taking life professionalism on the part of every person involved – as well as physician assisted suicide – that is the in the care of the dying patient, especially from care direct, deliberate and intentional support of commit- workers responsible for the psycho-sociological and ting suicide – because they fundamentally contradict emotional welfare of the patient. the inalienable value of human life, and therefore are inherently and consequentially morally and reli- The Use of Medical Technology at the End of Life giously wrong, and should be forbidden without ex- Human interventions by medical treatments ceptions. and technologies are only justified in terms of the help that they can provide. Therefore, their use re- The Nurturing Community quires responsible judgment about when life- We emphasize the importance of community sustaining and life-prolonging treatments truly sup- support in the decision-making process faced by the port the goals of human life, and when they have dying patient and his/her family. The duty to care for reached their limits. When death is imminent despite the sick, demands of us also to reform the structures the means used, it is justified to make the decision to and institutions by which health and religious care withhold certain forms of medical treatments that are delivered. We, as a society, must assure that pa- would only prolong a precarious life of suffering. tients’ desire not to be a financial burden does not Nonetheless, even when persistence in seeking to tempt them to choose death rather than receiving the Divine Messenger - 4 - November 2019 care and support that could enable them to live their Conclusion remaining lifetime in comfort and tranquility. For Based on the arguments and justifications religiously observant/devout patients and families articulated in this position paper, the three Abraham- there are several possible forms of communal sup- ic monotheistic religions share common goals and port facilitating thoughtful and prayerful considera- are in complete agreement in their approach to end- tion by the parties involved, with medical, religious, of-life situations. Accordingly, we affirm that: and other appropriate counsel. This is a religious du- ➢ Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide are in- ty of the faith community to all its members, accord- herently and consequentially morally and religiously ing to each one’s responsibilities. wrong and should be forbidden with no exceptions. remaining lifetime in comfort and tranquility. For Any pressure upon dying patients to end their lives religiously observant/devout patients and families by active and deliberate actions is categorically re- there are several possible forms of communal sup- jected. port facilitating thoughtful and prayerful considera- ➢ No health care provider should be coerced or tion by the parties involved, with medical, religious, pressured to either directly or indirectly assist in the and other appropriate counsel. This is a religious du- deliberate and intentional death of a patient through ty of the faith community to all its members, accord- assisted suicide or any form of euthanasia, especially ing to each one’s responsibilities. when it is against the religious beliefs of the provid- er. It has been well accepted throughout the genera- Spiritual Care tions that conscientious objection to acts that conflict The greatest contribution to humanizing the with a person’s ethical values should be respected. dying process that health care workers and religious This also remains valid even if such acts have been persons can offer is the provision of a faith-and-hope accepted by the local legal system, or by certain -filled presence. Spiritual and religious assistance is groups of citizens. Moral objections regarding issues a fundamental right of the patient and a duty of the of life and death certainly fall into the category of faith community. It is also acknowledged as an im- conscientious objection that should be universally portant contribution by palliative care experts. Be- respected. cause of the necessary interaction between the physi- cal, psychological and spiritual dimensions of the ➢ We encourage and support validated and profes- person, together with the duty of honouring personal sional palliative care everywhere and for everyone. beliefs and faith,; all health care providers are duty- Even when efforts to continue staving off death bound to create the conditions by which religious seems unreasonably burdensome, we are morally assistance is assured to anyone who asks for it, either and religiously duty-bound to provide comfort, ef- explicitly or implicitly. fective pain and symptoms relief, companionship, care and spiritual assistance to the dying patient and The Promotion of Palliative Care to her/his family. Any dying patient should receive the best ➢ We commend laws and policies that protect the possible comprehensive palliative care – physical, rights and the dignity of the dying patient, in order to emotional, social, religious and spiritual. The rela- avoid euthanasia and promote palliative care. tively new field in medicine of palliative care has ➢ We, as a society, must assure that patients’ desire made great advances and is capable of providing not to be a burden does not inspire them the feeling comprehensive and efficient support to dying pa- of being useless and the subsequent unawareness of tients and their families. Hence, we encourage pallia- the value and dignity of their life, which deserves tive care for the patient and for her/his family at the care and support until its natural end. end of life. Palliative care aims at achieving the best ➢ All health care providers should be duty-bound to quality of life for patients suffering from an incura- create the conditions by which religious assistance is ble and progressive illness, even when their illness assured to anyone who asks for it, either explicitly or cannot be cured, thus expressing the noble human implicitly. devotion of taking care of one another, especially of ➢ those who suffer. Palliative care services, provided We are committed to use our knowledge and re- by an organized and highly structured system for de- search to shape policies that promote socio- livering care, are critical for realizing the most an- emotional, physical and spiritual care and wellbeing, cient mission of medicine: “to care even when there by providing the utmost information and care to is no cure.” We encourage professionals and students those facing grave illness and death. to specialize in this field of medicine. Divine Messenger - 5 - November 2019

➢ We are committed to engage our communities on and health-care providers to familiarize themselves the issues of bioethics related to the dying patient, as with this wide-ranging Abrahamic monotheistic per- well as to acquaint them with techniques of compas- spective and teaching in order to provide the best sionate companionship for those who are suffering care to dying patients and to their families who ad- and dying. here to the religious norms and guidance of their re- ➢ We are committed to raising public awareness spective religious traditions. about palliative care through education and provid- ➢ We are committed to involving the other religions ing resources concerning treatments for the suffering and all people of goodwill. and the dying. ➢ We are committed to providing succor to the fam- In Christ, ily and to the loved ones of dying patients. Fr. Waldemar Podlasz SDS ➢ We call upon all policy-makers

Shepherds of Good Hope since 1987. We recruit 25 volunteers for each Sun- By Allan Harvey day in July and August. Some current volunteers have been going to the Soup Kitchen every year for The first time I attended Shepherds of Good over 20 years. My experience at the Soup Kitchen Hope to serve at the Soup Kitchen was in July of has been fulfilling and volunteers have told me that 2005. I was invited to try it and see if it was a worth- they have found it to be a very rewarding activity. while cause for me to engage in.

Arriving at 8:45 a.m., I was put to the task of peeling potatoes. Other work that I took part in in- cluded: making sandwiches, cutting vegetables for salad, and arranging desserts on trays. There were 21 volunteers from Divine Infant Parish preparing food to be served between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

All volunteers gathered for a short prayer service at 10:45 a.m. in the Shepherds of Good Hope Chapel. While there, we shared a time of reflection and exchanged thoughts on the purpose of our work at the Soup Kitchen. We returned to the floor within 20 minutes.

The doors to lunch opened at 11:30 a.m. and a steady stream of hungry people flowed through the eating area where 244 meals were served. During the hour, I worked at the dishwashing machine, one of the most important areas of the operation.

At 12:30 p.m. when the doors were shut, it was clean-up time. All work was done by 1:00 p.m. and the volunteers went home.

Divine Infant Parish has been sending volun- teers to Shepherds of Good Hope every summer Divine Messenger - 6 - November 2019 St. Francis of Assisi School possessions and respect for God's creations. We had By Michelle McGarry readings, intentions and prayers, it was a short ser- vice but full of smiles. The sunny afternoon, with leaves beginning to change and warm breezes, was Students, parents, and staff of St. Francis of the perfect setting for the pets' blessings. Owners Assisi gathered on October 4th, outside the school, and companions made their way, lining up in front to commemorate a holy day dear to our hearts. The of the school's flagpole to receive the holy water and feast day of St. Francis was the perfect opportunity blessing. It was a serene and peaceful moment. All to blend pets, humans and nature for our school's of the animals, hamsters, ducks, dogs, cats, were first Pet Blessing Ceremony. Deacon Donoghue perfectly behaved. We hope to make this an annual officiated the service, which began with a summary event! of how St. Francis led his life, one free of earthly Divine Messenger - 7 - November 2019

Throughout these past three months, we cheered on our soccer, cross country and volleyball teams as they headed out to their tournaments and honoured the memory of Terry Fox as we participated in the Terry Fox Run.

We welcomed Father Anthony as he celebrated Thanksgiving Mass with our school community. We remembered our patron saint, St. Francis, on his feast day when Deacon Steve Donoghue joined us for a spe- cial blessing of our pets. Divine Messenger - 8 - November 2019 We participated in a variety of special activities including International Walk to School Day, Take Me Outside Day, Up With People and Clean Up the Capital. Divine Messenger - 9 - November 2019

We welcomed visitors to our school as we played Inuit Games with Simon, learned about safety through a hydro presentation and checked out a Discovery Box that held items from World War II.

We danced and played games at our Harvest Dance and joined in school Halloween activities, in- cluding a Halloween Parade and getting Boo’d. We reflected on peace and gave thanks to our veterans as we gathered as a school community on Remembrance Day.

As we begin the Advent season, we will spend time in prayer and reflection as we prepare for the birth of Jesus. We will also participate in many Christmas activities as we join together as a school commu- nity to create memories as we work, pray and play together. Divine Messenger - 10 - November 2019

Pro Life Committee Fall 2019 Report and His answer will come in His time. The Di- By Angela Lavictoire vine Infant, our parish patron, is also a great pa- tron for the lives and safety of all those pre-born As we are all aware, abortion and eutha- babies for whom we pray. nasia are legal and are paid for through our taxes in our currently over-burdened health care sys- On Saturday, November 23, our parish tem. So, why then, do we have a Pro Life Com- hosted the Diocesan Pro Life Mass. Many pa- mittee? We know that, though legal, it is not rishioners were involved with this event and it right – morally, ethically or spiritually- to kill was well-attended. This Mass is celebrated the most helpless and vulnerable in our society. monthly at different parishes and prayers are of- Unfortunately, our very broken and secular fered that we can open a Pro Life Health Care world has convinced people- and that includes Centre where Pro Life Health Care Workers many practicing and devout Catholics- that these (doctors, nurses, pharmacists, therapists etc.) can deadly solutions are reasonable and practical. practise true compassionate and safe medical care for all of their patients and remain in Ontar- Divine Infant Parish is a Pro Life Parish! io. Right now these Ontario health care workers Our committee consists of a number of parish- are not protected and must refer or be complicit ioners who are committed to keeping our parish in procedures that are contrary to their beliefs. informed about and active in Pro Life issues and events. It is true that we have faced many disap- This is the kind of information we need to pointments politically and legally, but we also know, so we can respond or protect ourselves know that morally and ethically we must contin- and our loved ones with health care decisions. ue to be aware of and fight the injustices. As St. This is the kind of information we are collecting Rose of Lima said, "The gifts of grace increase and making available to the parish. New mem- as the struggles increase." We have had such bers are welcome. wonderful response from our parish for Pro Life events. We all strengthen and encouraged each Please check our RESPECT FOR LIFE bul- other. letin board. There is a great deal of literature available on all these issues, as well as the Cath- The Life Chain on October 6, 2019, at the olic Catechism teaching sheet on euthanasia and corner of St. Joseph Boulevard and Orleans abortion. Help yourself. Please feel free to rec- Boulevard, had the largest turnout of people who ommend any events we could sponsor or speak- joined together to silently pray for one hour for ers that you might like to hear. If you have ques- an end to abortion. These valiant guardians of tions or an issue that you would like to learn life heard some encouraging honks and also suf- more about, we will try to find the appropriate fered lewd and loud angry remarks. Prayers are speaker to address us. See the parish bulletin for Powerful! They cause an effect. Even the nega- contact information. tive responses show that someone heard the mes- sage. They may not have agreed, but they heard! PRAYER IS OUR MOST POWERFUL God will do the rest of that work. Thank you so WEAPON. PLEASE PRAY! much for your courage and conviction! LIFE IS PRECIOUS AND WORTHY OF BEING PROTECTED. For the 12th year, our Diocese has had the 40 Days For Life (Sept 25- Nov3). It is a "Prayer Vigil" held at the vigil site on the corner of Bank and Queen. Many thanks to our parishioners who filled all 12 hours of prayer on Sunday, October 20, our chosen vigil witness date. There were at least two people for each 1 hour shift (some hours had 3 or 4 people). God hears all prayer Divine Messenger - 11 - November 2019 Divine Infant School By Diane Fournier

We have had a busy start to the school year and were pleased to have Father Anthony join us for a few activities. Father Anthony presided over our first Mass of the year, led a Grade 4 Bible blessing ceremony and joined the Grade 6 students during their Saint Walk on “All Saints Day.”

Our choir was chosen to be part of a wonderful op- portunity to accompany three-time Juno Award Winner and Grammy-nominated composed Frank Mills in a special pro- ject. Mr. Mills, best known for his song “Music Box Danc- er,” was at the school on November 4th recording his new composition “Lest We Forget.” This song is based on John McCrae’s poem “In Flander’s Fields.” The choir practised the song in advance of the visit with educators Mary-Beth McGowan and Michelle Seguin. They were accompanied by lead singers Neil Donell and Rique Frank using a 45 piece orchestra recording. Mr. Mills visited with the choir, answered questions about the music business in Canada, rehearsed and recorded the choir’s rendition of the song. We hope that Mr. Mills’ composition will become part of Remembrance Day ceremonies for years to come and that this experience will teach the children about the history of Remembrance Day and the importance of peace in our world. Divine Messenger - 12 - November 2019 A Daughter’s Tribute shift old patterns that no longer serve us and keep us By Elizabeth Doyle-Harmer disconnected from what we truly want in life.

Note: Elizabeth Doyle-Harmer’s eulogy for her fa- So rather than regret the moments I did not ther highlights her love for her father, her memories have with my father, I am using my father’s life as a both joyous and sorrowful, and lessons to be carried reminder to remove all the walls I have built up forward. It is a beautiful tribute and acknowledge- against love. To always be more forgiving, more ment of life’s cycles. Her father suffered from Alz- loving, to open my heart more. And to be coura- heimer’s before his death. Bereavement is, in part, a geous enough to feel the pain that sometimes comes time of tears and reflection. - The Bereavement from living life from this vulnerable, heart-open Team. place. These are the lessons: be vulnerable, be coura- geous, love more. I consciously chose to wear white today to celebrate the passing on of my father’s spirit to a Father, I wish you in the afterlife what you place of peace, love and divine grace. My father was did not have here on earth. I wish you a sense of a deeply religious man with a pure heart but an an- inner peace and a deep knowing of your own worth guished mind. And those two things – his pure heart and glory. I wish you access to a full knowing of and his anxious mind – were often in conflict with who you are, now that ruminations of a busy mind each other. and the confines of a physical body no longer plague you. May you have eternal access to love. May you At moments when my father’s pure heart have peace and grace. May your spirit dance and soar and play. won over, he had great joy, enthusiasm and excite- ment for life. He loved experiencing things of great I imagine you in a field of daffodils and dai- emotion. He loved comedies- anything with Chevy sies, taking up space, soaring wild and free. I long to Chase, Dan Ackroyd or John Candy. He loved to meet you there one day. In the meantime, come visit laugh. He had a great laugh – a remarkable, memo- me. See me in my dreams, whisper to me in the rable laugh that lives on in my daughter Naomi. leaves, find me on the full moon reflecting on the He loved to gather the family together in waters, shine to me through stars, and colour my world through sunrises. front of the TV with a bowl of chips and dip. He loved drive-ins and road trips. He loved when we You are free now. Your spirit is free. May it took family trips every summer to Toronto – the forever soar in peace, love and divine grace. We greatest city in the world, according to my father. love you. We would drive in the greatest car in the world – a white Toyota Camry. He loved Blue Jays’ games and loud energetic pop songs - Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel, The Heat Is On by Glenn Frey and anything on the Blues Brothers soundtrack. Pop mu- sic and Blue Jay games brought out a vitality and energy in my dad and these are also things that brought my parents closer together.

The vision that sticks out the most to me of my father, is seeing him with a ball cap on over thick messy hair, a big toothy grin from ear to ear, baggy pants belted on to stay up as he was so thin and a can of Fosters (or maybe Tim Hortons Double Double) in hand. Simple moments like that brought him great joy.

Last week, in the days before his passing I held my father’s hand and rested my head on his chest to hear his soft and shallow heartbeat. And Elizabeth is shown here with both her parents cele- what I learned is that a moment can change every- brating her graduation from university. A happy thing. It’s never too late to live in awareness and memory for both Mom (Norma) and daughter. Divine Messenger - 13 - November 2019 A Christmas Wish List from Someone Why Did Jesus Fold the Napkin? Who Grieves The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the There are many long lonely days over the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was course of December and early January when one is not thrown aside like the grave cloths. The Bible grieving. Here are some ways you can help. takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed on the head of that  Try to take some time to touch base with your stony coffin. friend who grieves and keep him/her in your prayers. Early Sunday morning, while it was still  If you send a card, acknowledge in a note that dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found you miss the person who died and that the family that the stone had been rolled away from the en- will be missing him too. Include a little memory trance. note of a time enjoyed with the person who died. You could include a photo of an event you have She ran and found Simon Peter and the other shared together. Don’t send a traditional Christ- disciple,, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, mas card, send something personal “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb  Give a grieving person a hug. It is a simple way and I do not know where they have put him!” of saying: “I care.”  Phone and touch base. Mention that you too miss Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to the person who has died. Talk about good times see. When Simon Peter arrived and went inside, he shared. noticed the linen wrappings lying there while the  If you have sent a donation or done something in cloth that had covered Jesus’ head was folded up and memory of the deceased, tell the person who is lying to the side. grieving what you have done. It is comforting to know that others remember their loved one. In order to understand the significance of the  Help the bereaved person in gathering memories folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit of their loved one. Send a photo and a story of about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded nap- good times shared with that person. It is com- kin had to do with the master and servant, and every forting for the family to have many photos and Jewish boy knew this tradition. stories of the life of the person who has died.  Invite the bereaved person to dinner or lunch. When the servant set the dinner table for the Set a date and time. If you say “Call me if you master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the feel like going out,” he/she will not call. You master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, need to take the lead and let the person know you and then the servant would wait, just out of sight really want to share time together. until the master had finished eating, and the servant  Spend time with the bereaved. Take time to lis- would not dare touch that table until the master was ten. Don’t worry if he/she cries. Tears are a nat- finished. Now if the master was done eating, he ural part of grieving process. would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that If the bereaved person wants to join the Be- napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would reavement Group and is afraid to attend the first then know to clear the table. For in those days, the meeting alone, offer to go with him/her. It takes a wadded napkin meant, “I’m done.” But if the master lot of courage to attend the first meeting alone. He/ got up from the table and folded his napkin, and laid she will be okay going alone after the initial meeting. it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table because the folded napkin meant, “I’m Thank you for making a difference in the life coming back!” of a bereaved person. Remember to pray, not just for those who We also have a Book of the Sick in the foyer have died, but also for those who are ill or in dis- and Chuck Orifici recently asked that all those who tress. The deceased are especially remembered dur- prayed for his recovery be thanked. Our prayers are ing the month of November when the Book of Re- being answered and those who have been prayed for membrance is displayed. are most grateful. Thanks be to God! Divine Messenger - 14 - November 2019

Having True Humility in the Lord venge. Instead we pray for those who hurt us. We By Deacon Mike Seguin are to “get rid of all forms of bitterness, rage, anger and slander, along with every form of mal- As we approach the Christmas season, we ice. Instead we should be kind and compassionate need to prepare our hearts for the coming of the to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ Lord. How do we do this? Righteousness and hu- has forgiven us.” mility is what pleases the Lord. What does it truly mean to be humble in the eyes of God? Over the years, I have had my share of ridi- cule and trials from others around me, whether it The worldly view of humility is a low self- was by a coworker or even a family member, simply regard and a sense of unworthiness. Many people because of my faith. I am sure that we have all had have the wrong idea about humility. It is looked up- to deal with similar struggles. But, rather than lash- on as a weakness. This simply is not true, and is not ing out at those who chose to ridicule me, God what Holy Scripture teaches us. When we are truly showed me a better way. He taught me to pray for humble, we are free from pride and arrogance. We them and to bless them. Was it easy? No…but over know that in our flesh we are inadequate, yet we al- time, He showed me how to forgive in those circum- so know who we are in Christ. It is recognizing that stances. In some cases, when the difficulties were we need God’s help - that we truly can’t succeed on more that I could handle, the Lord prompted me to our own strength. It is thanking God for our talents bring it to the confessional. Going to reconciliation and gifts and giving him credit for our accomplish- is an act of humility where we allow the Lord to take ments. our burdens, our sins and even our suffering.

St. Faustina wrote in her diary, that “True In the parable of the tax collector and the greatness of the soul is in loving God and in humili- Pharisee praying in the temple, we see the tax col- ty.” She goes on to say, “A humble soul does not lector would not even look up to heaven. Striking trust itself, but places all its confidence in God.” As his breast, he cries out to God, "Be merciful to me a for me, when I serve the Lord, I give Him permis- sinner!" sion beforehand and my prayer is this: “You know Lord, I can do nothing without You, but I can do all The Pharisee is prideful in his approach and things through Christ who strengthens me.” This does not even recognize his own sins. Instead we allows the Holy Spirit to work through me. I rely see someone who is judgmental of others, unable to totally on His help. It means recognizing the need see his own sinfulness and proud of his own accom- for the Lord to work through us and realizing that plishments. we cannot do it on our own strength. Not for our glory, but for His. The prayer of the tax collector shows us how to obtain humility with God. It is both simple and Godly humility is about putting the needs of profound. He realized that he is totally dependent others ahead of our own. We should “do nothing on God’s love and mercy. It was a love that he had out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humil- often rejected, but, humbly, he cried out to the Lord, ity consider others better than our self.” The picture “Have mercy on me a sinner.” He was contrite and of humility is one of a strong person who loves oth- sorry for his sins. He had a repentant heart and de- ers, and puts their needs ahead of his own. We can sired real change in his life. He is the one who do this when we realize that we are God’s children leaves the temple that day in the embrace of the walking in His grace, love and mercy. Lord’s love.

When a person is humble in the Lord, he can The Pharisee was filled with pride, and this defuse arguments before they even start. We do this blinded him to his own sinful ways. If we are not by being gentle and kind in our response. “A gentle careful, our pride will also do the same with us - answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up where we do not recognize our faults, our sinfulness anger.” With humility, we can handle unfair treat- or our actions that cause us to hurt others around ment peacefully. We can respond without becoming us. And when we are oblivious to this, how can we bitter. Godly humility means we do not seek out re- seek forgiveness from the Lord? Divine Messenger - 15 - November 2019

These two question remain: Have we ever Adult and Children’s Choirs humbled ourselves to the Lord like the tax collector By Maureen Ahern did? Where did we experience a profound humility, a contrite heart, fully aware of our own sinfulness? The Adult and Children’s Choirs continue to meet Thursdays (children: 6:15 pm. - 7:15 pm.; adults: My friends, this is the work of the Holy Spirit 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm). Both choirs continue to welcome convincing us. And believe it or not, it puts us in a new members to our fold. good place - where the Lord has us exactly where He wants us – when we are aware of our own broken- The Children’s Choir leads the songs at the 9:30 ness and sinfulness. The saints were all aware of am Sunday Mass, and the Adult Choir leads the congre- their own shortcomings. This is where we need to be gational singing at the 11:15 am. Mass. The children as well. It allows us to cry out to God and seek His will also be leading the singing at the 7:00 pm. Mass on th help…“Lord Jesus, have mercy on me a sinner, save December 12 , the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guada- me Lord from my sins. Help me to know you and lupe. love you.” This prayer should come from the depth of our heart and it is a prayer of profound humility. Our biggest news of the fall season is that our Divine Infant Adult and Children's Choirs will be par- When we have experienced that true humility ticipating in ChoirFest 2019, a gathering of church in God, there is cause for rejoicing. We may even, choirs in the Orleans area, as well as Cumberland Com- munity Singers. The event will take place at 6:30 pm. for a time, have to suffer the distress of many trials; st but this is so that our faith - which is more precious on Sunday, December 1 (first Sunday of Advent) than gold purified by fire - will be strengthened. That at Community Pentecostal Church, 1825 St. Joseph it may lead us to praise, glory and honor when Jesus Blvd., Orleans. Christ appears. Although we have never seen Him, we love Him, believe in Him and we rejoice with We hope that you will come out to support our inexpressible joy because we are achieving faith’s choirs at this event. There is no admission fee, although goal, which is our salvation. there will be a collection of free will offerings. Proceeds after expenses will be shared between the Gloucester All glory be to the Father, Son and Holy Spir- and Cumberland Christmas Food Programs. There are it. Amen refreshments after the event. Volunteers are needed to help with collection.

Please note: We have been advised that some partici- pants have allergies to nuts and also scent allergies (i.e. perfumes, colognes, after shave lotions). We thank you for being sensitive to this if you plan to attend.

These happy faces belong to the Divine Infant Parish Chil- dren’s Choir. Their angelic voices can be heard at the 9:30 am Mass every week. Divine Messenger - 16 - November 2019 an active interest in all parish organizations. In his limited spare time, Msgr. Len loved to go to his re- treat - somewhere near Pakenham - to work on his collection of antique cars and trucks from the 1920s and 1930s. Some of these vehicles were parked out- side the church at his funeral and took part in the procession to the cemetery.

Parishioners who knew Msgr. Len will re- member him for his sparkling wit, his great personal- ity, his ready smile and his understanding. He was always a good listener and allowed you to take the lead. He was encouraging and supportive and al- ways made you feel that you and your problems mat- tered. St. Patrick’s Day parties usually included a few songs by Msgr. Len, accompanying himself on his guitar. His “Apple Blossom Time” CD and the one he recorded with the Divine Infant Choir, are treasured by many people.

The funeral for Msgr. Len was held at St. Pe- ter Celestine Church, Pakenham on October 7, 2019. The esteem in which he was held was evident by the Sadly, on October 1, 2019, Divine Infant lost number of priests, deacons and archbishops who a well-beloved former pastor, Msgr. Leonard Lun- concelebrated the Funeral Mass with Archbishop ney. In 1987, Father Len, took over the leadership of Terrence Prendergast. The church was filled with Divine Infant Parish from the original pastor, Father friends, relatives and former parishioners, including Michael Hurtubise and remained with us until 2001. a number from Divine Infant. Msgr. Len is survived by two brothers and one sister. He was predeceased Msgr. Lunney was in his 61st year of priest- by his parents, four brothers (including Father Bill hood, having been ordained on June 7, 1959. His Lunney), and two sisters. first posting was as curate at St. George’s Parish. He was also a teacher at St. Pius X High School and be- May he rest in peace in the hands of the Lord. came its principal in 1969, a position he held until 1986. During his tenure at St. Pius, he also served as parish priest at Holy Rosary, Ottawa; St. Michael’s, Fitzroy Harbour and St. Gabriel’s, Constance Bay.

After leaving St. Pius in 1986, Father Len became principal of St. Matthew High School. One year later, he was appointed parish priest at Divine Infant. After leaving Divine Infant, he was appointed the Episcopal Vicar of the English Pastoral Commu- nity of the Diocese of Ottawa. He remained in that position until he retired in 2007.

Msgr. Len was chaplain for the Ottawa Fire Department and was frequently seen at the Annual Firemen’s Christmas Parade helping to raise funds for charity. As well, he was involved in the DI Council of the Knights of Columbus and always took Divine Messenger - 17 - November 2019 Don’t Quit When he might have won had he When things go wrong as they stuck it out; sometimes will, Don’t give up though the pace When the road you’re trudging seems slow - seems all up hill, You may succeed with another When the funds are low and the blow. debts are high And you want to smile but you Success is failure turned have to sigh inside out - When care is pressing you down The silver tint of the clouds a bit of doubt Rest if you must, but don’t you And you never can tell how close quit. you are, It may be near when it seems so Life is queer with its twists and far; turns, So stick to the fight when As everyone of us sometimes you’re hardest hit - learns It’s when things seem worse that And many a failure turns about you must not quit!

Divine Infant Church Schedules Children’s Liturgy, Sunday, 9:30 am Mass

Regular Mass Times: Children’s Choir Practice, Wed. 6:15-7:00 pm Monday 7:00 pm Adult Choir Practice, Wed. 7:30-10:00 pm, Tuesday 7:00 pm Wednesday 9:00 am Divine Mercy Cenacle, Monday, 7:30 pm, Chapel Thursday 9:00 am Friday 9:00 am Mom’s Morning Out, Tuesday, 9:30-11:30 am, Hall Saturday 5:00 pm (Summer months go on park hop) Sunday 8:00 am 9:30 am RCIA, Wednesday, 7:00-9:00 pm, Hall 11:15 am 6:30 pm Youth Programs, Fridays, DI-JYN, 6:00-7:30 pm, Hall Note: On statutory civic holiday Mondays, Mass is DI-SYN. 9:00-10:00 pm, Hall at 9:00 am instead of 7:00 pm. Recurring Monthly Events (Some activities are cancelled during summer months.) Note 2: During Advent and Lent there are Masses at 9:00 am and 7:00 pm each weekday. Catholic Women’s League (CWL) general meeting, 4th Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm, Hall Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction: Every Wednesday and each First Friday, after the 9:00 am Knights of Columbus (K of C) general meeting 1st Mass, and first Sunday after 6:30 pm Mass. Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm, Hall

Recurring Weekly Events: (Some activities are can- celled during summer months.) Please see bulletin for upcoming special events. and more information on ministries or associations. Bible Study, Mondays, 7:30-9:00 pm, Memorial Room (MR)

Divine Messenger - 18 - November 2019

Catholic Women’s League She went to the tomb to see how he was, When she saw no one there she took a long pause. Each year the CWL sponsors the Marian Es- The angel came down to tell her the news, say Writing Contest for students of Grade 4 in our parish schools. The essays are about our patron She looked at him happily and very confused. Mary, the Mother of God. One of the winners for She had told everyone the very good news, 2016 was a poem submitted by Simon Khouri, a stu- And whoever she told was very amused. dent at Divine Infant Catholic School. This beautiful When she met with her son she was full of cheer, poem is shown below. And all of a sudden she was washed of her fear. Mary is a loving mother She’d love to have you as her sister or brother!

The Madeline Langedock Memorial Award By Joan Neuheimer, Organization Chair

Madeline Langedock was a member of Di- vine Infant Parish. She was also a member of the CWL Council of Divine Infant Parish for 24 years. Holy Mary Our Mother Madeline died in 2017. By Simon Khouri In 2018, to honour Madeline’s memory, her Mary, a woman of love. husband, David Langedock of Divine Infant Parish, A woman of holiness presented our Council with money in the amount of Gentle as a dove. the annual membership fee.

Known to most as the holiest creature, This year, our Council used Mr. Langedock's To learn about Jesus choose her as your teacher. generous gift from the past two years to pay for two Her body and soul into heavenly glory, memberships for 2020. The names of all our paid Plays a big part in Jesus’ story. members for 2019 were placed in a bowl. Two names were picked from that bowl. Queen of love, grace and hope, Her rank in the church is triple the pope’s. Julie Smulski and Jackie Kieruff were the Mary was given a special cult. names chosen. They are the recipients of The Made- Never once in her life has she said an insult. line Langedock Memorial Award. Congratulations to both these CWL members! When an angel gave her news she was full of fear. But when he explained she had to shed a tear. She married a man named Joseph, Jesus’ father, Always loving to Mary, not once a brother. She rode on a donkey with Joseph to Bethlehem. To give birth to Jesus more beautiful than any gem. When her baby was born she cried tears of joy, She was excited to care for her baby boy. Mary is a very blessed virgin Her son saved more lives than any surgeon. She loved her son with all her heart, When he died her sorrow was off the chart. Divine Messenger - 19 - November 2019

Inspirationial Story to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or Author Unknown whatever. When they come back with their red mar- bles, and they always do, he decides he doesn’t like I was at the corner grocery store buying some red after all and he sends them home with a bag of early potatoes and I noticed a small boy, delicate of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily appris- they come on their next trip to the store.” ing a basket of freshly picked green peas. I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of I left the store smiling to myself, impressed fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas with this man. A short time later I moved to Colora- and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn’t do, but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Mil- ler (the store owner) and the ragged boy next to me. Several years went by, each more rapid than “Hello Barry, how are you today?” the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to vis- it some old friends in that Idaho community and “H’lo Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus’ ad- learned that Mr. Miller had just died. They were mirin’ them peas. They sure look good.” having his visitation that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. “They are good, Barry. How’s your Ma?” Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line “Fine. Gittin’ stronger alla’ time.” to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could. “Good. Anything I can help you with?” Ahead of us in line were three young men. “No. Sir. Jus’ admirin’ them peas.” One was in an army uniform and the other two wore “Would you like to take some home?” asked nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts - all very Mr. Miller. professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband’s “No, Sir. Got nuthin’ to pay for ’em with.” casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved “Well, what have you to trade me for some of on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed those of peas?” them as, one by one; each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale “All I got’s my prize marble here.” hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkward- ly, wiping his eyes. “Is that right? Let me see it,” said Mr. Mil- ler. Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her “Here ‘tis. She’s a dandy.” who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her “I can see that. Hmmm, only thing is this one husband’s bartering for marbles. With her eyes glis- is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red tening, she took my hand and led me to the casket. one like this at home.?” the store owner asked. “Those young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated “Not zackley but almost.” the things Jim ‘traded’ them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about the color or size, “Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home they came to pay their ‘debt.’ with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble.” Mr. Miller told the boy. “We’ve never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,” she confided, “but right now, Jim “Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller.” would consider himself the richest man in Idaho.” Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me. With a smile she said, “There With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless are two other boys like him in our community, all fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves were three exquisitely shined red marbles!

Divine Messenger - 20 - November 2019

All Souls Mass, November 2, 2019

Candles cast a healing glow, our dearly beloved honoured by a procession of lit can- dles carried by loved ones cherishing their Children and adults alike wrote the names memories during the Offertory Procession. of their dearly beloved in the Memorial Book. We will pray for them during the month of November. Divine Messenger - 21 - November 2019

Tim Mouchet donated his time and musical Father Waldemar’s homily consoled and talent to enhance the overall experience counselled the gathering, reminding the during the Mass. congregation that our dearly beloved departed, St. Augustine said “To sing is to pray like St. Theresa, pray for us, thereby doing twice.” good on earth. An audio recording of Father Waldemar’s homily can be found on the parish website under the tab, Parish Life Multimedia.

During the Offertory Procession a Memorial Stone dedicated to Monsignor Lunney was placed in the sanctuary to commemorate his time at Divine Infant Parish as our Pastor. Divine Messenger - 22 - November 2019

Following the Mass parishioners gathered in the hall to enjoy some refreshments. This beautiful cake was designed by Margaret and Anika Heuthorst and decorated by Marie Noiles, a parishioner and cake designer at Sobeys on 10th Line.

Francillia Poirier with St. Theresa’s statue. St. Theresa said “I will spend my heaven doing good on earth. I will let fall a shower of ros- es.” St. Theresa intercedes for us from heaven as do our dearly beloved who have gone to their heavenly home but continue their watch- ful care over us.

Thank you to Blessilda Donoghue and her hospitality group without whom our reception would not be as wonderful.

Military and First Responder hats along with a stone dedicated to the memory of Monsignor Lunney Divine Messenger - 23 - November 2019

Divine Messenger - 24 - November 2019