LAonewglogoo for trheediocfesleeof Scaskattoson refRlectsothe tohemte edThe ithnree treCes, ehach rwiithsthrtee lavrgericsentrialobran nches, of a recently-launched diocesan vision: Rooted in Christ. are reminiscent of the Trinity in which each Christian is Designed by diocesan webmaster Cary Molyneux, the baptized – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. logo features three trees, with the trunk of the central figure The triad also represents three levels of our faith reaching down, signifying deep roots in Christ. At the same connection – the universal Catholic Church, the diocese of time, the trees are reaching out with dynamic, flame-like Saskatoon and the local parish. branches, signifying our Christian call to reach out to the The group of trees signifies our collective strength as whole world. Christian people and parishioners of this diocese, recalling Symbols of strength and life, the trees are coloured green, the importance of community, and of working together a colour related to the province of Saskatchewan and towards a common vision, rooted in Christ and united in our illustrating growth, life, springtime and renewal. faith.

Newsletter of the

DVisit us oin tohe webcat: wwew.sasksatoonercdioceseo.com f Saskatoon Spring 2009 Diocesan Pastoral Council discusses

cTwao mmajor iniptiativaes inithge dioncese of afamniliesdbuildinvg ouir dsioceisaon homn e. We Saskatoon were the focus of discussions at need all of our 20,000 families across the recent meetings of the Diocesan Pastoral whole diocese to build our diocesan home,” Council (DPC). he said. The progress of the Uniting in Faith Breaking out of the idea that parishes campaign to build a new Cathedral and exist in isolation is a major benefit of the Catholic Pastoral Centre, and the entire process, he said. “We as a diocesan implementation of the Rooted in Christ community have to continue building these diocesan vision were the focus of DPC relationships, and as a faith community discussions in both February and April. continue to provide support for each other.” The DPC includes representatives from Challenges of recruiting volunteers, and the seven deaneries in the diocese, as well accomplishing the home visits that are the as from Catholic organizations and groups. most effective method to campaign, were A consultative and advisory body, the DPC also discussed. Reporting how the meets regularly with Bishop Albert LeGatt. campaign is being received in their Precious gifts Across the diocese of Saskatoon particular parishes and deaneries, DPC Josie Norris (left) and Brady Gauchier prepare to bring forth the gifts with help volunteers are undertaking the Uniting in representatives agreed that support for the from catechist Cherryl Schumacher at a Sunday celebration of the Eucharist at Faith campaign. While some parishes have project depends on how well people St. Anneʼs parish in Delisle. During the celebration Bishop Albert LeGatt already reached or exceeded their understand the role of the diocese and their commissioned local volunteers working on the diocesan Uniting in Faith fundraising goal for the new Cathedral and own connection to the diocesan church. campaign to build a new Cathedral and Catholic Pastoral Centre. Catholic Pastoral Centre, others have yet to “Often people simply need some more start the campaign, the DPC heard. information,” said Susan Seidel of About two-thirds of the diocesan goal Kindersley, who represents Eatonia deanery to raise $12.5 million for the project has on the DPC. “The more prayers there are New translations of Lectionary now been reached, reported development about it, and the more education there is, the officer Don Gorsalitz. Holy Family Parish Holy Spirit will open our hearts,” she said at and Roman Missal on the way has now raised nearly all of its $16 million the February meeting. As of Pentecost, May 31, 2009, a revised and will probably be implemented in a couple share of the building which will be its new Rose-Anne Kielo, a representative of Lectionary containing the scripture readings of years, said Bishop LeGatt. parish home. the Saskatoon Rural Deanery on the DPC. for Sundays and Solemnities will be officially Once implemented, these changes will be Gorsalitz stressed the importance of described how her parish in Delisle is implemented across Canada – including in noticeable in the prayers of the Mass and in engaging the whole diocese in building the organizing a number of fund-raising the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon – some of the assembly’s prayer responses, he although most people probably won’t notice said. There will also be instructions related to Catholic Centre and Cathedral. “It’s not a events as a way to permit people of all the changes, said Bishop Albert LeGatt. the posture at different points in the liturgy. question of whether we’re going to be ages and incomes to contribute. “We want This revised edition of the Lectionary for This is part of a world-wide look at the successful. Of course, we’re going to be every person to feel part of this Uniting in Sundays and Solemnities replaces the earlier translation of the Latin texts into the successful; this project is going ahead and Faith effort,” she said at the April DPC version published in 1992 by the Canadian vernacular of many languages after Vatican we have the capacity as a diocese to do this meeting. Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB). II, not only English, the bishop noted. and much more. But we don’t want just 500 DPC - PAGE 2 Both were adapted from the New Revised Over the next couple of years there will Standard Version of the Bible (NRSV). be catechesis and information sessions about The 2009 revised edition of the the upcoming changes to the Mass prayers, Lectionary becomes the version officially LeGatt said. approved by the Catholic bishops of Canada Archbishop Raymond Lahey of and authorized by the Holy See for liturgical Antigonish will be in Saskatoon Tuesday, use by Catholics of the Roman rite in Canada. June 16, presenting information to priests, The new Sunday Lectionary will Parish Life Directors and all those eventually be followed by revised editions of responsible for planning liturgy. Lahey is the other materials, including the ritual and CCCB representative on the International weekday volumes and revisions to psalms in Commission on English in the Liturgy the Catholic Book of Worship hymnal. (ICEL) that is working on the new “The revision was called for by the translation. Congregation for Divine Worship and the “Resources for teaching on the liturgy, Discipline of the Sacraments (at the Vatican) and explanation of the changes, will also be to address certain portions of the text which prepared by the National Liturgy Office, to be needed more precise translation,” explained used in dioceses once the changes come Diocesan celebration Bishop LeGatt. about,” said LeGatt. He said an extensive Priests from across the diocese renewed their commitment to priestly service Changes are also on the way related to a process of consultation into the translation is April 6 at the annual diocesan Chrism Mass. Representatives from across the new more-literal translation of the Roman currently underway, involving the ICEL and diocese also attended, receiving the sacred oils blessed by Bishop Albert Missal (or Sacramentary) from Latin to the national bishops’ conferences in English- LeGatt, and used in the sacraments over the next year. English – but these are still being finalized speaking countries around the world. Page 2 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009

Diocesan Pastoral Council reflection (C ONTINUED FROM PAGE 1)

With “diocesan unity” one of six priorities identified in the Rooted in Christ diocesan vision, the current focus on the Uniting in Faith campaign certainly relates to Members of the Conquest boysʼ club carry the cross on Good Friday. Our Lady of Guadalupe parish members. the vision as well, said DPC executive secretary Diane Cote of St. John Bosco parish. Way of the Cross features prayers for justice and peace The other priorities outlined in BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI for justice Members of the Conquest boys’ club the Rooted in Christ diocesan The suffering of Christ was linked to issues Uniting In Faith... carried the cross to the ninth station, praying vision are evangelization; life-long for youth and the issues that they encounter in of justice and peace during a downtown Way of faith formation; liturgy and the Cross Good Friday morning in Saskatoon. schools. vulnerable, suffering because of who they are,” worship; justice and peace; and Over 700 people of all ages took part in the she said, calling for a Church that will be a Development and Peace representatives two and a half hour walk, following the cross living, breathing community that “offers hope, prayed about violence at the tenth station, building and sustaining as it was carried by volunteers, singing hymns kindness, acceptance and love to all people, while University of Saskatchewan campus community. along the way, and stopping to pray at 14 regardless of what their circumstances might ministry representatives addressed the issue of Ways to highlight and stations, led by a variety of community groups be.” affordable housing, and members of the implement the Rooted in Christ and representatives in an ecumenical effort Restorative ministry was the theme at the environmental organization Earthcare prayed vision at the deanery and parish organized April 10 by the Roman Catholic fourth station’s reflection Jesus meets his about the recent financial collapse. levels were explored. Diocese of Saskatoon Office for Justice and mother. It is in the love of a mother for a child Members of the Powell family representing “It starts as a visioning Peace. St. Augustine parish in Saskatoon, carried the where the mothers of victims and the mothers process,” suggested Cote, describ- At the first station on the steps of the of condemned criminals can perhaps meet in cross to the Saskatoon cabinet office to reflect ing discussions that recently took federal courthouse, Catholic Bishop Albert solidarity, said a representative of restorative on “who is the stranger.” LeGatt, Anglican Bishop Rodney Andrews, justice ministries, standing outside of the At the fourteenth station, representatives of place at the Saskatoon City and Bishop Cynthia Halmarson of the HMCS Unicorn building. “This intersection of the diocesan Office for Justice and Peace stood Deanery about the diocesan vision. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada hearts too is marked by a cross. It is a place of at the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral to reflect The DPC reviewed methods for (ELCIC) joined together in a reflection about paradox and a place of strength,” she said. and pray about genocide. reflecting on the vision and coming faith. “Only in the cross do justice and restoration “Jesus continues to live and die in our up with a plan of action for one or LeGatt prayed that the walk through the meet … Jesus asks us to join in this circle of sisters and brothers in the world over,” said one two of the priorities. city, reflecting on the struggles and injustices in justice and peace spokesperson, reflecting on life, where reconciliation is at the root of all It is important to ensure the the world, would inspire participants “to be relationships.” the concentration camps of World War II, the diocesan vision doesn’t “fall off the faithful in turn to all the poor, the suffering and Representatives of St. Michael, St. Patrick dropping of the nuclear bomb, the forced wounded of our world” and to respond with and St. Peter the Apostle parishes in Saskatoon famine in the Ukraine, and the Rwandan table” as members come and go on concrete actions that are “courageous, carried the cross to a liquor store, leading a massacre. “And for the Burmese people; the a parish or deanery council, noted visionary and self-sacrificing.” reflection about human trafficking. Palestinian people; the Sudanese people of Arden Andreas of Lancer, who At a medical building, members of the Saskatoon Native Ministries led prayers Darfur; indigenous people throughout the represents Catholic Connections Filipino community reflected and prayed about about missing Aboriginal women at the sixth world; the hundreds of thousands of women, and the Knights of Columbus on the food industry, before members of Our Lady station. girls and boys trafficked for sexual slavery; and the DPC. of Guadalupe Parish carried the cross to the the people for whom you would like to pray in Alternative energy was the theme explored One suggestion was to make the third station outside Knox United Church, silence,” added director Tony Haynes, before by members of the Inter-Church Uranium Rooted in Christ diocesan vision a where Parish Life Director Verna Vandale led a Committee outside of the CTV building, while the assembled crowd prayed the Lord’s Prayer reflection about issues in the inner city. a representative of the anti-poverty social together to end the event. standing item on parish council and “It is a great sadness, when we see our action group Equal Justice for All spoke about deanery agendas, ensuring regular people enslaved by poverty, alcohol, drugs and unemployment outside the Canada Employ- The diocesan Office for Justice and Peace reports and reflections related to racism. These people are often alone and ment Building on 22 nd Street. is supported by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. some aspect of the vision will happen at every meeting. - KLY Canadian bishops send committee to Mexico to investigate allegations OTTAWA – A committee of information had circulated which as letting it see first-hand how Development and Peace was relief in the global south. It is also inquiry of the Canadian Council of suggested these groups had Development and Peace approaches founded by the Bishops of Canada the Canadian branch of Caritas Catholic Bishops (CCCB) visited expressed support for abortion, its work with its partners in the in 1967 as their official agency for Internationalis . The CCCB website Mexico April 15-19 to look into although the organizations have global south. development work and emergency is at: www.cccb.ca allegations about five Mexican denied this. organizations that received project The committee of inquiry is Episcopal Corporation of Saskatoon funding from the Canadian Catholic chaired by Archbishop Martin W. Organization for Development and Currie of St. John’s, Newfoundland, Operating fund revenue and expenses Peace. and Bishop François Lapierre, For year end June 30, 2008 The committee is now preparing PMÉ, of Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec. a report for the CCCB permanent Assisting them are Msgr. Mario 2008 2007 council. The bishops of Canada will Paquette, PH, CCCB general secre- SUPPORT AND REVENUE then be notified of the results of the tary, and Msgr. Carlos Quintana Bishopʼs Appeal $1,107,952 . $1,078,572 . Parish assessments inquiry, after which the results will Puente, CSS, from the United States 961,953 . 942,380 . Investment income 176,491 . 365.657 . be made public. Conference of Catholic Bishops Donations 771,493 . 738,859 . While in Mexico, the members where he is executive director of its Brazil collections 146,558 . 17,012 . of the committee met with Secretariat for the Church in Latin Ministry 228,077 . 123,773 . representatives of the Episcopal America. Sundry 874,179 . 188,355 . Conference of Mexico and with The visit to Mexico provided an 4,266,703 . 3,454,608 . senior representatives of the opportunity for the committee to EXPENSES organizations mentioned in the investigate the specific issues raised Pastoral services 1,134,128 . 955,838 . allegations. Prior to the inquiry, by the Mexican allegations as well Outreach grants & donations * 6,178,973 . 937,142 . Clergy and vocations 435,934 . 392,207 . Brazil mission 146,355 . 138,187 . With funding from the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, Administration and chancery 1,536,419 . 912,399 . this newsletter is published twice per year Parish support 161,986 . 123,441 . (spring/summer & fall/winter) 9,593,795 . 3,459,214 . by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Revenue less expenses before the undernoted: * (5,327,092) . (4,606) Editor: Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Communications Coordinator Loss on disposal of property (7,818) . 150,375 . Loss on disposal of investments (260,033) . - Phone: 306-242-1500 or 306-651-3935 Unrealized gains in the market value of investments: 25,384 . 311,766 . or toll free at: 1-877-661-5005 Fax: 244-6010 REVENUE, LESS EXPENSES: (5,569,559) . 457,535 . Mail: 100 - 5th Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 2N7 FUND BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR: 6,871,714 6,414,179 Email: [email protected] FUND BALANCE, END OF YEAR: $ 1,302,155 . $ 6,871,714 . Web page: www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com * A donation of $5,452,027 was made to the Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 3

ABY LEArH PEeRRAULT not our heaorut thte dseepest cobncernus and irssuens iTnhis sgpring, twhe Cainadtian hareicanlled to dou, willswe be? able to DIRECTOR OF PASTORAL SERVICES of our people. This has been a Association for Parish Nursing be and become th e followers of One of the daily readings in the surprising time of blessing for us, as Ministry is hosting their annual Jesus. week following Easter recalled the we cannot respond to concerns and conference in the diocese and One As we continue to journey story of the disciples encountering questions that are not voiced. Many More Soul Canada is hosting a together as a family of faith, I the risen Jesus on the road to parish volunteers are reporting back national Theology of the Body invite you to call the Catholic Emmaus. As I stood in prayer with that the time taken to visit the parish conference. Plans are well Pastoral Centre if our walking with the staff at the Catholic Centre, families is bearing fruit far beyond underway for a Marriage you would be helpful. Further, as listening to the reading, I found the dollars generated for the Conference to be hosted by the we unite in faith as a people rooted myself laughing at just how often campaign. diocesan Marriage Task Force in in Christ, I encourage you to call Christ walks among us unnoticed Many parishes in the diocese March of 2010. The Lay Formation, your neighbouring parishes and by us, his followers. are also responding to the restored Foundations and Rural Catechetics friends to support and inspire one We are busy people, in a culture order of initiation, in the final stages programs add to the learning another. of busy people. Busy people are of confirming young people from opportunities available to us right This Easter season, our productive, contributing to ages seven to thirteen. Some here in the diocese. If we can make challenge is to see Christ in and to important efforts, offering their parishes have begun the Steps in the time, there is no shortage of be Christ for one another. We are gifts for sharing, driving kids and Faith program for adolescents, opportunities to be formed in faith. called to firmly root ourselves in the grandkids to soccer, dance and bringing creative solutions to youth With all these things to do, not God who loves us unconditionally, catechism, and who knows what Touching the Cloak catechesis and ministry. Wadena, to mention all the worthwhile so that we can tend to aging parents, else! Despite the great joy and life Leah Perrault Humboldt, Macklin areas (among programs and efforts underway in care for our children, reach out to we find in our faith, the parishes, others) are working hard to respond our parishes, workplaces, commun- the suffering and grow in our ministries and people that make up to the needs of our young people. ities and families, it is no small faithfulness. Indeed, Jesus is our diocese are rarely a refuge from Eleven city parishes are preparing miracle if we can recognize Christ walking among us, breaking open the busy life. have exceeded the highest goal, to welcome teams of young people walking alongside us. Our diocesan the scriptures in the activities and The Uniting in Faith Campaign while others are still grappling with who will be converging in vision, unveiled last fall, calls us to appointments that keep us busy. He is well underway where it isn’t the challenges. In all cases, the Saskatoon for the Catholic be people Rooted in Christ . Only can minister to and with us in our looming large as the next big campaign is calling on the time and Christian Outreach Impact mission when we feel our hearts burning busy lives, not only when we project to tackle. Some parishes energy of our people and bringing this summer. inside us, in the midst of all that we manage to escape them. Forty hours of prayer for life over 40 days of Lent For one hour a day over 40 days, prayers for life were of the regular “prayer warriors,” she noted. “For some offered on the street outside Saskatoon City Hospital. of them it was quite a personal thing to come out. One From Ash Wednesday to Palm Sunday an average of woman said ‘I don’t want to sign up, but I have to sign between 12 and 15 people participated in the prayer up, this is something I have to do.’ I felt like that too.” walk for life, calling for an end to abortion. Challenges included some bitterly cold weather, as Dubbed “Exodus 2009,” the event was organized by well as negative and sometimes angry feedback from a Elaine Millette, Denise Hounjet-Roth and Carol few passers-by, Millette said. “But there was definitely Tokaruk of Saskatoon, as a way to share in the “Forty more positive than negative,” she stressed, adding that Days For Life” prayer movement happening across some conversations revealed to her the need for more Canada and the United States. In larger centres, round- prayer. “I know that prayer can change hearts.” the-clock prayer vigils are organized for 40 days –a Organizers are already looking ahead to next year. commitment beyond the resources of the Saskatoon pro- “We’re definitely going to do this again,” she said of the life community, said Millete. Lenten project, suggesting next year it might take place “We didn’t know what the response would be,” she at Royal University Hospital, where abortions are also said of the Lenten project, describing how organizers performed. ensured that at least two were booked to pray the hour Members of the Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association from 4:30 to 5:30 each day. In the end, the smallest took part in a pro-life March on the Legislature in Regina number that came out on any given day was seven, and May 7, and a national convention will be held in Saskatoon the most was 23. Friendships were formed among some this October. Visit the website at: www.saskprolife.com Prayers for life were offered outside Saskatoon City Hospital in Lent.

Be of the same mind, having the same love… BAA ANNUAL REPORT that was in Christ Jesus. Phil. 2:2,5 2008 ALLOCATIONS Dear Friends, Catholic Christian Outreach $ 5,000 This report marks a wonderful milestone: we celebrate 25 years of Catholic Deaf Ministry $ 8,000 the Bishop’s Annual Appeal in our diocese. Catholic Family Services $ 50,000 Communications $ 74,000 Each fall since 1984, you have been asked to share and participate Ecumenism $ 23,000 in ministries such as those listed here. Each year, you have Education of Laity for Ministry $ 17,000 responded with faithful generosity. Education of Priests & Future Priests $ 65,000 Friendship Inn $ 30,000 This success is noted not only in numbers and dollar signs, Grants in Support of Rural Ministry $ 40,000 although these are tangible measures. More importantly, we Hospital Chaplaincy $ 40,000 acknowledge the services provided, the programs developed, and L’Arche Saskatoon $ 5,000 the ministry shared in faith and love with our brothers and sisters in Lay Formation Program $ 137,000 Christ. Liturgy Commission $ 10,000 Marriage & Family Life $ 15,000 For this I congratulate you, I salute you and I thank you. Ministry Development $ 62,000 This allocations report indicates the disbursement of your gifts Native Religious Ministry $ 67,000 Newman Centre/Campus Ministry among the faith education programs, ministries and services - St. Thomas More College $ 5,000 designated in the 2008 Appeal. The total pledged to date is Office for Justice & Peace $ 9,000 $1,438,555. Parish Sharing Incentive rebates have been issued to Priests’ Pension Fund $ 130 ,000 48 parishes (having exceeded their parish guidelines) for their own initiatives. BAA expenses Resource Library $ 30,000 for administration and educational materials remain at 6% of the total pledged. Rural Catechetics $ 114,000 St. Paul’s Hospital To those who support the Appeal through prayer, those who share their financial gifts, and - Spiritual Care $ 7,000 those who serve as volunteers for the BAA in their parish communities, I offer my heartfelt St. Peter’s College $ 25,000 thanks. May God bless you always. Saskatchewan Catholic Health Corporation $ 5,000 Sincerely in Christ, Scripture Resources & Small Christian Communities $ 28,000 Support of Life $ 8,000 Most Rev. Albert LeGatt Teen-Aid $ 36,000 Youth Ministry $ 48,000 Bishop of Saskatoon PARISH SHARING INCENTIVE $ 233,808 Bishop’s Annual Appeal 100 - 5th Avenue North Administration $ 84,219* Saskatoon, SK S7K 2N7 Phone: (306) 242-1500 ext. 242 TOTAL RECEIVED Toll Free: 1-877-661-5005 All gifts are used exclusively for the ministry TO April 15, 2009 $1,411,027 E-mail: [email protected] of the Bishopʼs Annual Appeal * Amount projected to June 30, 2009 Page 4 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009

Aboriginal Stream Advisory Committee wraps up years of ground-breaking work on unique formation program BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI The first participants in a Uniting In Faith... ground-breaking Aboriginal Lay to provide faith formation Formation program will be missioned in June. The Aboriginal stream of Lay spirituality in the context of their Formation was created as a joint own traditions and cultures. project of three Roman Catholic An Aboriginal Stream Advisory dioceses: Saskatoon, Prince Albert Committee worked on behalf of the and Keewatin-Le Pas. three bishops to develop the Members of the Aboriginal Stream Advisory Committee gathered recently to mark the end of their Aboriginal Lay Formation program. Saskatoon Bishop Albert work in establishing an Aboriginal Lay Formation program. Standing (l-r): Mona Goodman, Germaine happens in conjunction with LeGatt and Archbishop Sylvain Lafond, Agnes Pelletier, Leah Perrault, Michael Averyt, Donna Kristian, Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie, formation offered collaboratively by Lavoie of Keewatin-Le Pas Ivan and Kathy Hitchings; seated (l-r): Bishop Albert LeGatt, Gayle Weenie, Sr. Bonnie Komarnicki, the Roman Catholic Diocese of presented committee members with SSMI, Irene Sharp, Cecilia Morin and Sr. Marijka Konderewicz, SSMI. Committee members who were Saskatoon and by the Ukrainian certificates of appreciation at a unable to attend included: Vivian Whitehawk; Fr. Bill Bernard, CSsR; Harry Lafond; Frank and Jenny Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon. The recent celebration held to mark the Munroe; Fr. Bill Stang, OMI; Verna Vandale; Sr. Cecile Fahl, SMS; Dr. Cecil King; Sr. Ethel Detz; and three streams – Aboriginal, diocesan conclusion of the committee’s work. Bishop Albert Thevenot of Prince Albert. and eparchial – provide faith Kathy Hitchings, one of the Lay formation, spiritual development Formation coordinators, briefly and pray together, the idea of having In January 2005, the bishops of their Catholic faith. Others observed and an experience of Christian described the history of the an aboriginal stream of Lay Saskatoon, Prince Albert and how the program has broadened community to all participants. Aboriginal Lay Formation program, Formation came forth.” Keewatin-Le Pas gave their support understanding among committee The three streams run which had its beginnings in a Native The idea certainly grew out of to the idea of developing an and team members, and among all concurrently, one weekend a month Dialogue group that began in 2004. the successful collaboration Aboriginal Lay Formation stream, those participating in the program. from September to June over two “We always had aboriginal between the diocese and the eparchy and the advisory committee was Aboriginal Lay Formation is “a years. Participants from all three people coming to our Lay of Saskatoon, in which Eastern Rite established to develop the program. way of sharing, of building streams spend time together for Formation program, but we wanted Ukrainian Catholics journey An intense period of planning was spirituality and of building up the some sessions and presentations, to be more welcoming and sensitive alongside diocesan Lay Formation launched, with committee members church community,” said Germaine and also meet in their individual to their needs,” Hitchings said. “As participants in a unique, jointly considering how the program would Lafond, who participated on the groups to explore faith and we were gathered to listen and learn coordinated program, she noted. work: “looking at topics, looking at advisory committee along with her presenters, looking at prayer, husband Harry Lafond. The looking at community life,” experience provides a way for Hitchings recalled. aboriginal people to “take Vivian Whitehawk was hired as ownership” of their faith, and bring Program participants share blessings coordinator of Aboriginal Lay their gifts to the church, she added. Formation and the first two-year “The blessing that I’ve seen as I with children in parish and community program began in the fall of 2007, walked in this last year with Lay BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI with 11 participants in the Aboriginal Formation is the whole unfolding of stream, 13 in the Eparchial program, God right there in front of us as we For Myrtle Ballantyne and and 20 in the Saskatoon diocesan walked together in respect, dignity, Betty Highway, the blessings of program. Of that original combined and love,” said team member Mona the Aboriginal Lay Formation Lay Formation group, 35 are Goodman. program are making a real expected to graduate in June. “It opened me up as a person to difference to children in their Throughout the first two years want to help my people. We really community of Pelican Narrows. of the program, the Aboriginal need help in our communities,” said The two women have grown in Stream Advisory Committee has committee member Cecilia Morin. faith and understanding, prayer continued to provide support and “I feel like we’re all one, united and community as part of the consultation, Hitchings said. together for God.” inaugural class of the Aboriginal Although there have been a few Committee member Gayle Lay Formation program offered in “wrinkles and hiccups” along the Weenie, expressed appreciation for Saskatoon, participating one way, the shared program has been all the work done by the Lay weekend a month for nearly two overwhelmingly positive, she said. Formation team in making the years. It’s a huge commitment that “When we look at the level of program a reality. demands time away from their respectful sharing; the way attitudes Bishop Albert LeGatt said the families, but both say it’s been have shifted and changed among Lay Formation program is one part worth it. people; the way the learning has of a much larger picture that “It has helped me a lot, to helped us to really come to know includes reconciliation among understand more about my faith,” each other in new and wonderful peoples and healing of the hurts said Highway. In turn, the ways; the shared friendship; the caused by residential schools. “A lot program is helping the women to shared faith; the shared prayer – it of the things we talk about in terms reach out and share their faith with Myrtle Ballantyne ( left ) and Betty Highway of Pelican Narrows has been a wonderful, wonderful of greater understanding, greater children in their community. say Lay Formation is making a difference in peopleʼs lives. experience,” Hitchings said. respect, greater cooperation – we are Highway and Ballantyne are “I think formation in our seeing that happening at Lay among those at their home parish “We are making a difference,” Highway, reflecting on how the program has always been a kingdom Formation,” observed Bishop of St. Gertrude who recently added Highway. “Walking around late Steven Ballantyne encouraged experience. We bring people LeGatt, noting that participants will helped establish a catechism the community we can see these her to undertake the program and together and the whole point is to be also take that new understanding program, now offered to seven kids: they wave at us, with a smile to stick with it. in a place where they can relax, and back to their parishes and local different age groups on weekday on their face. They remember. “That was how I got involved. God can work in them to become communities. afternoons. Ballantyne and What we teach them helps their When I wanted to give up he’d fully who God intends them to be,” “This gives me hope,” Highway teach the Grade 2 inner spirit.” say: ‘finish what you started.’ He she said. Archbishop Lavoie said of the program, presenting lessons, Highway also holds regular inspired me, and really, really Blessings of the Aboriginal Lay program, noting that it is unique in scripture and learning activities. after-school gatherings in her encouraged us all.” Formation program were shared by Canada. Highway and Ballantyne also home, where youngsters can come The Aboriginal Stream of Lay committee members during the lead a children’s liturgy program and watch a DVD, spend time Formation is a joint project of March 26 celebration, with several For more information about Lay during Sunday Mass at St. with their friends and enjoy a three dioceses – Saskatoon, Prince noting how it provides much-needed Formation (which is supported by Gertrude – something which is snack. “Without this, they’re just Albert and Keewatin-Le Pas. The encouragement and support to the BAA) contact the Catholic drawing more children to church. moping around with nothing to do. Aboriginal Stream, which began Aboriginal people as they live out Pastoral Centre, 242-1500. Up to 70 children are participating It makes me happy to be able to do in September 2007, joined the each week, said Ballantyne. this.” existing Lay Formation Program “Before this, on Sundays, Needed supplies for the after- shared between the diocese of Wishart parish celebrates some of the kids didn’t come to school outreach were recently Saskatoon and the eparchy of church. Now, with activities and a collected by fellow Lay Formation Saskatoon. Participants from all 100th anniversary of first Mass program for them, they want to be participants – a spontaneous three streams will be commiss- One hundred years ago, the first Mass was celebrated in Wishart, there,” said Ballantyne. Parents response to hearing stories the ioned in June. Saskatchewan. have also come up and expressed women were sharing about their For more information about Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish in Wishart will celebrate this 100th appreciation for what the children experiences in reaching out to Lay Formation contact Kathy anniversary Sunday, June 21. are learning, she added. children in the community. Hitchings, Mona Goodman or Bishop Albert LeGatt will preside at a Mass with confirmations, “With this Sunday activity, Support that one gets from Vivian Whitehawk at the Catholic beginning at 2 p.m. there’s more interest in learning others in the program is an Pastoral Centre in the diocese of A parish supper and program will follow. Supper is $15 per plate, and about the meaning of our Lord and important part of the Lay Saskatoon: 242-1500 or toll free the deadline for tickets is June 1. Saviour,” Ballantyne said. Formation experience, said 1-877-661-5005. Contact Glen and Chris Hall at 306-576-2440. Everyone is welcome. If you have ever lived in Wishart please join the celebration. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 5

Volunteer creates

aOnlga Pdroznickdsays othat mnakinag rostaries s rosaries is a way to keep her hands busy – while doing something for Mary and for others. Over the past 50 years she has made some 37,000 rosaries of various designs, skillfully bending the wire into chains connecting brightly coloured beads, or intricately working cord into knots for Brian Zerr ( right ) and Emily Mann of Christopher House met with LʼArche Founder prayer. Jean Vanier during a summer gathering in Calgary. “God made our hands, we should make - Photo courtesy of LʼArche Calgary/George Webber use of them,” she says with a smile. “She doesn’t have any spare time, she wants to be doing something all the time,” adds her husband Fred. The couple have lived in Saskatoon for the past 37 years, and BYLMʼAARGARrET cSAhNCHeE marks anniverinscoammruynity L’Arche Saskatoon recently celebrated Uniting In Faith... attend St. Philip Neri parish. the one-year anniversary of the opening of Originally from Wynyard, SK., Olga its first home, Christopher House. In the represented L’Arche Saskatoon at the was living in Craik with her young family home, people with and without intellectual International Assembly in Kolkata, India. when a visiting priest came through the disabilities share their lives together. During the gathering, L’Arche Saskatoon community, promoting devotion to Mary. Christopher House is home to four core was formally received into the L’Arche “The priest said: ‘love my Mary, like I love members and three or four assistants, who International Federation and presented with her’ … and I began to think about what I are supported by an “extended family” of a colourful banner of welcome. could do to give thanks for her blessings.” part-time assistants, volunteers and friends. The spirit of L’Arche founder Jean When the family moved to Naicam, the In addition to monthly Friends of Vanier’s way of living the gospel can be president of the Christian Mothers L’Arche gatherings, there is a L’Arche found in his writings; in the many L’Arche organization, Mary Draude, put out a call to prayer night each Wednesday at Christopher communities around the world, whether anyone interested in making rosaries. “The idea grabbed me,” Olga says. The first House. The prayer nights are ecumenical Christian ecumenical or multi-faith; in Faith Olga Proznick displays bundles of her rosaries were a bit rough, she adds with a and open to all, with singing, reflection on and Light groups; in Intercordia (a for-credit colourful handmade rosaries. the Sunday gospel reading, and prayer for program available to students at St. Thomas laugh, but she hasn’t stopped since. Her one another and for the world. More College in Saskatoon); and in many friendship with Mary Draude has also Louisville, Kentucky, which provides an The L’Arche Saskatoon craft group books, articles and educational materials. A continued, and even today she helps to pay information, supply and distribution meets one Sunday afternoon each month at new resource for church youth groups was shipping costs for rosaries that Olga sends network for thousands of volunteer rosary St. Stephen’s Anglican Church. Anyone can recently developed by Amy Bunce of away for distribution. makers across the United States and bring a craft or project they are working on, L’Arche Saskatoon: Choosing our Future – At first the supplies to make the rosaries Canada. The rosaries are sent to or else help with some of the crafts being A Bible Study with Jean Vanier. It includes a were provided, but eventually Olga began to missionaries, hospitals, schools and prisons. done by others. In October, the craft group leader’s guide, DVD, and action cards. purchase the materials on her own. “I just It’s much easier than doing it on her own, completed 50 hand-made sock dolls that For information about these and other kept on going from there,” she describes, she says. became table centerpieces at a CHAS L’Arche resources, as well as information noting she now makes most of the rosaries Olga says she is thankful for all the conference in Saskatoon. The unique dolls about becoming a L’Arche assistant, visit the with a plastic cross and medal, because that blessings in her own life, and the way that were sold to conference participants and websites www.larche.ca or www.larche.org is less costly than the metal variety. prayer has helped her – for instance in proceeds donated to L’Arche. The craft For more about L’Arche Saskatoon, go Over the years, Olga has sent her recovering from spinal meningitis after a group also prepares materials for rosary- to www.larchesaskatoon.org or call Wyndham rosaries to missionaries in Africa and to doctor said she might never walk again. making by students in Catholic schools. Thiessen at 262-7243. India; given them to different priests and “That was in September, and in January I One of the benefits of L’Arche is the L’Arche Saskatoon receives basic sisters to share in their ministry; and for a went back to work,” she recalls. opportunity to participate in regional and financial support from the Saskatchewan time she would also take them to St Paul’s “Some people need more prayers than international L’Arche events, such as the government, but supplementary funds are Hospital. She also sent a batch of rosaries to others,” she says with a smile. L’Arche Alberta Winter Games in February, required each year. Individuals, parishes, lay Pope John Paul II when he was preparing She plans to continue making the in which members of our community organizations and congregations of religious his first papal visit to Poland – in memory of rosaries – and hopes more people will see participated, or the L’Arche International in the Catholic community are among the her own father, who was also from Poland. the value of prayer. She acknowledges that Assembly, held every three years in different supporters of L’Arche Saskatoon. Eventually the cost and effort involved it seems like people had more time to pray areas of the world. L’Arche Saskatoon is one of the in distributing the rosaries on her own when she was growing up. “Perhaps people In October, 2008, the L’Arche Saskatoon organizations in the community supported became too much. Olga now distributes need shorter prayers, these days,” she said. Community Leader, Wyndham Thiessen, by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. them through Our Lady’s Rosary Makers in “We all need prayer.” - KLY Rural deanery gathers to “bridge gap” About 25 parish council members, pastors and Uniting In Faith... parish life directors from across the Saskatoon Rural Deanery gathered at Bethlehem High School March 21 Parish - Deanery - Diocese for a retreat day to Bridge the Gap between busy lives and love for God. The day was facilitated by Leah Perrault, director Perrault invited them to consider the words of Nobel of pastoral services, at the invitation of deanery Physicist, Max Planck, who said, “When we change chairperson Bernard Hamoline. the way we look at things, the things we look at “We’ve been struggling to find energy in the change.” deanery,” said Hamoline, when asked why he came Perrault said that at the end of the day those for the day. “And I was ready to try something gathered were seeing the deanery in a different light: different for inspiration.” rather than being another meeting, the deanery can be Through a series of reflections, discussions and a community of faith that can inspire energy for the activities, Perrault invited those gathered to consider work we share in serving our parishes. how meeting as a deanery could be life-giving for its 11 The deanery will be “gathering” (rather than parish communities while also providing consultation meeting) in the fall, with a new outlook on their shared to the bishop and Catholic Pastoral Centre. future, she said. Viscount parish receives accessibility grant BY BARB DALE across Canada approved for the grant for small projects ST. A LPHONSE , V ISCOUNT enabling accessibility. Parish celebration held for Verna Vandale St. Alphonse Parish in Viscount recently received a The parish plans to build an entrance on the west Verna Vandale (right) wraps up in a healing shawl presented to $50,000 federal grant from the Enabling Accessibility side of the church that will have a lift for access from her by parish council chair Cecile Smith on behalf of Our Lady Fund. the ground level, up to the main level of the Church of Guadalupe Parish. After Sunday celebration of the Eucharist The goal of the fund is to promote vibrant and down to the auditorium. In addition, accessible April 26, the parish community gathered at St. Mary School to communities that benefit from the participation of wash-rooms will be built in the auditorium. honour Vandale for her service and leadership as Parish Life people with varying abilities in everyday life activities, Construction began Feb. 1, 2009, and must be Director. The program included an honour song, traditional according to a September 2008 press release. The fund complete within one year. dancers (including the guest of honourʼs daughter and four- assists communities in making buildings and facilities In the fall of 2007, St. Alphonse Parish established year-old granddaughter), entertainment, a potluck, and many more accessible for people of varying abilities, and a building fund so that donations could be collected words of appreciation and friendship. The newest parish in the increases opportunities for everyone to participate and proceeds from fundraisers could be used for the diocese of Saskatoon, Our Lady of Guadalupe integrates First socially and economically. purpose of improving accessibility. The parish is close Nations culture and spirituality into celebrations and parish life. St. Alphonse Parish is one of 163 organizations to meeting the targeted goal for the project. Page 6 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009 Volunteers at prison reflect on experience of providing ministry on Ash Wednesday BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Three volunteers who provided “... I was in prison and pastoral ministry in a Saskatoon prison Ash Wednesday recently you visited me...” Matthew 25:36 reflected on the challenges and rewards of the experience. Volunteers are needed to help with The pastoral care volunteers Prison Ministry in our diocese from parishes around the city joined Contact Dianne Anderson of the Restorative Ministry Office diocesan Restorative Ministry Catholic Pastoral Centre: 242-1500; Toll free: 1-877-661-5005 E-mail: [email protected] coordinator Dianne Anderson at the With images of the Stations of the Cross posted along the prison Saskatoon Correctional Centre to fence, inmates joined Dianne Anderson in an outdoor way of the mark the start of Lent with a liturgy felt comfortable and safe, and joined Copeland of St. Peter the Apostle in the liturgy with some 30 men who parish. “Whether it is a wrong choice cross Holy Thursday at the Saskatchewan Correctional Centre. On in the prison chapel, followed by Easter Sunday, Anderson and volunteers delivered chocolate distribution of ashes to men chose to attend the celebration in the made in life, or the circumstances of prison chapel. “It was so touching to life that have placed some people rabbits to the men in prison, thanks to donations from parishes. throughout the prison. - Photo courtesy of diocesan Restorative Ministry Office “We went together through all hear their prayer intentions for their into prison, I feel it is not for me to the buildings to offer ashes, families and for themselves,” she be their judge.” Uniting In Faith... for Restorative Ministry explaining the prayer and the symbol said. Distributing donated gifts to as we went along,” said Anderson. “Then we went down many prisoners at Christmas, and “Those who chose to take the ashes corridors and I took turns distributing the ashes at the and a real privilege to be able to suffering and death of Christ and would line up and we marked them distributing ashes and listening to beginning of Lent were both positive share any gifts that God has given then at the end of the 40 days to with the cross, and said the words of these men ask for prayers and for experiences for Copeland. The me with others.” rejoice on Easter Sunday when we blessing. Almost all of the men Bibles,” she said. “It gripped my experience of ministering in the For William Fletcher, of St. celebrate his resurrection. wanted to participate – I’d say 95 per heart when I heard a young man ask prison has also opened her eyes to Philip Neri Parish, the Ash “They all lined up to a man and cent. They didn’t refuse. It was very us to pray for his unborn child and injustices and to problems within the Wednesday celebration was his received the ashes with reverence. I moving.” the mother.” system, she said. second time helping at the am certain that some hearts were For Cathy Kary of Holy Spirit Kary noted that there are many “Our law is placing people into Correctional Centre. “I must say I touched and that seeds were planted parish, coming to the Correctional ways to bring Jesus to those in prison an institution that is very over was comfortable being with the there,” Fletcher said. Centre to provide ministry was – such as providing Bibles and other crowded, with little to absolutely no guys. The chapel was filled with “I left with a strong conviction of prompted by a learning process, and spiritual books, donating needed training or rehabilitation to better men who chose to be there,” he said. the value of prison ministry. I had a personal invitation. “In the past I clothing, or remembering the men at equip them on release so they do not “I was impressed and touched by the seen it in action and I witnessed the had the opportunity to tour the centre special seasons, as happens at Easter re-offend,” Copeland said. “What faith and reverence they showed.” meaning and importance of this and hear Dianne Anderson speak with parishes collecting donations of we are doing is locking them away in The service led by Anderson was ceremony for the men,” he said. about the needs in prison ministry,” chocolate rabbits to distribute to an institution that is little more than simple but powerful, he said. “With “They, like any of us, have a said Cathy, describing how her heart inmates. Prayer is also vital, she said. a warehouse with very little hope or devotional music playing in the longing for spiritual nourishment. went out to prisoners and their “This experience has shown me chance to break the cycle that has put background, Dianne invited the men Despite past mistakes or offences, families as she learned more about that we must pray for our prisoners, them in prison to begin with. It is to come forward and receive the they are loved by God and the Son of the justice system. their families (they all have a mom), ‘out of sight, out of mind.’” ashes. They hesitated at first, God gave his life for them. This Her moment of commitment for the many people who work in the While a fortunate few may have seemingly not sure what this message of forgiveness, salvation came when she was approached justice system and for our strong family support systems to symbolic action meant, or what they and hope is the great gift of prison about helping with the Ash governments to provide education help them on release, many do not, might be committing themselves to.” ministry.” Wednesday celebration. Kary’s first and rehabilitation,” Kary said. “An she pointed out. “Life has truly Anderson’s encouraging and Fletcher said he was honoured to reaction was “Who me?” and to ask experience like this can change blessed me, with a strong faith, a welcoming words, and her be part of the outreach happening at where God was leading her. “Yes, attitudes in our society. It did for me. loving family, good role models and explanation about the meaning of the Saskatoon Correctional Centre. there was fear and yet there was By the way, God works in a wonderful mentor,” Copeland said, Lent and the ashes, was a powerful “The ministry is important if these something inside that said ‘please go mischievous ways if you let him!” adding she has also been witness he said. “She encouraged the men are to have hope for their future and see.’” Those struggling with addictions strengthened and blessed by her men to surrender their lives and and an opportunity to change their Welcomed at the Correctional or serving time in prison still deserve experience of centering prayer over make a commitment of faith,” he lives based on personal knowledge Centre by Anderson and prison to be treated with dignity and the past few years. “I realize how said, describing her message about and experience of the love and chaplain Peter Oliver, Kary said she respect, stressed volunteer Marge fortunate I am, and find it rewarding Lent being a time to remember the forgiveness of Jesus Christ.” St. Paul’s Hospital celebrates success What is role of parish nurse? BY MICHEL THIBAULT A conference for anyone interested in any of recent campaign ST. P HILIP NERI , S ASKATOON For over 2000 years, Christian faith aspect of Parish Nursing will be BY JACQUIE BERG communities have reached out to the ill, the held in Saskatoon May 21-24 : A celebration to mark the successful broken, the scorned, and the suffering – Bridging Spirituality and Health completion of an Embracing the Future offering them healing through touch, through Park Town Hotel, 924 Spadina Cres. East capital campaign that raised over $10 million the kind of listening that empowers, and Brochure and registration information: was hosted March 31 at St. Paul’s Hospital. through prayer. Throughout the ages, these www.capnm.ca/AGM_2009.htm “Through the generosity, commitment communities of faith provided the care, Contact: Elaine Hesje, Registrar, 652-4524 and compassion of our donors, we comfort, compassion and hope that came to surpassed our goals and have already begun Alain Gaucher, Irene and Les Dubé at be known as “health care.” health-related issues, symptoms and to put those funds to work,” said campaign the recent celebration. Parish nurse ministry is one expression of conditions such as blood pressure, weight chair Alain Gaucher. century-old beacon of hope and healing.” Christ’s healing ministry. management, blood sugar levels, addictions, The St. Paul’s Hospital Embracing the Other major benefactors were also This ministry at St. Philip Neri parish in medic alert programs, advanced health care Future campaign focused on three priority recognized, including Cameco ($1.5 Saskatoon had its beginnings when two directive and living wills. They have areas: a Urology Centre of Health; a nuclear million) and Rawlco Radio ($1 million). Registered Nurses, Deb Bauche and Ethna organized blood pressure clinics at the medicine department with state-of-the-art A $750,000 contribution from Areva Martin, enrolled in the InterChurch Health church, and organized men’s and women’s equipment; and an MRI for access to the Resources has already been put to great use Ministries parish nursing training course in health brunches. highest level of diagnostic testing. with the implementation of a renal March 2003. Parish nurses also meet with anyone who St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation Board telehealth program providing access to In November 2003 they completed the wants to talk about a health concern with a chair, Karen Pitka, made a special health care in remote communities by practicum portion of their course at St. Philip. caring professional. They provide health presentation to donors Les and Irene Dubé. allowing technology to be utilised to With the encouragement of parish priest Fr. information and support for patients and their “It may be said that the Embracing the transfer data for physician visits. Les Paquin, and convinced that this service families prior to, during and after hospital Future campaign really came about as a “Telehealth visits will provide access to would meet needs in the parish, the nurses stays; and make home, hospital and nursing result of the Dubé’s $1 million gift for the excellent renal care in areas where this was enlisted the support of others in the parish home visits. They also accompany people to Urology Centre of health” stated Karen previously very difficult without traveling community. In April 2004 a proposal was hospital appointments and advocate for them Pitka. The Urology Centre of Health, long distances,” said Dr. Joanne Kappel, presented to parish council to hire a full time within the health services system, as well as offering improved detection and treatment head of nephrology for the Saskatoon parish nurse. Bauche and Martin were each providing information and support about of urological diseases, is now in Health Region. hired to a half-time position. moving into long term care. They provide development, while the Dubé’s additional Another benefactor in the campaign, the Parish nurses do not ordinarily provide information, prayer and support when dealing matching $1 million dollar donation secured Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation, provided hands on care, perform procedures, with chronic illness, accident, and terminal Saskatoon’s third MRI. The MRI at St. a $500,000 contribution, applied towards administer medications or seek to replace any diagnosis; as well as providing referrals to Paul’s Hospital is now booked 16 hours a equipment for the urology centre. existing health services. Instead, parish community resources and assistance. day, five days a week. Melanie Hilkewich, a SPH employee nursing pursues a concept of health that, They also assist with coordination of Todd Rosenberg, chair of St. Paul’s who works in diagnostic imaging, moves beyond merely combating disease, and liturgical services for the benefit of those in Hospital Board, applauded the campaign expressed thanks on behalf of the staff and encompasses a broader vision: a commitment need of healing, pray with the sick, and committee and the over 5,000 individuals also shared a moving account as a parent to whole health—body, mind, and spirit. connect the community with the sick and who supported the cause. “This outstanding whose child benefited from improved Services provided by the parish nurses at suffering through congregational prayer. level of support ensures the legacy of detection thanks to the acquisition of St. Philip Neri include: health education; A national parish nursing conference will ‘excellence in care’ continues for our campaign equipment. church bulletin information; prompting be held in Saskatoon May 21-24. Visit the health checks; and providing advice on website at: www.capnm.ca/AGM_2009.htm Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 7 Prayer vital part

BoY KIPfLY L UKpAN YAWaORSKI storal care The role of prayer and sacraments in Uniting In Faith... providing pastoral care to those who are sick, to care for the suffering suffering or imprisoned was explored at a diocesan workshop held March 21 in Saskatoon. her life of faith, said de Margerie, noting “we The importance of the first few minutes of are missionaries.” At the same time, the a pastoral care visit was also addressed by ministry calls for a great spirit of respect and Nancy Buttinger, diocesan coordinator of humility, he stressed, advising those involved Catholic hospital chaplaincy at Royal in pastoral care to tread lightly. “We connect University and Saskatoon City hospitals, who for the first time with some reserve, because led the workshop along with Blake Sittler of there is a heck of a lot we don’t know.” Blake Sittler, diocesan office of Ministry Development; Nancy Buttinger, coordinator the diocesan office of Ministry Development, He suggested that pastoral visitors should of Catholic hospital chaplaincy at Royal University and City Hospital; Rev. Bernard Saskatoon City Hospital chaplain Rev. listen more than they talk. “Praying along de Margerie, chaplain at City Hospital; and Madeline Oliver, pastoral associate at Bernard de Margerie and Madeline Oliver of hospital hallways is also great. That means: Holy Spirit parish (l-r) led the diocesan pastoral care workshop March 21. Holy Spirit parish. praying for people, before and after we visit,” Eighty people participated in the day-long de Margerie said. The difference between a social visit and a “ministry of care” manual being prepared for workshop that included role playing, practical “A real problem is that we visit our pastoral visit was outlined in a handout parishes through the Catholic Health suggestions, discussion, and a chance to listen patients too quickly,” he added, noting the discussed by the group, and illustrated through Association of Saskatchewan (CHAS). Plans and pray with each other in a pastoral way. pressure of time constraints and quick patient a role-playing session led by Buttinger. are to launch the new resource at the CHAS Sittler described his experience in a turnaround in hospital. Focusing on what the person thinks and feels, convention in October, he said. chaplaincy program in Edmonton, where he Even so, he suggested pastoral visitors listening with compassion, and letting the During the workshop, participants also learned how offering to pray with someone should not be too quick to propose the patient take the lead were among the marks of received a brief introduction to Restorative could bring a pastoral visit to a deeper level. reception of the sacraments. an effective pastoral visit, according to Ministry in the diocese of Saskatoon, which “Sometimes we can open it up and be a “It is important that the patient himself discussion that followed scenes enacted by provides pastoral care and outreach to prison conduit to a deeper form of prayer,” he said, make the decision to receive or celebrate a workshop leaders. inmates, to crime victims, and to their admitting it can be frightening to engage in given sacrament,” de Margerie said, “We must always recognize that we’re families. that kind of intimacy, in which one shares in providing insights into how to discuss and entering into a sacred space when we come “We’re as concerned about victims of another person’s “whisper to God.” approach the sacraments of communion, into their home, into their room and their crime as we are about those coming to Prayer also provides a connection to the reconciliation, the anointing of the sick, as lives,” Buttinger said of the first few minutes prison,” said Peter Oliver, chaplain at broader Christian community, he noted, well as the provision of final prayers when of any pastoral visit. “For instance, we would Saskatoon Correctional Centre and at the describing how as part of prison ministry, the death is near. always ask permission to come in.” Regional Psychiatric Centre. He also Saskatoon parish of St. Anne’s will regularly “Sacraments are not magic tricks, they are Paying attention to what is being said and introduced Dianne Anderson, diocesan include inmates’ prayer intentions in liturgies. not to be understood in a materialistic or not said, and to what is being revealed by body coordinator of Restorative Ministry. “We’re “A bond is created. These guys have a mechanical way,” he said. “They are actions language, is part of active listening, she said. about healing relationships. The skills you are connection to St. Anne’s: they know there are of the Lord Jesus Christ, and of his Church, in “It’s not intended to be a two-way learning here today are what we need,” Oliver people out there praying for them.” the power of the Holy Spirit for the spiritual conversation. The whole focus in on the person said, noting the similarities between pastoral Pastoral ministry should begin with a zeal nourishment, the spiritual growth of the that is in front of you… listen to the heart. care to the sick and pastoral care to those in to share and to encourage the patient in his or person who receives them in faith and desire.” Bob Williston briefly described a new prison, and to victims of crime. Pastoral care volunteers reflect on workshop; meaning of ministry Pastoral care volunteers participating in a “We were called to renew our commitment need someone to pray with, Catholic and non- March 21 workshop in Saskatoon as well as at to serve the sick and shut-ins, in a spirit of Catholic; to those who are lonely.” a February volunteer appreciation event openness, respect, and dignity,” LePage said. Lois Thomas said that her own experience recently reflected on the experience - and on “We were reminded of our call to mutual journeying with her husband through illness the nature of their ministry. respect and love as we enter that sacred space and palliative care showed her the impact that As a volunteer visitor in spiritual care in which is the hospital room, or home, of the spiritual care providers have on patients and the diocese, it’s good to have the sort of sick, the lonely, and the grieving,” she said. families. review provided by the session, said “Our call to this ministry opens us to many “This is not a ministry that I ever participant Adele Longstaff, reflecting on the situations where we encounter Christ in those envisioned myself in,” she said, describing workshop sessions. For instance, she said she we serve: we are challenged to be also the how a few months after her husband died she appreciated the comparison between a social presence of Christ to them,” added LePage. was approached by Fr. Bernard de Margerie conversation and a pastoral conversation The rewards and challenges of pastoral about volunteering at the hospital. Eventually discussed in one of the presentations. care ministry were also described at a Feb. 11 she did decide to try the ministry as a way to Providing pastoral care ministry is a way Pastoral Care Appreciation evening in give back the care and support received during Volunteers Lois Thomas ( left ) and Marie to return something for all of the blessings she Saskatoon by two volunteers from Holy Spirit her husband’s illness . Martens of Holy Spirit parish spoke at a herself has received, volunteer Adele parish, Marie Martens and Lois Thomas. “This ministry has touched my heart and February appreciation evening.. Longstaff said. “I have been comforted myself The volunteers take part in spiritual care my spirit in many ways,” Thomas said. and have seen the comforting effect that ministry at Saskatoon City Hospital. Lois Thomas try to extend a spirit of “While I’m doing my best to minister to a people who offer spiritual care and bring the “We have often wondered if we are worthy friendship and community to every patient patient, very often they are ministering to me.” Eucharist have had on members of my family and if we have the skills to perform this they meet: “especially to those who have Thomas said she cannot help but be when they were hospitalized. Knowing that ministry with the love and care it deserves,” fallen and are bruised, and need to be told that inspired by the way in which so many patients you are being prayed for by others is a real said Martens. “Through prayers to the Holy they are still beautiful; to those who are accept their suffering with such humility and gift.” Spirit and realizing that Jesus walks with us waiting for a placement in a nursing home and dignity. “This ministry has helped me accept Terry LePage of St. Augustine parish in every step of the way, this ministry has are fearful and uncertain about what the future some very difficult illnesses in my own family Saskatoon said the parish team felt the become a blessing.” holds; to those who are suffering from cancer over the past couple of years. You realize that workshop was beneficial to their ministry. As volunteers, Martens said that she and and need someone to listen … to those who you are not alone.” CHAS prepares annual Catholic health convention to be held Oct. 26-27 BY SANDRA KARY , CHAS Saskatchewan (CHAS), which will People highlights the message that speaker will be Dan Jelinski. His During the convention a revised Preparations are underway for be held Oct. 26-27 in Prince Albert. friends, family, volunteers, and leadership development business, Parish Ministry of Care Manual will the 66th annual convention of the The 2009 convention theme health care providers all work Wisdom Speaks , focuses on be launched. Catholic Health Association of Circles of Care: People Caring for together to create a strong circle of enhancing personal success, living This manual will offer a more care for each other. intentionally, and making a comprehensive resource tool for Keewatin-Le Pas Archbishop difference, underpinned with the those interested in starting, or Sylvain Lavoie will present the proclamation of gospel values in the further developing an existing Spring into Action: keynote address: The Wellness workplace. Ministry of Care program. The Circle: Twelve Spiritual Steps to This convention will also host project team will highlight this Gardening for the Soul Healthy Caring. Archbishop Lavoie ‘learning circles’ (breakout sess- manual in a breakout session. Hospital visitors are needed! has spent his life serving the ions), offering a variety of topics A unique aspect of this Have you ever considered volunteering at northern communities of Saskatche- complementing the theme. Speak- convention will be the venue - St. Saskatoon CIty Hospital or Royal University Hospital wan and Manitoba, empowering ers will include: Joy Mendel, Mary High School, providing an people through Christopher bioethicist for St. Paul’s Hospital opportunity for those involved in Don't hold back! courses, Marriage Encounters, and and for CHAS; David Sax from Catholic health care and in Catholic Contact: Nancy Buttinger at 306-292-5531 or E-mail: adaptations of the Twelve-Step Catholic Family Services in Regina; education to interact. For further [email protected] Program. and Leann Keach and Gwen Knoll information, contact 306 655-5330 The convention’s inspirational from Providence Place, Moose Jaw. or [email protected] . Page 8 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009

Richmound Foundations: Theology of Johnny Cash Many are familiar with the songs of Johnny Cash. But those who hum along to “Ring of Fire” or “Folsom Prison Blues” are not always aware of his deep faith. Pastoral care volunteers were honoured at an appreciation evening Feb. 11. A Foundations evening entitled The Theology of Johnny Cash was held March 26 at St. Mary’s parish in Richmound, Pastoral care volunteers honoured presented by Blake Sittler of Saskatoon. Sittler works for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon in the offices of Blake Sittler recently led a diocesan during event; speaker stresses Ministry Development and Marriage and Foundations session at St Mary parish Family Life, but he also spends some of his in Richmound, exploring the theology value of Catholic health care free time traveling around to various of singer Johnny Cash. BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI churches and prisons in the province, Pastoral care volunteers were honoured spreading the gospel according to “the Man Walk the Line . Sittler’s presentation has also and blessed for their ministry in hospitals, in Black.” been accompanied by up to eight different care homes, prisons, and parish communities “What I like about Cash and his guitarists. at an appreciation evening that also focused message is that he wasn’t some white picket “Whether in a church basement or a on the need to protect and support Catholic fence saint,” said Sittler. “In his life, Cash prison chapel, there is always someone who health care. made lots of mistakes and hurt a lot of is able to play a few of Cash’s songs,” said Volunteers from the Roman Catholic people, including himself. In the end Sittler. Diocese of Saskatoon and the Ukrainian though, Johnny Cash tried to make things “I’ve had local choir members strum Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon were blessed right; to come to terms with his demons.” some basic chords on a mandolin, an by Bishop Albert LeGatt during a prayer Cash had many personal hardships Australian friend lead with his acoustic, and service that opened the event Feb. 11 in including the loss of his oldest brother when once had two Aboriginal guitarists break Saskatoon. Ukrainian Catholic Bishop he was only a young boy, a drug addiction, into improvised guitar solos. It’s fun”. Bryan Bayda, CSsR, also attended the a failed marriage, and an ego that often “I love presenting this in prisons celebration at St. Anne’s parish hall, held to Sandra Kary of CHAS and Nestor Trach isolated him from help. Yet, at the end of because the guys just love Johnny,” added mark the World Day of the Sick on the Feast of the Catholic Health Corporation of his life, Cash was not a prophet of cynicism Sittler. “They hear in Cash’s music both real of Our Lady of Lourdes. Saskatchewan spoke at the event. or regret but of gratitude. life struggles and hope for redemption and “Thank you for the gifts that you give – “Cash was grateful for his faith…he an honest life…his music tells them that a gift of your time, of yourself, of your care wrote a book about St. Paul, made a movie faith is the tool of a strong man.” and compassion. You really are continuing Uniting In Faith... about the life of Jesus with his own money, Parishes or groups interested in booking the healing ministry of Christ,” LeGatt said to care for the suffering and recorded dozens if not hundreds of a Foundations faith enrichment session can in his words of greeting to the volunteers gospel songs,” explained Sittler. contact coordinator Marci Deutscher at the during a program that included speakers, Sittler’s presentation includes music Catholic Pastoral Centre 242-1500 or toll prayer and entertainment. challenging the right of Catholics and other videos from the Cash television series free: 1-877-661-5005 or by e-mail: [email protected] LeGatt noted that the bishops of denominations to operate separate schools. archives as well as scenes from the movie, Saskatchewan recently met with Premier “Although the act of 1905 guarantees the Brad Wall to discuss Catholic health care in right, it is being challenged.” the province. The bishops brought the Trach explained that Catholic message that a “Patient First” review that is Connections’ role is to develop commun- examining exactly what patients experience ication strategies informing the public about Families connect in program in the health care system must include a look the value of Catholic health care and at spiritual care, pastoral care and the ethics Catholic education and to help recognize the within the system. threats to their continued existence. ofFa mfilyr-toi-Feamnily dTiess is ha miepntor shaip nd support “Technology is good, hands-on care for Complacency and inattention within the program offered through Catholic Family the healing is good – but the heart and spirit Catholic community can be as damaging as Services, in which volunteer families are and soul are essential also,” LeGatt told the any outside forces, he noted. matched with families in need of support and volunteers. “You are part of that.” Speakers are available to inform groups friendship. It is vital to increase awareness and about Catholic Connections and the benefits Coordinator Jenna Harder said the support for the gift of Catholic health care of Catholic health care and Catholic program helps participants break through and Catholic education in the province, said education, he added. social isolation and find someone to walk guest speaker Nestor Trach, chair of the “There’s a reason why we have Catholic with them through particular challenges or Catholic Health Corporation of Sask- health and Catholic education facilities,” stages of parenting. “It really is about atchewan, which operates nine Catholic Trach said. “We commit to promote and building connections with the community,” health care facilities on behalf of the defend human dignity, to attend to the whole she said. Saskatchewan bishops. person, to care for the poor and vulnerable Volunteer families are always needed. Trach described the work of Catholic persons, to promote the common good, to Those who step forward as mentors may Connections , a group recently established act on behalf of justice, to be the stewards of be looking for a chance to volunteer as a with a broad membership in the Catholic the resources, and to act in communion with family, or to broaden their understanding of community, including Catholic health Christ,” he added, describing the gospel what others in the community are dealing groups, Catholic school districts, dioceses, vision behind Catholic institutions. with, she noted. the eparchy, Knights of Columbus and Trach concluded by asking the “It might be that as parents they want to Catholic Women’s League. The group is volunteers for prayers. “If we’re to build instil some of those values of volunteering working to proactively support both community and support Catholic health and into their children,” she said. Participation Catholic health care and Catholic education Catholic education I ask you to pray. We ask can bring a new awareness about issues that in Saskatchewan. Jesus to help us carry out the role of healer: others are facing in the community. Jenna Harder coordinates Family-to- Trach said that his experience in both the healer that he was; to help us carry out Families also discover they have many Family Ties for Catholic Family Services. Catholic education and Catholic health care the role of teacher: the teacher that he was.” things in common, she added. For instance, if have convinced him of the need for such a During the program Sandra Kary, both have pre-teen children, they realize that At the same time, the program is flexible support group. Trach was a teacher and executive director of the Catholic Health many of the issues they face as parents are the and can adapt to changing circumstances, she principal in the Catholic school system in Association of Saskatchewan (CHAS), same, she noted. added. Some matches might come to a natural Humboldt for 34 years. He was also a briefly described her organization’s work to Matching participant families with conclusion, others might continue for several member of the St. Elizabeth Hospital board support Catholic health care across the volunteer mentors – whether individuals or years, she said. in Humboldt when that facility gave up its province and thanked volunteers for their families – is done with careful screening and “Regular communication allows us to Catholic status and became a publicly- role in Catholic health care. consideration for the needs and expectations support volunteers and participants during a owned facility in the Saskatoon Health “You are paid in the warmth of a smile, of both, said Harder. match. I connect with them regularly, and do Region after months of controversy and a the touch of a hand, a moment of shared Once the match is made, ongoing support lots of home visits,” she said. Harder noted poll of area residents that showed 69 per cent laughter or maybe even tears,” Kary said. is provided through regular communication, that Family-to-Family Ties also has other on- wanted a public rather than a Catholic “Your reward is that you make life richer for as well as through regular Family-to -Family going programming to support families, such facility. someone else, and in that you grow richer as Ties events and programs, she added. as a Collective Kitchen program; Growing “It became clear that there were no well.” “We don’t expect our volunteers to be with Reading and Nutrition , a program guarantees and nothing was sacred. The fact Nancy Buttinger of the diocesan hospital counsellors. They are not expected to fix including cooking and reading activities; and that a building had a cross on the front did chaplaincy office noted that a review of problems,” she said. “They are there to help teen and young parent support. not mean it would remain a Catholic spiritual care services in the Saskatoon participant families grown and improve For more information about Family-to- facility,” Trach said. At the same time, Health Region is also underway, and strengths in the areas they want to work in.” Family Ties, contact Harder at 306-244-7773. Catholic education is under attack, he added, encouraged volunteers to share concerns and The program encourages families to Catholic Family Services is one of the describing a legal case before the courts joys of volunteering in the region. commit to a match for a year, to allow a many groups in the community supported by relationship to form. the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 9 Steps in Faith reaches out to youth BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Uniting In Faith... for ongoing faith formation A program for youth that combines catechesis, faith in action and a public re-affirmation of faith faith that is nourished and supported well-loved from confirmation within the parish community will be by the parish community,” said programs that have been offered to phased-in across the Roman Rolheiser, stressing the importance youth in Grade 6 and older. “A lot of Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon over of family and parish involvement in people were grieving that young the next three years. the formation of young people on people at this older age would miss Aimed at students in around the verge of a new phase in life. these experiences once confirmation Grade 8, Steps in Faith is being It is envisioned that the Steps in moved to a younger age,” she noted. established to address the need for Faith program will eventually The Steps in Faith program will life-long faith formation after expand to include a similar program nourish the maturing faith of Catholic Christians receive the for high-school-aged youth, poss- adolescents through continuing Youth ministers gathered to discuss the Steps in Faith program. initiation sacraments of baptism, ibly in Grade 12. catechesis about the Creed, confirmation and Eucharist. “Growing in our baptized, participation in a service project, take a bit longer,” Rolheiser said at a exploring the Creed. Resources, The need for ongoing faith confirmed Eucharistic identity is a prayer and retreat experiences. The Feb. 4 meeting of parish associates catechetical materials and retreat formation is recognized more life-long task,” says Saskatoon program includes a ceremony in the and youth ministers from city options were also discussed. widely than ever, now that children Bishop Albert LeGatt about the parish, in which youth publicly parishes. The diocesan Rural Catechetics in the diocese of Saskatoon are need for such faith formation reaffirm a more mature faith The meeting included a department is also working with confirmed at the same celebration programs; a need extending beyond commitment and are blessed by the presentation from youth minister parishes outside the city of in which they receive first youth into adulthood. community. Myron Rogal of St. Mary’s Parish in Saskatoon to provide information communion, usually in about Grade The diocese is treading on new A number of parishes in the Saskatoon, which has piloted the and support for the new Steps in 2, noted Agnes Rolheiser, chair of ground with the Steps in Faith diocese will begin the Steps in Faith program; input from diocesan Youth Faith program, which was also the diocesan committee working to program, which encompasses both program this year, while others are Ministries coordinator Sarah piloted last year by parishes in the implement Steps in Faith. catechetics and youth ministry, planning to implement it in the Farthing; and information about how Macklin area. “This re affirmation of faith at noted Rolheiser. 2009-2010 catechetical year. the Grade 7 and 8 religion curriculum Both Rural Catechetics and the Grade 8 level is another step At the same time, elements of “Parishes are implementing this in Greater Saskatoon Catholic Youth Ministries are supported by celebrating a gradual maturing in the progra m are both familiar and program as they are able. Some may Schools echoes the parish program in the Bishop’s Annual Appeal.

Humboldt responds to mission BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI of the missionary Outreach and renewal characterized an team to hundreds Oblate Parish Mission held March 8 to 21 at of local homes St. Augustine Parish in Humboldt. (often in bitterly Local volunteers dedicated hundreds of cold weather); hours to assist the 20-member mission team donating and that came into the community March 8 to preparing food begin a mission process that included home for the team; visits and the establishment of 34 small faith hosting and sharing groups – known as “listening facilitating faith centres” – in Humboldt neighbourhoods. sharing groups; Hundreds filled the church each night for providing billets; Great Assemblies that were the highlight of assisting with Humboldt Pastor Dale de Seguin, a member of the mission youth team from Radway, lights a candle the second week of the mission. The evening liturgical mini- Fr. Emile April during a prayer ritual at one of the Great Assemblies. gatherings included reflections on scripture, stries; and exploration of a theme such as “The Father” providing months and weeks before the mission began, or “The Mystery of the Cross” as well as financial support for the massive effort, particularly concerns that home visitors dramas and personal testimonies. Each described local mission coordinator Marie- might be “pushy” or judgmental. “The visit assembly included a prayer that included a Louise Ternier-Gommers. from the missionaries was wonderful. We ritual action – such as coming forward to The mission has been “exhausting and talked together, we shared, and we had our sign an icon of Christ, receiving a lit candle energizing,” Ternier-Gommers said. “As far home blessed – something that through all to symbolize a person being lifted up in as our diocese is concerned, we’re the largest the years we’ve been here, we have never prayer, or carrying a cross into the city that has taken on the Oblate Parish Mission: had done,” she said. “I just really streets. it was massive. The thing is, you spend appreciated how it unfolded.” Celebration of Mass twice a day, months preparing – but you don’t really The music and singing at the Great Eucharistic adoration, and opportunities for know how it all fits together until the whole Assemblies was also described as a the sacraments of reconciliation and thing starts rolling.” The community’s highlight – something which song leader anointing of the sick were other features of response has been overwhelming, she added. Brother Louis Andreas, OMI also noted. the 14-day event. “It mobilized this parish.” “The people are really embracing the idea of A four-member LEAP Ministries youth Approached after one of the Great singing,” he said. “They sang with such team also worked with the parish Assemblies, several parishioners volume, I was really touched.” community during the mission, visiting commented on the mission experience. Members of the community prepared schools, providing youth ministry and “This is the best thing that ever some 1,100 servings of food for the mission presenting dramas and personal testimonies. happened to our parish,” said one life-long over the two weeks – with most of the food St. Augustine parishioners responded community member. donated. It was an effort noted and Brother Louis Andreas, OMI with enthusiasm and with concrete Another reflected on the fears appreciated by the visitors. “The food has contributions that included driving members surrounding the idea of home visits in the been absolutely amazing,” said LEAP whatever is needed. Another ‘wow’ is the Ministries member Dale de Seguin. response to the evening assemblies. The “Humboldt is very open, very sharing,” church is just filled up with people who are observed Oblate Parish Mission team happy to be there.” member Natalia Schrader. During home April noted that greater participation visits, the team could also see that “parts of from young families in the parish is still on it are also very lonely,” she added. his wish list. Increased outreach to seniors, shut-ins One area of the mission that could have and those isolated in the community will a lasting impact is the continuation of some hopefully be one of the follow-up actions to of the “listening centres” that use a Small grow out of the mission, said Ternier- Christian Community model to share faith Gommers, describing the benefits of the and prayer through scripture, he said. home visits in gathering information about “If we could start with a few who want needs in the parish. to meet, who want to discuss their faith, I For St. Augustine pastor Rev. Emile believe that would begin a little seed of a April, the Oblate Parish Mission was filled community that would see more people with what he described as “wow” moments. welcoming newcomers, visiting shut-ins, “Wow - what a fantastic occasion of walking with those who are grieving or visiting all the homes, reaching out, inviting, suffering from illness,” April said. welcoming,” he said. “Another ‘wow’ has He expressed a hope that through the been the number of volunteers involved in experience of the parish mission “we will every aspect of the mission, whether it’s the have learned a bit, ever so gradually, about visiting, the driving, the cooking, or being a missionary church. ” Many local volunteers were helping with the Oblate Mission in Humboldt - FIND MORE NEWS ABOUT THIS EVENT AND OTHERS ON THE WEBSITE : including a dedicated crew providing meals to the mission team. www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm Page 10 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009 Uniting In Faith... for development, peace and justice Youth explore mining issues during Diocesan Thinkfast BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI with those who are hungry every day. The Twenty-three youth from Langham, Wilkie participants responded well to the and Saskatoon participated in a diocesan experience,” she said. “We never heard any of Thinkfast March 27-28, raising over $1,100 them complaining about being hungry. There for Development and Peace. was no negative feedback at all. “ The 25-hour fast included games, prayer, Participant Mitchell Nielsen of Wilkie speakers and information sessions, said said Thinkfast was a positive and interesting organizer Erin Gratton, youth minister at St. event. “I was also at last year’s event, but the Anne’s Parish, which hosted the event. The presentations this year were all new to me.” theme for the event was the impact of Jill Gruber of Wilkie added that in Canadian mining companies in the global addition to being informative, the Thinkfast south and the need for a mining experience was “a lot of fun.” ombudsperson. During an activity based on the “Amazing “Fasting speaks to people because it says Race” participants took the role of reporters that something different is going on,” Gratton travelling to Canada, Guatemala, Philippians, said of the Thinkfast event. “How often do and Democratic Republic of Congo (all growing teens decide to go without food?” places known for mining) to gather Youth participating in a diocesan Thinkfast March 27-28 at St. Anne parish in Saskatoon Fasting is a long-standing sign of protest information on the effects of mining in discuss issues surrounding mining. and solidarity, she added, a dramatic sign that communities. people want a situation to change. “Fasting In another presentation, youth heard about animator Michael Murphy gave a “We ended with prayer, a commissioning, also speaks to people because they associate the need for both justice and charity in presentation about this year’s Share Lent a chance to sign the Development and Peace fasting with important leaders and world walking with those in need throughout the campaign. petition to the government and a pizza changers like Dr. Martin Luther King, world. Issues around land use, mining, health “We watched the movie Blood Diamond lunch,” she said. Mahatma Ghandi and Jesus,” she added. care and community development were to show the participants the harsh reality of Thinkfast leaders included members of the “Those who fast for justice are in solidarity explored throughout the overnight event. the diamond trade in parts of the world, St. Thomas More College Just Youth team, as Guest speaker Fr. Les Paquin described specifically Sierra Lyon,” added Gratton. The well as youth ministers from Holy Family, St. the Brazil Mission and the meaning of next day, participants also watched a video Augustine and St. Mary parishes in solidarity. about the aftermath of the tsunami, and steps Saskatoon, noted Gratton. Development and Peace provincial taken toward rebuilding.

E.D. Feehan supports Development and Peace BY GAYLE BRODIE , G REATER SASKATOON CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Development and Peace has always encouraged young people to get involved in their work to change the world. At E.D. Feehan Catholic High School in Saskatoon a group of energetic and creative Grade 12 students recently took that invitation to heart, with the fall campaign, “Calling Mining to Account.” The journey began when teacher Cheryl Dauvin took her Physics 30 class to see noted biologist , physiologist , lecturer, and nonfiction author Jared Diamond. At his lecture at TCU place, sponsored by the colleges of agriculture and bioresources, the young science students were challenged to take responsibility for the environment and the world. Building on this initial excitement and concern, the students quickly saw a connection to the Development and Peace fall Physics 30 teacher Cheryl Dauvin and student Kayla Osika campaign about Canadian mining practices. Using the D & P website next to one of the student-created displays at E.D. Feehan. and links, the physics class became educated about the problems - Photo courtesy of E.D. Feehan Catholic High School with some Canadian mining companies. The students enthusiastically engaged in many Share Lent Using student-created slide shows, information tables, poster activities to raise over $5,000 for Development and Peace. In Thomas McKay (left) of the St. Thomas campaigns, and classroom presentations, the class informed fellow addition to traditional activities such as a cake auction and More Just Youth team organizes an students about the issues during the month of November. Their student/staff hockey game, over 60 students and staff took part in a activity during a diocesan Thinkfast initiatives also went beyond the school’s walls with the gathering of Development and Peace Thinkfast April 3 and 4. This was followed March 27-28, hosted at St. Anne parish. signatures for the postcard campaign reaching family and friends. by an awareness Blingfast Wednesday, April 8.

Youth active in Development and Peace efforts to raise awareness and funds BY SARAH DAUK , P ROVINCIAL This year’s education campaign to sign a petition addressed to both awareness and funds for CCODP. annual high school retreat in D & P Y OUTH REPRESENTATIVE focused on the effect of Canadian their MP and the prime minister In the Saskatoon diocese, the St February, attended by students from Saskatchewan youth have had Mining Corporations on food calling for the government to put an Thomas More College (STM) Just Saskatoon and Prince Albert. The an active year learning about the sovereignty in the global south. ombudsman in place to regulate the Youth Group educated themselves group gathered over 800 signatures work of the Canadian Catholic Mining corporations have caused actions of Canadian mining and others by inviting guest this year and raised over $2,000 for Organization for Development and environmental damage, expropria- corporations overseas, to ensure speakers to meet with their group, CCODP. Peace (CCODP), sharing their tion, and privatization of that Canadian corporations act including Stephen Staples of E.D. Feehan Catholic High knowledge with families and indigenous food-producing lands, ethically and responsibly. Ceasefire.ca. They also participated School in Saskatoon held both a friends, advocating for those in the thus impairing the indigenous Saskatchewan high school and in a Carnival of Solidarity and Blingfast and a Thinkfast and has global south, and raising money to peoples’ ability to produce their university students participated in International Week at the University started a Just Youth Group (see fund CCODP partners. own food. CCODP asked Catholics activities and actions to raise of Saskatchewan, and hosted an article above) . Holy Cross Catholic High School will hold an annual Box Lunch in early May with proceeds going to CCODP. Students at Michael Murphy retiring Bishop James Mahoney, Bethle- Saskatchewan Provincial Animator Michael Murphy will retire this hem, E.D. Feehan, and Holy Cross summer after working for Development and Peace for 16 years in the high schools took part in the fall province, part of a 40-year career in international development. campaign, educating fellow stud- “As I count down the months between now and my retirement in ents and getting more petitions early August, I look back with great pleasure and satisfaction on my time signed. as animator in Saskatchewan. I have been privileged to serve as a link High school students from between some of the finest people that I have ever met, both here in this Saskatoon, Wilkie, and Langham province and in the countries where we work in the global south,” said participated in a diocesan Thinkfast Murphy. “I would like to thank the teachers, the pastors, the sisters and held at St. Anne’s Parish March 27 the bishops who have enthusiastically supported the work of and 28, and the group raised over Development and Peace and my work as animator. I would like to thank $1,000 for CCODP (see article the good people in the pews who have supported our campaigns above ). including land for the landless in Brazil, the right to access to clean water worldwide, and an end to abusive practices by Canadian mining For more information on the companies overseas,” he said, also extending his appreciation to all those Canadian Catholic Organization “who have donated so generously to Development and Peace through for Development and Peace or how to get involved in your community, Share Lent or Share Year-Round. And I would like to offer my heartfelt Past and present Development and Peace provincial animators visit the website at: www.devp.org thanks to the many volunteers who are the human face of Development Susan Eaton ( right ), 1976 to 1989; Sheila Murray (left) , 1989 to or e-mail Sarah Dauk at: and Peace in the parishes, schools and youth groups.” 1993; and Michael Murphy, 1993 to the present. [email protected] Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 11 Saskatchewan bishops call for careful reflection on nuclear energy The Anglican, Lutheran and the complete text of their joint their members and all Saskatchewan www.saskuranium.ca - Site includes the report from the Uranium Catholic bishops of Saskatchewan statement. citizens to consider with care the Development Partnership, and links to get involved. issued a joint statement Feb. 25 The bishops of the Anglican, issues surrounding the proposed www.icucec.org - Inter-Church Ur anium Committee website urging citizens to become informed Evangelical Lutheran, Roman expansion of the uranium industry in sites.google.com/site/cleangreensaskca - Coalition for a Clean, and involved on the issue of nuclear Catholic and Ukrainian Catholic Saskatchewan and make their views Green Saskatchewan website development in the province. Here is churches in Saskatchewan call on known to the government of Sask- atchewan. Watch for public meetings in May and June. The government of Saskatch- ewan is exploring “value-added” earth’s resources without regard for Minister Nancy Heppner, Energy and initiatives to expand the uranium the consequences is sinful against Resources Minister Bill Boyd, First industry in our province, including God and God’s creation, according to Nations Minister June Draude, the possibility of a nuclear power Christian belief. Technology and Enterprise Saskatchewan Minister plant being built in Saskatchewan. economic development, including Lyle Stewart, and the Government of Bruce Power, the country’s only mining and power generation, must Saskatchewan to provide adequate private nuclear generating company, be subject to critical reflection in light opportunities for Saskatchewan has deemed an area of Saskatchewan of the impact that such actions have citizens to engage in open, informed (roughly from Lloydminster to Prince on people and the environment in the discussion based on unbiased and Albert) to be a potentially suitable site present and into the future. complete information before the for such a development. In March The bishops recognize the global government acts on recommen- 2009 a government-appointed panel need for urgent action on climate dations from the nuclear industry or is expected to make recommen- change and the importance of the government-appointed panel. dations regarding such initiatives. It is reducing greenhouse gas emissions critical that any recommendations be from coal-burning power plants in + Rodney Andrews, made only after full and open Saskatchewan. They appreciate the Anglican Bishop of Saskatoon consultation with the people of this intention of the government in + Bryan Bayda, CSsR, Ukrainian province. proposing nuclear power to reduce Eparchial Bishop of Saskatoon Saskatoon Friendship Inn anniversary Christian churches affirm that emissions. At the same time, they see + Cynthia G Halmarson, Bishop, Bishop Albert LeGatt serves birthday cake March 13 at a God created the earth and that God the necessity for careful examination Evangelical Lutheran Church + Daniel Bohan, Roman Catholic celebration marking 40 years of service and caring at The continues to establish and preserve a of the costs and benefits of a range of Archbishop of Regina Friendship Inn. Serving breakfast and lunch every day of the just and ordered life for all creation. energy options and encourage the + Gregory Kerr-Wilson, year, Friendship Inn makes a difference in the lives of people Human beings are part of the vast government to invite public Anglican Bishop of Qu’Appelle who need the nourishment it offers, said director Geselle Doell. ecosystem of the planet. Choices participation in developing a new + Albert LeGatt, Roman Catholic “People need somewhere to go, whether itʼs because they are made by human beings must respect energy strategy for Saskatchewan. Bishop of Saskatoon homeless, lonely or they need a hand up. We all need God’s creation in its careful The bishops call on Premier Brad interrelationship of earth, water, air + Albert Thévenot, Roman somewhere to go and Iʼm so glad weʼre here for that reason.” Wall, Crown Corporations Minister and all living things. Exploiting the Ken Cheveldayoff, Environment Catholic Bishop of Prince Albert

BHY TONoY HAwYNES , O tFFoICE F OR hJUSTaICE vAND ePEAC E youPerson al vcontaoct givies cautheenticit y toh whaet you awantr to cdonvey . byUsin g mgy taxoes fovr abeortionrs dneeplym offendes my nbelietfs. I When contacting government representatives, it is said that Methods include letter writing, e mails, phone calls and personal await to hear from you what your beliefs are and why you hold one hand written letter is as effective as 100 signed cards. visits. them. Postcard campaigns have been favoured by Development What should be included in the contact? It should be brief, Concerning other methods of contact, using the Internet to and Peace and any other organization with the ability to collect stating the topic and your issue. But more important, it should gather opinion is suspect, as a person can often “vote” many thousands of cards Canada-wide. And it is the method now be so written that you are seeking an answer or an explanation times, as in nominating a hockey player to an all star team, being used by the Catholic Womens’ League and others to of the viewpoint of the person you are contacting. It must be although there are ways for websites to prevent this sort of protest human trafficking, primarily as it is associated with the neither anonymous nor insulting. multiple messaging from a single source. upcoming Winter Olympics. Some cards do allow the signer to Here is an example of the essential elements, which can be Equally unreliable are the “live” interviews aired over add a personal comment. extended: television or radio. Unscrupulous interviewers will filter An alternative is to sign a petition sheet. Many Concerning the matter of abortion on demand, I object to responses over television or on radio, put people on hold until governments have strict rules related to accepting petitions. my taxes being used for this health service. Please let me know the show is over. Newspaper poll results have been based on the The petition has to be written across the top of each page with your viewpoint and why you hold to it. response gained by all those phoning in to place an no more than 25 signatures per lined page with additional Whatever contact method is being used, it is important that advertisement. columns for printed names and addresses. Here the ratio of the contents are not a straight copy of an item already in What remains clear is that it is the personal contact, in acceptance is said to be 10 signatures having the same circulation. For instance, here is an alternative to the first whatever form it takes, that will be a true reflection of people importance as 100 signed cards or one hand-written letter. example: in a democracy. Issue of human trafficking in connection with Vancouver Olympics highlighted BY ANDRÉA LEDDING There are significant gaps in law neighbours, our husbands,” said tent, obtain sexual services, and especially with the upcoming 2010 A workshop on human enforcement and victim services. Scissons, drive back out again. Olympics and anticipated spike in trafficking and how the issue relates Local Saskatoon city police officer Major sports events create a Patrice Harelkin and Marlene human trafficking in Vancouver, to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics Hal Lam attended the workshop, huge area of demand, speakers Kuch of the Catholic Women’s easily accessible by both land and was presented Feb. 21 by Virginia reporting that municipal and national reported . During the World Cup in League briefly reported on their water. Scissons, NDS, at a gathering officers are working to educate their Germany, 40,000 tents were put up – organization’s plans to advoca te Speakers recommended the organized through the diocesan forces on how to look for what is men could even drive right into a across Canada on the issue, website: www.thefuturegroup.org Office for Justice and Peace largely “an invisible crime”. Victims Scissons said one of the keys to of human trafficking are hidden from ending human trafficking is to stop the public eye and require new I urge our government: To: ______the demand. “Take the buyers out, strategies in law enforcement. Many (Your Member of Parliament) and the chain will collapse,” said come from countries where police • to deter traffickers and potential commercial sex House of Commons users through effective public awareness campaigns Scissons, whose order Sisters of services are corrupt and complicit, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 Sion is one of 16 congregations of so there are additional issues of fear before, during and after the 2010 Olympics; ( No stamp required.) women religious in the group and mistrust even when contact • to disrupt trafficking networks and to prosecute traffickers UNANIMA which has consultative takes place. through a coordinated and pro-active law enforcement status at the United Nations and is The UN has created a response at the local, provincial and federal levels; sponsoring campaigns and educa- Convention Against Trans-national tional awareness events. “Sex tourism Organized Crime containing the first • to prevent trafficking and to enhance border integrity by and sex trafficking are fuelled by the internationally agreed upon defini- identifying victims in transit through border controls and by Internet …and pornography industry.” tion of human trafficking. It is the act comprehensive training for border agents; Each year, four million people of having control over another • to protect trafficked persons by ensuring that sufficient are trafficked, 80 per cent of them human being for exploitation, and female. Two million of these girls includes recruitment, transport, and arrangements are made to provide them with safe and are between five and 15 years old. transferring. Means of control appropriate housing, counseling, legal aid, temporary Trafficking involve issues of include force, threat, fraud, and residence status, translation and medical assistance; poverty, gender inequalities, and deception. Sexual exploitation is • to promote just and fair trade policies so as to work towards racism, explained Scissons. most common, but other areas eliminating poverty in source countries. Globally, the source countries include domestic service, manual are usually the poorest ones – South and forced labor, slavery, and organ Human Trafficking is taking place today in Canada. Korea, Vietnam, the Ukraine, South harvesting. These measures are long overdue. and Central American and African Child trafficking is defined as Nations – but Canada acts as a anyone under 18, and there is no Name:______source country as well, particularly requirement of fraud or deception, it Address: ______with First Nations population as is illegal across the board. well as marginalized immigrants, Nearly 90 per cent of buyers are and is also a transition and men, of no typical profile. “We are Consider clipping, signing, and mailing this statement about human trafficking to your Member of destination country. talking about our sons, our Parliament – or use it as a source for composing a personal letter about the issue. Page 12 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009 Marriage preparation coordinators reflect on ministry BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Uniting In Faith... to strengthen A marriage preparation weekend at St. Anne parish early this year drew to a close with engaged couples – surrounded and support marriage by family and members of the parish community – enjoying the last bites of a candlelight dessert. The sweet treats were focusing on the sacrament of marriage away from the served after a special blessing celebration that sent couples distractions of daily life. “It is an enrichment for us,” said forth to celebrate and live out the sacrament of marriage. Michelle. It’s one of the special touches of the parish marriage The couple also gets a boost from the love and excitement preparation program at the Saskatoon parish, which is offered of the young engaged couples they serve. “It allows us to be with the help of a team of mentor couples, presenting couples, rejuvenated a little bit by the younger couples… they love and parish staff, coordinated this year by volunteer team each other and everything is perfect to them,” said Mitch. leaders Michelle and Mitch Yuzdepski. “Their excitement is infectious,” agreed Michelle. Married for 18 years, the Yuzdepskis can recall their own Both stressed the importance of having the support of the marriage preparation at Holy Family parish, and take parish team of mentor and presenting couples, and the need to inspiration from the impact their own experience had on their be flexible in order to allow people to participate on the team lives. as they are able– it doesn’t have to be “all or nothing,” but can “We valued those couples who led our marriage entail whatever time commitment the team members can preparation, and we learned a lot from them,” said Michelle, manage, said Michelle. reflecting on the impact of marriage preparation leaders who At the final meal, blessing and dessert night, couples on shared their insights and life experiences, which for one of the parish team are encouraged to bring their children to share the couples included the death of a child. “I remember in the celebration, noted Mitch. It’s a witness to their children thinking, for them to be doing marriage preparation and to about the ministry their parents have been providing, and it’s have gone through some of the things they had gone through, a witness to the young couples, letting them know that the they must have something to say that I need to hear,” she said. team has taken time away from family to provide the “It was true. They were such a good example.” ministry, noted Mitch. Mitch agreed, saying their own good experience The blessing evening also emphasizes the parish setting in preparing for marriage helped ensure they would be open to which the marriage preparation takes place – in most cases, serving as members of the parish marriage preparation team the couples who participate in the course are also married at for the past 10 years at St. Anne. Mitch and Michelle Yuzdepski work with the marriage St. Anne’s and often make the parish their faith home. “We Ideally, marriage preparation would be one of the first preparation team at St Anne parish in Saskatoon. see them in our parish, we see them on Sundays, and I hope things a couple does after deciding to get married, before it’s because of the atmosphere that they feel here – that no “When young people are in love, they think love conquers booking the hall or choosing attendants, but the reality is that matter what place they are at in their lives, they’re welcome all. We let them know that sometimes marriage is about the it’s not always on the top of the “to do” list, admit the couple. here,” said Michelle. decision to love, and sometimes the decision to love is Engaged couples who come to the parish marriage The Yuzdepskis have high hopes for the young engaged toughest when you’re going through a crisis,” he said. “But if preparation course are most often there because they know couples who attend marriage preparation. you commit to that – commit to the sacrament – you will it’s a requirement if they want to be married in the church, “I would hope that they really value what they’re going to make that decision to love, and you’ll have a marriage love Mitch noted. That means at times participants are unsure, or have in their marriage,” said Michelle. Mitch agreed, saying relationship that continues to be vibrant, continues to grow.” even resentful, about the program. “But many times they he hopes those who participate in marriage preparation would Engaged couples may never have discussed some of the come back and say to us, this has been a fantastic come to see their marriage as “holy ground.” issues brought up during the preparation course, he noted. “If experience,” Mitch described. One young man, who at first “If everyone treated their marriage as if it was sacred, and you don’t get it on the agenda before you’re married, it gets a had reservations, said he was now recommending the if they lived their marriage as a sacrament, making the lot more difficult afterwards,” observed Mitch. experience to friends. decision to love, then they will have a long and happy The married couples helping on the marriage preparation Another couple, who took the course when Michelle and marriage, “ he said. “But we’re quite frank with the couples team can usually personally attest to the impact such issues Mitch first began helping with marriage preparation, have too: marriage is hard work.” have on a marriage. “All of us have been down that road. We now returned as a mentor couple, helping to lead small group In the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, marriage can share that. We know stuff comes up,” said Michelle. discussions during the parish marriage preparation course, preparation is offered widely at the parish level, and engaged One of the blessings in helping with the marriage which runs two Sunday evenings and one weekend in couples are encouraged to check with their parish as soon as preparation ministry is the chance to work with other married January. possible to ensure they get into a program well before their couples who are committed to their relationship and who are Whether the young couples realize it or not, marriage wedding day, said Blake Sittler of the diocesan office of providing a witness of Christian marriage, noted Michelle. preparation really does provide something that’s needed at marriage and family life. Curriculum for these parish “We really enjoy the married couples that we work with. We this important point in their lives, maintain Mitch and programs has been developed and fine tuned through the learn so much every time somebody does a talk,” she said. Michelle. diocesan Marriage Task Force, he noted. “Sometimes we say the engaged people won’t really get it for Because marriage is a sacrament, it’s important to prepare In addition, Catholic Engaged Encounter operates within a few years. But we’re in it. We understand what we’re for it, both spiritually and practically, stressed Michelle. “We the diocese, with weekend sessions offered at the picturesque listening to and we need to hear it again.” need to see that it’s a sacrament that we are receiving and we St. Peter’s Abbey in Muenster, SK. Engaged Encounter is The Yuzdepskis once were advised to strengthen their need to prepare for it. Christ is present here, we just need to designed to give couples an opportunity to dialogue honestly marriage by surrounding themselves with couples who be made aware of that.” and extensively about their prospective lives together in a believe in marriage – and that’s exactly what happens on the Issues addressed during the marriage preparation course sacramental marriage. marriage preparation team, said Michelle. are “very real, very live topics” said Mitch, listing Catholic Family Services in Saskatoon also offers Another blessing of being on the team is the chance for communication, financial, and sexual issues – areas which weekend marriage preparation workshops. Sessions run three Mitch and Michelle to spend time together in ministry, may cause problems in a marriage down the road. times a year at a Saskatoon hotel.

BRY BeLAKtE SrIToTLER uvaille offers a lifeline to struggCelliia nstategd tha t ma Retroauvariller wieeakendg reveealss that “a OFFICE OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LIFE healthier and more loving relationship with your spouse is Divorce has changed the face of the family around the possible [again]”. world and the effects are no different in Canada. Mike and Celia recognize that it takes a lot of courage to Statistics Canada, the federal body that surveys the attend a Retrouvaille weekend. The biggest obstacle, in their country with the expressed purpose of helping Canadians opinion, is simply making the time. better understand the culture they live in, reported that in “Couples need to be prepared to make the commitment to 2006, 48.5 per cent of respondents were married. This is the attend the [follow-up] sessions to get the full experience and first time in their research that less than half of the population maximum benefit and support,” said Mike. was married; down from 60 per cent in the 1980’s. The Caswells pointed out that while weekends are This dip under the 50 per cent mark is due in large part to currently only offered in Saskatoon, it is hoped that Regina or divorce and its impact on the decisions that couples are Prince Albert would also host weekends in the future. making in regards to marriage. “As the Saskatchewan Retrouvaille community grows, Many Canadians may perceive that divorce simply has to and people from across the province express an interest in be accepted as part of the future profile of Canadian families. supporting the growth of Retrouvaille Saskatchewan, it is very However, Retrouvaille Saskatchewan is attempting to reverse likely that we will be in a better position to expand our the divorce trend. weekend offerings to other locations,” said Mike. Retrouvaille is a peer-to-peer ministry offered to married The Caswells said that there is no “typical” Retrouvaille couples who are considering separation or divorce. Though it Celia and Mike Caswell couple. Some couples are young and have been married only is offered in dozens of countries, its roots originate in Canada. a few years while some couples have been married over 30 Mike and Celia Caswell, who sit on the provincial board attending the Retrouvaille weekend retreat like that of a plant years. of Retrouvaille Saskatchewan, point out to couples who are being watered after a long period of drought. “The common denominator is that we all come from a struggling with their married relationship that there is hope. “Our energy was spent, and we didn’t know how we position of hurt and a desire to renew the love that brought us While statistics confirm the prevalence of divorce in society, would make it through another day, [but] as we worked together in the first place,” concluded Celia. divorce is not always the only option. through the weekend and in the weeks following, life slowly For confidential information about or to register for the “If you are considering ending your marriage relationship started to come back to our marriage,” said Celia. next program in Saskatoon, call Ken and Rita Wolfe at 306- or you think that there is more to life and love than your The couple notes that the goal of a Retrouvaille weekend 652-9653 or email [email protected] or visit the current experience, give Retrouvaille a chance,” encouraged is not to keep bad marriages together but to help couples in website at www.helpourmarriage.com Mike. difficulty rediscover the love and trust they once felt for each The diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life is The Caswells describe their personal experience of other. supported by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 13

BY BTLAKrE aSITTnLER sitionarse di vorceed, buat wcho hhave ealreasdy oKunowtn ats oTran sittiohns, othe stheems elwves dihvorcoed an d afacirlitaeted dfrienidsvhip othat rsocme epeodple may A recently-piloted ministry in worked through many of the initial program is described by organizers from their experience. need to make their journey that the Roman Catholic Diocese of issues of shock, sadness, anger and as a second-stage program, picking “It is important to share with the much easier.” Saskatoon reaches out to those who guilt. up where New Beginnings ends. participants [from personal Lorraine Cheke, another of the New Beginnings has been active in experience]…This gives them facilitators in the diocese of the diocese for nearly 30 years, permission to be imperfect and to Saskatoon, was most moved by the providing outreach to those who know that what they’re going closing ceremony held Jan. 21 at St. have experienced the loss of a through is universal. Once they Paul’s Cathedral. spouse through divorce, separation begin to realize they are not alone, “The closing liturgy was very or death. they will share and will begin to moving and touching. Tears flowed The new Transitions program is heal,” said Powell. quite easily. I believe it was the coordinated by the diocesan Office “Transitions is…about showing right kind of closing, simple but of Marriage and Family Life. Since us how to grow from the touching and moving. It was also an initial meeting in January 2006, pain…healing at a deeper level,” great to have Bishop Albert four facilitators have volunteered to she continued. [preside],” noted Cheke. lead sessions. Facilitators met once every six Cheke said that even though Facilitator Sharon Powell first weeks to discuss and modify the some divorce ministry is offered in informed the diocese about the program as well as to learn some of the diocese of Saskatoon it is an program, having heard about it the basic skills of facilitating a area of hurt that can always use from a friend in Calgary. small group. more support. Others in the group “I thought it would be good to Transitions was hosted at said that they felt the Church does offer it out of our parish and I Oskãyak High School on Broadway not always know how to minister to brought it back to do that. It [the Ave. in Saskatoon. The group met divorced Roman Catholics. Transitions manual] sat on my desk for two hours every Wednesday “I am very happy that something for almost a year and I finally evening from late September until is now being offered by the diocese decided this was too big for one January. The evenings consisted of to help those who, often through no parish and too big for me as staff an opening prayer, some brief fault of their own, have had to move at this parish. I contacted the introductory statements about the on into singlehood and single diocesan pastoral centre and offered topic, and then small group sharing parenting,” concluded Cheke. it to the centre. The rest is history,” about personal experiences. The Transitions pilot program is Marriage Appreciation Banquet said Powell, a pastoral associate at Topics ranged from dealing currently being reviewed to Keynote speakers Glenn and Judy Hilton brought an inspiring St. Augustine’s Parish in Saskatoon. with anger and guilt, to getting implement some of the changes message to the 7th annual Marriage Appreciation Banquet Facilitator Dianne Sander through the holidays and how to recommended by the group. Plans April 4 in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. The event initially heard about the pilot continue to be a good parent after call for the program to run twice at St. Patrick parish also included Mass with Bishop Albert, a program through her church bulletin. the divorce. annually, beginning in September banquet and dance. Those in attendance also heard details “I was in the process of taking After experiencing the program and January. Ideally, each session about a national marriage conference planned for March 19- the Lay Formation program and from beginning to end, Sander would be facilitated by two separate 20, 2010 in Saskatoon. “A Time For Hope: Finally, Good News About Marriage” is the theme of the 2010 conference that will was thinking ‘what can I do to work highly recommends Transitions. teams. feature speakers Richard Gaillardetz, Reginald Bibby, in the church community to help “[For] anyone who is going For more information about Stephanie Coontz, and Kathy and Neil Heskins. For more people’ and the answer came to through a hard time in their lives Transitions contact the diocesan information visit the website: www.marriage2010.ca me,” she said. because of marriage breakup, this Office of Marriage and Family Life - Photo by Blake Sittler All of the facilitators were course…brings the support and at 242-1500, ext 229.

Theology of the Body conference will be held June 5-7 BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Ave Maria College in Florida, who translated John Paul II’s The profound meaning of the body, of human sexuality, Theology of the Body from the original Polish into English, and of marriage will be explored at a national Theology of the entitled Man and Woman He Created Them. Speaker Dr. Mary Body conference this June in Saskatoon. Martin, is an obstetrician-gynecologist and Natural Family Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” was the focus Planning physician, who treats infertility with information of 129 messages delivered over the first five years of his gained from the Billings Ovulation method of Natural Family pontificate. These teachings provide a revolutionary insight Planning (NFP). into what it means to be a human being, both physical and The weekend conference includes celebration of the spiritual; how male and female reflect the truth and perfection Eucharist and of Divine Liturgy, opportunities for the of God; and how marriage and marital sex reflect and reveal sacrament of reconciliation, Eucharistic devotions, prayers God’s love, explains Val Witzaney of One More Soul Canada, with an icon of Our Lady of Victory, as well as a Saturday one of the organizations sponsoring the June 5 to 7 conference evening banquet and a Sunday morning family brunch. The in Saskatoon. Sunday program June 7 will also include ministry to children It’s a theology that pertains to every human being, but has Dr. Mary Martin Christopher West and to youth, offered by Cat.Chat, FacetoFace Ministries, and some particularly profound things to say to married couples LEAP Ministries. about living out their sacrament, she says. That’s even “We really want people to know the personal love that reflected in the fact that there’s a special conference rate for God has for them,” says Witzaney. “This is why the couples to attend together. conference program will also include 24-hour adoration as “A married couple that is open to God’s plan for marriage well as the sacrament of confession.” Another special feature experiences a love that is free, total, faithful and fruitful. of the conference is a session for priests, pastors and religious Married love exists to mirror or reflect the perfect love Friday afternoon, June 5, and a special talk for couples that between God the Father and God the Son,” says Witzaney, evening. noting that the idea for the conference originally began in the In addition to One More Soul Canada, conference spring of 2007 with a discussion about providing high-quality sponsors include the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, marriage preparation and enrichment. the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon, Serena The Saskatoon conference will hopefully provide ordinary Saskatchewan, NFP Saskatchewan, Familia, St. Joseph “people in the pews” with greater insight and understanding of Worker’s For Life and Family, FacetoFace Ministries, and St. the truth expressed in John Paul II’s teachings, she said, noting Therese Institute of Faith and Mission. For more information the words of conference speaker Christopher West: “if you Dr. Michael Waldstein Dr. Janet Smith see the website: www.tobconference.ca have a body, this theology is for you.” “The Theology of the Body has significance for everyone, to God as we share His divine love in our everyday human no matter what stage of life one is currently living. Priest, love for one another: man and woman; parent and child; Are you getting married this year? single, married, teen, grandparent, bachelor, bishop, child, it young and old.” Do you yearn to improve your marriage? makes no difference,” says Witzaney. LeGatt expressed a hope that the Saskatoon conference Do you want the recipe for “The Theology of the Body conference is an would bring about “renewed understanding of our whole an extremely low divorce rate? being – body, mind, soul and spirit – as called to holiness: a opportunity to learn something that will not only fill the SERENA Saskatchewan invites you natural desire for good, but will transform every aspect of life. reflection of God’s all-holy communion of love.” When young people and old people embrace the Theology of Bishop Bryan Bayda of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of to take a couple-to-couple class Saskatoon wrote that he senses there is a need for more people the Body, we will have stronger families, and with stronger in the Sympto-Thermal method families comes a stronger Church, which will then lead more to understand the Theology of the Body. “John Paul II’s timely people to Christ.” treatment … is foundational in light of understanding moral of Natural Family Planning. Both of Saskatoon’s Catholic bishops have prepared and ethical challenges,” Bayda says. This method is highly effective, natural, inexpensive and messages of support for the national conference. Speakers at the national Theology of the Body conference free of health risks. Group presentations, help with chart “In his Theology of the Body, Pope John Paul II invites us include Christopher West of the Theology of the Body interpretation, and resources regarding fertility, to consider our creation in God’s image as the foundation for Institute in the United States, author of Good News About Sex breastfeeding, menopause and infertility are also available. and Marriage, and of Theology of the Body Explained ; and the dignity of the human person,” says Bishop Albert LeGatt For more information, see the poster and pamphlets Dr. Janet Smith, consulter to the Pontifical Council on the of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Pope John Paul in the reception area of your church or call II’s “reflections on the body and the person, as well as Family and author of Humanae Vitae: A Generation Later. Also speaking at the conference is Dr. Michael Waldstein SERENA at 934-8223 (in Saskatoon) sexuality and marriage, are a new and truly enlightened or 1-800-667-1637 teaching on how our incarnation can be a path to giving praise of the St. Paul Centre for Biblical Theology and professor at Page 14 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009 Meet the Deanery: KERROBERT Meet the Deanery is an ongoing regional concerns, and to strengthen series featuring different deaneries diocesan communication. across the Roman Catholic Diocese Representatives from each of the of Saskatoon. deaneries also serve on the The diocese’s seven regional Diocesan Pastoral Council, an deaneries were created to keep advisory body that helps facilitate parishes in touch with one another, two-way communication between to provide a forum to address parishes and the bishop.

Kerrobert Deanery rooted in historic St. Joseph Colony Located on the far western border of the diocese of Saskatoon, the Kerrobert Deanery stretches from Macklin and St. Donatus in the west to Perdue in the east, from Unity and Wilkie in the north to Major and Kerrobert in the south. The Kerrobert Deanery has its roots in St. Joseph’s Colony, a German/Russian Catholic settlement initiated by layperson F.J. Lange was a leader in the founding of St. Joseph’s Colony, with spiritual guidance from priests of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. There are 13 parishes in the Kerrobert Deanery. The deanery chair is Steven Kloster of Macklin, and the priest representative is Fr. Andrew Wychucki .

Uniting In Faith... Parish - Deanery - Diocese

Banners of parishes past and present are carried in procession during the annual pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary (left) . The Holy Rosary Church (right ) is a designated historic site. St. Joseph Colony gathers at Reward for annual pilgrimage to Holy Rosary Shrine The annual pilgrimage to Our Lady of the year’s homecoming is asked to contact Agnes Holy Rosary Shrine will be held this summer Sperle, Box 3, Reward, SK. SOK 3NO, he on Sunday, July 12. said. The pilgrimage day at the historic site The first small parish church constructed begins at 1 p.m. with exposition of the at Reward was replaced with the existing Blessed Sacrament and the sacrament of structure in 1918. In 1920 artist Berthold Von reconciliation, followed by the rosary at 2 Imhoff painted 15 large images of the p.m., and anointing of the sick at 2:30 p.m. Mysteries of the Rosary inside the church Benediction will be held at 3:30 p.m., building. followed by celebration of the Eucharist with Since it was centrally located in St. Bishop Albert LeGatt, followed by supper. Joseph Colony, Holy Rosary Church was The evening before, Saturday, July 11, chosen as the site for the colony’s first Marian 2009 there will also be a youth-oriented pilgrimage in 1932. About 3,000 pilgrims gathering, featuring the rosary and Mass at 8 attended the pilgrimage in its first year. In p.m. and an evening wiener roast. 1936 a wooden structure was built, and Next year, a homecoming celebration will served as the grotto until the present outdoor be held Saturday, July 10, 2010 to mark the shrine was constructed in 1966. 100th anniversary of Holy Rosary Parish, To get to the pilgrimage site travel west of Wilkie Way of the Cross said Gerald Deck of the pilgrimage Saskatoon on Hwy 14 past Unity and turn Every week during Lent students from St. George Catholic School in Wilkie came committee. It will be followed by the annual south at the sign pointing the way to Reward. to church to pray the Way of the Cross. On Wednesday, April 8 in Holy Week, pilgrimage the next day. The country church is visible east of the Grade 6 and 7 students acted out the stations under the guidance of their teacher Anyone interested in attending next Reward town site. M.J. Rohs. For more news from St. James Parish in Wilkie, check out the parish website at: www.iacobi.net - Photo by Fr. Andrew Wychucki

Wilkie retreat wind-up John Fenrich and Gerry Cey were among Denzil CWL hosts World Day the members of the Wilkie Knights of Columbus council serving brunch to of Prayer service March 13 parishioners of St. James Parish. The BY JOAN KUCHAPSKI acting were done by many adult and youth March 21 event was a final gathering for the parish 2009 lenten retreat given by Fr. CATHOLIC WOMEN ’S LEAGUE volunteers. Stanley Ksciuk of St. Catherine’s Diocese, SACRED HEART PARISH , D ENZIL The service was followed by fellowship ON. For more news from St. James Parish Denzil Catholic Women’s League held with snacks and music reflecting the in Wilkie, check out the parish website at: an annual World Day of Prayer service culture of Papua New Guinea. A total of www.iacobi.net Friday, March 13. The service was written $275 was collected to support the work of - Photo by Fr. Andrew Wychucki by the women of Papua New Guinea. the Women’s Interchurch Council of Scripture reading, singing, praying and Canada.

Denzil-area family named K of C Saskatchewan Family of the Year Active in the Knights of Columbus, CWL, parish life, NFP and pro- life organizations, the David and Valerie Witzaney family was recognized with the Family of the Year Award April 18 during the annual Saskatchewan Knights of Columbus state convention. Presenting the award ( at left, l-r ) were Sylvia and Larry Tymiak (State Family Life Director) and Sherry and Arden Andreas, (State Deputy); recognizing members of the Witzaney family: ( back, l-r ) dad David, holding TaraLee, mom Valerie, Joshua, Katelyn, and Alanna, holding Thea; ( front, l-r ) Matthew, with Daniel directly in front of him, Janelle and Anthony. Missing from the photo is Lauren, 20, who is attending Thomas Aquinas College in California. As director of One More Soul Canada, Val is currently helping to organize the national Theology of the Body conference in Saskatoon in June. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 15

Uniting In Faith... to learn, to grow, to celebrate

Youth learned more about salvation history by creating symbols of Bible figures to decorate a Jesse tree, one of the Youngsters display the advent wreaths they made during the retreat. advent traditions explored during the all-day event. Parishes organize advent retreat at Macklin for all ages St. Mary’s parish in Macklin entered the Advent season Nov. 30 with a day of learning, activities, community and prayer. Some 300 attended the Advent retreat day organized by a local committee ( right ). Assisted by dozens of volunteers from the parishes at Macklin, Denzil and St. Donatus, the committee offered a program that spanned the entire day, all ages and three locations. The program featured sessions for children, youth and adults, celebration of the Eucharist with Bishop Albert LeGatt, as well as lunch and an evening banquet. Four speakers explored the Advent season with adults gathered at St. Mary’s parish: Lucie Leduc spoke about Advent scriptures; Blake Sittler discussed Advent and Christmas traditions; St. Teresita Kambeitz, OSU, spoke about St. Paul and letters from Paul heard this Advent; and Fr. Paul Fachet, OMI, discussed the Emmanuel Members of the committee that organized the Advent retreat day in Macklin for theme in the gospel of Matthew. the parishes at Macklin, Denzil and St. Donatus (l-r) : Gerry Scheck, Deb Gulka, Throughout the morning at St. Michelle Sieben, Carolyn Sieben, Karen Stang and Fr. Marvin Lishchynsky. Mary’s church hall, children ages four and five years gathered to explore the meaning of Jesus’ birthday through a puppet show, stories and craft activities, as well as participating in a baby shower for Jesus, with gifts going to Real Choices Pregnancy Center. Games, music, learning and prayers were Meanwhile, children in Grades 1 to 3 learned about the part of the youth programs offered. meaning of the Advent wreath before each child created a wreath of their own – which were later used in a prayer service when the entire community gathered for the evening meal. In another session, this age group also learned more about the Christmas scriptures, and how they can share gifts and talents. After lunch at the Communiplex, children ages 4 years to Grade 3 participated in a variety of Adults listened and shared perspectives on advent. games, before attending a Cat.Chat concert in the afternoon. Youth in Grades 4 to 6 gathered at the school throughout the day, creating Jesse trees and learning more about the Advent and Christmas season. Singer-songwriter Jennifer Jade Kerr, led sessions for both junior and senior high school Senior youth participated in sessions led by the Diocesan youth, as did members Youth Retreat Team. of the Diocesan Youth FIND MORE NEWS ABOUT THIS EVENT ON THE WEBSITE : Retreat Team. Children greatly enjoyed a puppet show about the meaning of Christmas. www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm

Kerrobert parish sets BSit. gGabgriela parish icn Beigglare wibll r$2a0 ftore adsults , 18 0yea0rs atndh older; up garden of repose celebrate its 100th anniversary Aug. $10 for students, 17 years and under; For the past three years, Our Lady of Assumption 1 and 2. and $3 for children six years and parish in Kerrobert has set up a garden of repose on Registration begins Saturday, under. Holy Thursday, in the church’s lower hall. Aug. 1 at 8:30 a.m. at the town hall, Register before June 20 by The garden includes many plants as well as a with a tea at St. Gabriel Church from sending your name, address and garden gate and lots of candles. An altar is set up, on 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by cocktail cheque to Donna Baum, Box 901, which is placed a tabernacle that is only used once a hour at the town hall beginning at 4 Biggar, Sask. S0K 0M0. year. The Blessed Sacrament is placed there for Holy p.m. The Biggar parish has a close Thursday adoration. Eucharistic adoration is offered Holy Thursday. A supper, program and silent connection to St. Joseph’s Colony. In This tabernacle was used in the old church, and so - Photo courtesy of Our Lady of Assumption parish auction will begin at the town hall at 1909 parishioners worked together to for some it brings back many fond memories and and other items are moved to the main altar in 5 p.m. build the first church building. connects the present members with the past. preparation for Easter Sunday. Sunday, Aug. 2 Mass will be The present church was Adoration is usually held for about three hours, For many, this garden of repose is a reminder of celebrated with Bishop Albert completed in 1965. and provides a quiet and peaceful atmosphere in the three days that Jesus spent in the tomb, before His LeGatt at 11 a.m. A brunch will For more information about the which to worship. On Holy Saturday all the plants glorious resurrection on Easter Sunday. follow at St. Gabriel parish. anniversary, visit the parish website Cost for the entire weekend is at www.stgabriels.ca Page 16 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009

Denzil residents assist in Knights of Columbus wheelchair project Saskatchewan Knights of Deputy Marvin DeSchryver and his to educate and empower children. Columbus began fundraising to wife Pat, along with former HHS has partnered with send wheelchairs to developing Wheelchair Foundation Chairman Wheelchair Foundation Canada to countries in July 2006, after a Garnet Gramlich and his wife distribute wheelchairs. HHS Foun- presentation by Wheelchair Doreen, travelled to the Dominican dation worked with civil defense Foundation Canada. Republic. During the visit, they employees to assist with the Since that time, Knights of helped in the distribution of 390 distribution in other parts of the Columbus members across more wheelchairs, joined by Larry country thereby reducing trans- Saskatchewan, working with their Kustra, State Deputy of Manitoba portation costs. families, councils and communities and his wife Margaret. The visitors also spent have raised more that $135,000. The group arrived at an HHS subsequent days travelling around From these funds Moose Jaw and Foundation warehouse in time for Santo Domingo, assisting in Regina Councils have delivered the main distribution. Eligible delivering wheelchairs to those 390 wheelchairs to Sierra Leone, recipients were arriving by car, van, who were unable to make it to the State Deputy Jose Perez-Payano (left) of the Dominican Republic while another 390 designated by motorbike or on the backs of their warehouse distribution. They heard and Past State Deputy Marvin DeSchryver of Saskatchewan Kindersley Council and Melfort, caregivers. many stories and were able to see presented a balloon and a gift package to one of the youth who Tisdale, St. Brieux Councils went HHS Foundation is an first hand the difference that the received a wheelchair. In all, about 80 pounds of school supplies, to Vietnam. organization based in the wheelchairs will make in the lives toys, rosaries and candies were given out during the distribution of On Nov 07, 2008 Past State Dominican Republic with a mission of many people in need. wheelchairs, reported DeSchryver. -Photo courtesy of M. DeSchryver St Peterʼs Parish in Unity engages in faith formation events Faith formation opportunities A series on St. Paul’s first letter he noted. “The whole school is Both the Knights of Columbus sign of hope and encouragement for are enriching parish life at St. to the Corinthians is being offered learning about it and connecting the and the CWL are also active in the all of our people to see that young Peter’s in Unity. at St. Peter’s parish as a way to seven gifts of the Holy Spirit with St. Peter’s parish community, men of faith are coming forward in Fr. Gerard Cooper said that a mark the Jubilee Year of St. Paul the seven sacraments.” Cooper said. And this year the this way, and are willing to share FacetoFace family retreat held on declared by Pope Benedict XVI To mark the feast of Our Lady Unity community has also been their faith with a real zeal,” Cooper Palm Sunday was an “awesome and from June 2008 to 2009. The study of the Rosary in October, students blessed to have seminarian Geoff said. faith-filled” event. Hosting a series includes video presentations from St. Peter’s School went on a Young serving his internship year at “It’s been a positive experience retreat on Palm Sunday has become and discussion about the 16 field trip to the shrine of Our Lady St. Peter’s, said Cooper. “It’s been a to have him with us.” a tradition over the past five years, chapters of First Corinthians. of the Rosary at Reward. The he added.. A seven-part series on the students celebrated Mass with Fr. “These retreats are moments for power of the Holy Spirit from the Cooper in the historic Holy Rosary youth, when their faith can be seen Intercessors of the Lamb prayer Church. coming alive,” Cooper said, ministry is also being offered in the Students were in awe of the describing comments from young parish. “It focuses on empowerment beautiful building, decorated with people who said that as a result of in the Holy Spirit; in bringing paintings by Berthold Von Imhoff, the retreats they have come to Christ alive in us, so that we Cooper said. A local artist also understand the importance of become ever more like Christ,” said attended the event, and gave having a relationship with God. Cooper. Sessions consist of students a presentation about the Many of the children who are listening to a seminar talk, and then artist and his work. preparing for confirmation and first spending time praying with and for Another school field trip to the Eucharist attended the family each other, and reflecting on the shrine is planned for World Catholic retreat, added Cooper. “The older Word of God. Education Day in May, he noted. Macklin youth sleep over ones really witnessed their faith to Gifts of the Holy Spirit is also Eleven people from Unity were In November, the parish hall at Macklin was transformed into a the younger students.” the theme of a series of faith among the 53 from the Kerrobert giant slumber party for about 96 girls from kindergarten to Palm Sunday was also the day enrichment sessions that Fr. Cooper Deanery to participate in an 11-week Grade 11, organized by leader Shirley Ann Neufeld and Laurie that the group preparing for is offering to teachers in the local program in the fall entitled Grief Stang with the help of older youth. A similar event was held the confirmation and first Eucharist Catholic school. “It has become a Ministry: Helping Others to Mourn, week before for some 45 boys in the school gym. were presented with crosses, he year dedicated to the Holy Spirit organized through the diocesan - Photo courtesy of St. Mary parish, Macklin noted. and to the gifts of the Holy Spirit,” Ministry Development office. Purity Rally 2009 explores theme with events for all ages BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI as the screening of youth-created musical Eucharistic adoration – a prepare for the rally. Members of prepared something for you.” Some 600 people of all ages videos about purity. request of youth involved in the the group led music and activities Watrin challenged young gathered for an annual Purity Rally Mass with Bishop Albert LeGatt event, said organizer Carmen throughout the day. people, asking: “who are you going Feb. 21 in Saskatoon. The day-long and opportunities for the sacrament Marcoux. The theme of the 2009 Held this year at Holy Cross high to give your heart to?” Jesus has the program included speakers, prayer, of reconciliation were again part of rally was “beyond your wildest school, the Purity Rally also included real deal when it comes to music, games and activities, as well the rally, as was a closing hour of dreams.” events for children four to six years happiness, and going in other Marcoux related how those led by Jen Vail, and for those seven to directions will ultimately lead to involved in the Purity Rally 11 years led by Jonathan Courchene disappointment and despair, he appreciate how it supports them in and Sarah De Jong. said. “Jesus promised if you seek their faith. “It is really neat to talk The teen and adult gathering first the kingdom, everything else is with these young people who included a talk on discernment by yours.” In her address to the describe how good it is to come to April Mireau, and sessions led by gathering, Marcoux said that purity this event and be grounded in the keynote speaker Rev. Clair Watrin, is that virtue that makes us message of purity that is so eroded CSB. “transparent” so that the light of by the world,” she said. “It’s one of Dreams of being rich, powerful Christ can shine through us, the biggest areas we all do battle or beautiful pale next to God’s drawing others to Christ. “It also with in our lives, because we are dream for our lives, said Watrin, clears our vision, so that we can see surrounded by a culture of reflecting on the rally theme. “God Christ in others.” impurity.” says he has a dream for you wilder Master of Ceremonies Joshua than you can even imagine: eye has Jalbert and Daniel Zimmer were not seen nor ear heard … what great assisted by a group of 25 young things God has prepared for those adult leaders dubbed “QTs” who who love him. Way beyond what met monthly over the past year to you can ever dream, God has

Homilies for Everyday Life By Fr. Rudolph Novecosky, OSB Includes homilies for Sundays and major feast days for the entire three-year cycle of the church year, as well as funeral, wedding and graduation homilies. $35 Available at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, 100 5th Ave N,, Saskatoon, Games and activities were once again part of the annual Purity or from the gift shop at St. Peterʼs Abbey, Muenster, SK. Rally, held this year at Holy Cross High School in Saskatoon. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 17 CCO Impact mission offers summer of evangelization Sixty young adults from across the theme of Impact 2009 comes to empower youth the country will participate in from Pope Benedict XVI’s words to Uniting In Faith... Impact 2009, a summer mission the youth of the world in Sydney, project in the diocese of Saskatoon. Australia: “Burning with the fire Impact is organized by Catholic and love of the Holy Spirit, go forth working with individual parishes to Every Thursday evening from Christian Outreach (CCO), a uni- to proclaim the risen Christ and connect with the community and May 21 to Aug. 6, weekly versity student movement dedicated draw every heart to Him.” provide service and outreach. gatherings known as Cornerstone to evangelization. CCO began on As with everything CCO These parish teams will offer will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Holy the University of Saskatchewan undertakes, the goal of the summer Tuesday evening faith studies Spirit parish, for young adults from campus in 1988, with the approval mission is evangelization, she said, throughout the summer, and will be 16 to 30 years, consisting of music, of the bishop, and now involves adding that she’s excited that available Sundays to share in drama, teaching and fellowship. hundreds of students on campuses Impact 2009 is being held in liturgies, help with ministries, and Summit is a monthly Impact across Canada. Saskatoon this year. Not only has participate in parish activities. event featuring Eucharistic adora- Living and working at summer CCO recently celebrated the 20th For the Saskatoon mission tion, praise and worship, testimonies jobs in the community from May 4 anniversary of its birth in this city, project, CCO has also created an and the opportunity for recon- to Aug. 12, Impact participants will but a new Rooted in Christ diocesan Apostle Team, a group with more ciliation. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., spend their spare time leading and vision launched by Bishop Albert CCO and retreat experience, which Summit Eucharistic adoration will participating in faith formation and LeGatt lists evangelization as one will reach out to parish communities be held Friday, May 15 at St. training, faith studies, retreats and of six priorities for the diocese of throughout the diocese. The Apostle Augustine parish, Saskatoon; Friday, special events. Saskatoon. Team will provide school retreats, June 19 at St. Anne parish; and Christy Gaudet of Saskatoon, Impact teams of four to five visit with Grade 11 and 12 students, Friday, July 17 at St. Patrick Parish. one of the organizers of the CCO students will be connected to 11 city and offer summer day camps. The A diocesan-wide Tuesday- summer mission project, said that parishes, providing programs and team will also visit various rural evening Courageous Catholic communities on Sundays through- program will be offered at St. Philip The Spiritual Journey of Saint Paul: out the summer, giving their Neri parish May 19 to June 30, “Paul’s Senior Years” testimony at Mass and spending providing training in how to share time in fellowship. faith with others. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, with Sr. Teresita Kambeitz, OSU Diocesan-wide events are also The Impact team and diocesan at St. Paul’s Cathedral hall, 720 Spadina Cres. E., Saskatoon planned, including a welcoming youth ministers are collaorating to Diocesan Youth Event Thursday, present a Diocesan Youth Event All are welcome Pre-registration NOT required May 14 , for youth ages 14 and up, Friday, June 12 and Saturday, Christy Gaudet A presentation by the diocesan Foundations program. from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Holy June 13 at St. Augustine parish in CCO Team Leader, Saskatoon Spirit parish in Saskatoon. Humboldt. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon School welcome extends a warm prairie welcome to: Dancers at Oskãyak high school in Saskatoon Feb. 25 welcomed representatives attending a national summit of education ministers, organized to address Aboriginal education. An associate school in the Greater Saskatoon Catholic School district, Oskãyak (formerly Joe Duquette High School) was created to meet the needs of Impact 2009 is a four-month summer mission for young Aboriginal youth, offering adults and university students that is offered by special programs in Cree Catholic Christian Outreach (CCO), a university language, drama, and First student movement dedicated to evangelization Nations culture and art, as well and to challenging students to live out the fullness as a hockey academy. of the Catholic faith. Impact 2009 will involve 60 young adults from across Canada living and working in the community. From Monday to Friday participants will work at part-time St. Peterʼs at Muenster now offers first year kinesiology or full-time jobs during the day. Evenings and weekends Prospective kinesiology, busi- transition issues. The IBAC program talent pool and marketplace,” said they will lead and participate in faith formation and ness and international students will allows international students to Rob Harasymchuk, president of St. training, faith studies, retreats, and outreach events. soon be able to begin their study business education at ESB Peter’s College. Teams will be connected to 11 city parishes, and a university programs at St. Peter’s while mastering English language “With these new additions, St. travelling team will be visiting Catholic schools and College in Muenster. skills and adjusting to a new Peter’s College offers arts and Through a special agreement environment. science, business, agriculture and parishes outside of Saskatoon. with the College of Kinesiology at “This is an exciting opportunity kinesiology. Students are also able Impact 2009 will: the University of Saskatchewan, for post-secondary education in the to fulfill the entry requirements to • Allow students to grow in their Catholic faith and students will be able to take their region. The IBAC program will colleges such as medicine, law, in their relationship with God, and to help discern first year of kinesiology at St. attract international students who nutrition, pharmacy, and educa- their call to ministry and vocation; Peter’s College, reported Val will benefit from our excellent tion,” said Glen Kobussen, special • Train students in evangelization and leadership, Koroluk, special projects manager faculty and supportive learning advisor to the board of St. Peter’s at St. Peter’s College. environment. College. “More students will be giving them an opportunity to share the Gospel St. Peter’s College has also IBAC will also showcase able to benefit from our small class and implement what they have learned; entered into a partnership with the educational and business opport- size, excellent instruction, lower • Place committed young adults at the service of the University of Saskatchewan’s unities in east central Saskatchewan tuition and cost of living and Saskatoon diocese in the areas of evangelization Edwards School of Business to and help promote these opport- friendly atmosphere,” Kobussen and outreach, particularly to youth. offer several new business pro- unities to students, the international added. Impact 2009 will include: grams at the college in Muenster. Students will be able to apply for • Cornerstone - a weekly outreach event for young direct entry into the Edwards adults (16 to 30) featuring worship, music, drama, School of Business (ESB) and take fellowship and outreach – beginning Thursday, May 21 their entire first year of their and continuing every Thursday until Aug. 6. commerce degree at St. Peter’s • Faith Studies - beginning in select parishes May 19 College. and continuing every Tuesday through the summer. Also offered is ESB’s Business • Summit - a Friday evening Eucharistic adoration event Administration Certificate. This to be held May 15 at St. Augustine in Saskatoon, program is designed for the mature June 19 at St. Anne. and July 17 at St. Patrick, learner who wishes to take business beginning at 7:30 p.m. classes on a part-time basis. IBAC for international students Watch for times and locations! will also be offered at St. Peter’s College. The International Business STM marks Catholic Studentsʼ Week Let us journey together in faith & joy! Administration Certificate (IBAC) Bishop Albert LeGatt visited St. Thomas More College as part is designed to provide pathway of Catholic Studentsʼ Week, speaking about the Rooted in Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon programming for international Christ diocesan vision. The week of special events March 22- 100-5th Ave. N., Saskatoon, SK. S7K 2N7 students who are academically 28 was an initiative of the Canadian Catholic Students Phone: 306-242-1500 Fax: 244-6010 gifted, but who do not have Association and Canadian Catholic Campus Ministry, demonstrated proficiency in English www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com working in collaboration with Development and Peace. language skills or may face social or Page 18 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009 Writing icons brings spiritual blessings at St. Therese retreat Fr. Ivan Nahachewsky, a Byzantine rite Uniting In Faith... for formation priest of the Ukrainian Catholic Church from Prince Albert, led an icon-writing workshop as a Holy Week retreat at St. Therese School of Faith and Mission. “Fr. Ivan arrived on Passion Sunday with a trunk full of oak boards in need of chiselling and sanding; by Tuesday evening, 16 Fr. Ivan Nahachewsky (standing at the far right) led an icon-writing retreat at St. Therese somewhat exhausted participants held School of Faith and Mission in Bruno during Holy Week 2009. completed icons,” said Jim Anderson, director of the school. difference!’ I said. ‘You might as well be brushstrokes of love, even despite my human “I found the time of prayer, meditation painting water on it, for all the difference it frustrations, will render the image of those I and painting to be a profound spiritual makes!’ Fr. Ivan fixed me with a knowing see, and myself to those who see me, ever exercise, filled with symbolic meaning,” look and responded, ‘Kind of like prayer.’” more reflective of the true image of the One Anderson said. Chastened, Anderson said he returned to in whose image we are all of us made.” “Icons have been described as being the process with thoughts of the gospel Anderson said the experience of writing windows to heaven, but… icons, as any account of the persistent widow petitioning icons was also a microcosm of the faith window will, not only permit one a view of the judge. “How often had I taught: ‘Prayer formation that happens at St. Therese. the beyond, but allow light into the room. For works. Persevere and be patient.’ I dipped my “We learn and learn to embrace a me, it was the light of heaven flooding my brush in the paint and applied another spirituality of littleness and hiddenness. It is heart as I spent three intense days praying invisible coat to the gradually appearing the ‘Little Way of St. Therese’, a little way of through the creation of an icon.” image … and it did appear.” small, humble, seemingly unimportant things Fr. Nahachewsky stressed that the Participants all painted the same icon of done repeatedly with great love for God and purpose of icon writing was to pray, the guardian angel, said Anderson, staring at neighbour. Our life of study, work, particularly the Jesus prayer, beloved by the it for hours, and repeatedly tracing the lines of fellowship, community and prayer is, in Eastern Church: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the figure “until the shape and form were essence, an act of icon writing,” he said. the Living God, have mercy on me a sinner.” Monica Tahn works on an icon. etched on our minds. I could see it in my “It is the thin layers of obedience, Fr. Nahachewsky told the gathering: “If you - Photos courtesy of St. Therese sleep,” he described. humility, generosity, compassion, mercy, can’t paint and pray, then don’t paint!” “Strangely, in the days that followed the love applied by doing dishes or sweeping “Often in the room of novice The process of painting was both icon writing workshop, I found that I could floors, spending time in adoration of the iconographers a gentle buzz of chit-chat frustrating and fruitful, Anderson said, see features of the icon in the features of the blessed sacrament, studying Church history, would start until someone began chanting: describing the egg tempera, a thin, watery people around me: the line of one person’s sharing our struggles with our brothers and ‘Lord have mercy’ … and the room would be pigment that is applied in very thin coats, jaw, the curve of another’s neck, a nose here, sisters, preparing the play Paper Wheat to filled with the prayer leading to silence,” said layer upon layer. “In fact, the coats are so thin a lip there, the shape of someone’s eye,” he be taken on tour, sending out brochures, Anderson. “During the prayer and painting that there is no apparent change in the image said. conversing with benefactors, or whatever the whole gamut of human emotion — joy after applying the pigment. The process must “It struck me then in a new way, each of the task before us might be — it is doing and sadness, elation and frustration, be patiently repeated, over and over and over, us is an icon, an image and likeness of the these little things with deep joy and love encouragement and borderline despair—were until at last a change occurs,” he said. Divine. In truth, Jesus is no further away from that make all the difference. I believe that all distilled into a narrow space of time and “I complained to Fr. Ivan about it in the me than the next person I encounter, and now this is the heart of becoming a disciple of focused attention.” middle of the retreat. ‘It makes no I pray that my persistent and patient Christ.” Prayer conference furthers healing centre at St. Therese BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI power, under his wisdom, protection and generational healing, theology of the body , A recent prayer conference at St. Therese guidance. In order to do that, we must first go catechetics and theology, and the ministry of Institute of Faith and Mission is one more through a cleansing, healing and sanctification intercession and discernment. phase in the development of programming for a process,” Kristian said. “We all bear hurts of “We will bring participants to Christ the growth and healing centre at the Bruno facility, the past that need to be healed.” healer and to the healing power of the Eucharist,” says Jerry Kristian, board chair and director of Rather than dealing with hurt, we often try said Kristian. “Whatever their role in life is, we the healing centre. to deny or whitewash our pain, he said. “Most want to send them home operating under the “The course by the Intercessors of the of us think if I just pull up my socks, I’ll be power of God, to go out and spread the love of Lamb parallels the vision of St. Therese, both okay,” he said. “But that’s just sweeping it Christ to everybody in their personal realm.” in the school and in the healing and growth under the rug. The Lord says there is so much Both the school of faith and mission and the centre,” said Kristian. more to life. He wants you to live your life to healing and growth centre exist to help people Some 300 people attended the public the full now, not only after you come to become more fulfilled and better equipped to lecture by Mother Nadine Brown, who founded eternity.” live out their mission in the world, Kristian said. the Intercessors of the Lamb, while 116 A nine-day program to be offered at the “It’s to develop that confidence in a person that participated in the entire six-day course on healing and growth centre on an ongoing basis says, ‘yes I know why I was born, I know why intercessory prayer led by Sr. Mary Grace will be open to people of all ages and all I was created and what God wants me to do.’ Hymel and Sr. Mary Rita Bazzi. backgrounds, including those of other Christian The ache is gone.” “We have had different programs related to denominations, he said. He noted that other offerings also continue the growth and healing centre, and we’re “For some the need for healing is much at St. Therese Institute, including Rachel’s Prayer conference accelerating it now,” Kristian said. “The true deeper, because of brokenness in their past, Vineyard (a program of post-abortion healing), Mother Nadine Brown of the mission of St. Therese Institute is to bring because of family situations, and so on,” other speakers and courses that are open to all, Intercessors of the Lamb spoke Feb. people from worldly thinking and worldly Kristian described “But Christ says come as and a summer youth camp by FacetoFace 27 at St. Therese Institute in Bruno. practices into spiritual thinking and spiritual you are. No matter how hurt you are and no Ministries. For complete coverage of her talk, practices; to bring them to total surrender to matter what you have done throughout our life Through it all, it’s the power of God that check out the diocesan news Christ,” he said, stressing that the school of he only says ‘come and I will heal you, come will make the difference, said Kristian. “We’re articles on the diocesan website at: faith and mission and the healing and growth and I will set you free.’” only instruments helping to carry this out. It’s www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/new centre are both part of one effort. The nine-day program will cover areas of the Holy Spirit and Christ who will open hearts s_articles/news_articles.cfm “We must come to work under Christ’s self-esteem, emotional healing, addictions, and bring healing.” Knights of Columbus return to roots at annual state convention Y DWARD IBNEY TATE ECRETARY B E G , S S • That Knights of Columbus deplore the trafficking Uniting In Faith... for charity and fraternity SASKATCHEWAN KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS of women and children, speak out against printed The 87th annual state council meeting of the Knights of material, movies and television programs that depict Columbus of Saskatchewan, held in Saskatoon April 17 to 19, gratuitous sex and violence and deplore sacrilegious State council executive election results were: State Deputy was a call to return to the basics of the Columbian Order; and attacks and disrespectful depictions of those things Arden Andreas of Lancer; Past State Deputy Marvin a call for Knights to hold fast to the Catholic principles around that are sacred to people of all religions. DeSchryver of Denzil; State Secretary Edward Gibney of which the order was founded 127 years ago. • That the Knights of Columbus of Saskatchewan Saskatoon; State Treasurer Gilles Doiron of Moose Jaw; State Under the theme Follow us. Help us build up the Church follow their bishops’ lead and become aware of the Advocate Denis Carignan of Battleford; and State Warden State Deputy Arden Andreas, the state executive, and the issues surrounding the possible expansion of the Brian Schatz of Regina. Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB, of St. delegates and their families from around the province uranium industry and the building of a nuclear reactor Peter’s Abbey is the State Chaplain. celebrated the past year’s successes and deliberated on how to in Saskatchewan and that they encourage all residents From the opening Divine Liturgy celebrated by Bishop better serve the Church and the community and to Build up the to do the same. Bryan Bayda of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon, Church with the help of young members with new ideas. • That the Knights of Columbus Councils of to the Memorial Mass celebrated by Abbot Peter Novecosky, The business meetings focused on informing all present on Saskatchewan integrate a formations program into the 87th annual convention of the Knights of Columbus of the important issues facing the Church, the community and the their council meetings in order to nourish their Saskatchewan was dedicated to holding firm to the principles order with guest speakers instructing the delegates on the spiritual growth through prayer and reflection of the order; charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. The details they should be taking back to their home councils. • That the Knights of Saskatchewan reaffirm our support delegates left Saskatoon informed and inspired to go back to Several resolutions addressing the internal workings of the and unwavering loyalty to our Holy Father, Pope their communities and join together to Help Build up the order were discussed. Resolutions included: Benedict XVI, our bishops and priests. Church. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 19 Six seminarians continue journey to ordination; three more to begin studies for priesthood in fall Three more young men will enter the seminary in Uniting In Faith... for vocations the fall, joining six others who are in various stages of study for the priesthood for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. year of theology studies at St. Peter’s Seminary in Francis Denis will begin studies at St. Joseph’s London this fall. seminary in Edmonton, and Matthew Orlowski and “To see the number that we do have for our diocese Greg Smith-Windsor will start their studies at St. is an encouraging sign,” said LeGatt. “To see three Peter’s Seminary in London, ON, said Saskatoon beginning this fall is certainly an indication that young Bishop Albert LeGatt. men are continuing to consider the priesthood as a All three attended “Come and See” weekends about possible vocation.” the priesthood organized in Saskatoon by Rev. Marc The bishop applauded the work of the diocesan Mireau, featuring talks, dialogue and prayer (below) . Vocations Commission for their efforts to keep Two seminarians are finishing up an internship year vocations to the fore of people’s consciousness, as well working in local parishes – Mathew Ramsay at Holy as the evangelization and vocation awareness efforts Spirit in Saskatoon and Geoffrey Young at St. Peter’s happening in parishes, in Catholic schools, in Catholic Seminarians in the diocese of Saskatoon gathered with the bishop in parish in Unity. They will both return to their studies in colleges such as St. Thomas More in Saskatoon, and December. (Standing l-r:) Hoang Nguyen, Greg Roth, Colin Roy, the fall, with Ramsay at Mount Angel Seminary in through movements such as Catholic Christian Mathew Ramsay, Dan Yasinski; ( Seated, l-r:) Geoffrey Young, Bishop Oregon and Young at St. Joseph Seminary in Outreach and FacetoFace retreats, and especially Albert LeGatt and Vocations Director Rev. Gerard Cooper. Three Edmonton, beginning their last two years of study within families. more young men are planning to begin studies in the fall of 2009. leading to ordination. “The Spirit is obviously still very much calling – Greg Roth and Hoang Nguyen will be entering their touching the minds and hearts of young people and year of internship beginning in September. Roth has calling them to a life of service to God and to the been studying at St. Peter Seminary in London, and Church,” he said. “As a diocese we need to continue to ʻCome and Seeʼ weekend Nguyen at St. Joseph Seminary, Edmonton. pray for vocations and to encourage every effort that ensure young people are engaged with the Church.” assists in discernment Dan Yasinski and Colin Roy will begin their second “Come and See” discernment of discerning God’s will, and ways weekends for young men are held to respond to God, Mireau said. regularly in the Roman Catholic “Psychology, theology, scripture, Diocese of Saskatoon, coordinated and personal testimonies were some by Rev. Marc Mireau. of the areas that were presented to Eight young men attended the the young men.” latest “Come and See” event March Geoff Young, a third year 13-15 at Discernment House in seminarian serving in his pastoral Saskatoon, a facility operated by internship year at St. Peter’s Parish the Sisters of the Presentation of in Unity, shared the story of his Greg Mary. vocation call, and described his Matthew Orlowski Smith-Windsor Bishop Albert LeGatt, diocesan own process of discernment. “The Vocations Coordinator Donna young men were given a good the consecrated and priesthood. We Kristian, Dr. Gerry Farthing and Sr. insight into the daily schedule of like to give a balanced look at ALL Evelyn Nedelec, PM, joined Mireau seminary life at St. Joseph vocations, as we discern God’s call in facilitating the weekend, which (Seminary, Edmonton), and the joy to live out our baptismal call.” Participants at a recent Come and See weekend: (back row, l-r) featured prayer, speakers, personal that comes with saying yes to God’s Priesthood and consecrated life Michael Lund, Fr. Marc Mireau, Mathieu Denis, Francis Denis, testimonies, dialogue and time for call,” said Mireau. then become the focus of the rest of Bishop Albert LeGatt, ( front row, l-r ) Joshua Jalbert, Paul-Remi reflection. Each “Come and See” weekend the weekend. “We share with one Poulin, Daniel Zimmer, Joshua Hrynchyshyn. (Kyle Banadyga is “The Eucharist was the begins by focusing on the basic another how God could be calling missing from the photo.) Francis Denis will begin studies at the foundation of our prayer life, along baptismal call, Mireau explained. some to a priestly or consecrated seminary in Edmonton this fall - Photo by Sr. Evelyn Nedelec, PM with adoration, and the Liturgy of “The vision, first and foremost, is vocation,” he said. the Hours,” said Mireau. “Each man recognizing our baptismal call, and “The response of the men was one man stated that “he always felt priesthood as a viable option in my shared his story of how he came to first responding to it by amazing! Their awareness of the a call to serve, but that this was the life.” attend, and what motivated him to consecrating the world to Jesus, by possibility of being called by God first time he actually felt that The next “Come and See” will possibly consider priesthood or the thought, word and action,” he said. to serve the Church as priest or priesthood could be his call.” be held Dec. 4 to 6, hosted by the consecrated life.” “Some are called to marriage and religious was at the heart of the Another said “he now is Trinity parishes of Prud’homme, Speakers focused on the areas the single life. Others are called to weekend.” Mireau described how beginning to see the possibility of Vonda and St. Denis. Young women live-in at Discernment House BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Uniting In Faith... to live in community Three young women recently reflected on the experience of living in Christian community at Discernment House in Saskatoon with the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. Marcee Brodner, 24, found the community she was The long-term live-in program for young single Catholic looking for at Discernment House. “When I came to the house women is offered each year at Discernment House, which is I did not know anyone else living at the house. Yet from the located on University Drive in Saskatoon, near the University very beginning I formed a close bond with the other girls of Saskatchewan campus. Discernment House also offers living at the house. When another girl joined us, my heart was weekend discernment programs to both men and women stretched to become more open,” said Brodner, describing the throughout the year. intimate friendships that have developed through the Katherine Croteau, 18, of Calgary heard about experience. Discernment House from friends. Looking for something It wasn’t always easy, she admitted. “Living in community more, she originally considered attending John Paul II Bible can be very challenging at times. Learning to live with, and Katherine Croteau, Marcee Brodner and Dia School at Radway. love other people’s idiosyncrasies is not easy,” she noted. Yet Cooper (l-r) say Discernment House blessed them. “I had a good chat with a friend of my sister’s who stayed through the experience, Discernment House “was a place - Photo courtesy of Sisters of Presentation of Mary at the House the year before, and it sounded absolutely where I came as a stranger to a new city and found a home and amazing: spiritual direction every week, Mass every day (or best friends.” knowing how much she has grown through the experience of when there is a priest available), community life, morning and Discernment House has also been a “spiritual greenhouse” the past year at Discernment House. evening prayer, and a relaxed enough environment,” said for Brodner. With community prayer, spiritual direction, Mass Hearing about a friend’s amazing experience at Croteau, who is studying physics at the U of S. and adoration, I was challenged to grow in my faith and walk Discernment House prompted Dia Cooper, 24, of Vancouver “I came to the Discernment House looking for spiritual more intimately with Our Lord. Falling in love with Jesus is to give it a try. “After a year of prayer and consideration I growth, insight into my vocation and to experience not that difficult when he is closer than most of your friends moved into the Discernment House. I wanted to live at the community. God gave me all that this year and so much and has a room within your home,” she said. house so that I could improve my relationship with Jesus,” more,” she said. “The sisters are also so much fun to live with. Their humor said Cooper, a music education student at the University of “The Sisters have been a huge part of the joy that I have and antics sometimes surprise me but always in a good way. Saskatchewan. found, and the other young women here have changed how I Every occasion is special at the Discernment House from feast “Having spiritual direction every week has played a major see myself and how I see others,” Croteau added. “I have felt days, where you really feast, to birthdays and Christmas,” role in my spiritual development and has strengthened my welcomed and loved throughout it all.” Brodner said, citing games, presents and Christmas carols by relationship with God,” she said. “My only struggle at the The stable prayer life and strong support system provides the fire as part of the Discernment House experience. house has been waking up in time for morning prayer, I’m still a powerful way to grow in faith and to discern one’s path in A “country girl at heart,” Brodner comes from a farm at not a morning person!” life, she said. “God challenged me to be really honest with Dysart, SK and was finishing up her final year of a social Participating in the weekend discernment retreats myself this year, to take a good look, and allow Him to work work degree at the University of Saskatchewan this year. regularly offered by the Sisters of the Presentation has also in me rather than trying to fix myself. This alone has opened The support of Discernment House – including good home brought spiritual benefits,” Cooper noted. “The weekends that countless doors in my heart, and it has set me free.’ cooking – meant that attending university was also easier, she the sisters offer have increased my knowledge about the Croteau has words of encouragement for other young added, urging other young women to consider the experience. church and myself.” women considering the experience of living in community at “ If nothing else, come for the amazing food and Christ will The Sisters of the Presentation of Mary are currently Discernment House. “If God is preparing your heart for a year blow you away with all the other blessings that are pouring accepting applications from young women for the live-in here, don’t hesitate; It will be the one of the most blessed out of this place.” program. For more information, contact Sr. Lucie Hamel at [email protected] years of your life. Brodner said she’ll be sad to leave, but is blessed by 306-244-0726 or e-mail DBY SR.o C LAImRE NOVE COASKY , OnSU , tonio to visit Saskatoon dandi moilitaryc policee, lawsyerse and all OF MACEIÓ , A LAGOAS connected with public security to Archbishop Antonio Muniz Dom Antonioʼs itinerary: dialogue together following each of Fernandes (Dom Antonio) of the Friday, July 17 - Arrival; travel to Humboldt the celebrations to see what means archdiocese of Maceió, Alagoas, Saturday, July 18 – Visit to St. Peterʼs Benedictine Abbey; can be taken to ensure more will visit Canada in July in response 5 p.m. Mass in Humboldt security and peace. to an invitation by Bishop Albert Sunday, July 19 – Mount Carmel Pilgrimage Another area of concern to our LeGatt when they met in Brazil in bishop is that of the many families January, 2008. Monday, July 20 – Celebration of 50th anniversaries of Ursuline living in the streets. The “House of Dom Antonio is a member of Sisters of Bruno, including missionary the Suffering Servant” opens its the Carmelite Order and was Sr. Claire Novecosky, OSU doors at night so these may have a ordained to the priesthood in 1980. Tuesday, July 21 – Visit to Waskesiu bath, a bowl of soup and a safe He specialized in Biblical Theology place to sleep. Dom Antonio´s Wednesday, July 22 – Meeting in Saskatoon with BMAC at the Gregorian University in charisma touches the hearts of and Bishop Albert LeGatt Rome. Following his ordination, he many and he receives many served as formation director of Thursday, July 23 – Open invitation to all the faithful to volunteers and offers of help. On novices and director of the meet Dom Antonio and to hear about life Christmas Eve, following the Carmelite College, where he taught and pastoral challenges in his diocese celebration of the Incarnation, sacred scripture. He has also served 7:30 pm. St. Paulʼs Cathedral hall. many donations of bread and the on the Carmelite Order’s economic Everyone is welcome. “finest of cheese” were shared with commission and was co-pastor in a Archbishop Antonio Muniz these suffering members. parish in Recife. Fernandes (Dom Antonio) Friday, July 24 – Mass and visit with Sisters of Mission Service The family, “the patrimony of In 1998, at the age of 46, Dom at Queenʼs House of Retreats, Saskatoon humanity,” is one of the most Antonio was ordained bishop in his not as isolated groups, but with the Saturday, July 25 – Departure important treasures for Latin- home state of Paraiba. For eight dimension of being ecclesial, so we American people. It is the school of years he led the diocese in that can feel and experience the faith, the place where human and capacity. During that time, he renewing dynamism of the Spirit in promote popular missions in all Since then the bishop has given spiritual values are implanted. Dom served as vice-president and the life of our communities.” parishes as, in his words: “We are unstintingly of his time, energy and Antonio gives priority to families president of the National Confer- Dom Helder Camara, noted all disciples and missionaries of financial and spiritual assistance to and has gathered thousands for two ence of Brazilian Bishops for the archbishop of Olinda and Recife, Jesus Christ, for it is only in Him the work of the Farm of Hope, great assemblies – one celebration region of the northeast, a position who died in 1999, continues to be that our people will have life in which bases its dynamic pedagogy to mark the national week of the he continues to hold at the present Dom Antonio’s inspiration. Using fullness.” on the tripod: prayer, work and family and the second to wind up time. Dom Helder’s words, he said, Dom Antonio also has a deep community living. A Farm of Hope the Advent family preparations. On Feb. 4, 2007, Dom Antonio “Mission is to begin, to journey, to concern for the marginalized and for chemically dependent women is The faithful of the diocese of became the 10th archbishop of leave all, to forget self and to break the excluded. Soon after his arrival in the process of being organized at Saskatoon will have a chance to Maceió, which includes 60 large the crust of egoism which closes us in the archdiocese, upon reflecting the present time. meet and dialogue with Dom parishes, both in the capital city and in. Humanity is much bigger. on the social situation in Alagoas, The violence and lack of respect Antonio during his visit to throughout the interior of the state Mission is to open ourselves to he spoke of the need for the Church for human rights to be found in this Saskatchewan this summer from of Alagoas. others as brothers and sisters. It is to in Maceió to help deal with the region led the bishop to invite July 17 to 25 (see details above) . Dom Antonio’s great passion is meet them and love them. We need many urgent and grave problems. families and communities who had For instance, there is an open that of helping the people of God to to cross oceans and go to the ends One of these was the high number suffered attacks of violence to invitation to all the faithful to meet rediscover the work of evange- of the earth.” of drug addicts. Not letting any gather for monthly celebrations of Dom Antonio and hear him speak lization as a fundamental duty of all These words, together with the grass grow under his feet, he went the Eucharist, to pray for the 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 23 at St. baptized Christians. call to revitalize the church’s to the state governor and asked for victims and to offer comfort and Paul’s Cathedral hall in Saskatoon. “As disciples and missionaries missionary activity in Latin the donation of land and buildings consolation to the respective This visit to Saskatchewan will of Christ,” he says, “we must give America arising from the fifth for the purpose of creating a centre families. In addition, he invited the surely serve as yet another highlight testimony and engage ourselves, conference of the Latin-American for the rehabilitation of chemically government representatives re- in our 45-year-long friendship with without fear, in living and bishops in Aparecida, Brazil (2007), dependent men. The Farm of Hope sponsible for social defense and the people of the archdiocese of propagating our faith. We do this, have impelled Dom Antonio to was inaugurated Dec. 3, 2007. public ministry, delegates of the city Maceió. Brazil Mission Awareness Committee The Brazil Mission Awareness poster for display in churches and schools Committee (BMAC) carries out a number of throughout the diocese; making presentations awareness activities during the year. about the Brazil mission in schools and BMAC was formed in 1992 as a diocesan parishes; and planning group visits to the committee to strengthen the bonds of Brazil mission every two years. solidarity with those involved in our diocesan BMAC recently hosted a get-together of mission in Brazil, which began in 1964. the high school students and teachers who Since 2005, BMAC has been part of the visited the Brazil mission in 2007 and 2008, Diocesan Mission Office. inviting them to reflect on how the Brazil The current members of BMAC are: chair experiences have had an impact on their Margaret Sanche, Fr. Emile April, Louise lives. Bitz, Sr. Marie Gorsalitz, OSU, Melanie In July 2009, BMAC members will assist Lipinski, Marcie Lukan, Sr. Leona Meier, Bishop Albert LeGatt in hosting Archbishop SMS, Fr. Les Paquin, and Dale Scott. Dom Antonio Muniz Fernandes of Maceió Some of the activities of BMAC, assisted while he is visiting the diocese of Saskatoon, by the missionaries in Brazil, are: preparing and participate in discussions with the two Brazil Mission Notes for parish bulletins; bishops about possibilities for the ongoing editing Brazil Bulletin material in the relationship between the two dioceses in the Diocesan Newsletter; designing an annual future. Prayer for Missionaries The Advent 2008 BMAC poster shows men working in the fields of sugar cane, Almighty God, Lord of the harvest of souls, we ask You to guide and bless the main agricultural crop of our Brazil mission region. The work is hard, dusty, all who have gone forth to preach the gospel. Endow them with the dirty (the sugar canes are burned prior to the cutting of the cane), carried out in gifts of generosity and concern. Send your Holy Spirit on them, intense heat during long working days — and the pay received is a pittance, to strengthen them in weakness, comfort them in trials and direct their barely enough for the workers to support their families. The posterʼs stark images efforts. Open the hearts of all to receive Your message. Let Your remind us of so many Brazilians who live and work and care for one another in revelation enlighten all minds for the salvation of souls, and let Your love difficult and poor living conditions and that our diocesan mission stands in heal every heart and body for the happiness of each person. solidarity with them and upholds their dignity in their discouraging May all people consciously acknowledge You and serve You by living the circumstances. Our missionaries affirm Godʼs love for them and help the people teachings of Your Son. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. to be strengthened by the gospel and the experience of compassionate community. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 21

BY SR. M ARIE -N OELLE RONDOT , HOF ÃeO OSÉ lDA pAJE ing children go to school SMS, S J L February is the beginning of a new school year in Brazil. For families who are having difficulties surviving, this is usually a stressful time because of extra expenses associated with sending children to school. Statistics indicate that, each year, seven million young Brazilians neither work nor study and 72 per cent of those who do study leave school after only four years of education. As we know, low education can only generate more poverty and oppression. However, when Financial support makes school possible for these children. efforts are being made to improve and the reality often another. education of children from poor life, hope is nurtured and any Many parents will openly admit to families. small, positive change has to be using the money intended for Choosing those families was acknowledged in order to keep school to simply feed the family. not that simple really because that spark of hope alive. One could say then that the everyone from that specific area of In recent years, our present purpose of the Family Purse town is basically struggling with government in Brazil has Program is being defeated – not life. Priority was given to children implemented the Bolsa Familia or really, though, because even if the who had never studied; secondly, “Family Purse” program to money is used for something other to large families; and thirdly, to provide assistance to low income than what was intended, it is still families with little or no income at families. Approximately 11 motivating the parents to send all. million families have benefited their children to school and Each child was visited once a from it so far. therefore still promoting month throughout the year and This is how the program education. provided with whatever was works: For each child who studies, Here in São José da Laje, 15 necessary to attend school (books, Sr. Marie-Noelle Rondot with a young friend. the family receives a monthly families felt extremely privileged clothing etc.) and, while the income to provide for that child’s throughout this past school year student’s needs were being met, double blessing! That means there difference in the lives of others. To needs in school. Therefore, the 2008 to 2009, due to the great the family also continued to are 15 families for whom life so many of you who do this so primary purpose of the program is generosity and genuine concern of receive financial support from the became less of a burden. well, I wish to express deep basically to encourage education. some Canadian friends who made government for that child – in “Building bridges” is all about gratitude on behalf of our However, theory is one thing a donation directed towards the other words, it turned out to be a reaching out and making a Brazilian sisters and brothers.

Sr. Francisca professes vows as Ursuline March 21 BY SR. C LAIRE NOVECOSKY , OSU her wish, but he told her she was to be the Ursulines of Bruno. At a very young age, too young and should wait until Thus began Francisca’s Francisca da Silva was inspired she was at least 15 years of age. vocational journey. A few years by a film about a sister working in On her fifteenth birthday she later she participated in our voc- Africa which planted in her a presented herself again and Fr. ation discernment encounters and desire to also be a sister. She told Emile said he would take her to eventually came to live with us her pastor, Fr. Emile April, about meet the sisters, which happened and finish her high school. The call to be an Ursuline religious grew and in 2007 she began her novitiate studies. Coincidently, Fr. Emile was present for the celebration. During the next two years, Francisca deepened her relationship with her “only Treasure” and also got to know more intimately our foundress, St. Angela Merici. Francisca had a natural love of working with families, so her gifts were placed at the disposal of the Pastorale for Children, which deals with poor families who Sr. Francisca da Silva and her father. have children between the ages of birth and six years of age. home community, the Holy the presence of her co-sisters, The young people of the parish Family, in the parish of União dos family, parish community and neighbourhood community of Palmares. A mission of three days many friends. It was a simple, but St. Angela also benefitted from was planned by the sisters and, significant celebration. her religious instruction and with a number of volunteer God continues to call young Ursulines of Bruno in Maceió orientation. missionaries, the community ex- people to this way of life. A call Bishop Albert LeGatt of Saskatoon was present in Brazil During her retreat in 2008, perienced home visits, celebra- demands a response – a generous Jan. 27, 2008 for the profession of vows by Sr. Roseane da Francisca felt confirmed in her tions of the Word, encounters with response — and we pray that the Silva as an Ursuline of Bruno. Members of the Ursuline vocation and asked to commit children, youth and adults. youth of today have the courage community of Maceió, (l-r) Srs. Claire Novecosky, Ana herself to living chaste, poor and On the fourth day, March 21, to allow the invitation to touch Lucia Duarte, Francisca da Silva, Louise Hinz, and obedient as did Jesus. came the culminating celebration their hearts and to give their “yes” Roseane da Silva, are pictured with Bishop Albert LeGatt. The preparation for her in which Francisca pronounced as did Mary when she was asked temporary vows took place in her her vows during the Eucharist in to be the Mother of God. Page 22 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009 Human resources officer hired part-time in diocese BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI to provide ministry and service of a human resources office, and When it comes to human Uniting In Faith... building trust within our resources, the issues facing the community about the work that Roman Catholic Diocese of who are doing the hiring have the always spoken of as an employer, human resources can do,” said Leah Saskatoon are no different than for tools available to hire the right anyone working for a parish is Perrault, director of pastoral any other organization, says human person for the job,” he said. “I want actually an employee of the services. She noted that Hilton’s resources officer Glenn Hilton. to make sure that people who are diocese. immediate supervisor is Vicar Recently hired by the diocese to hired know their roles and When he talks to those in General Rev. Ron Beechinor. provide human resources responsibilities.” Other areas management, Hilton said he Receiving and giving advice on information, direction and advice addressed by a human resources stresses the three C’s: the need to be best practices is another priority for on a part-time basis of five hours a office might include questions clear, consistent and conscientious the new office, Perrault said. “We week, Hilton described his role at a about salary and benefits, or when it comes to every aspect of want to find what works best, recent meeting of the Pastoral developing effective evaluation human resources. whether that has to do with hiring, Association of Lay Ministry procedures, he listed. Hilton has 39 years of human performance review, team building, (PALM) in Saskatoon. Hilton pointed out that although resources experience in areas such communication, or leadership “I want to make sure that people the diocese of Saskatoon is not as recruitment, training, organiz- development.” ational development, labour She said the diocese created the practices, collective bargaining and part-time position in response to a Association of lay ministers grievances. request from the association of lay He retired from “everything that ministers (now known as PALM: goes with an eight to five position” see related article), and out of a selects new name: PALM in December 2006 to work both desire on the part of the diocese to BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI variety of settings, including independently and as part of a local create a transparent and positive An association of lay ministers parishes, the diocesan Catholic consultant group. work environment, in which people first established in the Roman Centre, schools, prisons, hospitals, Hilton said he is looking can be comfortable bringing forth Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon in care homes, retreat centres and on forward to learning more about the issues and concerns. 1991 received a new name at a campus. diocese and the church in his new Glenn Hilton The new position will provide a recent meeting in Saskatoon. Objectives of the organization position. “I’m a relatively new resource to parishes, pastors and Now known as the Pastoral are to build community among lay Catholic. I love the Church and I diocese since he was hired. He has diocesan directors “that will help us Association of Lay Ministry ministers; to offer professional and love the Lord. What better way to also been spending time reading make sure that not only are we (PALM), the group is an spiritual development; to act as an serve the Lord than in a way in policy manuals and familiarizing following the laws around human organization of over 60 lay people advocate for members; and to which you can bring something to himself with diocesan structures resources and employment, but to employed in pastoral ministry in the nurture collaboration between lay the table?” and organization. make sure that the way we practice geographic area of the diocese of and ordained ministers. The recent meeting with lay “At the moment, our first human resources policy and Saskatoon, both urban and rural. Co-chairs of PALM are Blake pastoral ministers is one of several priority for Glenn is education: management is in line with the Members of PALM minister in a Sittler and Madeline Oliver. Hilton has had with groups in the helping people understand the role spirit of the gospel,” Perrault said. Ecumenical gathering of women in ministry held at Queenʼs House BY MARIE -L OUISE TERNIER -G OMMERS “As I remember and reflect on our time Women who serve professionally in church together, two activities continually come to ministry recently gathered at Queen’s House of mind. Making bread together Retreat and Renewal in Saskatoon to share and ecumenically, that is making decisions celebrate common yet different journeys of together as to who would scald, mix, knead faith and of call, to learn from and to support and so on, laughing and enjoying the fruits each other. of our labour of love. Some of us watched Twenty-two women from six different the video The Joy of Stress , and laughed, denominations – from as far away as Fort and laughed at the foolishness of human- Nelson, BC, and Ottawa, ON, and ranging in kind. This, too, gave me hope that age and experience from young ministry vulnerability and laughter would be two of students to retired pastors – gathered for two the main ingredients in our ecumenical days to immerse themselves in the eucharistic gatherings and activities, ” said Pat Ribey a themes explored by Henri Nouwen in his book member of the United Church from Life of the Beloved . Lloydminster. The gathering explored how for women in “In my own denomination, especially ministry, lives are taken or chosen by God, when I was in pastoral leadership, I never blessed by God, and broken and shared for the felt received or included by the clergy,” salvation of the world. reflected Stephanie Molloy, a Roman A planning team representing Roman Catholic participant from Regina. Catholic, Presbyterian, United Church and Participants in a Women in Ministry gathering in Saskatoon make bread together. “The gift of acceptance has to be freely Free Methodist traditions, prepared and given, and it is so refreshing to be able to animated the event. Special guest presenter sharing the joys and frustrations of life and retreat was a renewed sense of desire to answer share on an inclusive basis. In retrospect, I was Bishop Cindy Halmarson, Evangelical work in the church. I pray that in its rich God’s call in my life. Other women witnessed didn’t realize how much having Bishop Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) bishop diversity the Church will grow to demonstrate to me they were doing the same. I also Cindy there would affect me – what a gift for the Saskatchewan Synod. more fully its unity as the body of Christ,” experienced a deep respect for one another, and a model she is to share the weekend “Each woman brought to our gathering her Bishop Halmarson said of the gathering. and from one another,” said Adèle Bolduc a with us as a woman, even before and apart unique call to ministry which opened us all to “The greatest gift I took away from the Roman Catholic participant from Ottawa. from being a bishop.” Resources relate to priority areas of new diocesan vision BY FRAN TURNER to provide resources the worship of a group of DIOCESAN RESOURCE LIBRARY Uniting In Faith... Aboriginal women. Or take time to read the book In keeping with the recently Eucharist, Mary and the saints, and Reach Catholic Men . One DVD Treaty Promises, Indian Reality: released Rooted in Christ vision for Christian morality. tells how to set up this type of Life on a Reserve by Harold Lerat, the diocese, the diocesan Resource Faith Formation: ministry (accompanied by a or check out People to People, Library has many materials guidebook). An accompanying For the youth of the parish, try Nation to Nation which gives focusing on the priorities that DVD set, Men to Men: A the series put out by Salt & Light highlights from the report of the Bishop Albert LeGatt has outlined. Challenge to Experience Catholic Royal Commission on Aboriginal entitled In Your Faith . In this Life contains 18 short talks that Evangelization: series, youth explore the Church’s Peoples. could be used at this type of Finding resources Try doing an Alpha Course in teachings in a fast-paced and fun ministry, or could be used by your parish. The diocesan Resource way, offering practical messages, Knights of Columbus during the The Resource Library has many Library carries the five videos that and giving an opportunity to discuss spiritual portion of their meetings. other materials to help implement accompany the teachings of the the teachings of the Church. It gives the diocesan vision. Drop in and Alpha program. references to the Catechism of the Justice and Peace: see what is available at 100-5th A recent acquisition is a set of Catholic Church and has discussion In order for non-Aboriginal Ave. North, or check out the library DVDs entitled Catholicism 201 , questions to use with small groups. people to build and improve catalogue on the diocesan website: which is designed as a Catholic The series consists of 13 sessions of relationships with our Aboriginal www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com by follow-up to the Alpha Course. It 30 minutes each, covering a wide brothers and sisters, it is necessary clicking on Resources . You can also contains eight 30-minute talks, with range of topics. to become familiar with their reserve materials by phoning Fran Resource Library small group discussion questions. Another tool that can be used in culture. Circles is a DVD about Turner at 242-1500 or toll-free at 1- These talks are presented by Fr. parishes to help Christian men live sentencing circles, through which 877-661-5005. Fran Turner James Mallon from the Archdiocese their faith is the program Reaching you can learn about this traditional The Humboldt Resource Centre of Halifax, and include such topics Catholic Men: How to Design a form of aboriginal justice. (57 min.) also has a large selection of The Resource Library is support- as: the Church, the sacraments, the Breakfast Ministry to Effectively Smudge is a 12-minute DVD about resources. Phone: 306-682-1534. ed by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. Spring 2009 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Page 23 Nine travellers join diocesan mission encounter to Africa BY JOYCE DE GOOIJER in love, learn from other team An opportunity to learn from members, forget about selves, and people and walk in their footsteps is experience softening hearts. the focus for nine people who took Fr. Les Paquin discussed the part in the Ussongo Mission nature of mission, noting that there is Encounter in Tanzania, Africa from a resurgence of people interested in April 16 to May 3, sponsored by the mission experiences. Diocesan Mission Office (DMO). Mission is a mindset of sharing After being approached by Christ’s love, giving and receiving, Visiting Ussongo, Tanzania April 16 to May 3 were (l-r) : Chandra Schraefel, Anita Turnbull, Sharon Norman Duerr, DMO members and sharing experiences, he said. Therens, Cheryl Brunen, Betty Cooper, Norm Duerr, Carmella Pavelich, Arlene Julé and Mary Jacobi. decided this encounter clearly fit into The goal is to go with no - Photo courtesy of John de Gooijer their vision statement of “helping the expectations, but to walk with and be people of the diocese to experience with others. Though participants dream of going to Lourdes and join Uniting In Faith... for mission and outreach our call to mission beyond the local may have no idea of what to do and the mission encounter to Ussongo. church as a community of people why they want to go, people go Betty Cooper of Saskatoon, said living and sharing our faith through because it is the Spirit who sends that in 2007 she fell in love with Chandra Schraefel is married who “goes with us” in spirit and presence and relationship.” The team them. Mission can be anywhere, animals and nature in Tanzania, and to Clem and helps to run a grain prays for the team while they are will be staying with Fr. Chuwa at where thoughts and feelings are is going this time to experience the farm near Kerrobert. She plays there. Ussongo, and will have the shared, the group heard. people. piano, is music director in her Norm Duerr from Humboldt is opportunity to visit hospital, school, The Ussongo team included: Anita (Phillips) Turnbull lives parish and the town librarian. Plans personally involved with the village and church communities. Sharon Therens , a member of on a farm outside Kerrobert and to visit her sister in Chile and travel of Ussongo, which he says he has Before leaving Saskatoon on Holy Spirit parish who works at teaches Grades 7 to 9. She is excited in Argentina changed when she was adopted and has been adopted in April 16, the mission team and Sherbrooke Community Centre. She and nervous about the experience. called to this mission. She said she return. He donated money to build a members of the DMO, gathered with said that going on a mission has Her husband, Don, four children and is excited to see what God has in library and has been fundraising to Fr. Les Paquin March 28, spending always been a dream, and after two grandchildren will be waiting at store for her. ship a container of books to the the day discussing hopes and fears, encouragement from her family, she home to hear about her experience. Arlene Julé from Humboldt village. and the meaning of mission, poverty decided to go and see what the Lord Cheryl Brunen is a retired nurse has previous experience in Mary Jacobi from Saskatoon is and solidarity. sends her through this experience. from Warman. She had been Ussongo where she worked with chair of the DMO, and has Mission team fears – including Carmella Pavelich from thinking about going to South women giving birth at the health organized the mission encounter. what the team will do there, giving Guernsey has never traveled, but America someday, but after seeing clinic. She says that she believes She said she is pleased that the up control, lack of training, the hearing the Spirit saying ‘go’ was so the notice about the diocesan our choices and actions give us DMO is taking this step forward to unknown, and insects – were strong that she knew instantly she mission trip, knew she had to go to power to create a loving home on encourage and foster mission balanced with hopes to change, grow had to temporarily put aside her Tanzania. earth. She is grateful to everyone awareness. Formation events held every year for those helping to lead RCIA In the diocese of Saskatoon, Uniting In Faith... for the Rite of Christian Initiation ministry. Parishes cannot expect there are a number of formation coordinators and teams to lead events every year for those who are RCIA without any formation. Parish in leadership in RCIA. Part of the allotted for group discussion of theologians dedicated to making the councils need to provide funds for mandate of the diocesan committee issues brought forward by those full implementation of the Rite of their RCIA teams to attend; for Christian initiation is “to assist present. Christian Initiation of Adults a assistance is also available from the in the education, direction and As well, the annual Western reality in all parishes in the U.S. and diocese. If your parish does not formation of pastors, coordinators, Conference for the Catechumenate Canada. These institutes present the have RCIA at present, this is an catechists, and catechetical teams in meets on a weekend in early June vision of the Rite as well as the opportunity to find and form a team RCIA” ( quoted from the each year in Saskatoon, under the skills to implement the initiation so that you are ready when someone constitution of the committee). leadership of Fr. Michael Koch. The process. calls and asks to be initiated. As the Each year the committee holds a topic for this year’s conference June Offering a forum institute is a Christian initiation process grows one-day fall workshop with a guest 12-14 is On-Going Formation , with major undertaking for a diocese and and evolves, discernment and presenter, many of whom are from facilitator Nick Wagner from the Saskatoon has held a number of renewal as to how we can more the North American Forum on the North American Forum. This is them in the past. This summer, faithfully follow the Rite are Catechumenate. Topics are chosen about the continuing formation of Prince Albert diocese and the forum important, and the forum is in the that are of interest to RCIA leaders those who have been initiated into are co-sponsoring a six-day institute forefront of this. in our diocese, but the basic vision Diocesan Coordinator the church through RCIA. Faith is a called The Initiation Experience: I am retiring from my position of the Rite is always part of the of Christian Initiation journey that lasts a lifetime and we Beginnings and Beyond , August 9- as diocesan coordinator of Christian presentation. Whether a person is a Dolores Crawford need to know how to keep the 14. Participants learn all the periods Initiation. I want to thank the seasoned leader or new to the RCIA newly initiated practicing their faith and stages of the initiation process diocese for giving me the process, the fall workshops are of along with the rest of us. This topic and explore the dynamics of opportunity to serve in this ministry tremendous benefit. Cost is minimal one just held April 21 featured is of interest not only for RCIA conversion through presentations, for the past 10 years. I’ve loved because the committee has a budget resource persons Sr. Dianne Sehn, leaders, but for anyone working reflections, celebrations and skill every minute. I have learned so for training workshops. OSU, and Sr. Anna Aulie, RNDM, with adult faith formation in their building experiences. For more much and have enjoyed meet- The committee chairs one or discussing how to teach our parish. information, contact the Prince ing and working with so many faith- two RCIA coordinators’ meetings catechumens and candidates to be The most comprehensive for- Albert Diocesan pastoral office at filled people. Keep up the good every year and these have a people of prayer. As part of these mation opportunities are the 306-922-4747. work you are doing in your formation component as well. The meetings there is always time institutes offered by the North A Beginnings and Beyond parishes! Bishop Albert LeGatt has American Forum on the Institute is a must for anyone appointed Fr. Michael Koch as the Catechumenate. The forum, based working in leadership in RCIA, as new coordinator. Fr. Mike is the in Washington, D.C., is an well as pastors, Parish Life initiation expert in our diocese so I international network of pastoral Directors, parish councils, liturgists know that the committee is in ministers, liturgists, catechists and and those involved in music very capable hands.

Fr. Ralph Kleiter marks 50 years of leading pilgrim journeys In 2010, Fr. Ralph Kleiter, 1960 to see the Passion Play in travel experience over 50 years ago director of Ministry to Tourism in Oberammergau, Germany and has and it remains my first love as a the diocese of Saskatoon, will be done so for every decade’s travel destination,” said Kleiter. A celebrating 50 years of leading performance since. The Bavarian short winter escape to Mexico, Feb. pilgrim journeys to destinations villagers vowed in 1633 to 24 to March 1, 2010 will be offered. around the world. He began undertake a Passion Play every 10 An anniversary cruise aboard organizing groups while still a years if God would spare them from MS Crystal Symphony sails from seminarian in 1960. the plague. Miami Nov. 22, 2009 to the Fr. Kleiter is inviting people to The “anniversary journey” to Amazon as far as Manaus, Brazil Holy Spirit parish hosts “Paul Party” join him on at least one France and Bavaria will take place with an option to continue to Rio Volunteers enact a drama about the conversion of St. Paul “anniversary journey” starting this May 28 to June 7, 2010, featuring and Buenos Aires. during a “Paul Party” Jan. 27 at Holy Spirit parish in Saskatoon, advent. “I want to dedicate much of two nights in Oberammergau and an event that also featured Mediterranean cuisine, scripture and the anniversary to revisiting many the performance. A $1,000 deposit Contact Fr. Kleiter for details at songs. The program was facilitated by Sr. Anna Aulie, RNDM, of of my favorite travel destinations is needed by May 28, 2009 to be 306-244-3747; or through e-mail: the diocesan Scripture Resources Office as one of the events and experiences,” he said. assured a seat. [email protected] or visit the held to mark the Year of St. Paul. Fr. Kleiter led his first group in “Mexico was my first foreign website at: www.pilgrimjourneys.ca Page 24 Newsletter of the DIOCESE OF SASKATOON Spring 2009

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Uniting in Faith campaign Come and see weekend for prospective students May 29-31 at St. Therese School of Faith and Mission, Bruno. Phone: reaches 71 per cent of goal 369-2555 or see: www.StTherese.ca

Prairie Centre for Ecumenism 25th Anniversary, 6 p.m. aThse la rgemst fundo-raisirng eand parishes begin efsefrvioces art tht e Catholic Pastoral Thursday, June 4 - Banquet at Western Development Museum, building project in diocesan history Centre. “For instance, priest Saskatoon, Tickets $40, register by is breaking records and expecta- chaplains and the diocesan June 1. Contact: 306-653-1633 or tions as volunteers in parishes from coordinator of Hospital Chaplaincy e-mail: [email protected] Macklin to Foam Lake explain the are supported by the diocese. project to fellow parishioners and Alongside volunteers from city Canadian Summer many respond with five-year parishes, they visit the sick in Ecumenical Institute, June pledges to help build a new hospital when we cannot, they 2-5 , at Queen’s House, diocesan home. provide services and programs that Saskatoon, “Telling our story, About 71 per cent of the goal for every parish could never run alone. shaping our future: Christian unity the Uniting in Faith campaign has The diocese provides parishes with and reconciliation in Canada ” - now been reached. Several of the financial support when they are in Organized by the Prairie Centre for largest parishes in the diocese have need, educates our lay and ordained Ecumenism on this year’s 50-50-25 theme, and featuring keynote yet to start the campaign, noted leadership, gives us guidance, and speaker Fr. Tom Ryan. diocesan Development Officer Don connects us to a Church that is (Registration includes 25th Gorsalitz. “The next few weeks will bigger than we are,” she said. anniversary PCE celebration June hopefully see even more happen- “The Uniting in Faith campaign 4). Contact: 306-653-1633 or visit:: ing.” is about being and becoming a www.ecumenism.ne t Several parishes have already family of faith. We will build a new met their diocesan goal for the Cathedral and Catholic Pastoral Theology of the Body campaign, and some are working Centre, but we also have the national conference, June 5-7 beyond that to raise funds for local opportunity to get to know our Saskatoon - See details on initiatives through a parish-sharing neighbours, to support one another, Page 13 or visit the website: incentive, noted Gorsalitz. to imagine that our family can be www.tobconference.ca “Priests in the diocese are also stronger in the future,” Perrault said. Building Healthy providing a powerful leadership role “Being part of a family of faith in this campaign,” added Gorsalitz. is challenging, but it is also rich in Communities , Sat. June 6 at Bishop Mahoney High School, “The clergy have already pledged in blessings. It gives us a shared 231 Primrose Drive, Saskatoon, excess of $200,000 to Uniting in purpose. We are the Church, 9:15 a.m. to noon, - A restorative Faith.” Christ’s hands and feet in the world, The $12.5 million diocesan and our family of faith exists to justice presentation organized by St. Philippe de Neri parish Uniting in Faith chair Garth Wruck campaign to build a new Cathedral nurture us and to allow us to serve the diocesan office for Justice and stands next to the parish sign in Vonda describing the success of and Catholic Pastoral Centre, along the world.” Peace. Contact: Tony Haynes at the campaign in that community. “I know the whole parish is the Catholic Centre, 242-1500. with the $16 million commitment The Uniting in Faith campaign being blessed by this campaign as we witness our faith to each from Holy Family Parish for its is inviting people to make an RCIA: Ongoing Faith other through our support,” he said. share of the facility, has posed a - Photo courtesy of St. Philippe de Neri Uniting in Faith team investment in their faith, she added. Formation, June 12-14 huge challenge, admits Saskatoon “This Cathedral and Catholic Western Conference for the Bishop Albert LeGatt. “Absolutely part of the campaign – to make supporting and nurturing parish life, Pastoral Centre is about providing a Catechumenate at Holy Spirit every gift is needed, and every those connections and try to ensure as well as in coordinating those diocesan and ministry home for our Church, Saskatoon - Anyone parish is an important part of this grandchildren and great-grand- involved in adult faith formation that the faithful across the diocese diocesan programs that exist to effort.” children and their children,” would find this conference with Nick share in a sense of unity, a sense of implement united efforts in Wagner helpful. Contact Fr. Michael At the same time, the bishop vision and a sense of common outreach, justice and mission. Perrault said. Koch at 306-373-0404 or e-mail: said he is touched and encouraged effort.” “This diocesan family of faith “Rural and urban parishes face mjkrcia2shaw.ca by the response in so many parish Blessings have spilled over from provides a community that goes unique challenges and offer unique communities as volunteers make the Uniting in Faith effort – beyond our immediate needs, a bit gifts: we are uniting in faith now to Year of St. Paul closing the sometimes-difficult effort to including a new awareness about like extended family and our own draw closer together, to support one Mass, 7:30 p.m. Monday, connect with fellow parishioners. the diocese and the role of the network of friends,” said Leah another in ministry and to prepare June 29, St. Paul Cathedral, “It is perhaps the most important Catholic Pastoral Centre in Perrault, director of pastoral for our future.” - KLY Saskatoon - Join Bishop Albert LeGatt in this diocesan celebration to mark the end of the Year of Paul. Understanding of baptism mirrored Pilgrimage to Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows June in architecture says RCIA coordinator 19-21 Cudworth, SK. - This is one BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI of the official pilgrimage sites of the The interior design of the new cathedral for Uniting In Faith... Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon will to live our baptism Saskatoon, located two miles clearly illustrate the meaning and importance of southwest of Cudworth, just off baptism, says Fr. Michael Koch, chairperson for the kind of diocesan-wide gathering about Highway 2. Events begin 7 p.m. the Western Conference for the Catechumenate. baptism that was experienced around Eucharist in Friday, June 19, with the rosary and Koch, who has spent more than 34 years Oct. 2007 with the Diocesan Eucharistic hymns. A youth program for Gr. 9 studying and promoting the Rite of Christian Congress. and up begins with registration at Initiation of Adults, the rite by which adults are noon June 20. Pilgrimage events “The self-perception of being a baptized continue 1 p.m., Saturday, June 20, baptized and come into full membership in the person needs to be awakened. People don’t and at 4 p.m. there will be a pontifi- Church, says plans for the new cathedral interior always perceive baptism as making a difference, cal Divine Liturgy with Bishop call for an “awesome” baptistry. when it should make all the difference.” Bryan Bayda, CSsR, followed by The design will clearly communicate the We are continually called to live out our supper and Stations of the Cross. meaning of the sacrament as the life-changing baptismal call in an ever deeper and more Divine Liturgy will be celebrated in sacrament of conversion by which we share in authentic way, he said. “It is baptism that takes us English 10:30 a.m. Sunday, June Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection and are led out of the world to become part of the Body of Fr. Michael Koch at St. Anneʼs font. 21 with Fr. John Sianchuk. to the altar of the Lord, he said. Christ. We are now in the world, but not of the Design elements and building materials will world.” designed so that those being baptized can walk in Ignite youth camp Aug. 16- show how baptism, Eucharist, and the death and Koch noted that a focus on baptism also leads on one side, be immersed in the water and then 22 by FacetoFace Ministries resurrection of Christ are connected as the key to a renewed ecumenical spirit, as Christians of walk out the other side as a new creation. at St. Therese Institute of Faith and elements of our faith, predicted Koch. “It will be many traditions recognize their shared baptismal “The baptistry is the womb of the church, Mission, Bruno. For more info: obvious. Everything will contribute to make that identity. where the whole living community gathers www.facetofaceretreats.com understanding happen.” The inherent richness of the catechumenate around to receive the new Christian, whether a Rock the Mount Catholic Visiting the cathedral in Quebec City last (the process which leads adults to baptism), is child or adult,” he said, noting this will also be Youth Rally, Saturday, Aug. summer during the International Eucharistic how it tries to initiate people into “a living, reflected in the design of the baptistry for the new 22 at Mount Carmel Shrine Congress, Koch was surprised and a little explicit and fruitful profession of faith.” The Holy Family Cathedral. “In planning these (about 95 km east of Saskatoon on shocked when he could not locate the baptismal RCIA process is held up by the Church as the things, it’s important to think about how Highway 5, then turn north to font. Neither staff members in the bookstore nor model for all other catechesis, Koch noted. architecture shapes our faith,” he said. Carmel, SK.; the shrine is north of local people in the building had any idea where it Architecture of church buildings can shape In addition to being the founder and director the town site) - a free all-day youth was located. “I never did find it,” he said. “What faith and understanding, Koch said, reflecting on of the Western Conference of the Catechumenate, and family out-door event featuring does that architectural design say about our how a renewed understanding of baptism has Fr. Michael Koch is pastor at Dundurn, as well as speakers, music, activites, games, understanding of baptism?” influenced the design of baptismal fonts in recent providing pastoral assistance at Holy Family and worship. Food can be Greater understanding about the central place years. He pointed to the font at the recently parish in Saskatoon. With the retirement of purchased on site. E-mail: of baptism in Christian life is very much needed, renovated St. Anne’s parish in Saskatoon, located Dolores Crawford, Fr. Koch will also serve as [email protected] he maintained, suggesting there might one day be at the entrance way of the church building, diocesan coordinator of RCIA .