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Newsletter of the

VDisit us oin tohe web cat: wwew.sasksatoonercdioc eseo.com f S as• kFALL aEDITItON o• DECoEMBEn R 2017 Diocese rejoices at appointment of new bishop BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Bishop knocked on the door of the Cathedral of the Holy Family Nov. 23, 2017, and was welcomed with joy and thanksgiving by the people of the diocese and the wider community at his official installation as the eighth bishop of Saskatoon. “May your bishop’s heart continue to be shaped by us, the people of the Prairies, as it was first shaped by the people of the North,” said Fr. Kevin McGee, speaking on behalf of the clergy, religious and laity of the diocese during the 2.5-hour liturgy. Hagemoen comes to the diocese of Saskatoon after four years as bishop of the northern diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith. “As I left Mackenzie-Fort Smith, I learned that there is no Dene word for goodbye,” said Hagemoen. “The best translation of the related sentiment is ‘until Bishop Mark Hagemoen knocks at At a diocesan celebration Nov. 23, Bishop Mark Hagemoen was officially installed as Bishop of Saskatoon, coming we meet again’. What an the door of the Cathedral Nov. 23. to the diocese after serving four years in the northern diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith. - Photos by Tim Yaworski appropriate expression, as we celebrate the end of the Church year, and also when bridging and acknowledging the link between great faith communities.” Apostolic Luigi Bonazzi, ’ representative in also addressed the assembly, saying: “My dear friends, welcome the new pastor and receive him as Pope Francis urges, as a father, as a teacher and as a guardian, and together with him continue to build this precious gift, which is the Church, the in Saskatchewan, in unity, in friendship, with collaboration with everybody.” Fr. Clement Amofah, Chancellor of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Archbishop of Regina (right) , former bishop of Saskatoon, After knocking at the door at Saskatoon, shows the Apostolic Letter from Pope Francis appointing presented a symbolic set of keys to Bishop Mark Hagemoen during a the beginning of the celebration, Bishop Mark Hagemoen as bishop. - Photo by Tim Yaworski dinner held before the Installation Mass Nov. 23. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Hagemoen was met by a symbol of walking together into Donald Bolen of Regina, and by representatives of the local and the future. Hagemoen was also the Apostolic Nuncio. universal Church. Elder Irene greeted by Cathedral Pastor Fr. Presented with a crucifix, Sharp presented the incoming David Tumback, by previous Hagemoen blessed and kissed it, bishop with a pair of moccasins as Saskatoon bishop Archbishop and then moved through the building blessing the people, led by two dancers, accompanied by an Honour Song by the drum group Young Thunder. As Hagemoen stood before the altar, diocesan Chancellor Fr. Clement Amofah opened the Apostolic Letter from Pope Francis proclaiming Hagemoen bishop of Saskatoon. Amofah held up the document to show the Diocesan Consultors who have cared for the diocese since the departure of Bolen in October 2016, as well as showing it to the entire assembly before reading the letter. Debbie Ledoux, Parish Life Director of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, and Apostolic Nuncio to Canada, Archbishop Luigi Bonazzi (left) extends Elder Michael Maurice of the Diocesan Council for Truth and Reconciliation DIOCESE WELCOMES BISHOP thanks on behalf of Pope Francis to Fr. Kevin McGee for serving as greet Bishop Mark Hagemoen during the installation. - Photo by Tim Yaworski Continued on Page 3 Diocesan Administrator of the diocese since October 2016. - Tim Yaworski 2 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Born and ordained in , bishop served four years in north BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI For the new bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, God’s call has often been gentle and compelling, but at other times, it has been much more insistent. “There were times when I put God on hold, and he became more like the ‘Hound of Heaven’,” says Bishop Mark Hagemoen, A young Mark Hagemoen with his parents and brother (l-r): Eric, Mark, Myra and Daniel. Born in Saskatchewan, his mother Myra moved to Vancouver, BC as a young woman, meeting and citing poet Francis Thompson’s image of marrying Eric and raising two sons. She died July 5, 2017. - Submitted photo God’s persistence. Hagemoen’s faith was first nurtured in “Eventually I knew that I had to at least formation to the local parishes, which would the heart of a Catholic family. check out the possibility of the priesthood. It then minister with and for their own young Born Sept. 4, 1961 in Vancouver, BC, he was not going to go away.” people. It’s a solid vision that applies to most is the eldest son of Myra (née Longworth) Back in Vancouver, he approached diocesan ministry, says Hagemoen. and Eric Hagemoen. His late mother has a Vancouver Archbishop in a “There is this sort of wonderful Saskatchewan connection – she was born in letter, “kind of hoping that he would take a relationship between the diocesan church Crystal Springs, SK, moving to Vancouver couple of months to respond to me.” The and the local parish community. That in 1955, where she met and married Eric archbishop called him the same day. After relationship is so important. The diocese Hagemoen. The couple had two sons – Mark several meetings, 23-year-old Hagemoen provides what it is appropriate for it to and his brother Daniel. Daniel is married to entered St. Peter’s Seminary in London, ON, provide, and the local faith community is Lori and they have three children: Alana, where he completed a Master of Divinity where the relationships are really Matthew and Jacob. degree. fundamental and dynamic. It is a vision that Parish life and Catholic education were “I found the studies surprisingly speaks to the living dynamism of the People important to the family, and helped to Bishop Mark Hagemoen on the slopes: he intriguing and refreshing, and really very of God.” nurture Hagemoen’s faith in his early years. also enjoys running. - Submitted photo interesting... It was another affirmation for Beginning in 2004, he served in a “I was certainly active and comfortable in me,” says Hagemoen. “This was really number of administrative roles in the my home parish,” Hagemoen recalls. Along with that, personal questions about speaking to my heart, and certainly to my archdiocese, including Vicar of Pastoral “I was an altar server and very much faith came up, and I needed to pursue those.” mind, and I wanted to pursue it.” Services, Moderator of the Curia, and Vicar involved in my Catholic school of Holy Hagemoen worked for a year in During those years in the seminary, he General. He also served as principal of St. Trinity elementary, and then later on, I went geological/mining exploration, raising also began to gain pastoral experience in a Mark’s and president of Corpus Christi to a Christian Brothers high school, money to take another year to travel around variety of settings, including his year-long Colleges in Vancouver from 2011-13. .” He is still connected to the world. “That trip was about seeing other internship and summer ministry In October 2013, Pope Francis appointed Vancouver College today, serving as a board places and countries, but it was also a opportunities. Hagemoen as bishop of the Diocese of member of the Catholic elementary and high pilgrim search.” As he experienced other “It wasn’t until my very last year that I Mackenzie-Fort Smith, and his episcopal school for boys and young men. cultures and learned about other faiths and said that I really feel this is what God is and installation was held Dec. 15, Other important influences were pastors religious practices, Hagemoen underwent a calling me to do. I said yes, not having all 2013 in Yellowknife. such as Fr. John Kilty, who served at Holy powerful formative year of personal the questions answered – but I knew that In a huge northern diocese – with many Trinity Parish in North Vancouver for 33 discernment. was true in any life,” says Hagemoen. needs and few resources – it was clear to years, and other pastors there, including Fr. “In a nutshell, it was during that trip that On May 12, 1990 in Vancouver, Bishop Hagemoen that he had to start by getting to Rufin Mika and Fr. John Tritschler. “The I was really compelled to look at the person Lawrence Sabatini of ordained know the people. lives of pastors and priests are important in of Christ in a very personal way,” he says, Hagemoen and his classmate Fr. Paul Than “At its heart, my time in Mackenzie-Fort the life of the people. That was certainly true describing how he purchased a Bible and Bui on behalf of Archbishop Carney (who Smith was about trying to be present and for me,” says Hagemoen. turned first to the Gospel of Mark – partly was ill at that time). building relationships.” “Certainly, through my teen years I because of the connection he felt in sharing In addition to serving in a number of With his appointment as the eighth thought about priesthood, but I also thought the name of the Evangelist, but also because parishes, Hagemoen worked for 10 years as bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of about many other things, – I thought about he knew it was the shortest gospel. the director of the Office of Youth Ministry Saskatoon in September, and his installation teaching, about social work. I also “The whole person of Christ really came in the archdiocese of Vancouver – an Nov. 23, building relationships remains a considered business,” he says. alive for me in a renewed way,” says appointment that began shortly after he priority, Hagemoen says. After attending the University of British Hagemoen. “It was then that I became attended World Youth Day in Denver as a “What I have already discovered is that Columbia for his undergraduate degree, convinced that really, in whatever I did, I young priest. there are just so many features to the Hagemoen found that higher education had needed to hear Christ’s call to me.” Vancouver Archbishop , Catholic diocese in Saskatoon that I am raised more questions than answers. “I During that trip, the priesthood would OMI, had a strong vision of diocesan youth looking forward to experiencing and wasn’t really sure about what I wanted to do. persistently come to mind for Hagemoen. ministry existing to offer support and supporting as a bishop.”

Bishop Hagemoen’s Coat of Arms When he was appointed to the diocese Bishop’s Annual Appeal nears goal of Saskatoon, Bishop Mark Hagemoen BY KIPLY YAWORSKI Family Life, the Office of Justice work of Christ and his Church,” changed some of the imagery on his As of Nov. 27, 2017, funds and Peace, and Ecumenism.” notes Bishop Mark Hagemoen in coat of arms to reflect the geography raised for ministries supported by “Donations also build up the this year’s BAA video. and history of his new home. Wavy blue this year’s Bishop’s Annual Appeal church by supporting the faith It is not too late to make a one- lines at the bottom of the crest (BAA) total $1.172 million. journeys of seminarians, youth and time gift or a monthly pledge to this represent the Saskatchewan river Gifts continue to arrive – and it young adults, and of those of all year’s Bishop’s Annual Appeal, (kisiskāciwani-sīpay in Cree). Sheaves of wheat – a Eucharistic symbol and a is not too late to give, says BAA ages who are receiving sacramental Gilje says. Donations and pledge representation of the Saskatchewan coordinator Cathy Gilje of the preparation and getting to know forms can be dropped into the prairies – are placed on either side of a Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Jesus through programs that are parish collection. “Online giving is sword, the traditional symbol of St. Foundation. enriching and deepening faith and also a quick, easy and secure way Paul, who is the patron of the Roman “We have received gifts from nurturing an encounter and a life- to donate to the BAA,” she adds. To Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. The 79 of our 94 parishes, and 15 long relationship with Jesus give online, visit the website at: sword also recalls the responsibility of parishes have already surpassed Christ,” she adds. www.dscatholicfoundation.ca the bishop to proclaim God’s Word in all things to God’s people ( see their BAA goals,” she reports, This includes ministries such as For more information about the Hebrews 4:12 ). Other elements from the bishop’s Coat of Arms in noting the diocese is well on its Lay Formation, Foundations: BAA or ways to give, contact Gilje Mackenzie-Fort Smith remain the same - including the eight-pointed sun recalling the vision “a new heaven and a new earth” ( see Rev. 21:1ff ) and way to meeting the 2017 goal to Exploring Our Faith Together , at (306) 659-5851 or e-mail her at of Lumen Gentium - Jesus Christ, the light to all nations ( see Luke 1:78-79 ). raise $1.575 million. Youth Ministry, Vocations, [email protected] The eight golden rays represent the eight Beatitudes, and the sun also links “The generosity of the people Evangelization and Catechetics, the “Every gift, no matter the size, to the bishop’s appointment under the papacy of Pope Francis, who of the Saskatoon diocese is education of priests and future has value, and we are grateful for augmented his papal crest by adding an eight-point star. The line with two overwhelming – and is needed priests, and many other essential your generosity of heart,” Gilje peaked angles refers to Bishop Hagemoen’s birthplace in North Vancouver, more than ever,” says Gilje. priorities and programs. says, thanking donors, volunteers BC, and his love of hiking in the Coastal Mountains, specifically in the areas “Parishioners are opening their “Good stewardship is so and parish leaders. “Thank you for of twin peaks known as The Lions. The mountains also form an “M” for hearts, responding to the gospel call important to the life, mission and letting your light shine!” Mary, the Mother of God and Star of the New Evangelization, and reflect the to ‘Let Your Light Shine’ – which is Marian dimension of the Church and a bishop’s spirituality. The Winged Lion this year’s theme, from the Gospel with the Scriptures is a reference to Bishop Hagemoen’s first name, as this With funding from the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, this newsletter of Matthew 5:16.” image represents St. Mark the Evangelist. The bishop’s Motto also remains is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. the same: PAX, SERVITUS, SPES, which means Peace, Service, Hope. Gilje stresses that gifts to the (Editor: Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Communications) The Motto is Trinitarian: the Father is the author of all creation who restores Bishop’s Annual Appeal will aid all to a peace of harmonious wholeness and life; the Son, Jesus Christ, King those in need “as we reach out in Phone: (306) 659-5844 (office); or Toll free: 1-877-661-5005; Ext: *844 and Lord of all, is the incarnate ultimate servant who gives his life for God’s love through ministries such as 123 Nelson Road, Saskatoon, SK S7S 1H1 people; the Holy Spirit is God’s active presence in today’s world, renewing Hospital Chaplaincy, Restorative [email protected] www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com hope by the way of reconciliation, healing, and ongoing conversion. Ministry (prison), Marriage and Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 3 Diocese welcomes new bishop (Continued from Page 1) and Mission in Bruno; Robert Harasymchuk of St. Peter’s With the assembly’s response College in Muenster; Scott Irwin of “Thanks be to God,” Bonazzi of Emmanuel Care and Sandra and Bolen handed Hagemoen his Kary of the Catholic Health bishop’s staff (crozier) and Association of Saskatchewan. accompanied him to the bishop’s Ecumenical guests – Bishop chair (“cathedra”) as a sign of the Sid Haugen of the Saskatchewan new bishop taking canonical Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran possession of the diocese. Church in Canada (ELCIC), Rev. Hagemoen then came forward Scott Pittendrigh, representing the to accept greetings from Anglican Diocese of Saskatoon, representatives of groups and and David Smith and Dr. Jeromey communities in the diocese, Martini of the Evangelical-Roman introduced by McGee. Catholic Commission for Common Those coming forward to Witness – also came forward to shake the bishop’s hand and greet the bishop as representatives exchange a word of greeting of the wider Christian community. included Fr. Matthew Ramsay on Ron and Jan Gitlin of the behalf of the Council of Priests Holocaust Memorial Agudas and Linda Klassen, representing Israel brought greetings, repre- the Diocesan Pastoral Council. senting other faith communities, Archbishop Luigi Bonazzi, The new bishop of Saskatoon, Most Rev. Mark Hagemoen, goes forth from Apostolic Nuncio to Canada. the Installation Mass Nov. 23 to greet the people at a reception. - Tim Yaworski Harry Lafond of the Office of as did Saskatoon Mayor Charlie the Treaty Commissioner came Clark, representing all elected forward to greet the new bishop, officials across the diocese. beyond survival, he added. At the conclusion of the on” approach is an invitation “to accompanied by Carol Zubiak of Diversity was also the “We do face many tasks and celebration, Apostolic Nuncio enter into the mess and mystery of the Diocesan Council for Truth hallmark of prayers of the faithful, challenges – our Church, our Archbishop Luigi Bonazzi people’s lives, and – to use a very and Reconciliation (DCTR). Other presented in different languages schools, our health care facilities, brought greetings from the Holy poignant image of Pope Frances – DCTR members also greeted representing the ethnic and our local community, our Father: “It is a joy for me at the to take on the smell of the sheep,” Hagemoen: Parish Life Director cultural diversity of the diocese, families,” said Hagemoen. “Lest end of this moving ceremony – said McGee. Debbie Ledoux, Elder Michael including Cree, French, English, the world and its complex affairs this Eucharistic celebration in “We invite you to journey with Maurice, and Elder Gayle Weenie German, Tagalog (Philippines) , so overwhelm that we look only at which we have taken a deep all of us... you will find much, of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. Vietnamese, Spanish, Bari (South the surface of things, the constant participation – to transmit to you much support here. You will be Representing the laity of the Sudan), Ukrainian, and Polish. voice of our Saviour says: ‘as the as a representative of Pope much loved,” he said. Roman Catholic Diocese of Music was led by the Diocesan Father has loved me, so I have Francis here in Canada, the “And I assure you, as I speak Saskatoon were Caitlin and Choir, with representation from loved you’ – that voice calls and closeness, the prayers, the on behalf of so many, that Graham Hill and their children parishes and groups across the leads us even deeper.” affection, the benediction of wherever you go, you will find an Ellie, Isla, Everette, Emelia, Arie diocese. He added: “Righteousness and Pope Francis to each one of you.” open door.” and Esme; while religious orders Homily supervivere call us deeper than we Bonazzi quoted some of the Installation Dinner of women and men in the diocese might have ever imagined.” testimonies and reflections he In his first homily as the new Some 1200 attended the were represented by Sr. Teresita This is a way of life that calls received about the diocese of bishop of the Roman Catholic installation, and the Mass was Kambeitz, OSU, Sr. Dolores for “ongoing healing and personal Saskatoon during the year of Diocese of Saskatoon, Hagemoen live-streamed on the diocesan Bussière, FDLP, Br. Kurt Van work,” he said, expressing discernment around appointment Kuren, OSB, and Fr. Iheanyi emphasized the call and the website. challenge to live in righteousness, appreciation for his time with the of a new bishop. Events earlier in the day Enwerem, OP. Indigenous peoples of the North, One person writing about the Representatives from other following the example of Jesus included an afternoon meeting of Christ. and “for what they have taught diocese of Saskatoon told the the Apostolic Nuncio with clergy Catholic rites in the community me about faith and our common Nuncio: “our diocese has a rich also brought greetings: Rev. Janko “One of the greatest biblical of the diocese, as well as an summaries of the way of journey together, of ongoing tradition of extraordinary installation dinner, which began Kolosnjaji, Vicar General for the healing and growth, as we come to leadership from our bishops, each Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of righteousness – to be like God in with Chief Gil Ledoux of Muskeg know the heart of the one God of coming at the right time, with the Saskatoon, and his wife Genka, this world – is Paul’s letter to the Lake Cree Nation, and his wife the world.” right gifts to answer to the needs their son Alex and family; Kaesir Philippians, on having the same Debbie Ledoux, Parish Life Hagemoen described how his of our diocese at the given time… Istifo and family of the Sacred mind and heart as that of Christ Director of Our Lady of appointment as bishop of this will once again happen as we Heart Chaldean Catholic commun- Jesus,” the bishop said, citing Guadalupe Parish, extending a Saskatoon came unexpectedly, place all our trust in God and in ity; and Fr. Anthony Plogen, with Philippians 2:5-11, which has welcome to Treaty 6 territory. Sr. and has a bittersweet quality, as he Holy Mother Church.” parishioners Baby Lukose and challenged and intrigued him Teresita Kambeitz, OSU, led grace bids farewell to the diocese of Turning to Hagemoen, the Salamma Mathew of the Syro- since before his ordination to the before the meal. Mackenzie-Fort Smith at a time Nuncio said: “You just have to Malabar Catholic community. priesthood in the Archdiocese of During the dinner program, when there is much work yet to continue this tradition of Several leaders came forward Vancouver in 1990. Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB, do. “However, God’s ways are not extraordinary leadership.” to represent Catholic education Striving for righteousness, for delivered thanks to McGee for his always our ways, and God has a Bonazzi encouraged the entire and Catholic health care, excellence in a Christian life of year-long service as Diocesan plan for this community, and the diocese to continue its tradition of including Dr. Terrence Downey of Christ-like service, must also be Administrator. faith communities of the North,” collaboration among clergy, St. Thomas More College; Diane combined with the hope expressed Archbishop he said. religious and laity; as well as Boyko and Greg Chatlain of in the term supervivere , described of brought greetings on Hagemoen expressed appre- ongoing efforts in welcoming Greater Saskatoon Catholic the bishop, a word that means, behalf of the Canadian Conf- ciation for the welcome and newcomers, in evangelization, in Schools (GSCS); David Hardy of among other things, “to live erence of Catholic Bishops. the GSCS Foundation; Jim beyond.” Followers of Christ are expressions of support he has ecumenism, and in reconciliation The bishop’s brother, Dan Anderson and Vicky Serblowski called to look deeper, and discover received since his appointment, with Indigenous peoples. Hagemoen, spoke on behalf of the of St. Therese Institute of Faith the hope provided by living and for the pastoral leadership that He also expressed thanks from family, including the bishop’s has formed the church in the Pope Francis to Fr. Kevin McGee father Eric, who could not attend diocese of Saskatoon. for serving as Diocesan Admin- because of health issues. “I am very grateful and wish to istrator between bishops. Former Saskatoon bishop, acknowledge the pastoral Archbishop Donald Bolen of leadership of this diocese’s recent Words of Welcom e Regina, welcomed Hagemoen to shepherds – Bishops James “Somehow, I feel lighter,” his new role with words of Weisgerber, Albert LeGatt and, McGee said with a smile, as he encouragement, and a symbolic most recently, Donald Bolen,” (the welcomed Hagemoen on behalf of “passing of the keys.” three former bishops of Saskatoon the diocese. On behalf of the diocese, two were among the 20 bishops “Bishop Mark, as we began gifts were presented to the new attending the installation). our celebration this evening you bishop: sponsorship of a day of “I come to a diocese that is in were welcomed by a number of meals in his name at Saskatoon very good shape, in very large part individuals and groups that Friendship Inn, and a Roughriders because of them, and of course, represent the diversity and the jersey, presented to Hagemoen by the excellent work of a committed texture of our diocese and the Christine Scherr, who works at the and dynamic people of God: unique gifts and culture of the Catholic Pastoral Centre. clergy, religious and laity.” province of Saskatchewan,” The bishop concluded the Hagemoen asked for prayers McGee said. Mass by offering thanks to all – and patience as he takes up his “From this moment on, these including a special thank you to new role. “I commit and pledge to and many more hands will extend his brother Dan for the support At the door of the cathedral, Bishop Mark Hagemoen (right) accepts a gift strive to serve this local church as themselves to you and invite you that he has provided to their of moccasins from Elder Irene Sharp, presented by the Indigenous Catholic its bishop to the best of my ability, into their lives as our Shepherd.” parents since Hagemoen was first community as a symbol of walking together. Former Saskatoon bishop, with all of God’s help.” The new bishop’s own “hands- appointed bishop in the north. Archbishop Donald Bolen of Regina looks on. - Photos by Tim Yaworski 4 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • “Be with me, God” is our cry in crisis: may we feel God’s presence always BY BLAKE SITTLER , D IRECTOR on by a large team of doctors. And What came next was the wealth and security are piled up OF PASTORAL SERVICES there in the midst of them was a closest thing to the Pieta that any past our eyes! We do not Have you ever been with sobbing woman. of us can experience: the grit iron experience oppression. There is someone when they died? Terror is not a word I use very focus of a mother holding her little expected of us as Christians. Many of us have been present often in this life or in this country, dying child, telling her that she is As long as we go to church when a grandparent or parent has thank God, but at that moment, I not going anywhere, telling her regularly, no one imposes any died, God forbid, even a child. It was terrified. This woman’s pain that she loves her, and that it is other expectations. Is there a is a potent moment and one not and anger and grief were not going to be okay. danger that we have lost sight of easily forgotten. palpable like a mist, they were The girl died silently a few the faith that our parishes are Back some 15 years ago, I was palpable like Jesus’s gurgling minutes later. In the hours that supposed to promote? in studying at Newman sobs coming off the cross as he followed, I helped the woman We here in North America, Theological College. For my field cried out, “My God, my God, why wash the body of her daughter. I especially in Canada, and placement, I decided to do a unit have you forsaken me?” went with her to tell her remain- especially in Saskatchewan, hold of Clinical Pastoral Education It took a while for me to ing daughter that her sister and many wonderful things. We live in (CPE), which is basically training connect; to get her to see that I daddy were dead. a safe, stable country where wealth to become a chaplain in a hospital, was here for her. At the end of the night, I and security are the norm, though care home or even a prison. “This is a nightmare! A walked down with the woman and still experienced unequally. I was wary of entering into the [expletive] nightmare!” she cried. some of her family who had Between our trucks and holidays, training because I was afraid I Director’s Cut “It is a nightmare,” I responded, shown up. We walked to the big our movies and video games, our would not be properly equipped to Blake Sittler trying to align my presence with front doors and hugged. hockey and work and bills – the list help people in their moments of her pain. She said, “Thank you. Thank goes on and on – where is there need. Before working in a parish, The woman started to become you for tonight. Thank you for room for God? my only other jobs were primarily heart was beating like a thirsty overwhelmed. “My husband is your tears.” Sometimes, the only way that in the service industry: restaurants man guzzling water after finding a dead. My daughter is hurt and As I drove home, I prayed God can get in is through the and clothing stores. I looked at canteen. I could barely concen- these doctors don’t seem to be again to God. I prayed that I had cracks in the armor of our chaplaincy much like the service trate on both the road and the task helping. What am I going to tell said and done the right things. I security. We can be people who industry — be pleasant and that lay at the end of my journey. my other daughter? I don’t even thanked God for being present. enter into a deeper relationship helpful; smile; just be nice and As I pulled into the parking know what to do. I need to call my It is almost a part of how we with God by setting down some of you will be fine. lot, I prayed, “God, I know I don’t mother. I need to tell work.” are made — that we do not see the parcels that we have gathered One night when I was on call pray as much as I should and I The doctor then pulled me God in our lives until everything up. Because, whether we set these and just getting ready for bed, my know I am not aware of your aside and stated, “The girl is else has been stripped away: things down voluntarily or not, if beeper rang and I phoned the presence and guidance in my life, dying. She has maybe a few worries, stress, ego, security, they are keeping us from knowing hospital. but please, tonight — be with me. minutes. Let the mother know.” health, work. It is almost like the the truth of God’s love, then are “There has been an accident. Make me aware of your presence. I went back to the mother and more we hold in our arms, the they really worth holding on to? A man and his daughter were hit Tell me what to say to try to asked, “What is your daughter’s more our view of God is Every Advent season is an by a drunk driver. The man is comfort this woman who has lost name?” obstructed. opportunity to set down some of dead and the girl only has an hour her husband and will lose her She told me. I said to her, Our church in the Western our shopping and our worry, and or two left to live. Her mom and daughter.” “Your daughter is dying. Forget world, even in many of our to ask God humbly: “Be with me sister are here. Get here as soon as A nurse led me to the room about everything. Forget about parishes in this diocese, looks like God. Help me be aware of your you can.” where the little girl, maybe 11 or tomorrow. Just talk to her. She’s a shopper at a Black Friday sale presence. Open my heart to those As I sped down the road, my 12 years old, was being worked dying, let her know you are here.” — the parcels and presents of in need.”

Fr. Lawrence DeMong OSB sends greetings from northern parishes in Keewatin-Le Pas archdiocese Dear Friends in the Saskatoon Diocese, As you receive our new Bishop The Roman Catholic Diocese of Mark, I want to express my welcome Saskatoon is walking together and my joy to this good man who is with the Archdiocese of already a seasoned missionary in Keewatin-LePas. This includes Canada’s North! assistance in providing ministry After living in La Ronge and Southend for more than a year, I feel -- through the appointment of the need to apologize for not sending Fr. Lawrence DeMong as a more messages “home” as I did when I pastor to two northern worked in Brazil. Though here extra Saskatchewan parishes – and travel and preparing food take time, I fund-raising for Keewatin-Le do want to add another dimension to Pas as part of a special diocesan my work: welcoming folks from home. Early on, I complained to family collection for the “Needs members how the electric heat in the of the Canadian Church: Focus Southend rectory was weighing on me. on the North ” to be taken on As you may know, I’m a bit of an Archbishop Murray Chatlain with an Elder at the Sandy Island pilgrimage in the Jan. 28, 2018. Watch for details! Archdiocese of Keewatin-LePas. Originally from Saskatoon, Archbishop Chatlain will “environmental nut” (for some people) return home Dec. 11 to share his insights and hopes for his northern diocese. and, although our province has the best - Submitted photos wind and sun conditions in the world, it a full-time job, begged off the parish produces close to the dirtiest electricity council and, even though she was the on the planet! only one I know in the parish with a The Church of the North That persuaded Leroy and Ken, my computer, I had to agree that she Archbishop Murray Chatlain two brothers from Cudworth, to come deserved a break.) will speak about up here several times to re-insulate the Last summer two priests, Fr. The Church of the North Bernard de Margerie and Fr. Jean house at no cost except the insulation. Monday, December 11 And in the process, they fell in love Baptiste Murhumwa decided to spend at St. Anne Parish (Fr. Paul with this place and its people. vacation time in our two parishes here If you have computer skills, in the North. They were very Donlevy Hall) 217 Lenore Drive, secretary skills or simply some good appreciated by the parishioners and Saskatoon. Doors open at 7 p.m. muscles, please do not hesitate to come enjoyed their time. Speak to them to Program at 7:30 p.m. to Southend for the experience: bring learn more. You would be welcome! Refreshments and conversation your gifts along. (Our overworked With much love to all, will follow the presentation. volunteer secretary, a single mom with Lawrence DeMong, OSB Everyone is welcome! Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 5 Sacred Heart Parish in Davidson welcomes Elder Ruth Cameron BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI she did not feel welcome or After Sunday Mass and a valued, and was surrounded by potluck meal, parishioners at unfamiliar ways and by children Sacred Heart parish in Davidson, who were also sad, hurting and SK. listened intently as Elder Ruth angry. She described lonely nights Cameron shared her experiences of in the dormitory sitting by the residential school, of overcoming window, and trying to look toward the trauma of being forcibly home. “I wasn’t even sure which separated from her family, and of direction was home any more.” finding healing in the traditions Later, at the age of 14, she and spirituality of her own culture. struggled to integrate into a public “I am very honoured to be here school, eventually finding today to share with you and help acceptance through athletics. During a Treaty Elder Series event at Sacred Heart Parish in Davidson Sept. you to know some of the history of However, something as simple as 17, Elder Ruth Cameron and parish representative Mary Jane Morrison (l-r) the Indigenous people and how we a class assignment involving a spoke about the Treaty Plaque to be blessed and installed at the parish. At are looking at Truth and phone book was daunting – her the Sunday afternoon gathering, Cameron spoke to parishioners and Reconciliation,” Cameron said at family did not have a phone – and community representatives about her experiences in residential school, Elder Ruth Cameron her journey of healing, and traditional teachings. - Photos by Tim Yaworski the Treaty Elder event, where she there was little understanding shared her life experiences and about cultural differences. traditional teachings, describing She described her fear, her of life – we are all here to voice,” she said. “I can’t change “We have so much in common how she has now come to a time in relentless drive to be perfect as a represent God, the Creator who anyone, but I can help them as human beings. We haven’t her life where she feels “able to way to stave off negative gave us each a life on this earth, understand how we can take always accepted that gift that we speak in my own voice.” comments or racist attitudes, and and a reason for us,” Cameron control of our emotions, and how are supposed to be sharing in this Born in Treaty 4 territory, her struggle to realize her own said. “I believe in truth and we have to have faith – how we life.” Cameron worked for some 32 value and the value of her culture. reconciliation; many of us are have to have something to build Mary Jane Morrison of Sacred years as home and school liaison “I only learned about treaties working and hoping to make on.” Heart parish expressed thanks to in the Catholic school system in later in life,” she told her listeners. changes.” She stressed the importance of Elder Ruth Cameron for her Saskatoon. She is a mother, grand- “We were not told about them, or But Cameron added that all coming to a deeper presence and for her inspiring mother and great-grandmother. that there was anything supposed reconciliation is not easy. “It is not understanding of the experiences words, and described plans to At the age of five, Cameron to be good about me, or about easy to forgive when you have of Indigenous people, to realize follow up the session with the was taken away from her home to being a gift from our Creator, who been caused a lot of pain to your why the damage continues to be installation and blessing of a attend an Indian residential school is God.” body, your mind, your soul, your seen in our communities and in Treaty Plaque in the church. operated by the Oblates of Mary Cameron described how she spirit – because you know, as a hurting families – and in ongoing The diocesan Treaty Elder Immaculate and the Grey Nuns at gradually came to understand the child, when someone is knocking crises in our country, such as the Series is an initiative supported Lebret, SK. The experience left ways in which the residential you down, ridiculing you all the issue of missing and murdered by the Diocesan Council for her angry and hurt, unable to school system, colonization and time, it becomes a habitual thing, Indigenous women and girls. Truth and Reconciliation understand why her mother left racism affected her – and many especially at a time when you had Cameron pointed to the (DCTR), and is offered in her at the residential school, others in her family and no one there to say: ‘It’s okay, it’s scripture and the homily heard at collaboration with the Office of separated from all but one of her community. okay to feel, okay to cry’.” Sacred Heart earlier in the day, –a the Treaty Commissioner. siblings, some of whom were At the same time, she stressed Coming to terms with those message of forgiveness and Parishes across the diocese of taken to a different school in that she was not trying to make her experiences – beginning to understanding, a message about a Saskatoon are encouraged to begin Manitoba. listeners feel guilty. “It is history – understand one’s self and one’s loving, merciful God – contrasting their responsibility for reconcilia- The disruption to culture and but no one ever knew or shared the emotions and moving forward on it with the image of an angry, tion by inviting an Elder to speak. to the family unit experienced in history of our peoples,” she said, a path of healing – is an arduous punishing God she often heard For more information on building residential schools had many long- expressing hope that this process that many are dealing about as a child at the residential a plan of reconciliation for your term effects on self-esteem and generation and next generations with, she explained. “Many of us school. parish, contact Myron Rogal, relationships, Cameron said. will have a greater understanding. have travelled on those journeys.” “Today I know it is different. I coordinator of Office of Justice Although her mother always told “They will know more about the Cameron has strived to help have accepted God into my life, and Peace, at (306) 659-5841 or her to be proud of who she was, beginning of the treaties, where others grow in understanding and not by force, the way we were [email protected] the racism and denigration they were signed, how they were healing, including families she taught, but by choice, and by For more information about Cameron experienced throughout signed, what was the purpose,” encountered in her work with the comparing the teachings that we the history of residential schools her life caused profound damage. she said. Catholic school system, as well as got from my Elders, and many in Canada, or about the TRC and As a young child attending “I believe that each and every her children and grandchildren. It different teachings from our the TRC Calls to Action, see the residential school, Cameron said one of us - from the very creation involves people finding “their own culture,” she said. website: http://nctr.ca Treaty Elder Series presented at Francophone Catholic parish BY MYRON ROGAL hosted by Sts-Martyrs-Canadiens with the Roman Catholic Diocese Elder to partake in this series. experience of her own children. Elder Agnes Desjarlais led a Francophone Catholic parish in Office of Justice and Peace to Lyndon Linklater thanked the “It was through discovering Treaty Elder session along with Saskatoon. organize the event. Several Treaty diocese for the rich partnership that my people had spiritual Lyndon Linklater of the Office of Marie-Jeanne Will of Sts- Elder Series events have now with the Office of the Treaty practices and traditions that were the Treaty Commissioner May 28, Martyrs-Canadiens parish worked taken place as a partnership Commissioner (OTC). He then healthy that caused me to seek out between the Office of the Treaty “set the table” for the event by healing for myself,” said Commissioner and the diocese. sharing with wit and humor the Desjarlais. The diocesan events are a necessity of reconciliation as a “Growing up, I never knew response to the Truth and path to living out our treaty that I had a culture, and if it had Reconciliation Commission and relationship. not been for my grandmother I its Calls to Action. One of those Linklater expressed the hope may have never known.” Calls to Action (59) asks churches that treaty relationships bring, Desjarlais described how she to develop ongoing education especially in breaking down continued on to seek healing, strategies to help congregations divisions. Listeners were finding out more about her culture learn about the Church’s role in challenged to view treaties as a and traditional spirituality. colonization, as well as the mutual relationship that leads to Desjarlais ended by saying history and legacy of residential accountability, growth and the that “she is grateful to be alive” schools. Action 60 also calls on success of each person. and hopes the Creator blesses her churches to learn about and Speaking softly, Desjarlais “with another 30 years or more!” respect Indigenous spirituality. shared her experience of growing Some participants noted that Fr. Jean Baptiste Murhumwa up in a Catholic residential school the hosting of this event in a opened the event with words of in southern Saskatchewan, de- Catholic Francophone parish National Aboriginal Day service welcome, expressing gratitude for scribing moments of deep hurt offered significant connections, Delores Sand and Carol Zubiak proclaim scripture in Cree and in English the large crowd present and along with pittances of joy. given that the French language during a National Aboriginal Day prayer service held June 18 at the acknowledging that the parish Desjarlais then wove together and culture, including religious Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. The service included the unveiling of a Treaty Plaque, as well as prayers and reflections from resides on Treaty 6 territory. how the trauma of that experience freedom, have at times also been representatives of many diverse groups and faith traditions. Find more Traditional gifts and words of was lived out in her parents and the victim of colonization and coverage of this event at www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news thanksgiving were exchanged, herself, as well as in her siblings, cultural imperialism, both in - Photo by Sarah Donnelly. recognizing the willingness of the and how it has continued in the Saskatchewan and beyond. 6 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Diocesan office reorganized as “Evangelization and Catechetics” BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Evangelization and Catechetics Originally known as Rural Catechetics, is supported by the and more recently as Christian Initiation and Catechetics, the newly renamed diocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechetics is being reorganized in an effort to more effectively respond to the needs of parishes striving to evangelize and “We thank them for their years of service, form Christian disciples, says Blake Sittler, and are grateful for the contributions of all Director of Pastoral Services in the Roman who have served in this office since it was Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. first established.” Sacramental preparation, catechism, Changes in society – including the and faith formation at every age, including introduction of new technology, shifts in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults population and changing travel patterns – (RCIA), will continue to be a priority, along with a decline in faith understanding along with helping parishes embark on the and parish participation in an increasingly “New Evangelization” as a way to inspire secular culture, call for new methods and a active and committed faith in parishioners, renewed focus for the diocesan office, he says Sittler. said. Evangelization and Catechetics will Three part-time staff members, who assist parishes in answering the call to were based in three different deaneries, will evangelize, initiate and form Christian be replaced by one full-time staff member disciples in this new reality. RCIA workshop in Leader, SK Fr. Joseph Thazhathemuriyil, VC, and volunteers from Little Flower Parish in Leader, SK., working out of the Catholic Centre in “We must find ways to renew how we recently participated in a diocesan workshop about the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults Saskatoon. share the gospel and find practical ways to (RCIA). During the Nov. 4 event in Leader, the parish team was provided with an overview “Lynda Statchuk, Elan Ehresman and equip parishes to inspire and nurture an of the RCIA process, as well as practical direction and concrete resources for journeying Michelle Sieben have served with active, life-long faith as followers of - Photo by Blake Sittler with those who are seeking to join the Catholic church. dedication and commitment,” Sittler said. Jesus.” Harms of pornography addressed by PPK speaker BY MYRON ROGAL students from three Catholic high desire is a good, holy gift. Porn Fradd outlined three “musts” Matt Fradd spoke about sex schools, as well as offering does not have us thinking too to begin recovery. The first step is addiction to a crowd of some 300 parents strategies for raising much about sex, but too little, he to access a group or program with Sept. 14 at a Priest Prophet King children in an Internet generation said. Similarly, “the problem with one-to-one accountability, he said, (PPK) Catholic men’s group (see article, below ). porn is not that is shows too stressing that accountability is gathering at the Cathedral of the Fradd opened his talk at PPK much, but that it shows too little.” about encouragement. The second Holy Family in Saskatoon. with a prayer, before explaining Fradd said that porn has step is to find a professional sex It was one of several events in that it is crucial for those who are nothing to do with healthy addiction therapist; and thirdly, to Saskatchewan organized by One addicted to admit their need for masculinity. The problem has seek spiritual direction in order to More Soul Canada featuring the healing. Fradd used extensive reached epidemic proportions, “help heal the ‘God image’ in American-based Australian-born scientific and professional Fradd asserted, saying that “today you.” Fradd identified several Fradd, founder of The Porn resources to back his presentation. everyone is either addicted to resources, including Covenant Effect, a website and blog He stressed that sex and nudity porn or loves someone who is.” Eyes software and a number of dedicated to helping people heal are not the problem, reminding He challenged the myth that books (proceeds from the sale of Matt Fradd, founder of The Porn from the harms of sex addiction the audience that our bodies are pornography is about choice, Fradd’s books assist women in Effect, spoke in Saskatchewan in and pornography. good; that sex itself was created sharing the words of Yale legal escaping human trafficking). September. - Photo by K. Yaworski In Saskatoon, he spoke to by God for us; and that sexual scholar and feminist activist While recognizing the Catharine MacKinnon who importance of prayer, Fradd used carefully named that “women are the analogy that if someone is not part of pornography by clinically depressed we must do BPY KrIoPLY tLeUKcAN tYiAnWOgRSK I children anpordnog rayphoy, uor ntoht?” hfer qouermied, bepforoe orffnering choice, but by lack of choice.” more than tell them to read more Content-blocking and accountability software steps to address the challenge. “Porn does not affect me” is scripture passages on joy or to are among the practical tools that parents and In addition to two practical steps of installing another common myth that Fradd pray more. educators can use to protect children and youth from content-filtering software that will block offensive countered with evidence of What is PPK? exposure to pornography on the Internet, Matt Fradd sites/material (such as Net Nanny), and of using growing rates of impotence faced John Hickey described the said Sept. 14 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in accountability software (such as Covenant Eyes) to by men addicted to porn. PPK Catholic men’s group as “a Saskatoon. monitor Internet use by family members, Fradd A common cultural myth monthly gathering for men that Pornography – including violent and hard-core emphasized talking to children about pornography, addressed was that “porn is not fosters formation and fellowship.” images and videos – is easily accessed through as well as talking to other parents about the issue addictive, because it is not a PPK (Priest-Prophet-King) mobile and hand-held devices, laptops and home (including, if necessary, saying: “I’m sorry, but if drug.” Fradd offered scientific evenings begin with words from a computers, and even via gaming systems, Fradd you do not use filtering software, my child can’t play evidence that behaviours can be welcome team, followed by noted at the session for parents, youth leaders, at your house anymore”). as addictive as substances. This is Eucharistic adoration and educators and pastors. The attitude that “my kids are good kids” which also true for other behaviours, benediction, with an open Children can easily stumble upon pornographic suggests that only “bad kids” are interested in sex or such as gambling. Porn becomes a invitation to receive the sacrament images accidentally, through maliciously-placed are affected by pornography, is nonsensical, Fradd coping mechanism to regulate of reconciliation. Diocesan and links or seemingly innocuous searches, and curious insisted. “They are being exposed to this stuff, and dopamine levels which have been religious priests from across the youth can easily find porn online with a click or two, what they are being exposed to is violent reset through the addiction and diocese have regularly been he described. pornography,” he said. “Think what goes on inside can even cause the brain itself to present to offer the sacrament and “With the advent of the Internet, the dangers of an eight-year-old when they first see pornography, shrink, he described. join in the fellowship. Following the ‘big city’… have come into our communities, what that means for them.” The good news is that the time of prayer, a guest speaker into our homes, and into our children’s back Parents must talk to children about pornography, neuroscience demonstrates that gives a presentation, with food pockets.” With the advent of the Internet, never he stressed, and probably at a much younger age the brain can heal from this and refreshments available. While before in history has so much explicit, obscene than many think. He compared it to how we teach damage, stressed Fradd. PPK is a Catholic group, men material been so easily accessible by so many young children to be safe from other dangers, such The final myth is that the from other Christian denomin- minors, in so many homes, with so few restrictions, as sexual abuse or abduction. person addicted cannot change. ations are welcome. he said, quoting statistics, studies and commentators. Fradd pointed to resources for speaking to young “Freedom from porn is not a There is no charge for the Fradd stressed that this epidemic is not only of children, such as the book Good Pictures Bad destination, but a daily choice”, evenings, to ensure they are concern to Catholic parents, or to people of faith. Pictures: Porn Proofing Today’s Young Kids by stressed Fradd. “It is not an all- accessible, although donations are “This is a big deal if you are human, and it is a big Kristen A. Jenson. or-nothing battle, and seeing it as always welcome and local deal if you have children,” he said. The conversation between parents and children such is unhelpful.” companies have been generous in Acknowledging the barrage of information, about pornography should be built on a lifelong and Fradd then outlined practical financially assisting the event. responsibilities and tasks that flood parents today, ongoing series of conversations about the goodness ways to deal with an addiction to PPK is coordinated by Dan Fradd urged his listeners not to “bury their heads in and beauty of the human body, he said. pornography. An addicted person Denis and Richard Schlichemeyer the sand” or succumb to “analysis paralysis,” but to “What happens online is not less real than what must map out the path that as an event independent of any take immediate, practical steps to proactively protect happens offline,” he stressed, describing the huge continually draws them into the organization or movement. For children from pornography, sooner rather than later. problem schools and families are now facing with addiction, including triggers, and more information on upcoming “Do we want our children being exposed to hard- “sexting” and the sharing of sexually provocative from there create a deactivation PPK events, see the website at core, misogynistic, hate-filled, body-punishing images via smart phones. plan. www.priestprophetking.org Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 7 Sofia Berumen assisting groups with refugee

sBY pKIPLoY LnUKAsN YoAWOrRsSKI hip through diocBeerumsen ais fanmil iaMr withi sgome ratPiriovaten refu gOee spfonfsoircshipe is Helping parishes and other The Office of Migration of the challenges of being a a complex undertaking, with many groups to navigate the complex is supported by the newcomer, and of dealing with policies and forms to navigate. It process of private refugee cross-cultural communication. is a long and arduous process that sponsorship is the role of Sofia Originally from Mexico, she can take years, she notes. The need Berumen, the new coordinator of studied communication there – at is huge, and resources are limited, the Office of Migration in the Iteso University – as well as so at times it can be heartbreaking Roman Catholic Diocese of Erickson and previous coordinator working toward a Masters in when the office is not able to help Saskatoon. Christine Zyla in reaching out to communication of science and someone, Berumen adds. It is work pioneered by the late refugees and to those helping them culture. Berumen travelled to Once a refugee family arrives, Fr. Paul Donlevy, who established to settle in Canada. She is assisted Barcelona, , for post- the sponsoring parish or group is the diocese as a government- part-time in the office by Robyn graduate studies in cultural committed to meeting all of their recognized Sponsorship Agree- Kondratowicz. management and culture policies, needs for at least a year – Sofia Berumen ment Holder (SAH), approved to Berumen says she is delighted and then to Toulouse, France for financially, medically, socially, - Photo by Kiply Yaworski coordinate private sponsorship of to have an opportunity to put faith hands-on language and cultural emotionally. refugees – at that time it was to into action in her new role. studies. “There are many areas where a when needed – this might include help those fleeing from war and Extending welcome and support to “I have always worked in two volunteer can help,” says nurses, doctors, counselors or violence in southeast Asia. The those fleeing dangers, persecution, main areas: coordinating com- Berumen, noting that she hopes to lawyers, she suggests. Migration Office was later violence and war a way to live the munication (mainly for the encourage more parishioners and “Sometimes we are not ready established at the Catholic gospel imperative to “welcome the cultural sector, non-profits, com- volunteers to get involved. In to face people with stress or Pastoral Centre with a legacy from stranger ( Math. 25:35 ), she says. munity services), and as a doing so, it is vital to provide trauma,” she notes. “We are not the Donlevy family, and has “As a Catholic, I have a university lecturer (teaching support, training and resources, counselors, but we can get help to continued with support from Holy wonderful, warm feeling in seeing communication theory, cultural she adds. identify those cases and refer them Spirit Parish and the Bishop’s how the diocese has established studies or written commun- Sponsorship committees in the properly, for instance.” Annual Appeal. Berumen follows this office and is actively doing ication).” diocese of Saskatoon have done Plans to clarify roles and in the footsteps of the late Ellen this work.” When Berumen came to amazing work over the years, says expectations will also be helpful Canada in 2014, she began Berumen. Sharing that expertise for both sponsoring groups and working with the Open Door with others who are just getting newcomers, she adds. DONATIONS of Furniture and Society as an interpreter. started in the process, and bringing Developing guidelines and “That is when I began to learn in protocols and support that will protocols can assist in making the Household Items for refugee families, more about the refugee issue, to help all sponsorship groups with experience a positive one for newcomers, or others in crisis, are understand the problems and the sometimes-complex challenges is everyone. “This is where I hope to challenges they face.” a priority for the new coordinator. . To find out how to donate, help,” she says. being collected Coordinating the Office of Ideas include recruiting a For more information about please e-mail Robyn Kondratowicz at: Migration is a way to bring that group of volunteers with specific refugee sponsorship, contact [email protected] experience to bear, and to serve as expertise in particular areas, whom Berumen at (306) 659-5842 or a bridge for newcomers, she says. sponsoring groups could consult [email protected]

BSY DcERhRICK oKUoNZ ,l G ScCS ompmarentsu Knristia tSychr esiter panod nsors refugee family from Burundi The two-year journey to bring Danielle Schock, included St. a refugee family from Burundi to Matthew students, staff, parents Saskatoon concluded Sept. 14 and members of the Catholic when a late evening flight landed School Community Council. and a family of seven was “Support from the whole reunited. community has been amazing, Six members of the family – a and it’s been a great experience husband and wife and their four for our students and families to children – arrived the week see that we can make a real before, but there was not enough difference in the lives of others,” space on the flight out of said Schreiter. Rwanda, so one family member – “At the beginning, it seemed an adult sister – was left behind like a long journey. We wanted to until a later flight could be get the family here quickly and École St. Matthew School families were on hand to welcome the late-night flight of the final member of the refugee arranged. welcome them into our family from Burundi being sponsored by the Catholic school. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski The joyful reunion at the community. But the amount of Saskatoon airport included the work and fundraising activities The refugee sponsorship was newly-arrived family members, has made the time go so fast.” initiated after a parent at École and École St. Matthew School Initiatives to raise the St. Matthew School heard about representatives, parents and estimated $30,000 to sponsor the the 1000 Schools Challenge students, carrying welcome family included a bake sale, issued by a school in Toronto, banners, homemade signs and talent show, fun night and a encouraging schools to sponsor Canadian flags. Speaking in cabaret featuring Saskatoon’s refugees. French, the parents of the four The Barrelmen. Many members School representatives young children expressed thanks of the school community also approached the Office of to God for their safe arrival in made charitable donations. All Migration at the Roman Catholic Canada. the household items and furniture Diocese of Saskatoon with the The family is among almost a needed by the newly-arrived idea. As a Sponsorship Agreement quarter-million refugees who family were also donated. Holder (SAH), the diocese has have fled the small eastern “We are all so excited to signed an agreement with the African country’s years-long civil finally see and welcome the federal government that permits it war. family to our community,” said to work with parishes and other In partnership with the Schock. “We were a bit nervous groups in the community to Roman Catholic Diocese of when we learned the whole privately sponsor refugees. Saskatoon, members of the St. family wouldn’t be coming at Christine Zyla, the diocesan Fifty years of Development and Peace Matthew school community once. But they’re here and safe; coordinator of the Office of Past, present, and future were highlighted during a program held April spent several months planning that’s what’s important. Migration at the time, was 30 at St. Mary’s parish in Saskatoon to mark the 50th anniversary of the before launching a fundraising “There’s lots of work to make enthusiastic about the application Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace. The program highlighted individuals who have supported, nurtured and campaign Feb. 4, 2016. St. sure they get settled into their and the careful planning done by furthered efforts by Development and Peace to “put the gospel into Matthew was the first Saskatoon new home. We’re in this for the the school committee. “This is action” both globally and locally over the past 50 years – including school to take the 1000 Schools long haul to support the family in what Catholic education is about, long-time supporter Leo Kurtenbach ( front, right). In addition to a Challenge to privately sponsor a whatever ways they need— this is faith in action, this is number of speakers, a lively “reader’s theatre” panel presentation written by Sr. Teresita Kambeitz, OSU, gave an overview of the history refugee family. including getting the children to everything that we are called to,” of Development and Peace, which was created by the Catholic bishops A refugee sponsorship school and helping the parents she said at the time of the of Canada in response to Pope Paul VI’s ground-breaking encyclical committee, co-chaired by local find work.” application launch. “On the Development of Peoples.” - Photo by Kiply Yaworski 8 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • First group completes Justice and Outreach Year (JOY) BY BLAKE SITTLER Justice and Outreach A new Justice and Outreach Year (JOY) program Year (JOY) of Formation in the is supported by the diocese graduated its first class of 13 participants June 10 in a celebration held at Queen’s House in Saskatoon. Grounded in a practical experience of Catholic social learned something more and teaching, the JOY program was wanted to learn more. It has been a launched in the fall of 2016. conversion experience”. Leaders in the Roman Catholic Ken worked at the Friendship Diocese of Saskatoon first began Inn for his field placement. “I discussing the initiative some became more comfortable over the three years ago, with the first JOY year working there and really got group meeting in August 2016 for appreciate the work they do,” he The first graduates of a new diocesan Justice and Outreach Year (JOY) program wound up their experience with said. “I am going to continue on an orientation weekend, before a celebration June 10 at Queen’s House in Saskatoon. The program offers monthly formation focused on Catholic continuing with monthly sessions social teaching and justice issues, with participants visiting local service-based agencies and working alongside there.” for the next 10 months. people who experience life on the margins. - Photo by Blake Sittler Ken urged other Catholics to Once a month, JOY consider the program. “What I participants gather on a Friday would tell someone though is not evening and all day Saturday to dialogue and prayer. This adds an learned a lot about the various “In many ways, the offering of to take it if you don’t want to reflect, learn and be formed extra layer of depth to the needs that exist within our city and justice is like love in marriage,” change – because this program through experience and volunteer experience, according to we’ve carried each other in said Lishchynsky. “Love and will change you,” he laughed. challenging presentations by staff JOY coordinator, Kate O’Gorman. community and prayer as we justice cannot be kept to yourself Bonnie Roberts says the of many local ministries and On Saturdays, the group meets discerned the ways in which we, or in your family… God calls us to program gives lifelong Catholics a outreach organizations. The at a variety of venues in the as individuals and as church, are share it with the world, to bring it new way of growing in their faith program goes beyond simply community, interacting with being called to respond to that where it is not.” through concrete action. educating participants about volunteers from the city’s various need.” JOY graduate Diane Cote “For me, it was a framework to various social justice issues – it outreach groups. Weekends O’Gorman said participants described the impact of the start learning about and paying offers an opportunity to wrestle explore themes based on the were highly engaged in the JOY program. “JOY developed in me a attention to the dignity of each with the deeper sociological various pillars of Catholic social process. “I’ve been extremely deep awareness of the many human being,” she said. “The causes of injustice and the teaching, addressing issues such impressed with the level of people and organizations that are poor were invisible to me, [but theological responses as as international development, commitment each participant gave active in our community…people now] I can’t turn away…I ask Christians that begin percolating economic justice and peace, to the program, particularly in who are doing wonderful things myself: How can I help my in participants. refugees, walking with Indigenous terms of their volunteer field passionately,” she said. brother? My sister?” During the year, each and Métis people, poverty, human placements,” she said. “This has Cote described the experience The first graduates of the participant also dedicates eight dignity, health and elder care, really proven to be the heart of the of being uncomfortable at times – diocesan Justice and Outreach additional hours each month to hunger and food accessibility, JOY program in many ways, and I but it was when she was pushed to Year of Formation are Helen volunteering with a local agency. restorative justice, youth and am so very proud that, through this the edge of her comfort zone that Belsher, Nicholas Blom, Mike Volunteer placements included family, and ecology. new diocesan initiative, we are she learned the most. Broda, Diane Cote, Denise Sherbrooke Centre, Friendship To conclude each Saturday, the offering laypeople an opportunity “It is then that you learn from DeBrou, Lori Ethier, Ryan Inn, L’arche Saskatoon, and entire group visits various parishes to explore and discover what it the bottom up, just meeting them LeBlanc, Margaret Marcoux, Saskatoon Correctional Centre. in the city and attends Mass means to be missionary disciples.” as people first,” she said. “It is all Peter Oliver, Bonnie Roberts, Ken On Friday nights, the JOY together. Parishes also host a The first JOY participants about relationship and seeing that Roberts, Marie-Jeanne Will, and group gathers at Queen’s House supper for participants, with concluded their experience with a God is in everyone.” Murray Wood. Sr. Marie-Noëlle for theological reflection based on family members joining them to simple graduation ritual and a Married couple Bonnie and Rondot, SMS, assisted O’Gorman their experience of their field discuss some of what they learned Mass celebrated at Queen’s Ken Roberts went through the on the weekends and journeyed placements. During this time, they on the weekend. House. Fr. Marvin Lishchynsky, program together. with the participants. share stories about their volunteer “Our inaugural year of the judicial vicar for the diocese of “For me, it was a low-burning “This is where our church is hours and also work together to JOY program was really Saskatoon, presided and preached fire,” Ken said. “With every going,” Ken said. “This is the discuss insights gleaned through amazing,” said O’Gorman. “We at the liturgy. experience, every presentation, I future of our church.”

BJY KOATE YO’G OpRMAaN rticipants challengedex ambpley, a w hrite emalfe wlheo hacs grtowino up nin reominnd ou rseplvesr coinvstanitlyl tehat gwe ae re not The Justice and Outreach Year (JOY) of poverty will have less privilege than saviours. We are simply a tiny sign, among Formation program kicked off its second someone who has grown up with wealth.” thousands of others, that love is possible, year Sept. 15-16 with a new cohort of She went on to identify what privilege that the world is not condemned to a participants from across the Roman is not. “It does not mean all white people struggle between oppressors and Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. have it easier than all minorities. White oppressed, that class and racial warfare is A key piece of learning within the JOY privilege does not mean white supremacy not inevitable.” experience is discovering that authentic or ‘white guilt’. It does not mean it is okay In her concluding remarks, Verlangen solidarity means being present with people to discriminate against white people, and it offered a quote by Fr. Gregory Boyle from and acknowledging our mutual brokenness. does not mean that if you are not white you his book, Tattoos on the Heart: The Power It is a model of service that veers away can never achieve anything in this society,” of Boundless Compassion , which speaks to from “me helping you” and draws nearer to Verlangen explained the heart of the JOY program and to the call “us standing together.” The healing power “Rather, privilege means: I don’t have that belongs to all the baptised. of friendship is the most effective agent for to think too much about my race. It means “No daylight to separate us. Only healing, and also the most demanding. It I am not defined by my race and my actions kinship. Inching ourselves closer to also requires a shift in perspective: it Anita Verlangen spoke to the 2017-2018 JOY do not reflect my race (either positively or creating a community of kinship such that requires an awareness of privilege. group in September. - Photo by Kate O’Gorman negatively),” she said. God might recognize it,” wrote Boyle. Anita Verlangen, an English-language “Privilege means I expect to be treated “Soon we imagine, with God, this circle instructor with the Saskatchewan Verlangen added that it is important that fairly and justly; and when I am not, I of compassion. Then we imagine no one Intercultural Association, facilitated the we grapple with and understand how our expect to be heard and the situation standing outside of that circle, moving first JOY session, addressing the nature of self-understanding and assumptions have rectified. And finally, privilege means I do ourselves closer to the margins so that the privilege as a set of basic, often been formed out of this history, especially not have to learn about other cultures margins themselves will be erased. unconscious, assumptions. before reaching out to others in service. unless I want to.” “We stand there with those whose “Privilege is a set of circumstances in “What we’re talking about is power: who Being aware of our privilege as people dignity has been denied. We locate the world that we are all part of, whether has it; who doesn’t; how it is exercised; and who are about to reach out to others in ourselves with the poor and the powerless we want to be or not – it’s how the fabric of how it is perpetuated,” she said. service is an imperative, the JOY and the voiceless. At the edges, we join the our society is made up,” she said. “Your level of privilege is dependent on participants heard. Participants do not easily despised and the readily left out. We “So it’s important to start to recognize many different factors,” explained bring anything greater or better to volunteer stand with the demonized so that the that we don’t all start on the same footing,” Verlangen, “such as your level of placements and acts of service – they demonizing will stop. We situate ourselves Verlangen explained. “We don’t all start at education, your class, whether or not you simply bring themselves. Being aware of right next to the disposable so that the day the same starting place.…Canada has a are a citizen of a country, your race, your one’s privilege also creates openness and will come when we stop throwing people reputation for being a pure, multicultural, sexual orientation, your gender, being able- willingness to being changed through away.” very open society – and it is. But we also bodied or disabled, etc... [Privilege] is a encounters with others. Follow the JOY journey via Facebook have a history that is founded on racism power dynamic that shifts and changes, and As Jean Vanier wrote in his book, or through a blog posted online at: and colonization.” our identity informs our privilege. For Community and Growth , “we have to www.joyformationprogram.com Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 9

Help for persecuted Christians Myron Rogal, coordinator of the diocesan Office of Justice and Peace (left ), and Nadeem Imtiaz Bhatti spoke at an a nnual information and Diocesan “Dying Healed” workshop fund-raising evening held in Saskatoon April 30, 2017, in support of Board members from Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association (SPLA) attended a diocesan Dying Healed workshop persecuted Christians around Sept 23 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, entitled Make Time For Life, (left to right ): SPLA the world. “We need to stand Justice and Peace President Colette Stang, Life Canada representative Valerie Witzaney, Yorkton representatives Emily and Ted with our brothers and sisters. is supported by the Deneschuk. The program tackled end-of-life issues, as well as concepts related to suffering, dignity, and the We need to extend our prayer power of human presence. Workshop facilitators emphasized that physical and cognitive powers are not the support as well as our financial source of human dignity; that human life does not lose its inherent value in the face of disability, illness, aging support to help them,” said or dying; and that ordinary people can make a difference by providing a loving, caring presence to those who Nadeem Bhatti. are suffering. Dying Healed was produced by Life Canada. - Submitted photo - Photo by Kiply Yaworski

“Dads Doin’ Time” exhibit reveals

tBYhKeATE Oim’G ORpMAaN ct of priso“Enver yonen her e fisa intmerestiedl iine cres ative Art enthusiasts and those with a heart expression as a way of thinking through for restorative justice gathered at the their own feelings, as a way of SCYAP Art Gallery in Saskatoon Sept. 15 communicating a social message and for a one-day exhibit entitled “Dads Doin’ giving back to the community.” Time.” The project highlighted the impact STR8UP, a gang prevention and support of incarceration on families. services organization in Saskatoon, values Showcasing the work of 18 writers and community engagement through artistic visual artists, both inside and outside of expression. This exhibit follows on the correctional facilities, the collection was heels of two previously released collections six months in the making, from April to of writing from STR8UP members, September, 2017. Volunteers and program featuring artwork and personal stories of coordinators from STR8UP, the Inspired recovery from gang life. Prison ministry Minds All Nations Creative Writing Meeting with a group of men at the Stations of the Cross were again held at the Saskatoon Correctional Centre on Good Friday, Program, the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Correctional Centre, volunteer organized by the diocesan Office of Restorative Ministry. With the help of parishes and donors, this office also provides liturgies and special and the Saskatoon Correctional Centre student facilitator, Jillian Baker, also outreach to men at the Saskatoon Correctional Prison outreach collaborated with artists to create and worked with the artists to produce the Centre during the Christmas season, including the is supported by the curate the exhibit in an effort to shine exhibit. purchase of small gifts to show that they are not awareness on the impact that incarceration “While it varied from week to week, forgotten. Monetary donations are now being has on husbands, fathers and children. we would have anywhere from 10 to 15 collected for Christmas purchases. Contact Dianne “This project brought together people people in the room,” said Baker. “We had Anderson at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, (306) 242- who were involved in Inspired Minds opportunities to do private writing and to 1500 for more information. - Photo by Dianne Anderson Creative Writing classes and STR8UP share our writing. We did writing activities members,” said Dr. Nancy Van and gave writing prompts. It was really been in. Everyone was very enthusiastic. that will assist them with reintegration into Styvendale, a professor of English at the wonderful.” It was a really safe and welcoming place society in an attempt to reduce recidivism. University of Saskatchewan who Baker added: “It was a really great for people to contribute. Very early on we Strengthening family connections is coordinates the Inspired Minds program, a learning experience for me and being able established an environment where people actually a preventative measure.” volunteer writing workshop run through to work with the men was one of the most felt safe and comfortable to share and be Exhibit coordinators spoke about the Saskatoon Correctional Centre. pleasant teaching atmospheres I have ever vulnerable, which was huge because we limitations that exist around access, letter dealt with some important subject matter.” writing and postage, as well as the high Josh, a member of STR8UP and a cost of making a phone call within the participant in the “Dads Doin’ Time” Correctional Centre. project, said: “It was a good learning “It’s very difficult to stay in contact experience. I learned a lot about how to be with your family when you’re a good father – and I’m still learning.” incarcerated.” He also expressed a deep desire to see “Dads Doin’ Time” offered an parents receive more access to their opportunity to bring awareness and offer children while in prison. healing through creativity, said those All visits at the Correctional Centre are involved in the project. “no contact”, which means physical “The voices presented here speak access to family is restricted. powerfully to the very real pain, but also “I hope people will take from this the joy that comes along with being a project an understanding of the personal parent while in prison,” notes Van impacts of incarceration on fathers, sons Styvendale. and families, and the way in which Gallery visitors were invited to write changes need to be made to the system to anonymous notes to the artists still in jail facilitate the strengthening of family and express their comments on the work bonds,” said Van Styvendale. exhibited – messages of encouragement “If people are in jail, they are only able and hope to those experiencing St. Anne’s Parish holds“Chew On This” event to see [family members] through glass, it’s incarceration and an acknowledgement As part of a national “Chew On This!” campaign calling for a Canadian poverty reduction strategy, members of the Justice and Peace Committee at St. Anne’s Parish in Saskatoon a heartbreaking reality. So, there are some that their voices are being heard. handed out materials after every Mass on the weekend of Oct. 14-15, at the start of Poverty policy changes, I think, that need to “It’s been really wonderful to see this Awareness Week. The “Chew On This!” bags contained an apple (donated by Little Quail happen.” project come to fruition,” said Van Orchard, Okanagan, BC), a fridge magnet and a postcard addressed to MP Jean-Yves She explained: “We need to put more Styvendale. Duclos, Minister of Children, Families and Social Development, calling for a federal action plan to reduce poverty. Citizens for Public Justices and Canada Without Poverty organize stock in the importance of family “All of the men are really proud of the cross-country “Chew On This!” event in conjunction with World Food Day Oct. 17. It is connection because people in the criminal their contributions and it’s wonderful for one part of the Dignity For All campaign for a poverty-free Canada. For more information justice system come back into the public them to be able to see the fruits of their - Photo by John Lahey-Wiggs see http://dignityforall.ca world. They need to have family support labour.” 10 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima appearance celebrated BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI The message of Our Lady of Fatima to three shepherd children was highlighted during two days of celebration May 12-13 in Saskatoon, marking the 100th anniversary of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s first appearance in the Cova da Iria, Portugal. Hundreds attended a candlelight vigil and outdoor procession at Holy Family Cathedral May 12 led by Diocesan Administrator Kevin McGee and Deacon Children at the May 13 celebration at St. Mary Donat Davatz, who gave the homily. Davatz parish in Saskatoon. - Photos by Kiply Yaworski described the continuing need to hear the prophetic message of Our Lady of Fatima, forward during the prayers of intercession Our Lady of Fatima Pilgrim Statue at Fox Valley who asked for “penance, conversion of and placed near the altar. Parishioners and visitors at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fox Valley, SK. gathered Aug. 5 to sinners, and praying of the rosary in order to A basilica and chapel have been built at welcome the international pilgrim statue of Our Lady of Fatima, part of an international tour of the statue that included stops in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon and obtain peace for the world.” Fatima, and millions of pilgrims from surrounding area at some 15 parishes, at a local community centre, and at an annual On May 13, the anniversary date of Our every corner of the globe have visited the pilgrimage held in Rama, SK. The international pilgrim statue tour was held to mark the Lady’s first appearance, some 650 attended sanctuary, described event organizer 100th anniversary of the appearance of Our Lady of Fatima to three shepherd children in a Saturday afternoon Mass at St. Mary’s Jennifer Nunes. St. Pope John Paul II Portugal, between May 13, 1917 and October 13, 1917. In addition to the Fox Valley visit, parishes at Annaheim, Humboldt, Lake Lenore, Englefeld, Watson, Wadena, Cudworth, Parish in Saskatoon, concelebrated by attributed his survival of an assassination Bruno, Wilkie, Unity, Denzil and Macklin welcomed the statue, as did St. Mary, St. Paul and McGee and pastor Fr. Ciro Perez, CSsR, attempt on May 13, 1981 to the St. Patrick parishes in Saskatoon. - Photo submitted by Kendra Volk with participation by representatives of intercession of Our Lady of Fatima. parishes, Catholic organizations, many The 100th anniversary was celebrated cultural groups, the Catholic Women’s this year by Pope Francis in Fatima on May League and the Knights of Columbus. 13 during a visit to Portugal, and included Prayers written by students from Greater canonization of the two youngest children Saskatoon Catholic Schools were brought – St. Jacinta Marto, who died in 1920 at the age of nine years, and St. Francisco Marto, who died in 1919 at the age of 10. Lucia Santos was a Carmelite sister who died in 2005 at the age of 97 years. Three local children participating in the Saskatoon celebrations were dressed as the children to whom Mary appeared: Jacinta Leyne as St. Jacinta Marto, Christopher Nunes as St. Francisco Marto, and Ana Coghlan as Servant of God Lucia dos Santos. A group of other children were also dressed as angels for the anniversary Mass, which included the crowning of the statue of Mary by Fr. Kevin McGee, a children’s Children and families gathered for Eucharistic adoration at the Cathedral of the Holy Family Oct. 13, marking the 100th anniversary of the appearance of Our Lady of Fatima to three liturgy, and hymns sung by a multi-cultural shepherd children. After the hour of adoration at the cathedral, Mass was celebrated across choir. the city at St. Mary’s parish in honour of the anniversary. - Photo by Lynette Murza Mass was followed by a procession through Saskatoon’s core neighbourhood, with the crowd praying the rosary and Children of the Eucharist event marks singing hymns. A gathering in the hall afterwards included a potluck lunch and 100th anniversary with hour of adoration entertainment representing many different BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI “gather the children to follow the way of the Jacinta Leyne, Ana Coghlan, and Christopher countries and cultures. Find more coverage Children and families gathered Oct. 13 little shepherds of Fatima.” Nunes (l-r) , dressed as the three shepherd and photos on the diocesan news page at: at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in In Saskatoon, the annual Children of the children, led the procession with the statue of Our Lady of Fatima May 13. www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news Saskatoon to mark the 100th anniversary of Eucharist gathering echoed others around Our Lady of Fatima’s appearance to three the world in focusing this year on the shepherd children in Portugal. anniversary of the appearance of Our Lady Oct. 13, 1917 was the sixth and final of Fatima. Children of the Eucharist apparition of Our Lady of Fatima to the highlights Eucharistic adoration as a way to three children – Jacinta and Francisco follow the lead of Saint Francisco Marto, Marto (who were canonized as saints earlier “whose desire it was to console the heart of this year) and their cousin Lucia dos Santos. Jesus.” Her message to the children was a call to Hundreds of other such Children of the conversion and prayer. Thousands in Eucharist events were being held at the attendance at the Cova da Iria that day same time in some 140 countries. reported seeing the “miracle of the sun”. The hour of prayer and adoration for Organized as part of an annual Children children and families was followed by a of the Eucharist event in Saskatoon, the pilgrimage across the city to St. Mary’s gathering at the cathedral included Parish in Saskatoon to celebrate Mass later Eucharistic adoration, prayer and music. that evening in honour of the 100th Children of the Eucharist is a worldwide anniversary. ( See photo of the St. Mary’s educational and evangelistic program to celebration on Page 16. )

Outlook parish hosts Fatima anniversary events One hundred years ago, on May 13, 1917, the Blessed Virgin Mary first appeared to three Fatima pilgrimage small shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal, bringing a message of peace and hope to a Sr. Teresita Kambeitz, OSU, of world shattered by World War I. Our Lady of Fatima appeared six times, asking for Saskatoon, stands on the spot where repentance, recitation of the rosary and prayers that Russia would be converted. a famous photo was taken of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Outlook commemorated these apparitions each month three shepherd children to whom Our beginning on May 13, 2017, by praying the rosary and celebrating Mass. Mass intentions Lady of Fatima appeared 100 years asking for the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima were submitted by the participants and ago. Pilgrims gathered at Fatima with presented on the altar. On Oct. 13, the anniversary of the final apparition of Our Lady of Pope Francis were honouring “the Fatima to the three children, those in attendance participated in an outdoor procession led holiness of little children, innocent by three children dressed as shepherd children. Other children carried signs and ribbons. little shepherd kids through whom The procession was followed by the praying of the rosary, celebration of Mass, complete God has done incredibly marvelous with special intentions. Mass was followed by fellowship and refreshments. The parish things these past 100 years,” she Vision Committee offered special thanks to Fr. Madonna Godwin Aghedo, OP, for his notes. “It is a mystery beyond commitment to the project. The committee also thanked all parishioners, including those - Submitted photo words!” from Outlook’s sister parish of St. Andrew’s in Kenaston, for participating in the celebrations over the six months. - Photo and submission by Connie Achtymichuk Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 11 Search continues to inspire youth in the diocese BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Twenty-two youth took part in a diocesan Search retreat held Oct. 20- 22 in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Search weekends are offered to youth Grades 9-12 in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, coordinated through the office of Vocations and Youth Ministry. An intense weekend of spiritual growth that was revived in the diocese in April 2015, Search challenges high-school- aged youth to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and to make a conscious, adult commitment to their Catholic Search retreat participants and directors, including Fr. Darryl Millette (back, centre) , concluded the Oct. 21-22 weekend retreat with celebration of Sunday faith, explains diocesan Youth Eucharist at St. Anne’s Catholic Parish in Saskatoon, joined by St. Anne’s pastor Fr. Matthew Ramsay ( not pictured ), parents, families, and team members. Ministry coordinator Colm - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Leyne, Consisting of talks, music, Searchers come to know stay connected with the Search opportunities to connect, and to Youth Ministry prayer, spiritual direction, themselves, others, and God in a participants. “Search is a real follow up – and also to serve as is supported by the fellowship, and sacraments, the more loving and personal way, he mountain-top experience of faith, disciples, in their own local live-in weekend encourages youth says. but we’re not going to just say ‘go parishes or beyond.” to “Search for Christian Follow-up is important, he back to the valley’,” he said. “In For more about Search see: maturity.” adds, saying that team members the days that follow, there will be www.saskatoonsearch.ca

Daughter shares dad’s passion for campus ministry BY KATE O’G ORMAN extends to the national level as well, where “Dad does so much around campus and Michael and Ava MacLean are a he is the executive team chair of the I wanted to contribute as well, but I was father/daughter team, both committed to Canadian Catholic Campus Ministry worried people would think I was involved building the Body of Christ through (CCCM), an association which serves only because my dad was involved,” she comprehensive campus ministry. campuses across Canada. said. As a member of the Campus Ministry Like her dad, Ava has also taken a However, the independent nomination Team at St. Thomas More College – a team leadership role in witnessing to the Gospel process that led to her election as CCSA that includes Madeline Oliver, Fr. André on the University of Saskatchewan campus president alleviated her fears. Lalach and Fr Mark Blom, OMI, in and beyond while completing her degree in “It’s been really great for me to find a collaboration with Basilian Father Ron education. As the elected 2017 western place in the CCSA,” Ava continues, “I get Griffin, as well as Gertrude Rompré, who representative and president on the to do this good work in a similar but is the director of mission and ministry – executive team for the Canadian Catholic different way.” Michael works professionally to foster Students’ Association (CCSA), a national Ava’s involvement in Catholic student faith formation and spiritual support to body that mirrors and works in tandem leadership has afforded her many students, faculty and staff. with CCCM, Ava has followed in her opportunities. Michael and Ava MacLean - Submitted photo His commitment to campus ministry father’s campus ministry footsteps. One highlight was attending the Together, the CCCM (with Michael as International Movement of Catholic chair) and the CCSA (with Ava as Students (IMCS) in earlier this year president), work to support faith and where she interacted with Catholic leadership development opportunities, students from all over the world and offer pastoral care, unite students from participated in a general assembly with campuses across Canada and promote the Pope Francis. mission of the Church in higher education It has also helped prepare her to be a nationwide. leader in the workplace as a teacher. “Campus ministry is important,” says With her term as CCSA President Michael. “University is a special time nearly completed, Ava wants to encourage when young people begin their first foray other students to become involved in into independent academic study. All sorts student campus ministry. of questions about faith and meaning, as “In my experience, it gives you a well as questions about other Christian broader awareness to the wider Catholic denominations and religions, start to come student community. You get to understand up. Those questions are marvelous. As that we all play a part in the Body of Christ. campus ministers, we help students wrestle Everyone brings something different to the with those questions, as they grow in both table, and we all make the community that their academic and their faith lives.” much richer. Being involved with campus Prairie Messenger Editors Don Ward, Maureen Weber and Abbot Peter Novecosky (l-r). - Photo by Jacquie Berg Ava adds: “Leadership is synonymous ministry has affected my faith life as well. with service. It’s students wanting to serve I’ve really grown to understand how my STM medal presented to Prairie Messenger other students to create a better faith can be lived everywhere, not just in environment.” church on Sundays.” BY CAITLIN WARD the universal Church. Ava highlights how campus ministry is Looking at the impact CCSA and The St. Thomas More Medal was The award recognizes that the editors not exclusive to STM students alone. “The STM’s Newman Centre have had in the life presented this year to the Prairie and writers have rarely been content to university is a big place,” she explains. “It of his daughter and in the lives of students Messenger weekly Catholic newspaper, simply report on doctrine or theology, but can be rare to find those communities that across the University of Saskatchewan, which will close down in May 2018. have consistently asked what these things are ready to welcome you in, but campus Michael says he is confident in the future St. Thomas More College awards the mean in the context of a diverse and ministry does that.” of Catholic campus ministry. medal to recognize individuals or groups rapidly changing world. Confident in the With both father and daughter holding “We will continue to have creative who combine care, integrity and faith with Church’s teachings, the Prairie Messenger parallel Catholic leadership positions, ideas that will draw the campus community contributions to community and public life. has not retreated from secular culture, but Michael and Ava often work together to together, in all its diversity.” Michael says The Prairie Messenger was founded in instead has sought to engage with and offer local events such as TED talks and he is committed to offering a campus 1923 by the Benedictine monks of St. understand it, according to the nomination. coffee houses through the Newman Centre ministry that is comprehensive in its Peter’s Abbey in Muenster, and has been a “The Prairie Messenger has never shied on campus. approach. key voice for Catholicism on the away from calling out the Church’s clay While Michael has found it exciting to “It’s exciting to see students become Canadian prairies, covering the local lives feet... (it) loves the sacramental church but share his work and passion with his aware that there is unity within the of parishes across the western provinces is willing to recognize its corporeal daughter, Ava initially expressed concern diversity. We are all connected, we all as well as the struggles and victories of flaws.” over “the optics.” belong.” 12 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Mission trip to was a moment of transformation for couple BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI involvement in their faith and a The Aboriginal stream will Lay Formation The husband and wife team deepening relationship with God, continue to be offered until who now coordinate the Lay say the couple. Sunday after lunch. The change is supported by the Formation program in the diocese The call to apply for the Lay in the diocesan and eparchial of Saskatoon are passionate about Formation position was not schedule is an attempt to address faith and about deepening their something they were looking for costs as well as the sometimes- relationship with God – and it is a or expecting. Their discernment challenging time commitment of passion they long to share with about applying began with people the faith formation program, said others. of prayer in their parish asking Jennifer. learning and community – three For Jennifer and Blair them to consider it. The new coordinators stress things that are really at the heart Carruthers, Lay Formation is a The couple began coordinat- the importance of having taken of all that the church does, says new forum for faith sharing and ing Lay Formation this fall for the on the position as a couple. Blair. faith growth that involves placing Roman Catholic Diocese of Together they bring a range of Jennifer said it is important trust in God. Right now, it also Saskatoon. Participants in the two- skills that will assist in the that new ways are found to help involves learning the ins and outs year Lay Formation gather for coordination of the program, says those who can’t attend Lay of the program alongside prayer, learning and community at Jennifer. Formation or other programs, participants and fellow team Queen’s House for one live-in Finding ways for people to those in smaller or remote members. weekend a month from September deepen their faith and become parishes, or those who presently “God is leading us down this Blair and Jennifer Carruthers are to June. missionary disciples is the are not deepening their faith in faith-filled path and we will the coordinators of the Lay An eparchial Lay Formation ultimate goal of Lay Formation any way. humbly walk wherever God may Formation program in the Roman stream coordinated by Sr. Bonnie and a range of other efforts, such Finding and developing Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. lead,” say the couple. - Submitted photo Komarnicki and Sr. Marijka as Alpha, Blair notes. programs of all kinds that help Born and raised in Biggar, Konderewicz of the Ukrainian “You have to bring yourself to people to take “the next step” is SK, the couple were married in Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon Mass, you have to bring yourself, part of a conversation the couple 1990, and Jennifer, a Lutheran, Jessica, Blaise and Amanda. Blair also started this September, as did your gifts, your brokenness, and say they are having with pastors, was confirmed in the Catholic describes the couple’s core values an Aboriginal Catholic stream develop this relationship, this Lay Formation alumni, parish Church in 1997, after journeying as “faith, family, fitness.” (with participants from the communication with God — and and diocesan representatives. through RCIA as a candidate. The whole family’s journey of dioceses of Saskatoon, Prince that is what Alpha brought to me, Blair stresses that the two of They were part of St. Gabriel faith was powerfully impacted in Albert and Keewatin-Le Pas), and what I am experiencing now them are both still on this journey parish in Biggar for some 16 2014, when all seven participated now coordinated by Marlene with the people in Lay Formation. of faith, with lots to learn, and years before moving to Saskatoon in a Holy Family Cathedral parish Hansen of Buffalo Narrows ( see You can do a lot of this stuff and more growing to do. and becoming part of Holy mission trip to Haiti. article, below ). understand it on one level, but “We are taking Lay Formation Family Cathedral parish. Jennifer “Our lives have been forever Altogether, 36 participants in ultimately you’ve got to develop right now – we just also happen was a Registered Nurse and Blair changed. We saw God at work in the three streams have started Lay this communication with God,” to be coordinating it as well,” he has been involved in banking and the lives of the poorest of the Formation this fall. he stresses. points out. a range of businesses over the poor, and we started a new This year for the first time, the Deepening a relationship with “In the last few years we have years. journey of faith,” Jennifer diocesan and eparchial streams God is key to the transformation really learned just to trust God in They are the parents of five describes. will meet Friday evening and all that happens through Lay everything we do,” summarizes adult children – Brandon, Rebecca, The trip led to greater day Saturday, but not on Sunday. Formation’s focus on prayer, Jennifer. Hansen shares Aboriginal Lay Formation experience with others BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Saskatchewan, is presently leading nine I didn’t know God was in here,” she says, Deepening a relationship with God participants in the Aboriginal Lay Formation pointing to her heart. through the Aboriginal Lay Formation program held one weekend at month at “It is just easier to live life now, and it just program changed Marlene Hansen’s life. As Queen’s House. makes life more beautiful,” Hansen adds, the new coordinator of the program, that Jointly offered by the dioceses of Prince noting that Lay Formation has brought transformation is something she now shares Albert, Saskatoon and Keewatin-Le Pas, healing, and helped her to see God at work and encourages in others. Aboriginal Lay Formation is held in even in the difficulties and darkness. “The more you get to know God, the more conjunction with a Ukrainian Catholic The spiritual walk enriched by Lay you get to know about love,” says Hansen, a eparchial stream and a Roman Catholic Formation has also permitted her to reach out parishioner at St. Leo the Great Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon stream of Lay to others, to confidently share faith, to assist Church in Buffalo Narrows. Formation. Participants in each stream are confidently in her parish, and now to Encouraged by a colleague, Hansen first together for some sessions, and apart for accompany the nine participants in this year’s experienced the Aboriginal Lay Formation others. All three streams offer an opportunity Aboriginal Lay Formation program. The program as a participant in 2012-2014. She to deepen faith and a relationship with God content of the program, the prayer, the also took the Spiritual Direction program through prayer, learning and Christian learning, and the connections built between offered at Queen’s House in Saskatoon. community. traditions have a powerful effect on people’s “The more I got to know God – I wouldn’t Taking Aboriginal Lay Formation was the lives, says Hansen. “They are able to take that say life is easy, but it is easier to deal with, best thing she could have done, asserts back to their communities.” knowing God and having God in my life to Hansen. Lay Formation is about trusting God and lean on, through the difficult times.” “It was really about finding out about my being open to listening to God, she says. “If Marlene Hansen of Buffalo Narrows Hansen, who works in the area of mental relationship with God, how does God work in we really open our hearts to it, our lives will is the new coordinator of the health and addictions for the Keewatin Yatthe my life, was God in my life, where is God? really make a difference in helping others. Aboriginal Catholic stream of Lay Regional Health Authority in northwestern Because I always thought God was ‘out there’, And I believe that is why we are here.” Formation. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski

LBY KaIPLyY L UFKAN oYAWrOmRSKI ation graduates sent forth on PenteAcfteor thse rten ewSal uof tnheird baaptismy al Graduates of a two-year Lay Formation promises, each diocesan graduate was program were sent forth in two missioning anointed by McGee, as a sign of being sent ceremonies this June: one for participants forth into the community to continue the from the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of journey as a disciple of Jesus Christ. He Saskatoon and another for those from the encouraged the graduates to go forth to be Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. “the living fire of Jesus Christ, proclaiming The purpose of the Lay Formation his love and mercy…. Continue to be the program is to help adult Catholics fulfill fire of God’s love in this world.” their baptismal commitment to the mission This year’s diocesan graduates are all and ministry of Jesus Christ, through a from Saskatoon: process of formation and faith education. Annette Bley, St. John Bosco Parish Seventeen eparchial graduates were John Lyrette , St. Patrick Parish sent forth June 3 at a celebration held at Sts. Eileen MacKenzie , St. Francis Xavier Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church. Diocesan and Eparchial Lay Formation graduates, team members, and pastors at the 2017 Maria Luisa Mendoza O’Sullivan , Holy diocesan missioning celebration held on Pentecost, June 3, at St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral. The next day, nine diocesan Lay Formation - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Spirit Parish graduates were anointed and sent forth by Katelyn Peterson , Holy Spirit Parish Diocesan Administrator Fr. Kevin McGee gospel: we are called to a life of holiness, introducing the graduates. It was Cecilia Mui , St. Joseph Parish at a celebration at St. Paul Co-Cathedral. prayer and action. Such a mission requires Goodman’s final Lay Formation graduating Marjorie Stevens , Holy Family Cathedral “As servants of Christ, we are to be men ongoing formation and renewal,” said group, as she retired from the position a Chong Wong , St. Paul Co-Cathedral and women motivated by the spirit of the coordinator Mona Goodman when few months later. Maylane Wong , St. Paul Co-Cathedral. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 13 Anniversary Mass held to celebrate the ongoing impact of Lay Formation BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI unconditional love of God.” Thirty years of Lay Formation Lay Formation The 30th anniversary of Lay and its impact in the Roman is supported by the Formation is a moment to look Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon back and see “what so many have was marked Oct. 20 with a achieved over these last 30 years celebration at Queen’s House. – God’s promises have become Alumni from across the much clearer to us. We understand diocese and beyond were among Francis recently gave to priests. more fully the covenant God has those in attendance – including “He told us that one of the things entered into with us, that intimate Edward and Delores Ortynski, that is most important is to be bond of love, God’s ,” said members of the very first Lay constantly deepening your life of Wiesner, expressing thanksgiving Formation class, who travelled faith, your relationship with to God for all that has unfolded from for the God,” Wiesner related. through the Lay Formation celebration. “When we look at the program, and for all the leaders Bishop Emeritus Gerald teachings of the Church, the and participants over the years. Wiesner presided at the 30th teachings of the Second Vatican “When we look back we see much Bishop Emeritus Gerald Wiesner, OMI, one of the founders who helped anniversary Eucharist, along with Council, the Church reminds us more clearly the privilege and the create the Lay Formation program launched in the diocese of Saskatoon in Diocesan Administrator Fr. Kevin that the ‘followers of Christ must responsibility that are ours in 1987, presented an apostolic blessing from Pope Francis marking the 30th McGee and Fr. Ivan hold onto and perfect in their lives promoting God’s Kingdom…. It anniversary. The framed blessing was accepted by Blair and Jennifer Carruthers, the new diocesan Lay Formation coordinators, at the 30th Nahachewsky of the Ukrainian that holiness which they have is all God’s gift to us.” anniversary Mass celebrated Oct. 20 at Queen’s House in Saskatoon. Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon. received from God’ (Lumen At the conclusion of the Mass, - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Wiesner was part of the team Gentium, 40),” he said. “Must Wiesner presented a certificate of that originally developed the Lay hold onto and perfect. Not just ‘it a papal blessing for the Lay September to June in the pastoral Formation program in the diocese would be nice’ … it says must.” Formation program from Pope setting of Queen’s House. of Saskatoon at the request of The Christian vocation of all Francis: it was received by In the diocese of Saskatoon, Bishop James Mahoney. He the baptized is a “vocation to the diocesan coordinators Jennifer Lay Formation is funded through worked with the late Sr. Cecile apostolate,” said Wiesner, and Blair Carruthers, to share the Bishop’s Annual Appeal as Fahl, SMS, Gisele Bauche, and stressing the importance of each with all those involved in Lay well as through participant fees, Fr. Don Hamel to develop the baptized person taking up their Formation. usually shared equally between program, grounded in prayer, role as a missionary disciple of The anniversary celebration the participant and their parish. learning and Christian Jesus Christ. That is a role that continued the next day with a Lay Lay Formation is marked by community. requires formation, training and Formation Alumni gathering at the involvement of highly As with any relationship, our support “to share the mission and the Cathedral of the Holy Family: qualified presenters, from relationship with God requires the message of Jesus.” a day of reflection led by Fr. Saskatoon and across Canada, commitment and ongoing “We have that duty, to work Michael Dechant, OMI (below) . who bring a broad spectrum of connection, and needs to be cared hard to acquire a deeper knowl- Launched in the fall of 1987, theological thought to the learning for and intensified, said Wiesner, edge of revealed truth,” he said, the Roman Catholic Diocese of component of Lay Formation. emphasizing the importance of adding that this a process that Saskatoon’s Lay Formation Lay Formation also provides the process of ongoing conversion never ends nor is it achieved program was part of the diocesan an enriching experience of Sr. Cecile Fahl and formation to deepen our faith. during our life on earth. “We are response to St. Pope John Paul’s Christian community as Catholics One of the designers and He quoted a talk that Pope called to respond in faith to that request that the formation of lay of many backgrounds journey founders of the Lay Formation people should be among the together, praying, learning, and program in the diocese of priorities of every diocese sharing life. Saskatoon, Sr. Cecile Fahl, SMS, died Aug. 18, 2017 at the age of (Christifideles Laici, 57 ). Deepening a relationship with 85 years. She worked alongside The goal was to help adult God through prayer is an essential then-Fr. Gerry Wiesner, OMI, Catholics fulfill their baptismal component of Lay Formation. Gisele Bauche and Fr. Don commitment to the mission and A strong Alumni Association Hamel to develop the program which was launched in the fall of ministry of Jesus through a has grown out of the Lay 1987, with Fahl as the first process of formation and faith Formation program and graduates coordinator. - Submitted photo education. are found in all areas of parish and Some 900 have graduated diocesan life. The new diocesan coordin- from the program over the past Some of the areas in which ators of Lay Formation are three decades. The program Lay Formation graduates provide Jennifer and Blair Carruthers, expanded in 1999 to include a ministry in the diocese and beyond with Marlene Hansen of Buffalo Ukrainian Catholic Eparchial include parish pastoral leadership Narrows coordinating Aboriginal stream and again in 2007 to teams, diocesan commissions and Lay Formation ( see related include an Aboriginal Catholic advisory groups, RCIA, youth articles on Page 12 ). stream involving people from the ministry, religious education, Eparchial coordinators are Sr. Lay Formation farewell dioceses of Saskatoon, Prince pastoral visiting, care of the sick Bonnie Komarnicki, SSMI, and Former Lay Formation coordinator Kathy Hitchings and program co- founder Bishop Emeritus Gerald Wiesner, OMI, were among the friends Albert and Keewatin-Le Pas. and dying, preparation of liturgy, Sr. Marijka Konderwicz, SSMI. and colleagues who gathered Sept. 7 to bid farewell to Mona Goodman Lay Formation is two years in funeral vigils, inner city ministry, For more information about (centre ) who served as Lay Formation coordinator from 2008-2017. Find duration, with participants restorative justice, marriage the Lay Formation program, visit: more coverage of the farewell event on the diocesan website at gathering for one live-in weekend preparation and marriage enrich- www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/ www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news - Photo by Kiply Yaworski a month for ten months from ment. layformation Lay Formation alumni reflect on living as Eucharistic people BY TERESA BODNAR -H IEBERT described. Dechant encouraged the A group of some 50 faithful Lay gathering of Lay Formation alumni to Formation alumni joined Fr. Mike Dechant, actively live as Eucharistic people. OMI, Oct. 21 for a day of enrichment and “When we come in anonymity, it reflection at Holy Family Cathedral in undermines the Eucharistic mindset,” he Saskatoon said. “I want to touch your hearts,” Dechant “Bring your daily concerns. Pray for said, opening the annual Lay Formation someone and tell them and ask them to pray Alumni gathering on “Living as Eucharistic for you. Gather in little clusters with those People.” near you, create your own little cluster – the Dechant stressed that “Eucharist has to Body of Christ is nourished.” have a focus, the celebration of the Lord The afternoon concluded with within us.” Like a table meal, this Lay Formation Alumni held a fall gathering Oct. 21 during the program’s 30th anniversary year, celebration of the Eucharist in the Queen of celebration will be lively, interactive, and reflecting on the call to be Eucharistic people, led by facilitator Fr. Michael Dechant, OMI. Peace Chapel. engaging, he suggested. - Photo by Teresa Bodnar-Hiebert Those assembled experienced Christ in Dechant encouraged his listeners, the midst in a powerful way, especially saying: “We need to imitate, to imbue the “You might be the only bible that kids ever In Eucharistic celebration “we when a young stranger visiting the church presence of Christ.” read” and “you might be the only church experience this moment of salvation. building joined the celebration, asking for He reiterated some common examples: that person ever experiences.” Death no longer has a hold on us,” he prayers. 14 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon continues to provide spiritual care BY BRIAN ZIMMER care workers was to help facilitate the ST. P AUL ’S HOSPITAL connection between faith communities and In its 2017 spring budget the those of their members who wished a visit Government of Saskatchewan announced in hospital. As of Sept. 27, these spiritual that spiritual care would no longer be care workers are no longer employed. funded in publicly owned healthcare Consequently, if you anticipate a facilities. hospital stay at Royal University Hospital In the Saskatoon Health Region, this or Saskatoon City Hospital and wish to affects Saskatoon City Hospital, Royal have a visit or communion during your University Hospital, and Parkridge Centre. stay, let your parish know, or contact the Spiritual care at St. Paul’s Hospital is diocesan Hospital Chaplaincy coordinator not financed with public funds and spiritual Jackie Saretsky at (306) 659-5839 or by St. Paul’s Hospital Community Day care continues to be offered at St. Paul’s. cell phone at (306) 292-5531. Performer Parob Poet entertains children as St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon welcomed The government wants faith (Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy at RUH hundreds of students from the surrounding neighbourhood to the annual Community Day on the hospital grounds May 31. Some 100 volunteers from St. Paul’s Hospital and other communities to continue to serve their and Saskatoon City Hospital is funded in sites in the Saskatoon Health Region – as well as high school students, hospital board members as always. One of the services the diocese of Saskatoon by gifts to the members and community sponsors – assisted with the day, which included activities and offered by the now-terminated spiritual Bishop’s Annual Appeal.) food (2,500 donated hot dogs, buns and popsicles). - Photo by Brian Zimmer

Deutscher Catholic Health Association appointed of Saskatchewan has moved BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI bioethicist The Catholic Health Association of SUBMITTED BY ST. P AUL ’S HOSPITAL Saskatchewan (CHAS) has moved to a new Mary Deutscher, PhD, has been location on Taylor Street in Saskatoon, appointed to the position of Bioethicist at poised to refocus on supporting and St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. enhancing Catholic health care in the As ethicist, Deutscher works with and province. for the faith-based institutional members of CHAS is now sharing office space with the Catholic Health Association of Emmanuel Care, the Catholic health Saskatchewan (CHAS) in urban and rural organization that owns and sponsors 13 of Saskatchewan; and in a collaborative the 15 health care facilities that are members partnership with the Saskatoon Regional Mary Deutscher is bioethicist for St. Paul’s of CHAS. Healthy Authority, explained Jean Hospital and CHAS. - Photo by Tim Yaworski Other CHAS members include health Morrison, President and CEO of St. Paul’s care organizations, Knights of Columbus Hospital. Ethics Fellow for the Centre for Clinical and Catholic Women’s League councils, The ethicist works in the context of a Ethics in Toronto; and presented parishes, professional and business groups, Mission Integration team of St. Paul’s workshops in various locations among and individuals that support the ministry of Hospital, which includes leading Catholic several provinces on euthanasia and health care. health care facilities in the ongoing assisted suicide in Canada. Her Executive Director Sandra Kary said the development, implementation, evaluation presentations have also included ethics of move to the Taylor Street location was both and integration of ethics support services, human reproduction and ethical decision- fiscally responsible and a boon for closer as well as some potential ethics research. making in health care. collaboration with Emmanuel Care. Deutscher received her doctoral degree Deutscher brings experiences in clinical “We have always had a close in philosophy, public policy; her Bachelor and organizational ethics, obtained through relationship, which will be strengthened by of Arts honours (with high honours in graduate programs, serving as hospital the even-closer proximity we will now Sandra Kary, Executive Director of CHAS. philosophy) from the University of chaplain, volunteer activities, and her role share,” said Kary. “We work together on - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Saskatchewan; and she holds a Master of on the St. Paul’s Hospital Ethics issues that are helpful both for Catholic Arts in public ethics from the University of Committee, as well as the work she healthcare facilities, as well as for parishes CHAS is also committed to the priority Ottawa. completed with the Palliative Care Team at and the public.” of advocacy and communication, She recently worked as a Clinical St. Paul’s Hospital. There are greater financial challenges particularly when it comes to issue-based since provincial funding to community projects, such as the production of Finding organizations like CHAS was cut a year ago, the Gifts videos in response to the Making difficult health care decisions Kary said. legalization of Assisted Suicide and BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Euthanasia (see www.findingthegifts.ca) Foundations: Exploring Our The cuts have required some difficult Making difficult health care decisions decisions, including a reduction in staff. “We find that we are in a place where we involves the same process we use to make Faith is supported by the Mission Education Coordinator Sandy need to continue telling the Catholic health other difficult decisions, ethicist Mary Normand will be leaving in November. care story,” says Kary. “We can’t assume Deutscher said at a recent diocesan CHAS’s Witness to Mission program that people understand what that story is.” Foundations: Exploring Our Faith will continue to be offered to Catholic health This means getting back to the basics, Together program hosted by Holy Spirit care facilities, said Kary, expressing and simplifying some of the messaging to Parish in Saskatoon. appreciation for Normand’s work on that get to the heart of what Catholic health care The ethicist for St. Paul’s Hospital and guiding light. The Church holds that a program. Witness to Mission is designed to is, and why it is needed, she said. the Catholic Health Association of person’s conscience must be formed and help those working in healthcare facilities to CHAS held a “get to know you” social Saskatchewan engaged her listeners in a educated – it is not always enough to just understand how their personal values event at Holy Spirit Church in Saskatoon reflection on making decisions and the role rely on our “gut feeling,” noted Deutscher. connect to the mission and ministry of Nov. 20, with information about CHAS and of conscience, before addressing some Healthcare decisions often happen in a Catholic health care. Catholic health care. specific scenarios related to artificial whirlwind, in a time of stress and In the midst of change and restructuring, “Every year that the sisters aren’t in the nutrition and hydration. confusion, fear or trauma. “You need to try CHAS has been refocusing on its strategic facilities is one more year where that story Deutscher led the crowd in brainstorming and take a step back, and ask for as much priorities, which include providing of Catholic health care is a bit more distant. steps to take when making any difficult time as you can, to try and find that peace education and resources, and connecting to We want to build and strengthen that decision, listing such things as gathering of heart, and make an educated and the community, said Kary. “We want to understanding and connection to tell the information/facts, determining effects on informed decision,” suggested Deutscher. continue to build even more meaningful story of what Catholic health care is about, others, prayer, consultation with family and It was noted that thinking about such links to our diocesan and parish partners, and what we bring to the table.” experts, weighing pros and cons, doing a decisions beforehand – such as in an engaging them in health care and the healing For more information about CHAS see “gut check” to see how you are feeling, advanced care directive – means ministry of Jesus.” http://chassk.ca or call 306-955-2427. checking your conscience, and taking a step discernment happens apart from the back to reflect (as well as trying to make the pressures of being in the midst of a decision when not under extreme stress). healthcare crisis. The Catholic Health The Spirit of St. Paul’s Hospital videos Describing conscience as determining Association of Saskatchewan (CHAS) has are now available for viewing online at published “A Faith-Based Advance “what is it that God wants me to want,” http://www.stpaulshospital.org/about/mission/spirit.php Deutscher asked those present to discuss Directive For Health Care” as a tool to what conscience means to them: such as assist with such discernment. “The Heart and Soul of St. Paul’s Hospital” (9 minutes) determining right from wrong, empathy for For more about this Foundations: “What it means to be a Catholic Hospital” (7 minutes) others, being at peace with something, Exploring Our Faith Together session see: “Reflections on St. Paul’s Hospital” (11 minutes) listening to God’s will, and seeking a www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news View on the St. Paul’s website or search for “St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation” on YouTube. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 15

EBY KfIPfLY eLUcKAN tYsAWO RSoKI f government cuts to spiritual care discussed Hospital chaplains, pastors, and spiritual Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy care volunteers were among those who is supported by the gathered Oct. 3 for a meeting about the elimination of government-funded spiritual care services in Saskatchewan health care facilities. Information and concerns about the new streamlined a process as it was previously,” reality in the Saskatoon Health Region were he said. Church representatives and provided at the meeting held at the Cathedral volunteers must now to travel to St. Paul’s of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, along with Hospital for that registration/ paperwork. suggestions about provincial advocacy and Jackie Saretsky, coordinator of Hospital moving forward. Chaplaincy for the Roman Catholic Diocese Denominational chaplains continue to of Saskatoon, encouraged the pastors, provide spiritual care and pastoral visits in ministers and spiritual/pastoral care Saskatoon hospitals – including Catholic volunteers in the room to make sure they get hospital chaplaincy at Royal University and their health region clearance tags, necessary City Hospitals (funded by the Bishop’s paperwork and checks done to reassure staff Annual Appeal), and spiritual care at St. and patients. Paul’s Catholic Hospital (provided through Lutheran denominational chaplain Rev. Ron Bestvater, diocesan ecumenical coordinator Celeste Another step would be to get Clinical donations). However, these denominational Woloschuk, spiritual care practitioner Simon Lasair and Catholic hospital chaplaincy Pastoral Education training, she added. “We chaplains have lost key support from a coordinator Jacqueline Saretsky ( left to right ) were among those speaking at an information need all of you on board, we need all of you meeting about the elimination of government-funding for spiritual care in health care facilities. health region spiritual care department, and - Photo by Kiply Yaworski to act and support and encourage each other many patients without connections to a to maintain that high standard, to show the particular church or denomination are no government and the hospitals that the bar is longer receiving spiritual care. care consists of, and what the elimination of be sensitive to the spiritual concerns of high. We have been called to go and answer As part of the 2017 provincial budget government funding for spiritual care means patients and their families, but no other (that call) to the best of our ability,” said announced March 22, government funding for patients and staff, as well as for the health care providers are trained to care for Saretsky. for “pastoral care services” was eliminated denominational chaplains and volunteers. these needs explicitly, Lasair stressed. Now that the spiritual care department from provincial health care (for an estimated Every human being has a spiritual “As a result of this decision, this has been eliminated, churches and various savings of some $1.5 million annually). dimension, and spiritual care is a crucial specialized knowledge, this specialized denominations need to take the initiative to The impact of the announcement became form of care within public health care, said practise is no longer available to patients and make sure that the names of designated reality at Saskatoon City Hospital and Royal Lasair. When patients or their families face a their families in many Saskatchewan chaplains are on the health region lists for University Hospital in Saskatoon on Sept. crisis, they often need to explore spiritual hospitals,” Lasair said. In addition, other both City Hospital and RUH, so that the 27, with the elimination of the spiritual care questions, regardless of whether they have a health care professionals – who already have correct, up-to-date information will be department in the Saskatoon Health Region formal faith affiliation or not, he stressed. a myriad of tasks when it comes to patient available at the switch board, to nurses’ (SHR). Spiritual care services continue to be In addition to patients and families, care – must now operate without the desks, at emergency and in the intensive care offered at St. Paul’s Hospital, since spiritual spiritual care professionals in the province’s expertise or support of a spiritual care unit, to ensure that staff know who to call “to care at the Catholic hospital is funded hospitals and long term care facilities also practitioner on the health care team. get the right chaplain to the right patient,” through the legacy from the Grey Nuns. The regularly provided support to staff who Various denominations, clergy and she said. situation at other care homes and facilities often deal with trauma, loss or other crises, volunteers will continue to provide some As the health care system in varies, the gathering heard. he said. support to patients, but many more will not Saskatchewan undergoes other fundamental At the information meeting, Simon Spiritual care is sometimes called a receive the support they need, said Lasair. changes, with the planned elimination of Lasair – a former spiritual care practitioner “ministry of presence,” said Lasair. “Under privacy legislation, denomin- health regions and the creation of a single in the SHR who presently serves as the “In times of crisis, spiritual care ational clergy are not permitted to be provincial health authority, church leaders Saskatchewan Regional Admitting Chair of practitioners are exceptionally skilled at contacted by hospital personnel unless there and denominational chaplains are also the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care offering emotional and spiritual support,” he is a specific request for them, or unless the looking ahead, hoping to develop a new – provided an overview of what spiritual described. Other health professionals might person requesting support belongs to their spiritual care affiliation agreement with that specific denomination. Given that there are, new single health authority, Saretsky noted. on any given day in the health care facilities, “They are redesigning a lot of things, and “ ” initiative presents at least 50 per cent of people, patients, maybe spiritual care will be redesigned Finding the Gifts families who have no stated religious along with that.” short videos showing reasons to hope in affiliation: those people are not going to get Rev. Ron Bestvater of the Evangelical access to any spiritual support.” Lutheran Church in Canada reported that an era of euthanasia and assisted suicide As well, the infrastructure surrounding right now only a few faith groups have the professional practice of spiritual care in negotiated an agreement with the Saskatoon hospitals and other care facilities is now Health Region for provision of eliminated – something which impacts the denominational spiritual/pastoral care, pastoral and spiritual care being provided by including the United Church, the Anglicans, churches and faith communities. Lutherans, and Roman Catholics. Day in and day out, it was the spiritual The upcoming creation of a new care department that provided patient lists of province-wide health region will call for congregation members in hospital to the serious ecumenical engagement and Finding the Gifts: Finding the Gifts: visiting clergy and denominational cooperation to ensure that people’s spiritual palliative care suicide prevention volunteers, always operating within the needs are cared for, he stressed. bounds of privacy legislation. Ways to advocate for publicly-funded Without the spiritual care department to spiritual care in the provincial health system coordinate that service, privacy concerns were discussed, with participants noting the may make it more difficult for hospitals to need to emphasize the health care benefits of offer that service. In some cases, this has spiritual care, which in turn brings financial already made visits by local clergy and faith- savings. based volunteers more difficult, and adds to The days when volunteers and non- the possibility that patients in crisis are being professionals can handle this important missed, he said. outreach on their own has passed, another Finding the Gifts: Finding the Gifts: It was also noted during the meeting that speaker suggested, comparing it to how a caring for the elderly the L’Arche community some patients who do not specify a growing community moves beyond a denomination when admitted, would at volunteer fire department to a professional, “Finding the Gifts in a World of Choices” is a series of short videos produced times do so later, in conversation with the paid department when the complexity, size in Saskatchewan under the leadership of our Catholic bishops, thanks to health region’s spiritual care professional, and challenge of providing the service financial support from the Saskatchewan K of C Charitable Foundation. The permitting the spiritual care department to becomes too much for volunteers. four videos prepared so far illustrate paths of compassion and caring being eventually connect the patient with their Parish Nurse Ethna Martin of St. Philip lived in our community. Let’s change the conversation about assisted suicide faith community, or to answer a patient’s Neri Parish in Saskatoon suggested the issue and euthanasia: there is another way! request to help facilitate reconciliation or must be talked about in local churches to healing of his or her estranged relationship raise public awareness about a cut to Please watch and share the videos: with a particular denomination. spiritual care services that many are not The spiritual care department also aware has happened. Those who require provided orientation and information to spiritual care for themselves or family www.findingthegifts.ca local clergy and volunteers around such members may now also have to be much For more information contact the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon matters as infection control requirements more active in requesting that support, communications office: (306) 659-5844 or [email protected] and privacy legislation. “It will not be as others noted. 16 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Ministry to the divorced and separated marks 10th anniversary BY BLAKE SITTLER were balm to participants: “It is found was a safe place…where I A ministry aimed at important that you do not consider was not judged for saying and supporting Christians who are yourselves as separated from the feeling what I felt.” struggling through the trauma of Church. As a baptized person you At a recent gathering, separation and divorce is can be assured that the Church is Transitions facilitators discussed celebrating a milestone in the there to support you in your the program’s history, successes Roman Catholic Diocese of need.” and some of the current issues. Saskatoon: Transitions is 10 years Divorced Catholics often say “As a non-Catholic, I think it old. The diocese began offering that they feel ostracized by their is important to keep it Christian,” Transitions in the autumn of 2007. fellow parishioners. says Rev. Jan Bigland-Pritchard, Originating in Connecticut, “It still happens,” says Lori an Anglican pastor. “The spiritual the program came to Saskatoon Driedger, one of the current aspect is so valuable to those who via the diocese of Calgary where facilitators of Transitions in the go through something so Saskatoon resident Sharon Powell diocese. “We still get the difficult.” had heard about it. Powell impression that (divorce or Transitions is open to people introduced the program to the separation) is not acceptable… of all faiths, and to both men and Catholic Pastoral Centre and, with that we don’t ‘fit’ anymore.” women, offering balance and the support of the bishop, piloted On the final evening of the perspective, as well as support. Transitions here. Transitions program, a liturgy is “Men and women talk more Powell emphasizes the need to held, led by the bishop or the vicar respectfully of each other when offer outreach and support to general of the diocese, or in the they are in each other’s presence. those who are struggling with Transitions facilitators recently reflected on the history and impact of the absence of a bishop, by a diocesan This helps in the healing, to be 10-year-old diocesan program for those who are divorced or separated; separation or divorce. (back l-r) Lori Driedger, Jan Bigland-Pritchard, Bev Kirilenko, (front l-r) priest. This is seen as a huge sign able to see the other person’s “People don’t usually come to Sharon Powell, Judy Douglas, Helen Zimmer. - Photo by Blake Sittler of support by participants, note perspective,” says Helen Zimmer, the end of their marriage without the program’s leaders. one of the group’s first a lot of pain, and sometimes that “Each one of our participants be present at every session in “It is important to have that facilitators.” pain has been occurring for many went into their marriage thinking order to maintain trust and spiritual element,” says Driedger. One facilitator notes that she years,” says Powell. they would be married forever, so confidentiality in the group. This “A spiritual home is important was assisting in the ministry After 10 years, Transitions has when the marriage comes to an continues to be a strong practice when you are isolated (or) because of what she herself been facilitated by the diocese end, it is devastating, and it feels generally appreciated by the alone… I didn’t even have my received from the program. some 20 times and has been like their world is falling apart. participants. kids half the time.” “I got so much out of the attended by nearly 200 people. This is when the person needs the When a couple gets divorced, The diocesan Transitions team program,” says Bev Kirilenko. Ten years ago, many most help,” she says. it is one of the most painful currently has a cohort of 11 “Facilitating later on helped me to Transitions participants had been The 12-week Transitions experiences for a family. For facilitators. All of the facilitators see how far I had come in my separated or divorced a year or program addresses topics such as many Catholics, the experience are either separated or divorced, grieving.” more. Recently, more people are grief, anger, self-image, stress, was doubly difficult because on and have been through the The next session of Trans- coming to the program still in the guilt and blame, children, top of the actual schism of the program themselves. itions will begin at 6:30 p.m. early stages of shock. forgiveness, and loneliness, as marriage, there was often a “I had been separated two Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018 at the “Those going through divorce well as coping with challenges, feeling of rejection or alienation years when I went through the Cathedral of the Holy Family, 123 and separation are grieving the such as how to get through the from the faith community. program,” says Judy Douglas. Nelson Road, Saskatoon. For death of their relationship… and holidays. In an early letter from then- “I wanted to go through to more information, please contact the death of their dreams,” says Transitions is not a drop-in Bishop Donald Bolen about make sure I was grieving Sharon Powell at (306) 374-1425 Powell. program. Participants are asked to Transitions, words of assurance properly,” she adds. “What I or [email protected]

St. Mary is home to many cultures, includes programs in Spanish BY DARLENE POLACHIC prayer groups, a charismatic (Previously published in the prayer group, young peoples’ Saskatoon StarPhoenix) group, catechesis for the children, St. Mary’s Catholic Parish is and meetings for couples. One the second oldest Roman Catholic congregation member teaches parish in Saskatoon. It was guitar lessons, and a man from established in 1919 and was Chile is starting drama classes.” originally named ‘Our Lady of He says the Spanish Victory’ to celebrate the end of community also conducts a very World War I. active welcome program to help The first St. Mary’s church newcomers. building was destroyed by fire in In the fall of 2016, St. Mary’s 1927 and the present red brick Church organized a cultural church on Avenue O South was festival to highlight and help inte- opened in 1930. The Oblates grate the various cultures and turned over the parish to the nationalities represented in the Redemptorist Order in 1934. It Fr. Ciro Perez, CSsR St. Mary’s parishioners from many cultures were celebrating the 100th parish. Perez says it was so was the Redemptorists who - Photo by Darlene Polachic anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima Oct. 13. - Photo by Jennifer Nunes successful, the church plans to initiated the establishment of St. make it an annual event. “Our aim Mary’s Credit Union to aid parish Perez says, St. Mary’s was a from all over Africa, the Middle Spanish-language Mass is held is to showcase the various cultures families and people of the culturally diverse parish. East, Palestine, Iraq, Syria, and every Sunday at 4 p.m. and once a and celebrate diversity and unity in community. It started with French, English, Asia, as well as people from month is followed by a supper our community.” Fr. Ciro Alfonso Perez, CSsR, German, Ukrainian and Irish Europe... hosted by one of the Spanish- Though St. Mary’s is one of the is the current pastor of St. Mary’s Catholics, and from its earliest “In all, 40 to 60 different speaking countries – all are poorest parishes in the city in terms parish. He was ordained in days was identified as a parish countries are represented at St. welcome to attend. The menu is of socio-economic area, it is well- Columbia in 2000, and after eight whose goal was to build Mary’s. When I look out on the representative of the country of known for its charity. Perez years working in cities, villages community from diverse cultures. congregation, I see every colour of origin, as is the musical describes several programs at St. and missions in Columbia, he Our Lady of Guadalupe parish, face. It’s beautiful.” entertainment. Mary’s that provide help and came to Saskatoon at the invitation which serves Indigenous and non- Perez identifies in many ways Perez says: “It has been a great support for those in need. of then-Bishop Albert LeGatt to Indigenous, First Nations and with the newcomers who attend St. experience for me to work with “We operate a Back Door work with the burgeoning Spanish- Metis parishioners, also uses the Mary’s. “English is their second this community. We may speak the Ministry that serves sandwiches speaking Catholic community in St. Mary’s Church building for language, as it is mine. I preach same language, but each Spanish- and coffee, and at Christmas time the city. Sunday Eucharist and various more slowly here, with shorter, speaking country has its own we distribute food hampers. The Today the Spanish-speaking events through the year. simpler homilies, often on themes traditions and customs. Some are rest of the year, we give out as congregation of St. Mary’s Our Lady of Guadalupe pastor concerning adjusting to life here more liberal, others are more many as five food hampers a day numbers well over 100 and Fr. Graham Hill, CSsR, is a fellow and how we can support one conservative. How we celebrate to needy people. We also give represents people from 18 different Redemptorist, who works with another. I encourage them to face our faith is different, and that away clothing, especially in countries in Latin America, South Parish Life Director Debbie their new challenges with faith. It’s includes how we celebrate the holy winter.” America, Central America and Ledoux to lead Our Lady of not always easy.” holidays like Christmas or Easter.” “A big thing for me at St. Mexico. Guadalupe parish. The English-speaking and Perez says the Spanish- Mary’s is counselling people in In August of 2015, Perez was “In the past two decades, St. Spanish-speaking communities speaking congregation is involved distress,” Perez says. “There are so appointed pastor of St. Mary’s Mary’s has become significantly within St. Mary’s hold some in many activities beyond the many of them – people with Parish, of which the Spanish more culturally diverse,” Perez activities together, but Perez says Spanish-language Mass and the addictions and many other difficult community is a part. says. the Spanish congregation is monthly suppers. circumstances. I listen, I pray, and From its very beginnings, “We have welcomed people particularly active. “We hold regular Bible studies, I bless them.” Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 17 St. Philip hosts celebration for Fr. April BY KATE O’G ORMAN A celebration was held June 25 at St. Philip Neri Parish in Saskatoon honouring Fr. Emile April on the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, and bidding him farewell as he retired from active ministry. April’s ministry as a priest began at St. Philip Neri Parish after his ordination in 1967, and for the past five years parishioners there were pleased to have him back at the same parish where his journey began. In the years between, Fr. April had many rich experiences serving locally and abroad. To celebrate his Golden Jubilee, his 75th birthday and the eve of his retirement, April was surrounded by parishioners, his brother priests, friends, and family as they Sharing stories and memories was part of a celebration for Fr. Emile April marking his 50th “roasted and toasted” him for his many anniversary as a priest, his 75th birthday, and his retirement. - Photo by Kate O’Gorman years of selfless service, during a celebration that included an afternoon Sr. Novecosky recounted times when As he himself went on to explain, the Mass, a program, and a barbecue. April was caught sleeping through a homily threats against his life did not materialize. A large part of April’s ministry was or during reconciliation, “he nearly fell out “This was just one of the little ways in Fr. Emile April started and ended his pastoral spent in União dos Palmares, Brazil, where ministry as a diocesan priest at St. Philip Neri of his confessional chair,” she remembered which God has protected, helped and Parish in Saskatoon. He also served 26 years he served from 1972 to 1998 as a with a smile. “But I’m sure the Lord supported me all these years and I am in the diocese’s Brazil Mission. missionary from the Roman Catholic showed mercy,” she teased, “not only on extremely grateful,” he said. - Photo by Kate O’Gorman Diocese of Saskatoon. the sinner but on Fr. Emile as well.” April is known for his hospitality, both Sr. Claire Novecosky, OSU, and Fr. Les While Sr. Novecosky and April lived in Brazil and here in Canada. He always Abbot Novecosky went on to say that, Paquin both worked closely with April in and served in different parts of Brazil, she had time and the necessary patience to “Fr. Emile is a pastor in the of Pope Brazil, and both shared fond memories of recounted how April would often visit, “for welcome others. The crowd heard him Francis. Pope Francis has described the that time. Paquin explained in a letter read a meal or a siesta.” described as honest, welcoming, Church as a field hospital and tells us to at the celebration that, while in Brazil, “We had good discussions,” she said, courageous and loving, with a sense of reach out to people on the peripheries of April pastored a large parish of 50,000 “where we, of course, always solved all of humour, and a prayerful spirit. Paquin church and society and I think that parishioners – and how his focus was on the social, political and religious problems described him as a great friend and mentor. describes the role Fr. Emile adopted in his building small Christian communities for of the day.” April ardently denounced In a tribute to his ministry with students ministry, whether in Brazil or here in this the laity. injustice and inequality. “He was at Holy Cross high school between 1969- diocese. It isn’t easy to be a great pastor in The task of caring for the sacramental passionate for God’s Kingdom and the 1972, the choir, under the direction Leanne two very different cultures and in two and ministerial needs of a parish that large poor,” said Paquin. “He loved the poor and Hamm, performed two songs – Take Up different languages,” was no small undertaking. On weekends, took a stand on their behalf and at times Your Cross and This is Not the End – both Abbot Novecosky thanked April for Paquin explained, it was not uncommon to this made him unpopular with the rich land of which had meaning for the students and spreading what Pope Francis calls “the joy have three sets of baptisms, each involving owners.” resonated with April’s anniversary and of the Gospel.” some 30 to 40 children. While in Brazil, April was involved in retirement. Hamm expressed deep thanks Upon his retirement, April plans to In conjunction with serving a parish, supporting the rights of landless farmers to April for all he has done for students at return to Brazil for a time to visit friends April was involved with a number of who were being illegally denied access to Holy Cross. and subsequently enjoy a year of rest. After special projects, one of which was safe and productive work. During his years of ministry, April also that he affirms that Saskatoon will remain mobilizing a work bee to assist flood After taking steps with local authorities spent a total of 10 years serving in the his home and he will be available to assist victims rebuild their homes. Through this to help support poor workers reclaim their Humboldt deanery, where he was pastor in and minister from time to time when project, April saw 250 homes constructed. land rights on one farm in particular, April Watson, Englefeld, St. Gregor, Lanigan, needed. There was always something to be found himself the target of an intended and Humboldt. “These have been wonderful years, both done, but, as Paquin explained in his assassination. By upsetting the social and Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB, offered in Brazil and in Canada,” said April. “I written tribute to April, the secret to being a political power that contributed to systemic some words of congratulations and thanks. enjoyed the work that I did very much.” good missionary is to have a nap after inequality around land rights, he served as “Fr. Emile was deeply shaped by the Fr. Ron Beechinor, who concelebrated lunch – something that April mastered. Fr. a voice for the voiceless. Commenting on Vatican II vision of the Church,” said the Mass alongside April during the Les Paquin and Sr. Claire Novecosky both the threats April suffered, Sr. Novecosky abbot. “He led people to a renewed vision celebration, summed it up best in his took the opportunity to tease April about said: “It didn’t seem to faze him too much.” of celebrating the liturgy, of empowering homily when he said: “for your ministry his penchant for sneaking in a snooze April was unwavering in his work to the lay people and of working for social and for your fidelity to the priesthood, where he could. defend the landless and the small farmers. justice.” thank you, thank you, thank you.” Bruno playground named after Fr. Joe Ackerman, OSB BY JAMES RILEY parish from 1998 until retiring last year. A chilly day could not quell the warm Throughout his time in Bruno, he was appreciation that the town of Bruno holds always involved in community activities for Fr. Joe Ackerman, OSB. In a public and gatherings, whether they were at the ceremony Oct. 12, the name of the town’s church, school, rink, community hall, or new playground was officially revealed: elsewhere. “Fr. Joe Park” – much to the surprise of “This will be a great remembrance of 93-year-old Ackerman. who Fr. Joe is and what he has all done for “Victor Granger (chair of the St. our town. He gathered everyone, no matter Bruno parish council) came and picked who you were, to be a part of everything. me up, saying, ‘It’s been a while since Especially the little ones,” said Bruno you’ve been out and around the town. Let’s resident Michele Hoppe. go see what’s new’, ” said Ackerman. The name for the new playground was Stopping at the new playground, the suggestion of 13-year-old Éowyn Riley, Granger suggested that they get out and who submitted the name as a part of a attend the naming ceremony that was summer “name the park” contest held by about to take place. the town. She didn’t know that her name After a brief address by Bruno’s suggestion had been selected until she was Mayor, Dale Glessman, and words of called from the crowd by Mayor Glessman congratulations from MP Kelly Block on The name chosen for a new park in Bruno, SK – suggested by Éowyn Riley (right) – honours to unveil the sign. the completion of Bruno’s “Canada 150” the contributions of long-time parish priest Fr. Joe Ackerman, OSB (seated) . “When I think of Bruno, that’s who I - Photo by James Riley project, the sign bearing the new park’s think of,” said Éowyn Riley. “Fr. Joe is a name was unveiled. Fr. Pius Schroh, mouth was opened wide enough to drive a so many people that have spent their very fun-loving guy, and always wants current pastor of St. Bruno Parish, and Fr. tractor in,” said Ackerman when asked whole lives here in Bruno, and I’ve only other people to enjoy themselves, so I felt Ackerman then blessed the park. about seeing the park’s name. “I was been in Bruno for 19 years.” that naming a community park after him “I was completely dumbfounded. My surprised, surprised, surprised. There are Ackerman served as Pastor of St. Bruno would be a good choice. ” 18 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 •

BOY KrIPdLY LiUnKAN aYAtWiOoRSKnI of two priests celebrated in diocese of Saskatoon Years of discernment and journeying in faith Vocations and the education of priests culminated for two men on the feast of St. Peter and St. and future priests is supported by the Paul, as the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon joyfully celebrated the priestly ordination of Fr. Michael Yaremko and Fr. Edward Gibney. With the diocese of Saskatoon still waiting for the appointment of a bishop at that time, Regina Archbishop Donald Bolen returned to Saskatoon for the ordination after years of discernment and faith formation, with “gifts held June 29, 2017 at Holy Family Cathedral. that had been growing, that had been tested,” noted Bolen. “It has been a privilege to play a part in your “When you got in touch with me, your message had been respective journeys to the priesthood,” Bolen told preceded by a couple of others…saying ‘there is a fellow Yaremko and Gibney, thanking Diocesan Administrator who is going to be coming to you about coming to the Fr. Kevin McGee for the invitation to preside at the diocese of Saskatoon: this is good news’,” Bolen recalled. celebration. Bolen urged Yaremko and Gibney to trust that God Archbishop Murray Chatlain of Keewatin-Le Pas, will be there to support them, just as God was there for St. Bishop Bryan Bayda of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Peter and for St. Paul. “Trust God with your own Saskatoon, Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB, of St. Peter’s brokenness, your own woundedness. Trust God with your Abbey in Muenster, and some 65 priests joined Bolen in poverty. Let Jesus minister to you there, as he ministered blessing Yaremko and Gibney in the presence of family, to Paul and to Peter there, and let that be a source of friends, and the diocesan and parish representatives who compassion as you respond to others in their filled the cathedral for the evening celebration. woundedness,” said the archbishop. Fr. Colin Roy, who along with Fr. Daniel Yasinski, The rite of ordination continued with Gibney and Fr. Michael Yaremko and Fr. Edward Gibney (l-r) were ordained serves as a diocesan Vocations Director, presented the as priests for the diocese of Saskatoon in June 2017. Yaremko declaring their intention to care for the Lord’s candidates for priesthood, while rectors of the seminaries - Photo by Tim Yaworski flock, promising to celebrate the mysteries of Christ where each man studied provided testimony on behalf of faithfully, to preach the gospel, and, uniting themselves to the candidates. Christ, to consecrate their lives to God for the salvation of Fr. Stephen Hero described how Yaremko came to St. St. John the Evangelist parish in Edmonton again showed the people. Both men then pledged obedience to the local Joseph Seminary in Edmonton with training as a teacher the maturity of this missionary disciple of Christ and his “ordinary” or bishop. and some five years of formation with the Legionaries of readiness to shepherd, teach and sanctify the people of As a sign of surrender to God, Gibney and Yaremko Christ before discerning a call to serve as a diocesan God as a priest, after the heart of Jesus Christ.” lay prostrate upon the floor in front of the altar while the priest. “His years of previous formation had certainly Canon Philip Gillespie of Pontifical Beda College in assembly prayed for the intercession of the saints and the helped to form a missionary heart in this mature young sent a letter in support of Gibney, read by Fr. Colin outpouring of the Holy Spirit. man, and he brought gifts of discipline and joy, prayer and Roy. “As Ed comes to the end of his four years at the The archbishop then conferred ordination by laying his charity to our community,” said Hero. Beda College, we thank him most sincerely for the warm hands upon the head of each man – a gesture repeated by “Michael completed his Master of Divinity degree this and generous way in which he has engaged with and the many priests present at the celebration, as a sign of year in Edmonton, and his ministry at the seminary and at enriched the life of the college… we believe that good unity and shared spirit. foundations have been laid and he has shown ample After a prayer of by the archbishop, the evidence of the talents and the priestly heart necessary for newly-ordained were vested with the stole (a sign of the ministry within the diocese,” wrote Gillespie. priestly office) and the chasuble (the Eucharistic vestment) “We rely on the help of the Lord God and our Saviour with Fr. Christopher Dubois assisting Gibney; Fr. Andrew Jesus Christ, and we choose these men, our brothers, for Paulowicz and Fr. Stephen Hero assisting Yaremko. priesthood in the presbyteral order,” announced Bolen Each newly-ordained priest then knelt before the following the testimonies, with the assembly responding archbishop, who anointed their hands with the oil of “Thanks be to God,” followed by a round of applause. Sacred Chrism, blessed at the diocesan Chrism Mass in In his homily, Bolen reflected on God as the potter Holy Week. who forms and sculpts our lives – just as he formed and A chalice and paten were presented to each new priest, sculpted the lives of St. Peter and St. Paul. with the words: “Know what you are doing and imitate the God has been intimately at work shaping Yaremko and mystery you celebrate: model your life on the mystery of Gibney, Bolen added, using imagery that particularly the Lord’s cross.” Yaremko and Gibney then joined the resonated with Gibney’s background as an artist and bishops and priests at the altar to celebrate Eucharist. sculptor. “This is your story too – God the potter, God the The celebration was followed by a reception, with long Priests arrive in diocese sculptor, doing the work that only God can do,” the lines of those wishing to congratulate the new priests and The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon recently archbishop said. receive their blessings. welcomed two missionary priests from Africa who will be Bolen described how, when he arrived as bishop of The son of Terry and Pamela Yaremko, Fr. Michael living and serving in the diocese of Saskatoon. Fr. Dominic Saskatoon in 2010, Gibney was the State Deputy for the Yaremko is presently serving as associate pastor at St. Andoh of Ghana ( left ) and Fr. Richmond Diala of Nigeria (right ) recently spent time at the Catholic Pastoral Centre for Knights of Columbus. When Gibney mentioned in Augustine parish in Humboldt, SK, St. Scholastica orientation with Patrick Clarke of Human Resources ( centre ). passing that he might consider the seminary after his term parish in Burr, SK, Holy Trinity parish in Pilger, SK, Clarke went through "on boarding" materials developed for was finished, Bolen “remembered that word” and and Assumption of Our Lady parish in Marysburg, SK. those who are new to the diocese. Fr. Richmond also reminded Gibney of it later. In a similar way, Ed Gibney’s Born in Canora, SK, Fr. Ed Gibney is the son of the participated in a four-week orientation to Canada offered at Newman Theological College in Edmonton – he will be uncle, Fr. Charles Gibney, had been a mentor to Bolen late Hubert and Adeline Gibney. He is presently providing hospital chaplaincy at St. Paul’s Hospital. Fr. years ago, “speaking a word” that opened the door to the serving as pastor of St. Gabriel the Archangel parish in Dominic will be living and serving at St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral. priesthood for him. Biggar, SK and Our Lady of Fatima parish in Landis, - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Originally from Yorkton, Yaremko came to the diocese SK.

Priestly Ordination in the Eparchy of Saskatoon Clergy, religious and family members gathered for the presbyteral ordination of Fr. Warren Syro-Malabar Catholic community welcomes pastor Dungen by Bishop Bryan Bayda, CSsR, July 20 at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of St. Fr. Plogen Antony (left ) recently arrived to serve as pastor to the Syro-Malabar Catholic George in Saskatoon. Dungen started his career in Youth Ministry in Calgary and married community in Saskatoon, appointed by Bishop Jose Kalluvelil, Apostolic Exarchate, Lori Lou Michalchuk. Dungen then served as Director of Youth Ministry at the Archdiocese Canada ( centre) . Diocesan Administrator Rev. Kevin McGee welcomed the new priest and of Mobile, Alabama; as Steubenville South Coordinator in the Diocese of Alexandria, his bishop at a recent celebration at St. Augustine Parish in Saskatoon. The Syro-Malabar Louisiana; and in the Diocese of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. The Dungen family began Catholic Church is one of the 22 Eastern (Oriental) Catholic Churches in full communion the transfer process into the Ukrainian Catholic Church in 2010 while they were in Prince with Rome. It is the second largest Eastern Catholic Church after the Ukrainian Catholic Albert. Dungen completed his studies at Holy Spirit Seminary in Ottawa, . He was Church and the largest of the Saint Thomas Christian (Nazrani) denominations with some ordained to the Diaconate for the Eparchy of Saskatoon by Bishop Bayda in January 2017 4.6 million members. Before Fr. Antony’s arrival, the Syro-Malabar community was served in Ottawa. Fr. Warren Dungen, his wife Lori Lou, and their four sons, Peter, Andrew, James on a part-time basis by the Vincentian priests currently in the diocese of Saskatoon, Fr and John, continue their journey in the Kamsack/Norquay district of the Eparchy of Joseph Thazhathemuriyil, VC, Fr. Binu Rathappillil, VC, and Fr George Chatholil, VC. Saskatoon as of August 2017. - Photo by Teresa Bodnar-Hiebert - Photo submitted by Fr. Kevin McGee Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 19 Our Lady of Sion Academy reunion honours Sisters of Sion BY ELEANOR PULLES KENNEDY (C LASS OF 1964) Fifty years after the doors of Our Lady of Sion Academy closed in 1967, more than 300 former students and teachers gathered in Saskatoon on the Labour Day weekend, to honour the Sisters of Sion for their huge contribution to Catholic education in Saskatoon. The Sisters of Sion arrived in Saskatoon in 1917 and took up residence in a large white house that stood approximately where Avord Tower stands today on Spadina Crescent. They named the Sr. Kay McDonald, NDS, was one of Sisters of Sion stand next to an 80-foot Wall of Memories on display during a gala reunion for Our Lady of Sion the former teachers in attendance. Academy in Saskatoon, held to mark the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the Sisters of Sion in Saskatoon. house Rosary Hall, the first of - Photos by Nina Henry three residences to bear that name. By 1919, the sisters acceded to groups, and many attendees was in the local TB Sanitarium. We a request to open a boarding school brought yearbooks, photos and were basically orphans with for girls, and after obtaining title to clothing to show and share. After nowhere to live. My mother was the beautiful Drinkle property on more conversation over coffee and terrified and her only hope was for Avenue A North, they opened Sion tea, the afternoon ended with a us to be boarders at the convent, Academy Sept. 9, 1919 with 30 reflection facilitated by Sr. even though we were not students. In 1967, two years after Elizabeth Losinski, NDS, and Catholics,” she related. provincial funding was granted to concluded with a rousing school “As she was sitting in the Catholic high schools, Sion cheer. parlour on her day pass from the Academy closed. Alumnae and teachers stream- San, she watched the Mother By 6:30 p.m. Friday night, ed into Bishop LeGatt Hall for a Superior sweeping down the hall, Sept. 1, the first reunion arrivals Gala Banquet that evening. Each with many children attached to her started streaming through the of the Sisters of Sion was habit, everyone laughing. Her doors of the Cathedral of the Holy introduced, greeted with applause worries disappeared.” Family for a meet and greet event. and expressions of goodwill Urff described life in the dorm There were many cries of extended by the entire gathering. from 1962 to 1965. There were recognition among old classmates, Tributes were offered by Inge many chuckles from the gathered A gala reunion for former students and teachers of Our Lady of Sion hugs to establish re-connection, Andreen, who attended Sion as an alumnae as she talked about lining Academy was held Sept. 1-3 in Saskatoon. The organizing committee and peels of laughter, as attendees elementary student in the 1940s, up to use the only telephone, the dressed in the school uniform ( back, l-r ): Dorothy Loran Fortier, Elaine checked out the school photos and Margot Brunelle Urff, a compulsory study halls, and the Leier Zakreski, Jeanne Stroeder Manegre, Sharon Cooper Murza; (front, l-r ): printed on each others’ name tags. boarder in the final years of the communal mealtimes. “The nuns Donna Wraith Darbellay, Eleanor Pulles Kennedy, Terry Chrusch Miley. The Spirit of Sion permeated school. really tried hard to create a homey, the room. An 80-foot Wall of “What an honour – to have the caring atmosphere and to be our Sr. Pauline Greenizan, NDS, people kept telling me how sorry Memories was created with life opportunity to thank and ‘pseudo-parents’.” gave thanks to the gathering on they were that she had to go stories, obituaries, photos and acknowledge the Sisters of Sion Sr. Jocelyn Monette, NDS, and behalf of the Congregation of Sion. through this trial. They told me memorabilia. for caring for my sister Peggy, and Sr. Margaret Zdunich, NDS, gave a “The sisters are very proud of about all the great memories they Saturday afternoon Sept. 2 was myself,” said Andreen. “My father short presentation about “Sion in all the Alumnae, because they have have of her, stories about how reserved for reminiscing in smaller had died at age 34 and my mother the World Today.” The evening gone beyond their ordinary tasks to well-loved she was, how pretty ended with a tearful singing of the take on leadership roles, using and vibrant she was – they hugged school song Rise for our Alma their talents and gifts to change the me and consoled me and brought Mater . world,” said Greenizan. “Many my sister back to me. I didn’t Holy Family Parish embraced have raised families and are now expect that from this reunion.” the reunion group at their 11:30 finding joy in their children, Pauline Bublish Perpick, Class a.m. Mass Sept. 3, with a special grandchildren and even great of 1953, told organizers that the blessing. In his homily, Fr. David grandchildren. “ reunion “will always be a warm Tumback noted the kindness of the Organizers of the reunion have and special memory.” sisters, describing how he was the received many messages of thanks Terry Chrusch Miley, Class of recipient of many breakfasts at the from those in attendance. 1966, noted that the reunion Acadia Drive Convent as a “It brought us together as a brought together sisters, teachers seminarian. united sisterhood and not just the and students from all years, and Two well-loved teachers of the few ladies from our class year,” from across Canada and the United Academy, Sr. Kay McDonald, said Sharon Cooper Murza of the States. NDS, and Sr. Donna Purdy, NDS, Class of 1966. “Renewing old friendships joined the celebration on Sept. 3. “My sister has been ill for over and memories made for a truly Purdy offered a wish to all “for a 10 years, chiefly with memory spectacular weekend, one that full life,” and McDonald addressed issues,” said Elaine Leier Zakreski, will forever be remembered,” she Sr. Donna Purdy, NDS, greets Connie Kurtenbach Brassard at the reunion. the room for a few minutes as well. Class of 1960. “All weekend said.

Bishop Emeritus’ 80th birthday Fr. Kevin McGee (left) and Abbot Peter (right) watch as Bishop Gerald Wiesner, OMI, prepares to blow out the candles at his 80th birthday celebration held at Queen’s House in Saskatoon. Born June 25, 1937 and raised on a farm near Denzil, SK, Wiesner made his perpetual vows as a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate in 1959 Celebration for Fr. Ripplinger and was ordained Feb. 23, 1963. Over the years he has taught, preached, pastored and led in many capacities, Retired priest Fr. Steve Ripplinger (left) celebrated his 93 birthday in including as the bishop of the diocese of Prince George, BC, from 1993 until his retirement in 2013. He March with parishioners and pastor Fr. Madonna Godwin Aghedo, OP, at presently lives at Trinity Manor in Stonebridge, Saskatoon. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Holy Redeemer Parish in Elbow, SK. - Submitted photo 20 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Brother Benedict professes solemn vows as Benedictine monk BY FR. P AUL PAPROSKI , OSB Jesus Christ. I set before you today a way “Since Brother Benedict is a musician, I of life, which images that of the Lord think he wanted to provide a prelude to himself. To embrace it, you must leave all today’s celebration. And we had that else aside. Yet this very renunciation, prelude last night, orchestrated by God. which is evidence of dying to ourselves, at What a sound and light show we had,” the same time, proclaims the victory of Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB said, in his Christ’s cross.” address, July 11, during a celebration to Van Ginkel, 55, was born in Winnipeg mark the solemn vows of Brother Benedict and named Peter by his parents August and van Ginkel, OSB. A thunderstorm the Josephine Van Ginkel. He has one brother previous night lit up the sky and brought and three sisters. welcome rain after weeks of hot, dry In 1983, he began teaching piano lessons weather. after earning his Grade 10 in piano. In 1987, The day was also special for Fr. van Ginkel earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree Lawrence DeMong, OSB, who made his in English and Psychology at the University own solemn profession 60 years earlier: he of Manitoba. In 1993, he earned his renewed his profession of vows at the July Bachelor of Music in Music Education at the 11 celebration ( see article, below ). University of Saskatchewan. He received his “It struck me that when we look back in Associate of the Royal Conservatory of history, St. Benedict would have been Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB, congratulated Brother Benedict van Ginkel, OSB, ( left ), on his Toronto as a piano teacher. He taught about the same age as Brother Benedict is solemn vows, July 11 at St. Peter’s Abbey, and Fr. Lawrence DeMong, OSB, on his 60th year of English to junior and high school students in now when he wrote his Rule at Monte profession as a Benedictine monk of St. Peter’s Abbey, Muenster. - Photo by Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB Winnipeg for three years and classroom Cassino. We know from the document itself music for 19 years. In 2012, he received a that two major sources guided his Rule. where he wrote his famous Rule, a guide the deeper reality of each person. St. Paul diploma for teaching French immersion. He The first was the Bible, and the second was that changed the course of history in spoke of rejoicing in hope, being patient in taught French for eight years, while also his own experience of living as a hermit Europe. suffering, persevering in prayer and teaching music. and then living in community,” Novecosky St. Benedict overlooked many things extending hospitality to strangers. “Mom has always encouraged me to said at the celebration held at Sts. Peter and that happened around him. He lived among The central vow of St. Benedict is keep praying and search for peace in life. I Paul Church at St. Peter’s Abbey, Muenster. many personalities in his community and “conversion of life,” said Novecosky. have many role models, including saints, St. Benedict followed the same practise he adjusted for them, noted Novecosky. St. People may begin a vocation with a lot of who have inspired me in my teaching,” van as St. John XXIII did when he served as Benedict said the abbot should arrange enthusiasm and then find life tedious and Ginkel said. Among them are St. Benedict pope: “See everything, overlook a great everything to allow the strong to have boring. Conversion is difficult because it and St. Scholastica. In 2014, van Ginkel deal and correct a little.” something to yearn for, and the weak to be begins with a new vision and new was professed as a monk at St. Peter’s Pope Gregory the Great wrote that St. free from having to leave. possibilities. Abbey where he chose the name Benedict. Benedict saw much around him. He went to Commenting on the readings, “Brother Benedict, we ask you today to He serves as the abbey organist, Rome as a young man to study and became Novecosky said St. Paul illustrated the consider well the covenant you are about to accounts payable clerk in the business disgusted by the violence and immorality. wisdom of the Rule when he spoke of enter with the Lord. Angels are present here office and assistant in the library. He is St. Benedict sought refuge in a cave in letting love be genuine. Love, above all, taking note of it, and you will have to give presently studying to be a library Subiaco and then went to Monte Cassino overlooks what’s on the surface and sees an account of it at the coming of our Lord technician. What inspired DeMong to join religious life? And how did he persevere? BY PAUL PAPROSKI , OSB He continued: “I would have world was deepened when he University and continue in the confessed to the congregation Fr. Lawrence DeMong, OSB, to say that all people who have learned that a cousin, had died Master’s Program. what I was going through, the a Benedictine monk of St. Peter’s come to the abbey, even those from spinal meningitis. DeMong “I got on to the train to parish actually gave me a belt Abbey for 60 years, renewed his who left after a period of wrote on a slip of paper, ‘To God, City, a very unhappy and angry with that text reference printed vows July 11, at the same celebra- monasticism, have inspired me.” David and Lawrence’ and placed monk. All the while, I did have inside,” said DeMong. tion when Brother Benedict van Shortly after joining St. the paper in a pocket of his one tiny light of hope. I had “In effect, I fully expected to Ginkel, OSB, took his solemn Peter’s Abbey, DeMong was sent monastic habit. The prayer was remembered a sign on campus not make it home alive. And that vows to begin his first year as a to St. John’s Abbey, Minnesota to later sent to the bereaved parents, with an arrow and the word year did have some high drama, solemnly professed monk. enroll in the formation (novitiate) his Uncle Matt and Aunt Viola ‘catechèse’. So the first thing I did including the escape from a 2.5- “I would have to begin with program where he received DeMong. after arriving, with no student metre coconut branch falling my parents who worked hard to instruction in monastic life. He DeMong read his vows and residence reservation, was to exactly where I had been standing be faithful, and faith-filled,” was the only novice at St. Peter’s then acted on them in a dramatic register both with catechetics and a split second before.” DeMong DeMong commented when asked Abbey. He returned to the abbey way by lying on the sanctuary the two-year program in French.” feared for his safety after raising who inspired him to become a at Muenster to make his first vows floor. A black funeral pall was He studied both French and the ire of the landowners by Benedictine of St. Peter’s Abbey. on July 11, 1957. Three years draped over him and it was catechetics after being informed defending the “landless”. He “Pastors, too, like Fr. George later, he celebrated his final framed by six wooden by Fr. Vincent Morrison, college wrote up a “last will and Brodner, OSB, and Fr. Alphonse solemn vows on July 11, 1960. candlesticks. Candles glowed as principal, that catechetics would testament” in case he was killed. Ludwig, OSB, were models for The meaning of the cere- the Litany of the Saints was count for education class credits. Reflecting on the past 60 me.” mony’s prayers of dying to the prayed. “Amazingly, that year so years, DeMong said the use of the The vocation to monastic life changed my life and so trans- vernacular, rather than Latin, in was challenged during the formed my thinking that I had to the divine office (monastic turbulent years of the 1960s when admit that every subsequent year prayers) has been very positive for religious communities went began to be the best year of my monastic life. He was happy when through changes inspired by life,” admitted DeMong. “And all ‘lay brothers’ were permitted to Vatican II. Many religious left and because I reluctantly obeyed my pray divine office with the priests, some who exited St. Peter’s Abbey superiors and ended up allowing make solemn vows, and join the were DeMong’s close friends. someone else, like with poor St. monastic chapter (solemnly- The biggest challenges were Peter, to put a belt around me and professed monks) for decision- embracing issues that “went lead me where I would rather not making. against the grain,” he said. He have gone.” After Vatican II, the monks often faced disappointments, but In 1982, DeMong answered a learned about the ancient formula, he said that the frustrations taught call to help at the national office of ecclesia semper reformanda (the him more about obedience than religious education “in spite of all church must always be in a lectures, books or even the the negative feelings, and a process of reform and change) he witness of other monks. repeated dream of walking into the noted. The monk is on a path of In 1963, DeMong was mouth of a lion.” In 1998, he was conversatio morum (constant ordained to the priesthood. The asked to leave his role as pastor at conversion) as he learns following year, he attended Laval St. Augustine parish in Humboldt obedience and discipline. Ordination anniversaries marked University, Montreal, for a to replace Fr. Emile April in The words discipline and At the 2017 Chrism Mass banquet, Diocesan Administrator Fr. Kevin master’s degree in French, finish- União dos Palmares, Brazil, for a disciple are interlinked, he McGee (right) presented papal blessings to a number of priests ing his studies early. The next sabbatical year. remarked. A disciple is open to be celebrating significant anniversaries, including Fr. Joseph Jacek, OMI, stage of the program was teaching “Initially I accepted with no transformed into the image of (left) and Fr. Emile April (centre) , who in 2017 both celebrated the 50th French at St. Peter’s College. problem, but as it drew nearer I Jesus, as he lives for others. anniversary of ordination to the priesthood. Priests celebrating their 60th year of ordination this year included Fr. James Kendziorski and Fr. However, due to a miscommun- began feeling really negative and, “Monastic communities could George Gruber, OMI. Fr. André Poilièvre celebrated his 55th anniversary ication, someone else was assign- when the final week came, the really be attractive places if we all of ordination in June, as did Fr. Rudolph Novecosky, OSB, before his ed. Abbot Jerome Weber, OSB, gospel contained the precise lived these vows to the full,” he - Photo by Kiply Yaworski death from cancer on Oct. 9, 2017. told DeMong to return to Laval reading about St. Peter. Because I said. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 21 Fr. Lawrence DeMong initiates garden project for poor BY FR. P AUL PAPROSKI , OSB A special collection in the Roman Catholic Diocese Whenever Fr. Lawrence of Saskatoon on January 28, 2018 for “ The Needs DeMong, OSB, visits St. Peter’s Abbey during the summer months of the Canadian Church: Focus on the North ”, will include from his northern parishes, he raising funds to support ministry in the North, such as changes into work clothes and funding Fr. Lawrence DeMong’s ministry at two parishes disappears into his abbey garden, a in the Archdiocese of Keewatin Le-Pas, and other special project for the needy in northern Saskatchewan. ministry priorities of Archbishop Murray Chatlain. “I was acutely aware how Canada’s northerners have been “That success, along with for some help in weeding, but that paying outrageous prices for getting to know people in health fell through due to illness. The vegetables,” DeMong said. care at Southend who were able to garden looked as if it had become “So when I was appointed distribute this food to those who a failure and should be plowed pastor of Southend and La Ronge, truly needed it, encouraged me to under. especially since it was seeding continue the project in 2017,” said “Weeds that were belly-button time, I felt strongly that I should DeMong. “But getting to know high were soon, with our excellent add some garden at the abbey to Isabelle Doran, a First Nations growing conditions, up to my help support those I would be person and friend of St. Peter’s eyeballs,” DeMong said. He called on to nourish in more College, who was recognized by returned to the abbey in July and spiritual ways as well.” her Prince Albert community as a spent many hours reclaiming his Friend Jim Ternier provided leader in caring for people in need, vegetables. DeMong with advice and help in encouraged me to add “Sadly, we had to plow down a planting his first garden in 2016. Fr. Lawrence DeMong, OSB, an avid gardener, this summer raised considerably to the size of the good portion of the carrots. Our vegetables for the poor near his parishes in northern Saskatchewan. Ternier is a professional gardener - Photo by Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB project,” said DeMong. present garden is mainly carrots, and grows vegetables for the abbey The 2017 garden became beets, parsnips, broad beans and in exchange for using abbey land supports DeMong’s gardening The first garden plot at the abbey covered in weeds after squash. The garden measures 48 for his own garden. project, informing him that the was planted in 2016 with help commitments in the north feet by 234 feet. For a guy who Archbishop Murray Chatlain, federal government is promoting from Ternier and some prevented DeMong from returning turned 80 on August 29, I have of the diocese of Keewatin-Le Pas, gardening initiatives in the North. Benedictines. to the abbey. He had asked a friend rarely worked so hard.”

Lay men and women make commitment as Oblates of St. Peter’s Benedictine Abbey SUBMITTED BY ST. P ETER ’S demands it once did with many occasions. Even if they many not ABBEY , M UENSTER more members,” notes Paproski. be able to participate in gatherings The Oblates of St. Peter’s There are presently 75 at St. Peter’s Abbey, Oblates are Abbey are a blessing to the Benedictine Oblates attached to always welcome to become Benedictines, and their presence, St. Peter’s Abbey who live involved in monastic life, prayers and support have always primarily in Saskatchewan. The indirectly, through their apostolic been greatly appreciated, accord- remainder reside in communities witness at home and work. ing to Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB, across Canada. There is one The word Oblate comes from Oblate director. Oblate of St. Peter’s Abbey who the Latin offero (to offer). Oblates of Saint Benedict are lives in the United States. Families once offered their sons lay Christian men and women who Oblates are invited to meet and daughters to monasteries associate themselves with a three times a year at the abbey on and convents for religious Benedictine religious community Oblate Day, which is held on a education and vocational to strengthen their baptism and Saturday. training. These children were enrich their Christian way of life. The gatherings give the called Oblates. Adults eventually Oblates do not take vows or live in Oblates the opportunity to expressed the desire to live the Benedictine Oblate Annette Zawada of St. Gregor, SK, shows a bird feeder a monastery. They make promises celebrate Lauds (morning praise), spirituality of the Rule of St. she donated to the St. Peter’s Abbey court yard. A generous volunteer at to live the Rule of St. Benedict, Mass and Vespers (evening Benedict outside monasteries. the abbey, one of her projects is helping keep the court yard looking neat and trim. - Photo by Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB whi ch immerses them in the prayer) with the Benedictines and They, too, became Oblates as gospel. People of all Christian socialize with them at dinner. adults in their own homes and the Benedictine motto: Ut In becoming an Oblate, please backgrounds may become Oblates. Meetings are held in the afternoon, communities. Omnibus Glorificetur Deus - that contact Fr. Paul Paproski at St. New members are always wel- when everyone is invited to listen An Oblate may support a in all things may God be glorified Peter’s Abbey in Muenster at come. to one or two guest-speakers. The monastic community through (1 Peter 4:11). (306) 682-1777 or by e-mail to Paproski has been Oblate topics are always about an aspect public witness, prayer, volunteer For more information about [email protected] director since 2010. Many of the of the Rule of St. Benedict. work or financial contributions. Oblates have said that they are Newsletters are also regularly sent Oblates, like Benedictine pleased to know the monks are to the Oblates. monks, seek a balance of prayer praying for them, he reports. Some Oblates are invited to attend and work in their lives. Oblates enjoy visiting the abbey special liturgies at St. Peter’s They strive to live by the and helping with work, whether in Abbey on the feasts of St. Benedictine motto: Ora et Labora gardening, lawn or courtyard Benedict and other special – Prayer and Work. They follow maintenance. Others have volunteered with mailing out Oblate and abbey newsletters and looking after the Oblate library. The financial support of Oblates has been used to fund a handicap lift, new windows and a new heating system for the abbey. One Oblate donated haskap plants which are used to grow haskap that is made into jam. Diocesan Study Days Another used her expertise in Randal Rauser, a Baptist scholar from Edmonton, was the speaker at an monastic prayer and computers to annual Study Days session for leaders in the Roman Catholic Diocese of simplify the monastic prayer Saskatoon Oct. 11-12, 2017. Rauser explored “Five Great Pillars of ” which he said can open up a dialogue between Roman books. She assists the Oblate Catholics and Baptists, namely: the Trinity, sin, the Incarnation, director in managing the Oblate atonement, and the Resurrection. Rauser supports people asking files and records. difficult questions of their church and of their faith. “It is people who ask “All the volunteer work means Mount Carmel Pilgrimage hard questions who force us as Christians to expand our thinking and Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB, blesses the fields July 16 during the understanding of God,” he said. For the complete news article about so much to our community of 15, annual pilgrimage to the Mount Carmel Shrine. Rauser’s Study Days presentation see the news section of the diocesan which isn’t able to keep up to the - Photo by Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB website: www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news - Photo by Blake Sittler 22 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Building expansion opens at St. Thomas More College: STM president emphasizes need for Catholic higher education BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Stoicheff; and Peta Bonham- The mission of St. Thomas Smith, of Arts and Science More College (STM) will be at the U of S. enhanced and strengthened by a Lyndon Linklater pointed to recently-completed renovation the Treaty Plaque on display at the project on the north side of the grand opening as a sign of hope building, according to leaders and reconciliation. speaking at an official grand “The treaty we made was with opening Sept. 15 in Saskatoon. the newcomers and God our The $5-million renewal and creator,” Linklater said. “The expansion at the federated treaty we made was to share the Catholic college on the Univer- land and to live in peace and sity of Saskatchewan campus harmony with each other and includes major additions and work together to build a new renewal to STM’s research country.” library; increased energy effici- Speaking on behalf of the ency and sustainability; an provincial government, Doherty expansion of the popular Choices described how collaboration of cafeteria; installation of an the college with the university, elevator to ensure accessibility to donors, faculty members, students all levels of STM’s building, as and both the provincial and the well as new student-centred Speaking in a bright new student space, St. Thomas More College President Dr. Terry Downey stressed the federal levels of government space, including a bright and importance of the Catholic intellectual tradition. The Catholic college’s North Building Renewal Project was brought about the project. comfortable lounge and a student officially opened Sept. 15 on the University of Saskatchewan Campus in Saskatoon. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski “This is all for one purpose: to services hub. continue to strive to make post The ground breaking for the ourselves to the Catholic refugees have been turned away student Brent Kobes, a member of secondary education better for North Building Renewal Project intellectual tradition.” from wealthy borders and the STM student union. “It is students – not just those students was held in May 2016, with the That tradition, which brings wealthy shores, immigrants and keeping students at the centre of who are here today, but those who work completed as students faith and reason into rigorous those of certain faiths have been our college.” are here tomorrow,” he said. arrived this September. The new dialogue, is needed now more villainized as politicians trade on The addition enhances student Navdeep Bains, federal development is on the opposite than ever, Downey said. people’s fears, ignorance and access to the unique collections in minister of Innovation, Science side of the STM campus from the “We recall what is at the root prejudice. Our own society has STM’s library, while also and Economic Development also major building addition that was of any Catholic institution of by no means been immune,” he providing additional research and sent a message, read at the completed in 2013. higher learning: the belief that said. study space. The renovation has opening celebration. STM President Dr. Terry each one of us is created in the “There has never been a also improved energy efficiency Founded in 1936 by the Downey said the grand opening image and likeness of God – greater need for an informed and accessibility in the building, Basilians, STM offers some 230 offered a chance to both apprec- including those who think, look, citizenry.” speakers noted. arts and science credit courses in iate the past and recommit to the act, and believe differently than A free and vibrant society A 50-year-old air handling 14 areas of study. future. “My colleagues and I ourselves. As such, we recognize requires citizens who have been unit, cold winter drafts and lack of Approximately 4,500 U of S commit to uphold and enhance all that each person is characterized taught to wrestle with questions of an elevator to serve all floors, had students are enrolled in STM that has been entrusted to us by by an inherent dignity that justice, ethical behaviour and the previously posed mounting courses. our illustrious predecessors,” he deserves the utmost respect,” he obligations of citizens, Downey challenges for the college. During the grand opening, said. said, stressing the need for continued. “We knew that to increase our University President Peter “We do so at the outset by civilized discourse in creating a “The Catholic intellectual energy efficiency and solve Stoicheff and U of S Dean of Arts acknowledging that however healthy democracy. tradition, (under) which we environmental challenges we and Science Peta Bonham-Smith proud we are of this handsome “The grounds have shifted operate here, makes such needed to replace the aging air both expressed appreciation for new facility, what really matters is under the feet of those who live conversations possible, thereby handling unit and construct a new the presence of STM on campus. what happens in these buildings, in western society. Rights have enabling our graduates to be in- north entrance foyer,” said Derrin Stoicheff pointed to STM’s day in and day out. We mark this been endangered, great nations formed and courageous partici- Raffey, CFO and Director of leadership in reconciliation with historic occasion by recommitting have turned inward, starving pants in the increasingly complex Administration, in a media release Indigenous peoples, in the policy deliberations that an about the project. humanities and social sciences, uncertain world and a vigorous “Building an elevator to serve and in environmental sustaina- democracy demand.” all floors of the college and bility – all part of the university’s This process of learning and provide access for all persons, has mission and vision. vigorous debate will be enhanced also been a long-time goal.” “I am glad we have such a by the improved facilities, several Recognized as a Canada 150 strong relationship, such a strong other speakers also noted. “This is initiative, the North Building partnership,” said Stoicheff. another example of how STM Renewal Project grand opening “It is wonderful to have a truly is offering more,” said included messages of congrat- federated Catholic college on this Ashley Smith, chair of the ulations and support from special campus. It is a sign of the college’s board of governors. guests Lyndon Linklater of the diversity of this campus to have “The design of the student Office of the Treaty Com- such a strong, such a vocal space reflects the college’s missioner; Kevin Doherty, prov- college, that is immersed in a very commitment to students and the incial minister of advanced articulate way in the social justice community,” added fourth-year education; U of S President Peter issues of the day.”

Academic Mass at STM Fr. Ron Griffin, CSB, and Fr. Mark Blom, OMI, (l-r) presided at the Academic Mass at St. Thomas More College Sept. 24, continuing a long- standing tradition of celebrating Michaelmas near the Sept. 29 Feast of St. Michael the Archangel to mark the beginning of the academic year. In Theology on Tap his homily, Fr. Ron Griffin, CSB, referenced Pope Francis’ 2014 call to Dr. Chris Hrynkow ( centre ) was the guest speaker at the first Theology on Tap of the season Oct. 4 at Louis’ pub educators: “The mission of [educators] is to develop a sense of truth, of on the U of S campus, speaking on “The Season of Creation: Christians Cooperating to Care for Our Common what is good and beautiful.... together, these elements enable us to Home.” Theology on Tap is an outreach event for young adults over 19, offered as a collaborative effort by St. grow and help us to love life.... True education enables us to love life and Thomas More College Campus Ministry and the Youth Ministry offices of the Roman Catholic Diocese of opens us to the fullness of life.” - Photo by Jacquie Berg Saskatoon and the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon. - Photo submitted Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 23 Catholic school boards launch campaign to cover costs of court appeal BY DERRICK KUNZ , GSCS appeals process is still needed. Boyko noted that, as Saskatchewan’s students along their faith journey, and help Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools “We feel strongly that education largest Catholic School division, Greater them realize their inherent dignity as (GSCS) has joined the other seven Catholic funding should stay where it belongs, in our Saskatoon Catholic Schools’ “share” of the children of God and know the hope to school divisions in the province seeking classrooms, but at the same time, we need provincial initiative would be about which he calls them,” said Boyko. support to cover the legal costs to appeal to pursue an appeal of the court decision to $140,000 (or roughly $7 per student). Donations can be made through Greater the Theodore court-case ruling. ensure Catholic education is an option for “Our role as Catholic educators goes so Saskatoon Catholic Schools Foundation. The controversial April 2017 court all parents who want it,” said SCSBA far beyond helping parents and guardians Donations can also be dropped off at your decision ruled that only Catholic students President Vicky Bonnell in a news release. equip their children as leaders of tomorrow. local Catholic school or to donate online, attending Catholic schools can be funded, “So, we are reaching out to our supporters We have the responsibility to walk with visit https://foundation.gscs.ca and stated a Catholic baptismal certificate for their help.” would be necessary for students to attend Under the theme “Schools You Can Catholic schools throughout the province. Believe In,” the fundraising campaign, with This very narrow and restrictive definition a goal of $300,000, will provide what is does not reflect the inclusive and needed to appeal the decision up to the ecumenical nature of Catholic education Supreme Court of Canada should that and faith, nor does it consider the diversity become necessary. All Catholic school of the family in modern society. divisions in Saskatchewan are participating The ruling has been appealed by both and are looking to parents and guardians, the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards families, parishioners, provincial Catholic Association (SCSBA) and the Government organizations, clergy and friends of of Saskatchewan. Catholic education for donations. On Nov. 8, the provincial government Diane Boyko, GSCS board of education introduced legislation invoking the chair said, “We have much to gain through A ribbon was cut Oct. 19 to officially open St. Nicholas Catholic School in the Evergreen neighbourhood of Saskatoon – the last of 18 new schools officially opened this year in notwithstanding clause of the Charter of a successful appeal. Your support will help Saskatchewan as part of a provincial joint-use schools project. Six of those 18 new schools Rights and Freedoms to give a temporary, ensure Catholic education is available to all are in the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools division. - Photos by Derrick Kunz five-year reprieve from the ruling. who choose it, no matter the reason, for However, a permanent reversal through the future generations.” GSCS community celebrates

oBY pDEReRICnK KiUnNZ ,g GS CoS f six nScheoolw in Sstoncebrhidgeo neoighlbos urhood, Students and staff in Saskatoon’s St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic School in the Evergreen community joined the Hampton Village neighbourhood, and provincial Education Minister, Greater St. Thérèse of Lisieux Catholic School in Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS) the Rosewood neighbourhood. leaders, and Cathedral of the Holy Family “We’re proud that the people of parish representatives to officially open Saskatoon, and all of Saskatchewan, want St. Nicholas Catholic School. Catholic education for their children,” It was the 18th and final school to said Diane Boyko, chair of the GSCS officially open as part of a provincial school board. “We’re humbled that joint-use schools project. Six of those 18 parents entrust us with the task of new schools are in the GSCS division. educating their children and building The other five new GSCS schools are faithful disciples of Christ.” Holy Trinity Catholic School in Warman, Since 2007, the government of Students from Holy Cross and St. Joseph high schools in Saskatoon built altars and crosses École Holy Mary Catholic School in Saskatchewan has committed about $1.5 for the sacred spaces in six new Catholic schools, - Submitted photo Martensville, and three other Saskatoon billion toward 67 major school capital schools: St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic projects and numerous smaller projects. Students build altars for new schools BY DERRICK KUNZ , GSCS up with creative solutions to problems as Students at two local Catholic high they arose,” added Blais, estimating that schools have helped build a legacy of faith each student put in some 45 hours of work. for six new elementary schools in the Phil Rapin at St. Joseph led creation of the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools crucifixes. (GSCS) division. “This is about more than saving some New Saskatchewan schools built under money, or teachers and students helping a P3 model (public-private-partnership) out. This is about building a legacy that Ribbon cutting for Holy Trinity Catholic School and Traditions Elementary School was held Sept. 18 in Warman, SK, with representatives of both Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools come well equipped, but some things are everyone can be proud of for many years to and the Prairie Spirit School Division and of the provincial government on hand to help not included – such as the items that help come,” Gauthier said. students and staff cut the ribbon. Holy Trinity is Warman’s first Catholic school. make schools distinctively Catholic, including crucifixes and altars for sacred spaces in which school celebrations, Holy Cross founding class holds 50th anniversary reunion liturgies and Masses are held. BY DELORES MCLEAN Kent Gauthier, principal of the new St. Students and teachers who attended Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School in Holy Cross Catholic High School during Saskatoon’s Stonebridge neighbourhood its inaugural years of 1963-1967 gathered was tasked with outfitting the new sacred for a 50th anniversary reunion Sept 22-24 spaces for four new Catholic schools in the in Saskatoon. Events include a social, tour city of Saskatoon, as well as one in of the school, banquet, Mass, and a ride on Warman and one in Martensville. the Prairie Lily riverboat. He brought the request to Laurie The reunion of the school’s founding Karwacki, chair of the Greater Saskatoon class provided an opportunity to share Catholic Schools Foundation, the memories, rekindle friendships and charitable arm of the GSCS system that reconnect with other alumni and with funds items outside the mandate of the teachers. Ministry of Education. “She suggested that Those in attendance also remembered high schools might be able to help fill some classmates who have died, including of our needs,” Gauthier said. Kathy Brauner-Bain, Eileen Rush, Henry “Through donations, we are able to Leier, Rod Donlevy, and Gary Ulrich. provide materials and experiences for Members of the Holy Cross Catholic High School founding class (1963-1967) gathered recently The school’s first principals – Most for a 50th anniversary reunion; ( back, l-r: ) Pat Mulligan Korpan, Johnny Horsley, Marilyn students and staff to practice their faith in Rev. James Mahoney and Lorne Ehman – Hunter Whitehead, Terry Greenaway Preston, Mary Molloy, Bob McEwen, Ron Klein, Bob Foret, our schools,” said Karwacki, describing the as well as all other deceased teachers were Allen Schaan, Scott Gordon; ( middle, l-r ): Val Kostyna Davis, Diane Lucyshyn, Judy Creswell role of the GSCS Foundation. “We are very also remembered. Pasitney, Betty Lou Keenan McDonald, Sally Sader Ciepliski, Elsie Betz Merz, Cheryl Lefebvre excited to be part of this project.” During the reunion, members of the Stewart; (front, l-r ): Jackie Flitchel Fernet, Frances Rush Murphy, Sharon Schneider Hill, Lorraine Plischke Belak, Joanne Horsley Pinder, Marilyne Bandet Yager. - Submitted photo At Holy Cross, practical and applied class of 1967 revisited the halls of Holy arts (formerly known as industrial arts) Cross High School, which has undergone teachers Ron Blais and King Kwan led an amazing transformation since the first features that did not exist 50 years ago, Holy Cross alumni from other years teams of Grade 11 students to design and three classrooms were borrowed from St. such as computers and a website. whose photos were also added to the build wooden altars. “I asked my 15 Charles Elementary School in 1963. The Fellow 1963-67 classmates Robert school’s Wall of Honour in September students if they could use their God-given school is now a significant complex that Enright and Jerry McHale were also 2017 included: Dr. Tom Hack (1976-80), talents for a better cause,” Blais, said. includes a new gymnasium, an industrial among those inducted into the Holy Cross Trevor Herriot (1972-76), and Keith “Many skills were learned and we came arts centre, and chapel, as well as other Wall of Honour on the same weekend. Martell (1976-80). 24 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Couples renew marriage vows at St. Ann’s Home By ST. A NN ’S SENIOR CITIZEN ’S VILLAGE The buzz of excitement was felt by all who walked through the doors of St. Ann’s Nursing Home in Saskatoon on Sept. 30, as 14 couples gathered in the chapel for a wedding vow renewal and blessing ceremony, attended by family, friends, St. Ann’s residents and staff. Iva and Jack Beck (married 54 years) were among 14 couples Each of these couples – with at least one or both being participating in the celebration at St. Ann’s Home Sept. 30. residents of St. Ann’s Nursing Home – had their turn in the spotlight. Altogether, the group of 14 married couples could boast that in total, they had been together for 848 years. The longest married of the group, Clifford and Myrtle Swenson, celebrated their 74th anniversary only a few days before. A bulletin board in the dining room showed each couple on their wedding day, looking young and in love. Marie and Bud (Preston) Kobussen pose for a photograph by The team at St. Ann’s worked to ensure that the the wedding cake at the St. Ann’s Home celebration for 14 residents were looking their best and the home was ready couples participating in a wedding vow renewal and blessing ceremony. Marie and Bud were married at St. Mary’s Church for the 70 expected guests. The beautiful ceremony in Saskatoon 69 years ago. included tears and laughter, kisses and hugs, and memories aplenty. Couples, staff and residents were dancing at the reception After the ceremony, a reception was held in the dining which followed a wedding vow renewal and blessing room and lounge, with old musical favourites and a little ceremony Sept. 30 at St. Ann’s Home. - Submitted photos rock and roll provided for dancing. Couples were photographed by a wedding cake, which mothers. Staff got on the dance floor with other residents, guests and residents later enjoyed with coffee and punch. bringing out smiles that couldn’t be matched. Families gathered around tables and celebrated their Comments included: “That was exceptional!” “Such an loved ones, just as they would have on a wedding day. amazing day!” and “I haven’t seen Mom and Dad this Daughters danced with fathers and sons danced with happy in years!”

Rebuilding Catholic Culture Fr. Geoffrey Young (left) was guest speaker at a Rebuilding Catholic Culture event emceed by Celine Sidloski (right) at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Aug. 17, 2017 in Saskatoon. In his address, Young said liturgy offers answers to the relativism, skepticism, and cynicism that plagues society Papal Blessing for St. Therese Institute today. A priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Therese staff stand with Archbishop Luigi Bonazzi, Apostolic Nuncio to Canada, as he presented St. Therese Institute of Saskatoon, Young is studying in Rome at the Pontifical Faith and Mission in Bruno, SK with an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis, in recognition and celebration of the 10th Institute for Liturgy at Sant-Anselmo. See the diocesan anniversary of the centre of Catholic formation. In part, the blessing reads: “The Holy Father prays that in imitation of their news page at www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news heavenly patron (St. Thérèse of Lisieux), they may joyfully and humbly follow in her ‘little way’ along the path that leads to for an article about Young’s presentation. The Rebuilding Christ.” The Nuncio also brought gifts from Pope Francis for the 36 students at St. Therese, and presided at the May 20 Catholic Culture group also hosted a conference on commissioning Mass for the class of 2017. For more information about the nine-month formation program offered at St. Catholic history and apologetics Nov. 24-25, featuring Therese, as well as programs and conferences that are open to the public, see: www.sttherese.ca - Photo by Naomi Jalbert author and teacher Anne Carroll. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Recently-ordained member of Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter celebrates with local Latin Mass community BY JULIE ABERNETHY masses. One of the seminarians, helped by Sacred Heart of Jesus Latin Mass servers from the Latin Mass Community, Community in Saskatoon and Fr. Andrew assisted at the Mass while three other Wychucki welcomed Fr. Adrian Debow seminarians sang the ancient liturgy in and five seminarians from the Priestly Gregorian chant. Fraternity of Saint Peter (FSSP) for an “One finds it difficult to describe in evening Mass June 6, 2017 followed by a words the beauty conveyed to all the senses short talk and communal gathering. as I was carried along by the humble and Debow, originally from Calgary, is a venerable actions of Fr. Debow, newly ordained priest of the Fraternity, an accompanied by the solemn Gregorian - Submitted photo order dedicated to saying the traditional chant of the seminarians,” said parishioner Visitors from the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter were in Saskatoon this June. Latin Mass. After his ordination in May Troy Shantz. The feeling was echoed by 2017, he made his way across Canada, many of the 140 people in attendance, some serving Christ and his Church,” said Asia, Africa and North America, including saying Mass in various parishes as he went. of whom had never been to a Latin Mass Shantz. seven parishes in Canada. He had previously visited Saskatoon as before. “It was important for them to see that Debow, one of the 23 Canadian priests, a seminarian and decided to pay the After Mass, the community gathered in Christ calls people from various is now stationed in Seattle, . community a visit, this time as a priest. the hall and each seminarian gave a short backgrounds to serve him, and that it is The Latin Mass is celebrated every The evening began with a talk for the youth account of how he had decided to join the important not only to say ‘yes’ to him, but Sunday at 9 a.m. at Our Lady of at the parish, focusing on the meaning of priesthood. Some had been faithful also to remain faithful to that ‘yes’.” Czestochowa church in Saskatoon, and at the priesthood, followed by special Catholics all their lives, while others had The Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter is various times throughout the week. blessings given by the priest in his first year grown up with no faith at all. an order of priests dedicated to saying the For more information about the Latin of priesthood. “It was a great opportunity for our traditional Latin Mass throughout the Mass in Saskatoon, as well as for a weekly The highlight was the High Mass that children to see the joy and youth of these world. Founded in Switzerland in 1988, the list of Mass times, see the website at Debow celebrated as one of his first men who have dedicated their lives to Fraternity now has apostolates in Europe, www.saskatoonlatinmass.com Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 25 FacetoFace Ministries: encountering Christ and deepening faith BY DARLENE POLACHIC FacetoFace also runs a bus trip Jon Courchene and the FacetoFace pilgrimage to the United States each year. Ministries team encountered some 27,000 Students go to Steubenville, Ohio, to a Catholic youth last year. Courchene is weekend conference run by the Franciscan executive director of FacetoFace, a University of Steubenville. Some 2,000 ministry that reaches out to Catholic youth Catholic youth gather from near and far to across Western Canada. hear top speakers and great bands. They The ministry had its beginnings in 1999 also do mission work in soup kitchens or when a parish youth minister, Ken elsewhere to serve people in need. Yasinski, organized a weekend retreat at St. The biggest event of the year for Walburg, SK. The retreat went well and FacetoFace is the United Conference which Yasinski was asked to lead similar retreats is held in Saskatoon in November. This is a in other locations. By 2003, he was doing it youth conference with an adult track. It full-time as FacetoFace Ministries. draws about 350-400 people. Courchene first heard about the “The conference is youth-focused, but organization when his parents urged him to Jonathan Courchene Jonathan Courchene welcomed Bishop Mark Hagemoen to we had so many parents saying, ‘My kid’s attend a FacetoFace retreat. “I brushed FacetoFace Executive Director the FacetoFace United Conference Nov. 19 in Saskatoon. been transformed. How can I get that, too?’ them off,” he says. “But in 2005 I became a - Photo by D. Polachic - Photo by K. Yaworski that we’ve opened it to adults,” Courchene parish minister and learned that a says. The Nov. 18-19 United Conference at FacetoFace retreat was booked for my area. summer in Bruno at St. Therese Institute of plenty of time for fellowship. “We want Holy Family Cathedral in Saskatoon I saw immediately it was a legitimate Faith and Mission. About 100 youth come youth to connect and grow and see that featured keynote speaker Ken Yasinski, ministry the Lord was using. I was very together for the camp that includes three there’s a bigger church out there than their founder of FacetoFace, and participation impressed with the team that led it, and the teaching sessions a day, along with large local community. Often the highlight of the from Bishop Mark Hagemoen – just days retreat which really kick-started our youth group games and prayer. weekend is Eucharistic Adoration which before his installation as the eighth bishop group.” “Ignite is a chance for youth to grow in involves sitting in silence with the Lord.” of Saskatoon. When Courchene returned to Saskatoon their faith,” Courchene says. “Everything FacetoFace still holds weekend youth Besides four full-time staff, FacetoFace in 2007, he began volunteering with we do goes back to our vision: that all retreats, but one of the biggest aspects of typically employs two summer students to FacetoFace while attending the University people would encounter Christ and embrace the ministry, and the one that keeps staff help facilitate the summer program. “Plus, of Saskatchewan. He became the executive the call to be saints. Our mission is to live busiest, is school retreats. The team does we have a whole bunch of amazing director in the fall of 2012. and proclaim the fullness of the Catholic 80-plus school retreats across Western volunteers,” adds Courchene. “An Ignite The ministry has always been based out faith. How do we facilitate this? God is Canada each year for elementary, junior Camp, for instance, will involve as many as of Saskatoon. In 2006, it received registered always reaching out to us, and we have the high and high school students. 35 young adults volunteering their time to charity status, and the following year began opportunity to respond. We try to ‘prime the Often, Courchene says, these are repeat make a difference in someone else’s life. branching out with more programs. pump,’ so to speak, by getting youth ready visits. In elementary schools, retreats start Most are former campers who want to give One popular program is Ignite Summer for the encounter, then staying out of the with a large group assembly at the back.” Camp which is held for a week each way and letting God do the work.” beginning of the day, then break into Funding for FacetoFace comes from The three daily sessions involve praise different age-grouped activities, followed individuals and a monthly donor base and worship, hearing a testimony from a by an assembly at the end of the day. which supplements what isn’t raised volunteer team member and teaching from Each year, the ministry chooses a through event registration. Courchene says a guest speaker, plus involvement in small different theme “to get the message across” donor giving makes the program affordable groups to discuss and unpack it all. and gears the talks, games and music to the for all parishes and schools. Courchene says the week also provides theme. For more info see: www.f2f.ca

Challenge group for girls Challenge is a Catholic youth ministry program for girls in Grades 2 and up, held weekly at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Saskatoon, pictured here with pastor Fr. Phong Pham. Challenge offers young women an opportunity to grow in knowledge of their Catholic faith and in friendship with Christ, while empowering them to make a difference and have a positive impact on their families and friends, and in the world around Praise and worship was part of a FacetoFace them. Challenge and the Conquest youth ministry group for boys are part of the Regnum Christi movement, sharing the spirituality of the United Conference Nov. 18-19 in Saskatoon. Legionaries of Christ. For more information about the Challenge group in the diocese of Saskatoon, contact Corinne Kirkpatrick at - Photo by K. Yaworski [email protected] or (306) 229-1062. - Submitted photo

Cana Continues: a family retreat camp Prayers at the lakeside are part of the annual Ukrainian Catholic camp retreat for families, which focuses on “families evangelizing families” in the context of beautiful Eastern-rite spirituality. Cana Continues! will be held again from Monday to Saturday, Aug. 13-18, 2018 at St. Michael’s Conquest group for boys Ukrainian Catholic Camp at Madge Lake, in Duck Mountain Provincial Conquest is a Catholic youth ministry program for boys in Grades 3 and up, which meets weekly at Georges Park. This is a unique getaway for parents and their children – a chance Vanier Catholic School in Saskatoon. Conquest offers young men an opportunity to grow in knowledge of their for families to come and play, pray, and find adventure in God’s great Catholic faith and in friendship with Christ, while empowering them to make a difference and to have a positive outdoors, letting go of distractions. Registration opens in January. Find impact on their families and friends and in the world around them. Conquest and the Challenge program for details at www.skeparchy.org/flo/ministries/our-cana-camp or e- girls are part of the Regnum Christi movement, sharing the spirituality of the Legionaries of Christ. For more mail: [email protected] or phone the Family Life information about the Conquest boys’ group in Saskatoon, contact Gerald Lashyn at [email protected] or Office at (306) 653-0138. - Photo by Teresa Bodnar-Hiebert (306) 222-1106. - Submitted photo 26 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Help provide nutrition and hope by supporting Friendship Inn When counting blessings, many of us Help address this ongoing need by are thankful for full bellies and the warmth becoming monthly donors. This option is of family and friends. convenient and has an ongoing impact, Some of our neighbours depend on the assisting the Friendship Inn to serve up to Saskatoon Friendship Inn for that same 1,000 meals a day throughout the year. nourishment, comfort and acceptance, 365 To learn more visit the website at: days a year. www.friendshipinn.ca or call (306)- Many of us respond with donations to 242-5122. the Friendship Inn during the Christmas As you prepare to enjoy your own giving season. However, children, youth, Christmas dinner, please remember those adults, seniors and families experience who go without healthy food now and hunger year-round. throughout the year. Pure Witness Ministries The Pure Witness Ministries missionary team is made up of young Christian men and women who have dedicated time in their lives to share the love of Christ with others. In this year’s Revive Retreat, the Pure Witness missionaries take students in schools and parishes through a journey of understanding what it means to allow Jesus to revive their lives. For more information about Pure Witness retreats, please contact James Marcoux at [email protected] or (639) 998-1145. Upcoming events include YEP for youth in Grades 8 and up, 10 a.m. to 7p.m. Jan. 13 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Saskatoon, followed by a Reconnect family dance for all ages at 7 p.m. More information can be found at www.purewitness.com - Submitted by Laura Rice Mission in Kenya continues to grow BY MICHELLE PETERS garden, and started to raise cattle, goats, The Kenya Orphanage Mission: Jesus and chickens to help sustain the school. Leads Us continues to grow. Ancilla Boarding School and Day Fr. Modestus Ngwu, OP, a missionary Academy is quickly becoming congested priest who served recently in the diocese of with some 350 boarders now attending. Saskatoon, visited Kenya over Christmas The sisters are now eager to expand the last year to witness the mission’s growth. dormitory. The boarding school has completed a Thank you to all who pray and support Diocesan CWL Convention dining hall and kitchen with funds raised the mission financially. For more The annual diocesan convention of the Catholic Women’s League was held May 1 at the Watrous Civic Centre and at St. Ann’s Parish in Watrous, focused on the 2017 CWL theme: this past year. It was a much-needed information, contact Michelle Peters at “Inspired by the Spirit, women respond to God’s call.” Speakers included national CWL renovation from the previous tin shack. (306) 682-0775 or to donate, visit the President Margaret Ann Jacobs, Chris O’Hara of St. Therese Institute in Bruno, Lay The sisters have grown an orchard, website: www.jesusleadsus.com Formation grad Connie McGrath and Lay Formation coordinator Mona Goodman. Find more - Photo by Kiply Yaworski coverage of the convention at: www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news Saskatoon Diocesan Catholic Women's League presents Inspired by the Spirit, Women Respond to God’s Call Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018 Hosted by St. Augustine CWL, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 13 at St. Augustine Parish, 809-10th Street, Humboldt, SK Morning Workshop — presented by Diocesan CWL officers Afternoon Celebration of CWL – presented by Honorary and Life members Please pre-register by calling Bev (306) 682-5906 or Karen (306) 682-3598 Registration deadline: Jan. 8, 2018. (Free will offering for lunch.)

The Saskatoon Diocesan CWL Council is also planning to offer this workshop in other locations in the upcoming months, hosted by local CWL Councils: At one recent meeting, Holy Family CWL members reflected on history of Indigenous peoples through the blanket exercise. - Submitted photo Sacred Heart, Davidson, SK. - Feb. 1, 2018 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Little Flower, Leader, SK. - Feb. 24, 2018 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CWL council at Holy Family Holy Family Cathedral, Saskatoon, SK. - March 10, 2018 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. undertakes variety of activities BY DORIS SMITH , C OMMUNICATIONS Indigenous People. It was a powerful and HOLY FAMILY CATHEDRAL CWL emotional experience. The Cathedral of the Holy Family CWL Holy Family CWL council hosted the council has been involved in a variety of Fall Gathering of the Diocesan CWL Queen’s House is a home of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) Mission and Ministry that serves our diocese, our wide and vibrant faith community locally, across the Prairies and activities during the past year, thanks to its Council Sept. 18 at the cathedral. It was increasingly the North. All are welcome to this shared holy ground where diverse enthusiastic membership. well attended. The council’s annual bake conversations and spiritual reflection can be held in a place of warm and sincere Oblate Adele House was the recipient of the sale and raffle was held Dec. 3. Prizes are hospitality. Many expressions of faith and community continue to find a home at Queen’s council’s “Purse Project” last Christmas. donated, and the money raised was donated House, where people can share, strengthen and celebrate their work in the world. CWL members collected gently used purses to the cathedral and to a local charity. Please consider Queen’s House as a place to meet, plan, retreat, dialogue and learn. filled with personal items that are always in The parish CWL council continues to Visit the website at www.queenshouse.org and like us on FaceBook great need at Interval House for women and support many functions that occur at the to review programs, event opportunities and offerings. children fleeing abusive relationships. Cathedral of the Holy Family, such as the Please also consider engaging in Queen’s House ministry in a practical way by supporting Holy Family CWL council also supports FacetoFace United Conference, the parish fund raising initiatives. Queen’s House relies extensively on the support of patrons the Pregnancy Option Centre by holding a Vacation Bible Camp, the 100th and donors to sustain its work, and recent economic challenges have made “Baby Shower” every June to collect much- Anniversary of Fatima, the diocesan Rite of this challenge even more acute. Fundraising events include an annual needed baby articles. Election, priestly , and the recent Gala Dinner (held Nov. 21 this year), a Spring Fling Raffle each May, the Oblate At a recent meeting, CWL members installation of our new bishop. Scramble Golf Tournament in June and an Annual Bike-A-Thon in September. participated in the Blanket Exercise, which On Saturday, March 10, 2018, the In addition, the continuing capital campaign Kaleidoscope 2 remains active offers insights into history from the Cathedral of the Holy Family CWL Council even as we prepare for our new campaign in 2018 following our work with our Oblate Leadership Team regarding the future look of retreat ministry at Queen’s House. perspective of Indigenous Peoples. will hold a workshop on the theme Members stood on blankets which “Inspired by the Spirit, Women Respond to To our many patrons and visitors: a humble thank you, and to those who represented the land and walked through God’s Call.” The morning workshop will be have been away for a while – or who have never had the opportunity to drop in – we look forward to seeing you. On behalf of our beloved Oblates, our pre-contact, treaty making, colonization and led by diocesan CWL officers followed in Oblate Associates and Board, our community of support and our staff: God bless us all! resistance, removing blankets (land) as the afternoon by a “Celebration of the more contact was made, therefore CWL”, presented by honorary and life Queen’s House is located at 601 Taylor St. W., Saskatoon. Register at (306) 242-1916 or decreasing the lands belonging to the members. All are welcome to attend. E-mail: [email protected] For more info see: www.queenshouse.org Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • 27

Vacation Bible Camp participants at the Cathedral of the Holy Family explored faith, the sacraments and the Word of God during a week of fun this summer. - Photo by Patsy Pohler Summer program offers faith and fun at Holy Family Cathedral BY PATSY POHLER , C AMP DIRECTOR (https://catchat.ca ), a Catholic music and resource production company based in Vacation Bible Camp was held July 10-14, 2017 at the Holy Family Cathedral Parish Saskatchewan, 28 junior volunteers and 22 senior youth volunteers assisted 10 adult in Saskatoon, with 88 young campers in attendance for an action-packed week of faith, station leaders. food and fun. The theme of the camp was “A Wilderness Adventure through the Parish staff and the wider community assisted with many details and logistics that go Sacraments – Jesus in My Heart.” with presenting the camp, which concluded with a hot dog lunch provided by the Catholic Using Vacation Bible School (VBS) materials produced by Cat.Chat Women’s League.

BSY AeNNErTTeE BnENTLaER Run for the Family The Serena Run for the Family was held Sept. 9 this year, one week earlier than usual, starting at 10 a.m. rather than 8:30 a.m. These two changes made for a pleasant running temperature. Families came out for exercise, fun, food, and above all, connecting with other families. Memorable moments included watching two families cheer on a grandmother as she burst to the finish line, the joy as two young runners discovered they were wearing matching outfits and almost the same number, and Fr. Michael Yaremko’s attendance at the run, including giving the runners a blessing. Prizes were presented to Jerome Montpetit (gold, 18:55), Fr. Michael Yaremko (silver, 20:34), and Stacey Corrigan (bronze, 23:17) for the five- kilometre race. Prizes also went to Luc Montpetit (gold, 13:59), Nicholas Levesque (silver, 16:27) and Patrick Levesque (bronze, 16:52) for the three-kilometre race. And finally, prizes were given to Two young participants in the Serena Run for Vanessa Montpetit (gold, 4:46), William the Family Sept. 9 were delighted to discover Corrigan (silver, 5:40), and James Redl they were “twins,” wearing matching outfits, Fr. Ralph Kleiter of Ministry to Tourism (right) recently met Fr. Mirak Misura (who at one time (bronze, 5:41) for the one-kilometre race. and with almost the same number. served in the Saskatoon diocese) during a visit to London, UK. - Submitted photo The gold prize for most pledges went to - Photo by Annette Bentler Paul and Rachelle Bentler, who raised For more information about the family $1400.25. Prizes were also given to those run or about Serena and natural family Unique pilgrim journeys feature who registered first, and there were also a planning, e-mail: [email protected] or number of prize draws. visit “Serena Saskatchewan” on Facebook. cultural enrichment for the soul BY FR. R ALPH KLEITER with two more major destinations in Iberia Upcoming Events Ministry to Tourism recently offered a and Greece in 2018. pilgrim journey to Eastern Europe, Upcoming offerings include “ Greece Serena Saskatchewan presents a Medieval Getting married in the near future? characterized by a palette of cultural and its Islands and St. Paul’s Sights ” Feast from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Feb. 10, 2018 at Our Catholic Engaged Encounter weekends are Lady of Lourdes Parish in Saskatoon. Tickets held at St. Peter's Abbey in Muenster, SK, with enrichment. from May 31 to June 14, 2018; are free, thanks to charitable donors – this is a two options offered in 2018: April 6-8, 2018 or The pilgrim journey Aug. 28 to Sept. “Reflections in Portugal” from Oct 31 to fundraiser so please be generous. The evening Oct. 19-21 . An Engaged Encounter Weekend 23 began in Prague and then proceeded Nov 5, 2018 (Lisbon, Portuguese Riviera includes a catered feast, a wine toss and gives couples planning marriage the opportunity wassail, silent auction, 50-50 draw, and around Poland for ten days, concluding in & Fatima); “A Spanish Pathway to to dialogue honestly and intensively about their Vienna and a classic Danube ten-day Sunshine” from Nov 5 to Nov. 13, 2018 entertainment. Dress code is “Medieval” with future lives together. The weekend is designed awards for best dressed. For tickets, contact to deepen and enrich relationships with one cruise aboard the Crystal Mozart . It was a (Barcelona, Montserrat & Balearic Islands [email protected] or call (306) 934-8223. another, God, the Church and the World. journey that engaged a traveler’s body, of Mallorca & Ibiza); and “Autumn Couples are given opportunities to learn more Are you hurting because of an abortion? mind and spirit, Passage” from Nov. 13 to Nov. 27, 2018 about one another as they engage in deep and Rachel's Vineyard is a safe place to renew, One participant commented that: “this aboard Oceania’s newest ship, Riviera rebuild and redeem hearts broken by abortion. meaningful discussions dealing with all aspects time was a cultural pilgrimage holistically (sailing from Barcelona to Miami via of married life. Cost per couple is $480 and this Weekend retreats offer a supportive, confidential featuring such things as history, music, Costa del Sol, Canary Islands with special and non-judgmental environment where women includes all meals and accommodations. All and men can express, release and reconcile registrations are done online by visiting art, architecture, cuisine, witness of saints re-positioning fares). painful post-abortive emotions to begin the www.ceewest.com For more information and the beauty of the places visited which For details contact Fr. Ralph Kleiter of process of restoration, renewal and healing. The contact Heather and Craig Stomp at (306) 682- were all fully curated.” Ministry to Tourism at [email protected] next Rachel’s Vineyard retreat will be held April 3326. Other marriage preparation opportunities Ministry to Tourism will continue or call (306) 244-3747. Visit the website 6-8, 2018. Contact Elaine at (306) 480-8911 or in the Diocese of Saskatoon are listed online at: [email protected] www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/marriage-and-family-life offering such unique travel experiences at: www.pilgrimjourneys.ca 28 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • December 2017 • Saskatoon Christians mark Reformation 500 together in prayer BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Ecumenism Christians in Saskatoon gathered is supported by the together Oct. 29, 2017 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation with an ecumenical worship service, repenting for the division and violence of the past, and pledging to move forward together as followers of Jesus Christ. Five hundred years ago, on Oct. 31, The Saskatoon worship service also 1517, Martin Luther sent his Ninety-Five included reflections on healing, Theses calling for reform of church reconciliation, dialogue, and unity, which practices to the Archbishop of Mainz – an were read by representatives of different action immortalized in the image of the Christian communities, including Rev. reformer posting his statement on the Carmen Kampan, executive director for church doors. The date is considered to be advancement at Horizon College and a the start of the Reformation, with the candidate for ordination in the Pentecostal movement spreading across Europe Assemblies of Canada (PAOC); Dr. Del throughout the 16th century. Haug, MD; Rev. Lindsay Mohn, of Christians across the world have been Vanscoy-Delisle United Church; Deacon marking the 500th anniversary together – Marie-Louise Ternier, preparing for her not as a celebration of division, but as a Worship leaders included (l-r) Shirley Karstad representing inter-church families, Anglican Nov. 30, 2017 ordination as a priest in the Deacon Marie-Louise Ternier; Dr. Del Haug, MD; Carmen Kampman of the Pentecostal moment of healing focused on Jesus Christ. Assemblies of Canada; Rev. Lindsay Mohn of Vanscoy-Delisle United Church; Bishop Sidney Anglican communion; and Shirley Diocesan Administrator Fr. Kevin Haugen of the Saskatchewan Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada; Karstad, a representative of interchurch McGee of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Archbishop Donald Bolen of the Catholic Archdiocese of Regina; and Diocesan Administrator families. - Photo by Kiply Yaworski Saskatoon welcomed hundreds to the Fr. Kevin McGee of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. During the celebration, the assembly Sunday afternoon worship at the Catholic together recited the Apostle’s Creed, Cathedral of the Holy Family, noting how, “The message is really the service we discovered that Martin Luther, in his prayed the Lord’s Prayer – each in his or for the past 50 years, Christians have been itself,” said Haugen. “That we are here: that own life, heard the call of the gospel and her own language – and exchanged a sign on a journey “from conflict to commun- we are here to give thanks for the gifts of the that it transformed him.” of peace. Intercessory prayers and hymns ion,” recognizing that what unites Reformation, but also to repent for the ways After the past 50 years of patient were also part of the service, with music Christians is far greater than what divides. that we have sinned against each other.” dialogue, Christians are praying together, provided by a combined choir and a brass “We come with different thoughts and Haugen recalled two words from a serving and witnessing together, Bolen said. quartet. feelings of thanksgiving and lament, joy single verse in the Bible, John 11:37, when, He pointed to the Joint Declaration on the Five representatives of Christian and repentance, joy in the Gospel and upon learning that his friend Lazarus had Doctrine of Justification by Lutherans and communities each read a commitment for sorrow for division,” McGee said. “We died, “Jesus wept.” It was a text that came Catholics in 1999 as an important fruit of deepening unity, taken from dialogue gather to commemorate in remembrance, in to Haugen when he taught the history of dialogue. documents, before lighting a candle from thanksgiving and confession, and in Christianity. “I didn’t want to tell those The Catholic archbishop quoted the the paschal candle. common witness and commitment.” stories of what we did to each other for document, which in Article 15 summarizes: Those lighting candles were Gerri The Reformation 500 event involved centuries,” Haugen said. “We have been the “Together we confess: by grace alone, in Madill, chair of the Prairie Centre for participation by representatives of a number cause, I think, of Jesus weeping for his faith in Christ’s saving work and not Ecumenism; Rev. Harley Johnson, Pastor of Christian denominations, with a joint children.” because of any merit on our part, we are of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church; Rev. sermon given by Bishop Sid Haugen of the The possibility of “re-reading the accepted by God and receive the Holy Sandra Beardsall of St. Andrew’s College; Saskatchewan Synod of the Evangelical Reformation” emerges after years of Spirit, who renews our hearts while Rev. Munye Mtata, a Lutheran pastor from Lutheran Church in Canada and Archbishop dialogue among Christians, said Bolen, equipping and calling us to good works.” Zimbabwe; and Celeste Woloschuk, who Donald Bolen of Regina, Metropolitan of reflecting on Martin Luther’s desire to The 1999 declaration came about, not was serving as coordinator for ecumenical the Assembly of Catholic Bishops in initiate a discussion about things in the through compromise, but through “deep and interfaith relations for the Roman Saskatchewan. Church that needed to change. “Above all listening,” Bolen said. Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Evangelical-Roman Catholic Commission for Common Witness launched BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI The relationship between Evangelical and Roman Catholic Christians has entered a new phase in Saskatoon. After more than five years, a local Evangelical-Catholic dialogue group has concluded its work, and a new Saskatoon Evangelical-Roman Catholic Commission for Common Witness has been established. The new commission was launched May 16 at a joint worship service of celebration and commissioning held at the Cathedral of the Fr. Bernard de Margerie and Pastor Brendon Holy Family in Saskatoon. Gibson (l-r) offered prayers. Pastor Jakob Palm, Chair of the Saskatoon Evangelical Ministers’ for Christian reconciliation and unity, and to Members of a new Saskatoon Evangelical-Roman Catholic Commission for Common Witness were Fellowship (SEMF), and Diocesan forming Christian disciples committed to commissioned May 16 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon. - Photos by Tim Yaworski Administrator Fr. Kevin McGee of the working together in common witness and Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon service,” said dialogue co-chair Nicholas colleagues to pray and to collaborate with. before Fr. Bernard de Margerie and Pastor opened the evening of prayer and witness, Jesson, outgoing Ecumenical Officer for the Scripture from Ephesians 4: 1-16 was Brendon Gibson offered prayers of blessing which included a blessing of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. proclaimed by Leanne Bellamy, followed and commissioning for members of the Evangelical and Catholic members who During the joint worship service, by a reflection from guest speaker Dr. David newly-formed commission. have so far been named to the new Evangelical-Catholic dialogue members Guretzki of Briercrest College in Caronport, Commission members are: Dr. Jeromey commission. David Smith of Holy Spirit parish and SK, who has served on the national Martini, president of Horizon College and Since December 2011, the local Pastor Bob Parker of the Church of Christ Evangelical-Catholic dialogue. Seminary; Dr. Johann Malan and Mientjie Evangelical-Catholic dialogue has met spoke about the impact of the dialogue on “We all have a role to play in the body of Malan of Emmanuel Baptist Church; Pastor together to build friendships, to share faith, their lives, and the friendships that Christ – everyone in the body of Christ has Larry Thomas, Courts of Praise Foursquare and to actively dialogue, exploring what the developed in the process. a place – there is beauty in the diversity of Gospel Church and member of SEMF; two traditions hold in common and where “ I came to a deeper realization that the Christ’s body,” said Guretzki, stressing that Cathy LaFleche of Holy Family parish, differences continue to divide, described gifts that we have – the gifts of God’s Christian unity is not something in our executive director of Saskatoon Pregnancy dialogue co-chair and SEMF member children – are different… but they are very power to achieve, but is the work of God. Options Centre; Daniel Pettipas, Coordin- Pastor Harry Strauss of Forest Grove complementary, and we do have an “My prayer is that we will repent of any ator of Evangelization and Adult Faith Community Church. obligation to share our respective gifts hubris to think that we are the ones who Formation at St. Anne parish; Myron Rogal, Over the years, the Evangelical-Catholic among the traditions,” said Smith. accomplish unity, and... that we would Coordinator of Justice and Peace for the dialogue has held joint worship services, Phil and Mary Wrubleski of the make every effort to keep our eyes fixed Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon; developed a joint statement entitled “Called diocesan Marriage Task Force also shared upon the Lord Jesus Christ, the author and David Smith, a member of the original to Common Witness,” and hosted public their experience working as part of the the perfector of all of our work,” he said. Evangelical-Catholic dialogue group from events. ecumenical Saskatoon Marriage Network, The joint worship service continued Holy Spirit parish; and Nathan Yaworski, a The new commission “is to give describing how they discovered a new with prayers, hymns, and the exchange of a member of Holy Spirit parish and a member particular attention to prayer and education group of Evangelical Christian friends and sign of peace among those assembled, of the diocesan Ecumenical Commission.