Pastor Fr. Matthew Bedard x.23 Catholic Parishes of St. and [email protected] Called - Nurtured - Sent Parochial Vicar Fr. Raymond Masse x.27 To carry on the Mission of Christ [email protected] May 3, 2020 Deacons Deacon David Robertson x.41 Fourth Sunday of Easter [email protected]

Deacon Christopher Stoesser x.24 A Reflection from Deacon Christopher [email protected] Pastoral Minister “ – and a sword will pierce your own soul too. “ Luke 2:35 Leanne Moran x.25 Sometimes know as Candlemas, forty days following Christmas, we cele- [email protected] brate the Feast of the Presentation in early February. In the gospel reading we hear of Mary and Joseph, no doubt filled with joy and expectation, bringing Sacramental Secretary their infant child to Jerusalem to the temple to fulfill the law of Moses by Michelle Christie x.21 presenting their firstborn to the Lord and to offer sacrifice. [email protected] On entering the temple, Mary and Joseph encounter , devout and righteous, who having been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die Financial Secretary until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah, takes the child Jesus into his arms and Cathy Cimetta x.22 begins to praise God announcing among other wondrous things “for my eyes [email protected] have seen your salvation.” (Luke 2: 29-32) To the words that Simeon speaks about Jesus, we are told, “the child’s fa- Custodians ther and mother were amazed at what was being said about him.” Then Simeon blesses this Ana Maria Moniz x.31 - SH young family and we can only imagine what wonderment must have been stirring in their hearts during these happenings. Ray DiBrita x.30 - SM Then turning to Mary, Simeon speaks to her and the last of his declarations is the line that appears above. In the swirl of all the events and the emotions Mary hears these profound words St. Michael that she too will be closely linked to the passion of her son. And what must she have been pon- 1920 Wildwood Drive, dering in the depths of her heart, her soul. Bright’s Grove, N0N 1C0 In the month of May, for Catholics the month of Mary, we pray in a particular way to Our

(519) 869-2845 Blessed Mother that she intercede for us. The scene above serves as the backdrop to the first of

Sacred Heart her ‘seven sorrows’. These can be anxious times but I invite you to turn to her who is full of 1465 Lecaron Avenue, grace. I invite you to pray in the depths of your heart to Our Lady of Sorrows. Sarnia, N7V 3J4 For the month of May we have learned that our churches will remain closed and while our (519) 344-2992 separation from the sacraments, from the joys of our communal public worship, and from the continuation of our Eucharistic fast may cause sorrow, I offer three consolations: Office Hours: I Our Fledgling Church - throughout the entire Easter season readings are taken from the Although our parish offices are Act of the Apostles, the period during which the church was emerging, beginning to establish now closed to the public, your itself. There were no plans, there were no blueprints, but there was joy and there was hope. parish team and staff are working None of us is prepared for the universal closure of our church buildings but all of us are church! diligently to find ways to serve the All of us finding our ways in dealing with this situation, but I implore you in these fledgling spiritual needs of the community. times to continue to pray, to grow in your faith, and to make spiritual communion during the We encourage you to reach out to mass – how I have been so moved in ‘attending mass’ on-line from so many places around the any of us at any time. world! We are and remain a people of joy and hope! II Our Lord’s Promise – in our gospel reading today, John 10:1-10, Jesus says to us that “I In Case of a Pastoral am the gate for the sheep.” Though we may feel like a fledgling church our path is certain: “I am Emergency, please call the the gate.” says Jesus. I implore you to continue to pray and to listen for the voice (especially, parish office at 519-344- where possible, at holy mass) of him who “calls his own sheep by name” so “they may have life, 2992 x.9 and leave a and have it abundantly.” message. Voice messages III Our Lady’s Intercession –I believe these times though troubling can be an opportunity to will go to the parish email grow in grace and so we turn to her who is full of grace and in a particular way I invite and en- and will be checked. courage your devotions to Our Lady of Sorrows – see the meditation and prayer that follow. The version that I offer is my own by way of introduction but there are many more detailed versions, General Inquiries extension 0 including that of the Servite , on-line.

Parish Email [email protected] Peace. Parish Website www.smshsarnia.ca Prayers. Like us on Facebook Deacon Christopher (stmichaelandsacredheartcatholicparishes) Our Lady of Sorrows

Meditation and prayer on the Seven Sorrows of Our Blessed Mother

I of Simeon Amidst the joyful proclamation at the presentation of Jesus in the temple, Simeon adds the ominous prophecy to Mary that one day a sword shall pierce her soul. These days the news today can be filled with ominous announcements and though we lament, we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who knew such heaviness of heart. , full of grace …

II Mary and Joseph and the infant child Jesus left abruptly, their home, their security, their community for a for- eign land. Joseph would have had no job; this young family would not have had a home; they were refugees. These days we find ourselves isolated from community and though we lament, we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who knew such separation. Hail Mary, full of grace …

III Loss of the Jesus Mary and Joseph on returning home from Jerusalem thinking that Jesus, barely a youth, was with relatives now realize he has gone missing. For three days he is lost to them before they find him in the temple. These days we find ourselves separated from our churches, especially in encountering Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, though we la- ment, we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who knew such loss. Hail Mary, full of grace …

IV Meeting Jesus on the Way to Mary encounters her son carrying his cross to his place of death. Her heart is full of grief as her compassionate gaze falls on her son. These days we see the anguish of others as they carry the load of their distress mental, emotional, physical, though we lament, we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who knew such grief. Hail Mary, full of grace …

V Crucifixion Mary watches as her innocent son is nailed to a cross. How tormented her heart must have been to gaze helplessly but to feel Jesus’ excruciating pain forcefully. These days we pray for those who have died, especially those who have died alone, in our lament we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who knew such pain. Hail Mary, full of grace …

VI Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross What agony there must have been in the heart of Mary to see her now still son being taken down from the cross and placed into her loving arms. These days there are so many who take into their care the suffering and the dying and though in those burdens we lament, we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who knew such wounds. Hail Mary, full of grace …

VII Jesus is Placed in the Tomb Mary experiences bitter loss as Jesus is placed in the tomb. Yet what grace-filled longing did she have in the certain hope of Jesus’ resurrection. These days we lament for those experiencing despair in their lives; we pray for her intercession to Our Lady of Sorrows who trusted in the hope of the Resurrection. Hail Mary, full of grace …

Our Lady of Sorrows, Pray for us. Our Lady of Mercy, Pray for us. Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Pray for us. O Mary, conceived without sin, Pray for us who have recourse to thee. Compendium OF THE CATECHISM OF THE 196. In what sense is the Blessed Virgin Mary the ? (963-964, 973) The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of the Church in the order of grace because she gave birth to Jesus, the Son of God, the Head of the body which is the Church. When he was dying on the cross Jesus gave his mother to his disciple with the words, “Behold your mother” (John 19:27). 197. How does the Virgin Mary help the Church? (965-970 974-975) After the Ascension of her Son, the Virgin Mary aided the beginnings of the Church with her prayers. Even after her Assumption into heaven, she continues to intercede for her children, to be a model of faith and charity for all, and to exercise over them a salutary influence deriving from the superabundant merits of Christ. The faithful see in Mary an image and an anticipation of the resurrection that awaits them and they invoke her as advocate, helper, benefactress and . 198. What kind of devotion is directed to the holy Virgin? (971) It is a singular kind of devotion which differs essentially from the cult of adoration given only to the Most Holy Trinity. This special veneration directed to Mary finds particular expression in the liturgical feasts dedicated to the Mother of God and in Marian prayers such as the holy Rosary which is a compendium of the whole Gospel. 199. In what way is the Blessed Virgin Mary the eschatological of the Church? (972) Looking upon Mary, who is completely holy and already glorified in body and soul, the Church contemplates in her what she herself is called to be on earth and what she will be in the homeland of heaven.

Stabat Mater is the title of a thirteenth-century hymn and it means "the Mother was standing." In Latin, the hymn consists of twenty couplets which describe the Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin at the Cross.

At the cross her station keeping, Mary, fount of love's devotion, Virgin of all virgins blest! Mary stood in sorrow weeping Let me share with true emotion Listen to my fond request: When her Son was crucified. All the sorrow you endured. Let me share your grief divine While she waited in her anguish, Virgin, ever interceding, Let me, to my latest breath, Seeing Christ in torment languish, Hear me in my fervent pleading: In my body bear the death Bitter sorrow pierced her heart. Fire me with your love of Christ. Of your dying Son divine. With what pain and desolation, Mother, may this prayer be granted: Wounded with His every wound, With what noble resignation, That Christ's love may be implanted Steep my soul till it has swooned Mary watched her dying Son. In the depths of my poor soul. In His very Blood away. Ever-patient in her yearning At the cross, your sorrow sharing, Be to me, O Virgin, nigh, Though her tear-filled eyes were All your grief and torment bearing, Lest in flames I burn and die, burning, Let me stand and mourn with you. In His awe-full judgment day. Mary gazed upon her Son. Fairest maid of all creation, Savior, when my life shall leave Who, that sorrow contemplating, Queen of hope and consolation, me, On that passion meditating, Let me feel your grief sublime. Through your mother's prayers Would not share the Virgin's grief? receive me Virgin, in your love befriend me, With the fruits of victory. Christ she saw, for our salvation, At the Judgment Day defend me. Scourged with cruel acclamation, Help me by your constant prayer. While my body here decays Bruised and beaten by the rod. May my soul your goodness Savior, when my life shall leave me, praise, Christ she saw with life-blood failing, Through your mother's prayers Safe in heaven eternally. Amen All her anguish unavailing, receive me Alleluia. Saw him breathe his very last. With the fruits of victory. The Collegeville Hymnal Minnesota: Liturgical Press, 1990. Masses and Intentions We remember those who have died  Elsa McCormack, mother of Dave  Annette Sauve, grandmother of Stefanie Hammond

Please pray for the sick of our parish Although we cannot gather for Mass, Fr. Matthew and Trish Berg, Hilda Lavine, Devon Neil, Florence & Stan Laird, Fr. Ray continue to offer private daily Masses for our Anna Halford, Barry Mattigan, Carol Fera, Basil Kuiack, scheduled intentions, as well as for the intentions of all Kevin Kuindersma, Corinne Evans, Anna Kyksa, parishioners, for the medical personnel assisting the sick, Fran Varga, Robert, Paula McNichol, Betty Mackey, and for an end to the COVID-19 outbreak. Tony Ritonja, Bobby Redman, Solange DeMeyer, Anne Heytens, Jim Stearn, Crystal Shooster, Danny Graveline, Monday, May 4th Norma Carson, Joyce Bisson Domenico Iacobelli ...... Olga Ryan Jude D’Silva ...... The Family Frank Zalesak ...... Marianne Clift Readings for Sunday, May 10th 1st Reading: Acts 6: 1-7 Tuesday, May 5th Ernesto D’Andrea ...... Wife, Maria D’Andrea & Children 2nd Reading: 1 Peter 2: 4-9 Alexander Sr. & Eva Maria Lew ...... Son, Alexander Jr. Gospel: John 14: 1-12 Wilma McNeill ...... Kathy & Jamie Maczko For the deceased members of the Polsinelli Family .. Gabriella & Emilio Benacquista Would You Like to Offer a Mass Intention? For the intentions of Jessica Shore ...... Auntie Stella Fr. Matthew & Fr. Ray continue to offer Wednesday, May 6th private daily Masses. Please be assured Bill Tavares ...... Wife, Helen previously scheduled Mass intentions are For the intentions of Heather & Ryan Leasa ...... Cecile & Brian McEachen being offered. If you would like to offer a For the intentions of the MacAdam Family .. Karen Gallagher & Mass intention, please contact the office. Family For the intentions of the MacKenzie & Frew Families ...... Sheila & Duncan MacKenzie A Prayer of Spiritual Communion Thursday, May 7th Loretto & Pasqua Iacobelli ...... Daughter, Anna Marsella (from: dailytvmass.com) Martin Riley ...... Jim & Irma Persichetti O Eucharistic Heart of Jesus. Margaret Kuenzig ...... Ken Winch & the late Jennifer I wish to be united with your eternal Jen Winch ...... Husband, Ken oblation to the Father, with each Eucha- For the intentions of the Ethridge Children ...... Glen & Michelle Ethridge ristic sacrifice being offered at this mo- Friday, May 8th ment upon the earth. Lord, Jesus, come Cleodice Torti ...... Luigi Torit & Family and dwell in my heart, nourish me with Vittoria Saurini...... Daughters, Rita & Ivana & Families the Bread of Life, cleanse, wash and purify Lena Devereaux ...... Carol, Mike & Kathy Wilma McNeill ...... Sheila Klauke me in the bath of Your Precious Blood. (If Fabiola Lacroix ...... Sacred Heart Parish you wish, pray an Our Father) Amen.

Saturday, May 9th Maria Pia Iacobelli ...... The Family Maria & Michele Salera ...... Daughter Reflection Songs for Today’s Gospel For the deceased members of the Vander Vloet & Meeuwssen Families  Shepherd Me, O God ...... Estate of Frank J. Vander Vloet Prayers of Healing for Trish Berg ...... George Stanko (Marty Haugen – with singalong lyrics) https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=wP3eGsqGWZk

 The Lord’s My Shepherd (Celtic style) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_f9OLthL5EI Pray for Vocations: May 3rd to May 9th Sunday: Rev. Matthew Bedard Monday: Rev. Daniel Bombardier A couple recommended websites Tuesday: Rev. Richard (Dick) Bester to check out Wed: Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood  http://dailymass.com/ Thursday: Rev. Gary Ducharme Friday: Rev. James Mockler  https://mass-online.org/daily-holy-mass-live- Saturday: Rev. Gerry Campeau online/ Please remember to pray for our Holy Father, Francis (from the , provides a very extensive listing of live-streamed daily & weekend Masses) Consecration to Mary, Mother of the Live Streaming of Sunday Church in time of pandemic Mass & Other Devotions in To assist dioceses and eparchies with preparations for the upcom- Our Diocese ing Consecration to Mary, Mother A wide variety of live streamed Masses, of the Church on Friday, May 1st devotionals and other online spiritual activities is at 12p.m., the Canadian Confer- included on the Diocese of London website at dol.ca/ ence of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) resources. We encourage you to explore the many prepared a ritual and a specific options available. The diocese is doing an excellent prayer to recite during the act of job of making sure this list is continually updated. Consecration. Televised Masses Along with Bishops across the country, pastors, families, groups, individuals and other faith communi- For those who do not have access to internet but ties may likewise choose to join the consecration as part wish to participate in daily Mass on television: of the global effort to unite in faith and prayer in this  If Cogeco is your provider: most difficult time. -EWTN available on channel 184 (this is free Bishop Fabbro and Bishop Dabrowski join in the service but you need to contact Cogeco to have Consecration of Canada and the United States to the it set up.) Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, in time of - TV available on channel 24 (Mass times pandemic. Our bishops will participate in the consecra- 8a.m. and 12 noon) tion to entrust us to the care and protection of the -Salt & Light available on channel 185 Blessed Virgin Mary, that we may benefit from her pow-  If Bell is your provider: erful intercession. Watch and pray along here: https://youtube.com/user/wwwdolca -EWTN available on channel 633 The ritual and consecration prayer can be -Vision TV available on channel 261 (Mass found here. times 8a.m. and 12 noon)  If you are on Shaw direct satellite:  http://www.cccb.ca/site/images/stories/pdf/ Marian_Consecration_1_May_2020.pdf -Shaw direct advanced - EWTN available on channel 292 -Shaw classic - EWTN available on channel 559 Additional resources -Shaw national - EWTN available on channel As part of the resources developed for the 2017 285 Marian consecration of Canada, the CCCB developed a document entitled Consecrating Canada to the Blessed Virgin Mary Insights for Adult Catechesis, providing Praying Together, Praying Apart - helpful answers to gain a deeper spiritual understand- ing of the nature and significance of a Marian consecra- At-Home Prayers for Times of tion. Healing, Illness, and Death As we approach the Marian month and in order to Today’s reality of the COVID-19 virus forces us to express love and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, grapple with a difficult reality. Amid self-isolation and the Holy Father recently published a letter addressed to “stay-at-home” orders, an increasing number of people all faithful for the month of May. In this encouraging are experiencing sickness and death while separated letter, and in light of the restrictions in place as a result from other people. This is a painful reality, one that of the Coronavirus pandemic, invites eve- forces us to view and live these experiences differently. ryone to pray the Rosary at home and offers two prayers How can we be spiritually present to those who are sick to be recited at its conclusion. and dying when we cannot be with them physically? https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020- How do we support caregivers and healthcare profes- 04/letter-on-the-month-of-may-full-text.html sionals during these difficult times? How can we sup- The Litany of Loreto may also be useful to accompa- port holistic healing of body, mind, and spirit from ny prayers to the Blessed Mother. afar? This resource strives to offer some concrete ways http://www.vatican.va/special/rosary/documents/ to pray, heal, and grieve together when we are physi- litanie-lauretane_en.html cally apart. Please see the separate email attachment for this resource from Liturgical Press. They are granting per- mission to reprint for individual and family prayer through June 2020. A Prayer in Time of Pandemic Catholic Education Week “Igniting Hope / Look upon your flock, kind Shepherd. Allumer la flamme de l'espérance”

Though bowed down by our human frailty Catholic Education Week in the dark valley of this pandemic, 2020 begins on Sunday, May we fear no evil, for you are with us, 3. Each year, the Catholic com- munity of Ontario engages in a you hear us, and you comfort us. week-long celebration of the Grace with the wisdom of your Spirit unique identity and distinctive political and religious leaders helping us. contributions of Catholic edu- Guide with strength health care workers cation. This year’s celebration is entitled, “Catholic Educa- aiding the sick and dying. tion: Igniting Hope.” Publicly Give consolation to families and friends funded Catholic education has existed in Ontario since suffering with loved ones. 1841 and its graduates have served Ontario and Cana- Grant courage to all – from first responders da very well. The current generation of students in our publicly funded Catholic schools will serve with the to those who put food on our tables – same spirit and generosity as their previous genera- providing essential services and the necessities of life. tions. Bishop Fabbro will be recording a message to In this time of darkness and uncertainty, O God, students in English and French and a special Catholic may we be beacons of your goodness and mercy Education Week Mass by Bishop Dabrowski will be posted online on Wednesday, May 6 at 10:00am. ALL to all in need. are invited to celebrate with Bishop Dabrowki. All the Through Christ, our Lord. Amen. videos will be available on the diocesan YouTube chan- Diocese of London, 2020 nel at https://www.youtube.com/user/wwwdolca.

Why Not Create Your Own Prayer Space at Home? Lily Cole was missing the Confirmation preparation gatherings so she created her own prayer space at home. Below Lily shares in her own words how she prepared her prayer space. Very inspirational for all of us! Thanks for sharing Lily. “We started the prayer table from inspiration of reading online bulletins and attending virtual Mass. One of the online Mass services that we celebrate with is St. George Catholic Parish in London. This was our parish before moving to St. Michael/Sacred Heart Parishes so it was nice to have a connection to our Faith if it could not be with St. Michael parish. Fr. John Jasica men- tioned that it would be nice to have a crucifix in the room while watching mass so I grabbed the one from my room. My Great-Papa Cole made it for me. Instead of putting it back in my room after Mass we decided that it would be nice to create a prayer table in our front window so those walking by could see it and give hope. On our prayer table we have the crucifix; a rosary that my Grandma gave me; a that was given to my Mom as she started working for the St. Clair Catholic School Board; a piece of greenery that we picked from our garden on Palm Sunday (along with an old palm that was forgotten to be returned to the church for Ash Wednesday); and a candle to represent the light of Christ and that Jesus is al- ways there for us. The white cloth on the crucifix represents that Jesus is risen. As I continue to prepare for my Confirmation, I sit near the prayer table to help me focus on the lessons as it gives me a sense of comfort. It is al- so in a good spot for my family to visit when they need a sense of calmness. I think that everyone should think about making their own prayer table and put things on it that mean something special to them.”

Pure Life Ministry Join Pure Life Ministry on Friday nights from 7:30-9p.m. for virtual gatherings that will feature music, prayer, videos (Fr. Mike Schmitz), talks, discussion, and a Question & Answer time. These gatherings are a series of intentionally planned events providing: ongoing relevant formation for a deep- ened understanding of Catholicism and Christian living; practical tools for a strengthened approach to evangeliza- tion; individual opportunities for a renewed encounter with Jesus Christ; and active communities for encouraged connection with others. These lessons range from core questions about the Catholic Faith to practical issues on Christian discipleship. To register, go to [email protected] GOOD NEWS to SHARE Letter from the Holy Father Janet Oliver shared the GOOD To complement your preparations, NEWS that on March 22 her mom please find below the links to a letter Molly Harris of St. Michael's parish addressed to all faithful from the Holy celebrated 101 years of life, love and Father for the month of May, issued on laughter. Last year she saw 100 25 April 2020. In this encouraging let- friends and family, this year just ter, Pope Francis invites everyone to three "oldies" gathered and facetime chats filled the pray the Rosary at home and offers two house. Her presence in our lives is a blessing. Happy prayers to be recited at its conclusion. 101 birthday Molly! WOW! https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020 God has blessed Maureen & Christian Akuchie’s -04/letter-on-the-month-of-may-full-text.html family with a son and baby brother to big sisters Michelle and Christelle. David Chinedum Akuchie was born on Sunday, April 19th weighing in at 8lbs 3oz and 21 inches tall. Mom and baby are both doing well. Congratulations from your Sacred Heart parish Vacation Bible School 2020 family! Although we’ve scheduled this Gloria Bernard is very happily celebrating the birth year’s VBS for the week of July 6 – of “OUR” 20TH great grandchild born on March 24th in 10, we are holding off on accepting the year 2020. She was born just one week before Glo- registrations until the Covid-19 cri- ria’s 90th birthday on April 2nd. Gloria is praying sis has passed. We are very happy to take volunteers many thanks for her family and for her good right now though so please let us know if you are health. Our heartfelt congratulations to you for your interested in helping out and we will find just the right milestone birthday and very special birthday gift of a job for you! beautiful new great granddaughter! SO MUCH BABY NEWS! Jerry & Mary Weerden- burg are very happy to share the good news of the birth rd of their 3 grandchild. Baby Noah is the first child for Offerings their son Steven and cousin to Andrea’s children Sam We have received a few inquiries from parishion- and Max. Congratulations Oma and Opa! ers asking how they can continue to financially sup- port the parishes during this time of closure. Of Any Good News to Share? course, we understand that circumstances may dic- What a wonderful opportunity we have with our tate that some of you may experience financial stress electronic “space restriction free” bulletin to share any due to interruptions in employment. Our thoughts of your family’s good news with our parish family. Per- and prayers are with you. For those able and wanting haps there’s a new baby or newly engaged couple in to continue their offerings, the following options are your family, a special birthday or anniversary, a clean available: bill of health from the doctor, perhaps someone just  Drop off your weekly envelope at either Parish learned how to ride a bike or lost their first tooth, or office, using the mail slot, in the office door at you’ve been on the receiving end of an unexpected good SH, and next to the office door at SM. deed. Please let us know so we can celebrate along with  Directly from your bank account using Interac you! Just email Leanne at [email protected] with the sub- e-Transfer through online banking: ject line “good news to share”. (See page 4 for some St. Michael Parish [email protected] good news shared this week). Sacred Heart Parish [email protected] Prayer – A Place of Refuge  Consider enrolling in Pre-Authorized Donations St. John Chrysostom said, 'Prayer is the place of from your bank account by contacting Cathy at refuge for every worry, a foundation for cheer- [email protected] or 519-344-2992 Ext 22. fulness, a source of constant happiness, a protec-  Donate online through Canada Helps through our tion against sadness.' Families are there for the website www.smshsarnia.ca using your credit good and the bad times and as a parish family card. we want to be able to reach out to you and join our **THANK YOU to all those who have dropped off prayers with yours when you are undergoing hardships. their offertory envelopes, enrolled in Pre-Authorized Please let us know if there is anything you would like Giving or donated by e-transfer or Canada your parish family to keep in their prayers. Email Helps. Your continued financial support during this Leanne at [email protected] with the subject line “prayer time of closure is greatly appreciated. ** request”. Interest in the Knights of Columbus and our mission involving Faith, Family, Life and Community has never been greater. How is that you ask in this current pandemic? We know since on Thursday, April 16th we had over 9,000 men participate in the 30 minute on-line exemplifi- cation ceremony of Charity, Unity and Fraternity and become full members in the order. More opportunities to join us are planned for May 7th. In the meantime, take time to watch the video series "Into The Breach" found at this link; https:// www.kofc.org/en/campaigns/into-the-breach.html Into the Breach was inspired by the Apostolic Exhortation for Catholic men written by Bishop Olmsted of Phoenix, for which the Knights of Columbus produced a series of 15 minute video segments that seek to answer the question of what it means to be a man and how to live as a man in today's world. Or have a look through our Catholic Information Services for...  The Catechism of the Catholic Church  Booklets and Devotionals such as the:  Luke E. Hart Series  Veritas Series  Domestic Church Series  Devotional Series or the  New Evangelization Series at the following link. https://www.kofc.org/en/who-we-are/our-faith/cis.html If you are interested in being included in the May 7th on-line ceremony to join our St. Michael Council of the Knights of Columbus or just seeking more information about the benefits of membership in the Knights of Colum- bus you are welcome to contact Doug at [email protected] or text 519-312-0449 or Brian at brianrob- [email protected] or text 519-330-2703 with your name and contact information. Webinar events for the on-line ceremony are easy to attend. From a computer select the link, which we will provide, to observe and participate in the ceremony. Times available on May the 7th are at 7:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. — all Eastern Time. Don’t delay, contact us right away so that we can provide you with the Registration process before May 7th.

St. Michael Quilting Group Shares Their Good News With the current Covid-19 pandemic and self isolation, the St. Michael Quilting Group has switched gears. We are pleased and grateful to announce that members of the Quilting Group and several friends, in our isolation, have been making facial masks, scrub caps and headbands for Bluewater Health Hospitals and St. Joseph's Hospice. To date we have made 381 facial masks (& more every day!), 17 scrub caps and 8 headbands, along with 148 masks made for family, friends and neighbours (see photos). The colours alone would brighten anyone's day! Our contact with Bluewater Health says they are so appreciative of our support and loving kindness and concern for their safety. Thank you all sewers! Thank you all Quilters and friends who have shown their dedication to the health of our citizens and health care workers, patients and volunteers. As the slogan goes, "We are All in This Together" and together we will come through this crisis better and stronger than before. It is a blessing to be able to take our talent and skills and be a part of the war effort against Covid-19. We wish everyone good health and many blessings and cherished moments during this unprecedented time in our world. If you are an experienced sewer and would like to help out with this project, please contact Annette Procunier at: [email protected] or phone 519-330-4997.

FEATURED SAINT OF THE WEEK St. François de Laval (1623-1708) Feast Day: May 6

St. François de Laval was born at Montigny-sur-Avre, France on April 30, 1623, a son of French nobility. He studied under the Jesuits and learned philoso- phy and theology. Because his two older brothers died in battle, François inherit- ed the family title and estate. But he resisted all worldly attractions, and his moth- er's entreaties, and held fast to his vocation. Laval was ordained a priest in 1747, and served as archdeacon in France. In 1658 St. Francois de Laval was appointed Vicar Apostolic of New France (Quebec). He arrived by ship in New France, at the age of 36. Laval's first report to the pope, dated 1660, expressed admiration for the natural grandeur of the country, courage, hope for the future, and praise for the zeal of the Jesuits. Saint François de Laval was the first Bishop of New France and today is the Patron of the Bishops of Cana- da. He has been called the “Father of the Church in Canada”. As the first bishop his diocesan territory original- ly included most of what is now Canada, much of upper New England and all the Valley, extending even to the Rocky Mountains. A devoted pastor, he often traveled long distances on foot, in a canoe and on snowshoes to visit and comfort his flock. His great devotion to the and the Holy Guardian Angels and his unwavering faith in Providence made him an inspiring spiritual leader. He is admired for his pastoral work among the Aboriginal Peoples and the settlers of New France, and for trying to defend Native People from being exploited by mer- chants and governors through the sale of alcohol. Saint François de Laval was also one of the foremost promoters of education. At that early period, with a handful of colonists and scanty resources, he organized a complete education system: primary, technical, and classical. His seminary, established in 1663, and minor seminary, established in 1668, trained candidates for the priesthood. Envisioning a greater future, Francois de Laval built the seminary on a relatively large scale, which excited the envy and criticism of Governor Frontenac. No regular parishes had been established yet, so the clergy were attached to the seminary, from where they were dispatched for parochial or mission work. The tithes, after much discussion and opposition, had finally been limited to the twenty-sixth bushel of grain har- vested, an enactment still legally in force in the Province of Quebec. These tithes were paid to the seminary, which, in return provided labourers for Christ's vineyard. (Incidentally, the seminary was burned twice [1701 and 1705], and rebuilt through Saint François de Laval’s energy and generosity). In addition to the seminary, St. Francois de Laval had an industrial school built, founded at St- (1678), to provide the colony with skilled farmers and craftsmen. Saint François de Laval gave all of his posses- sions to these institutions, especially the seminary. These institutions eventually became Laval University which has made major contributions in the intervening centuries to higher academic education not only in Quebec and the rest of Canada, but throughout North America. Pastor, educator, administrator and founder – a multi-faceted legacy was left by this figure of stature. Québec’s first bishop was a pivotal force in this region’s social and religious history. In addition to Laval University, a number of boulevards, parishes, schools, waters and monuments bear his name today. Exhausted by thirty years of a laborious apostolate, and convinced that a younger bishop would work more efficaciously for God's glory and the good of souls, Bishop de Laval resigned in 1688. He might have enjoyed a well-earned retreat in France, but after having returned to France he realized he preferred to return to the country that was the scene of his labours. François de Laval sought permission from King Louis XIV to return to Canada. In recognition of the work he had done, his ninth – and last – ocean crossing was finally authorized. Saint François de Laval, known for his commitment to evangelization and his generosity to the poor, devoted his final years to prayer, penance and the care of the poor. Of him, Saint Marie of the Incarnation said in 1660, “He is in fact the most austere man of this world, the most detached from worldly possessions. He gives away everything and lives in poverty – one could truthfully say that he possesses the spirit of poverty.”

(cont’d on next page)

Sick and very ill, he died on May 6, 1708 at the age of 85 in a modest room in the Séminaire de Québec. His body now rests in the funeral chapel of the Notre-Dame Basilica-Cathedral of Quebec (since 1993). St. François de Laval’s feast day is celebrated on May 6 - the day of his death. The cause for his canonization was introduced in 1890. On June 22, 1980, this missionary Bishop was beat- ified by Pope John Paul II and was canonized by Pope Francis on April 3, 2014. St. Marie of the Incarnation (see last week’s bulletin) was a contemporary of St. Francois de Laval and was also canonized on this same day. The Hurons – a community with whom Saint Francois de Laval built close ties, dubbed him “Hariaouagui”: “The Man of Great Vision”. Below is an excerpt from St. François de Laval’s writings that is as true today as it was then, and a reminder for each of us – also called also to be missionary disciples in the Lord’s vineyard. “Let them (the missionaries) remember that the seed of the word of God bears fruit in patience. Those who do not have this patience are in danger, after throwing a lot of fire in the beginning, to finally lose heart and leave the business.” (Saint François de Laval)

Adapted from the following sources: https://saltandlighttv.org/ www.francoisdelaval.com www.cccb.ca (The Saints and Blesseds of Canada) Photo Credit: CNS

Growing in Faith, Growing in Christ The digital resources Growing in Faith, Growing in Christ, the Catholic School Religious Edu- cation program, are now available for home use. The website features videos, songs, bible sto- ries, prayers, interactive activities and more. To access these resources: https://media.pearsoncanada.ca/intl/pec/school/ca_sch_religion_sso/ Username: GIFGIC_student99 and Password: Student99. Parishes are encouraged to pro- mote the use of this site. (Note: Login will only work when using Internet Explorer/Edge).

Online Youth Ministry Certificate This might be a great time for some Professional Development or to begin training to support Family and Youth ministry in your community. The Certificate in Youth Ministry course is an online program offered in partnership with Steubenville Catechetical Institute that can be done at your own pace. Information can be found at dol.ca/ymcertification or contact Claire Bondy at [email protected].

Job Postings  St. Simon and St. Jude Parish, Belle River, is seeking a Hall Manager. A new closing date of May 8 has been posted. Details are available at https://dol.ca/ employmentvolunteering.  The parishes , Grand Bend; Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Mount Carmel; Precious Blood, Exeter; St. Boniface, Zurich; St. Peter’s in St. Joseph; and St. Peter’s, Goderich are seeking a full-time Business Manager and a Pastoral Min- ister/Pastoral Worker. The Diocese of London is seeking two Camp Coordinators and four Camp Counsellors for the Summer Leadership Camp Program, subject to Provin- cial changes. Details for these positions are available at https://dol.ca/employmentvolunteering. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING THEME 3

The more we know about Catholic Social Teaching, the more equipped we are to express our Catholic faith in powerful ways. This week we will take a closer look at the 3rd Principle of Catholic Social Teaching – Rights and Responsibilities. As we travel this new road together during the Covid-19 pandemic, we are living, in our every day lives, a very real example of the 3rd theme of Catholic Social Teaching the Right & Responsibility to uphold the Common Good of all. The primary body of information below is taken from the work of the Catholic Relief Agency, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Catholic Conference.

Theme 3: Rights and Responsibilities The Catholic tradition teaches that human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met. Therefore, every person has a fundamental right to life and a right to those things required for human decency. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities—to one another, to our families, and to the larger society.

Children’s Wording: God wants us to help make sure everyone is safe and healthy and can have a good life. Rights and Responsibilities come out of Human Dignity. We are made in the image and likeness of God and we all have a right to a decent living and a reciprocal responsibility to contribute to society and to the Common Good. All people have a right to more than just existence. Every person is another who is created in God’s like- ness and image with equal human dignity. We all have a responsibility to look out for others. Each of us has a responsibility to assess and respond to the needs in our families, schools, parishes, communities and the larger society and world. We also must consider how our own actions and decisions contribute to the well-being of oth- ers or to the planet. Rights and responsibilities are inextricably tied: “The obligation to earn one’s bread presumes the right to do so.” (The Hundredth Year, Centesimus Annus, John Paul II, 1991) Emphasizing rights and neglecting responsibility leads to contradictions and threats to the common good. Much of the discussion in politics today is focused on individual rights, and neglects the corresponding responsibilities including our corporate responsibility to each other and future generations.

Rights Human rights can be, and often are, interpreted very broadly and are sometimes confused with desires or wants. In Catholic social teaching, the rights related to the basic necessities of living a dignified life take center stage. In his Address to the 34th General Assembly of the United Nations, John Paul II enumerated the basic rights of all individuals: “The right to life, liberty and security of the person; the right to food, clothing, housing, sufficient health care, rest, and leisure; the right to freedom of expression, education and culture; the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; the right to manifest one’s religion either individually or in community, in public or in private; the right to choose a state of life, to found a family and to enjoy all conditions necessary for family life; the right to property and work, to adequate working conditions and a just wage; the right of assem- bly and association; the right to freedom of movement, to internal and external migration; the right to nationali- ty and residence; the right to political participation and the right to participate in the free choice of the political system of the people to which one belongs.” The effort to insure these rights often leads to conflict – between and within nations. And it often leads to conflict among individuals, especially if “my” perceived right conflict with “your” perceived right. That’s why discussion and, eventual, consensus on the common good is essential in our politics and society. We can some- times be called to sacrifice our right so that others can enjoy theirs. (cont’d on next page)

Responsibilities We have individual duties, such as to care for ourselves and our families, and social duties, such as promo- tion of the common good in reducing poverty and improving education, transportation, environment, safety, health care and other areas. In today’s world, for instance, what responsibilities do government, investors, economist, financial institu- tions, corporations and others have in solving the financial crisis facing our nation? Can they be allowed to take advantage of the situation, or are they called to temper their actions? In the same vein, can an individual enter into a loan agreement he or she cannot possibly pay back? Because the country offers unemployment assis- tance, can an individual stop looking for a job? The individual responsibility is often very clear and relatable. No one wants to be a “deadbeat” and we ad- mire the “self-made person.” But the social and corporate responsibility is sometimes less discernable. Few of us are solitary decision makers in a corporation or other organization. It is easier to dismiss our part or the role we play. It matters lit- tle if we save gas because we are after all “only one person” or “nobody else does it.” How responsible are we for the gas crises and pollution by ourselves? Obviously, the levels or responsibility are different, but not the basic premise.

Questions for Reflection &/or Discussion  What actions or decisions in your every day life support the Rights and Responsibilities of all?  Are they ways you could show greater responsibility for the Common Good in your actions or decisions?  Where do you see or hear about rights being violated in your community or around the world? Whose re- sponsibility is it to ensure those rights are protected or fulfilled?  How might God be inviting you to advocate to protect the rights you feel most passionate about, and to en- sure that corresponding duties are fulfilled?

Watch: cst 101: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPB6sXj6Fwo Listen: What Have We Done (David Haas) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1TtwmKNSXg Explore more: crs.org; dev.org; cacatholic.org (do a search for Catholic Social Teaching)

Prayer to be Sent Loving God, help us do everything we can to build a society where all people are able to exercise their human rights and fulfill their responsibilities. Amen

Pope Francis, Laudato Si’ - On Care for Our Common Home Interested in reading this together and sharing your thoughts online? In the midst of the Covid-19 Crisis and in honour of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, could there be a better time to read Pope Francis’ Encyclical on caring for our common home? Pope Francis released the Papal Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’ on May 24, 2015. Like all Encyclicals, Laudato Si’ takes its name from the opening phrase of the Letter: “Laudato Si’ - Praise be to you” in English. Laudato Si’ calls us to rediscover in awe and wonder the beauty of creation. At the same time, Pope Francis urges that we must respond to the cry of the earth in its suffering of our mistreatment of the natural world. This Encyclical letter is intended not only for Catholics, but for all people. Laudato Si’ is downloadable from many sites including https://laudatosi.com/watch. Several excellent summaries of Laudato Si’ may be found online (ewtn.com; cacatholic.org; catholicclimatecovenant.org) to name a few. Study guides are also available online. If you would like to join an email group to read Laudato Si’ together and share your thoughts on the various is- sues addressed, please email [email protected] with the subject line Laudato Si’. Sometimes reading along with others helps keep us on track. Liturgy of the Word with Children Prayer Service May 3, 2020 – Fourth Sunday of Easter (Year A)

(Adapted &) Reprinted from Celebrating the Lectionary for Preschool and Kindergarten, Year A © 2019 Archdiocese of : Liturgy Training Publications. 800-933-1800; www.LTP.org. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

Please note, you may wish to set up a prayer table at home for this Liturgy of the Word with Children Prayer Service. The LEADER parts are italicized. If you wish to receive an email of the Prayers and Songs in large print, please email: [email protected]. Please note there are links included at the end of the Prayer Service for at home activities and resources for family members of all ages. Included in the dol.ca/outreach link are live streaming of Masses and other devotionals. Greeting: Today is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. We begin with the sign of our faith – the sign of the cross. “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”. All: Amen. Opening Prayer: Dear God. We thank You for this day. We thank You for our families and friends. Be with us as we work and play today. Help us always to be kind to each other. We ask this through Christ our Lord. All: Amen. Light the Candles: As we begin today, we are reminded to always walk in Jesus’ light. (Say or sing to- gether “We Should Be Like Candles” as the candles are lit. The tune is “The Itsy, Bitsy Spider). We should be like candles brightening up the world; Helping everyone see how we can love the Lord. Smiling, happy, fully of love, we are God’s family. And we shine our light so all will know that God loves you and me. Penitential Act: Close your eyes and think of times when your words or actions stopped you from liv- ing like Jesus.” (Wait for about 10 seconds and say) We ask for God’s forgiveness as we say/sing the Sorry Song (tune: Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star) Dear Lord Jesus, hear our prayer, as we bring to You our cares. Please forgive us any wrongs, as we sing our sorry song. Help us to be kind each day, in our thoughts and all we say.

Glory to God: We proclaim the greatness of God by saying/singing Glory to God (tune: Here We Go ‘Round the Mulberry Bush)

Let us all praise the Son of God, Son of God, Son of God. Let us all praise the Father, too, and the Holy Spirit. Gospel Accl: It’s time to listen to our Gospel story for today. In the Gospel stories, Jesus gives us lessons for staying close to God. (Sing together the Gospel acclamation – tune “If You’re Happy and You Know It”).

Alleluia, Alleluia Praise the Lord. Alleluia, Alleluia Praise the Lord As we listen to the story let us praise him for his glory Alleluia, Alleluia Praise the Lord

Gospel: A reading from the holy Gospel according to John.

All: Glory to You, O Lord.

Gospel is read: Jesus said: The shepherd comes into the sheepfold through the gate, but the thief climbs over the fence. The gatekeeper knows the shepherd, and lets him in. The sheep know the shepherd's voice. The shepherd calls the sheep by name. He leads, and they follow. ”"Then Jesus said: "I am the sheep gate. Those who avoid me are not good for the sheep. I let in only what's good for the sheep. I came to bring them life."

(after the Gospel is read, say) The Gospel of the Lord. All: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection: Ask the questions (bold) - Use the text following to create discussion What is a gate? A gate is like a door in a fence. The only safe way in or out of a fenced area is through a gate. Climbing over a fence can be dangerous.

Why did Jesus call himself the sheep gate? Jesus’ nickname for us was sheep. Sheep need someone to care for them, and we need Jesus to care for us. A sheepfold is a safe place for sheep, surrounded by a fence to keep out wolves that might harm the sheep. Our sheepfold is our trust in Jesus, which guards us from sin. The only way in or out of the sheepfold is through the gate. Jesus said that he is our gate, and he lets in only what is good for us. If we stay inside our trust in Jesus, he will keep sin out of our lives.

Why did Jesus say that the sheep know their shepherd and follow him? We know the teachings of Jesus, and we try to follow those teachings. Jesus taught us to love God and to love one another. Love is how we know Jesus. When we do what is loving, we are following Jesus.

Creed: Together we pray the Creed: We believe in God the Father, who made the whole world. We believe in Jesus the Son, who died on the cross for us, and rose from the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit who brings life and love to us all. We believe that the Church is one family, and that one day we will share everlasting life with God in heaven. Amen. Intercessions: We turn to God in prayer:

For all leaders in our Church and in our country working to bring healing to our country. We pray to the Lord. All: Lord, hear our prayer.

For all people who are sick and for all who are caring for them. We pray to the Lord. All: Lord, hear our prayer.

For all people who are hungry. We pray to the Lord. All: Lord, hear our prayer.

For families everywhere, filled with love, understanding and compassion for one an other. We pray to the Lord. All: Lord, hear our prayer.

For all countries at war and for all who are suffering in any way. We pray to the Lord. All: Lord, hear our prayer.

For all who have died, that they may enjoy eternal life in heaven. We pray to the Lord. All: Lord, hear our prayer.

(You may wish to invite other prayers and after each one say, “We pray to the Lord” and invite all to respond, “Lord, hear our prayer”.

We offer these and all prayer to God our Father as we pray together: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Closing Prayer: (praying together if you wish) Heavenly Father, help us to believe in Your goodness and to always trust in Your love for us. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Children's Bulletins to go with this week’s Gospel: (Print 2 sided- flip short edge) Ages 3+ Ages 7+ This Week’s Colouring Page - HERE Other resources available during this time: www.dol.ca/outreach www.dol.ca/at-home-activities www.childrensbulletins.com/Covid19-childrens-activites-for-churches