Northern Catholic DIOCESE OF P R I N C E News

VOLUME XXV, NO.2 GEORGE SPRING 2016

Beyond the “globalization of indifference” By: Eva Gillis We listened to various PRINCE GEORGE - For spokespeople of different six weeks approximately faiths share what they two dozen people of faced in accepting refu- varying faiths atten- gees into and ded the video series looked at the challenges, “Welcome the Stranger” attitudes and concerns produced by Villagers surrounding welcoming Media Productions, an refugees. independent Canadian We learned that we INSIDE THIS television and inter- should not only be com- ISSUE: net production company passionate, but more based in Toronto. importantly, we need to Year for 2 & 3 The Domano Renewal be responsible and to A cheque representing donations from those gathered was presented by Ann Consecrated Center sponsored this have integrity in who we Walsh to Sergio Petrucci, a representative life program which was led are being with the influx of the Refugee Sponsorship Committee. by Sr. Irene Baker, CSJ. of refugees. PHOTO BY: Fran Ross Eucharistic 5 It was definitely timely The videos elicited Congress as Canada is in the midst vigorous conversations by individuals representing the four of welcoming 25,000 laden with thought- Catholic parishes in Prince George. Family life in 6 & 7 Syrian refugees. provoking questions. St. Michael’s and Grace Anglican The most recent What do these immi- Churches in Prince George and St. 10 & 11 Pastoral Letter on wel- grants and refugees feel Andrew's Catholic Church in Fraser World Meeting coming refugees from leaving their country, of Families Lake soon added their support along the Canadian Conference their homes, their loved with the community of Fraser Lake. Schools 12 & 13 of Catholic Bishops’ ones and all their posses- This group has already sponsored a Episcopal Commission sions behind? refugee family from Iraq: a mother, WYD 19 for Justice and Peace How do they manage father and child who arrived in provided pertinent as they face a totally new Canada on June 23, 2015. information. way of life where they While the family is becoming more In it we heard the have to start from independent, the Refugee Committee direction of Pope Francis scratch, learn a new is still responsible for them until June who urges us “to language, a new culture, 2016. It continues to support them fi- all reach beyond the find jobs, make friends nancially as well as helping them to ‘globalization of indiffer- and try to fit in? adapt to Canadian life on a day-to- ence’ to listen to the cries Participants were in- day basis. and to hear the silent suf- vited to donate and over Currently the committee is raising fering of our brothers and the six weeks $500 was money and collecting furniture for sisters”. raised in support of the next family which they plan to During the six weeks refugees. The funds were sponsor in the next month or so. we heard stories of how given to the Refugee To make a donation or to learn faith and activism helped Sponsorship Committee more about supporting refugees, shape Canada’s newcom- based out of Immaculate contact Sergio at 250-964-2995, er history as a history of Conception Parish. Fran at 250-613-1440 or Joe at immigrants and refugees. The committee was 250-563-0159. formed in October 2014 P A G E 2

Mercy guides fidelity in consecrated life Northern Catholic News On February 2, 2016, the Feast of the works of mercy that met the needs of their Published by the Presentation of the Lord, the Diocese times. Diocese of Prince marked the end of the Year for Consecrated Saint Benedict and Saints Teresa of George Life with a celebration at Sacred Heart Avila and John of the Cross instructed

Cathedral. people in the most important truth: how to 6500 Southridge Ave The following is from the homily given live a relationship with God in prayer. The Prince George, BC by Bishop on this occasion. Benedictines and Carmelites continue that V2N 5P9 Today’s Feast of the Presentation of the spiritual work of mercy.

Lord marks the end of the Year for Conse- Today the Redemptoristines describe Phone: 250-964-4424 crated Life, but it falls in another extraordi- their life of prayer as “our apostolic work Fax: 250-964-2101 nary time, the Jubilee of Mercy. If we think on behalf of the Church and the world.”

Email: about the work of the founders of your The active communities of Dominican [email protected] communities, the connection women had their origins in Editor: between these special years the monastic life of prayer Mary-Anne Lewis becomes beautifully obvious. lived by the nuns of the Holy Jamin Pope Francis’ letter for Cross monastery in Layout: the jubilee speaks about the Regensburg. Martha Primus traditional corporal and spir- Those who are alive in prayer itual works of mercy. They recognize the needs around are intimately connected to them and contemplative consecrated life, because communities like the every inspiration given Carmelites and Dominicans through the ages to begin soon expanded their new works in the Church, apostolate into the world. every charism that renews Dominic established his her mission, is a concrete community to preach and expression of one or more of instruct the ignorant. Now the the works of mercy. Adrian Dominicans teach and The Northern Catholic If the measure of our serve the poor in a variety of News is issued four likeness to Christ is ways. The Carmelite fathers times a year. conformity to his example, and brothers work in schools Editions are available then the compass that guides every con- and in the parish apostolate. secrated person to fidelity in the apostolate online at In the turmoil that followed the is mercy. This blessed time, the jubilee revolution in France, new forms of the www.pgdiocese.bc.ca. year, is a gift to remind you of the truth at consecrated life emerged to address the If you would like to the heart of your vocation and help you live needs of those times. Venerable Marie receive a copy by it more completely. Madeleine and her sisters, who became email, please contact In the course of many centuries, men and known as Faithful Companions of Jesus, women who desired to imitate Christ have looked after poor children and workers and Martha Primus at found in the works of mercy the inspiration instructed them in the faith. [email protected]. and plan for their lives. They saw Jesus, as St. Madelaine Sophie Barat and her the letter to the Hebrews describes him: “… companions in the Society of the Sacred a merciful and faithful high priest in the Heart gave a classical education to girls that service of God” and they patterned their included religious instruction and skills lives on His example. training. And some of them – your founders – Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger founded were used by God to initiate new the School Sisters of Notre Dame to bring expressions of Christian life and service the education to the poor. with communities dedicated to particular Mother St. John re-established the Sisters of St. Joseph in France after the

NORTHERN CATHOLIC NE WS VOLUME XXV, NO.2 P A G E 3

revolution; they were soon in the companions in France formed the United States and came to Canada Oblates of Mary Immaculate to in 1851. The communities in evangelize and catechize the world Toronto and Peterborough had of their day. their beginnings soon after, to care The founders of these expres- for orphans and the sick and to sions of consecrated life were from teach. different times and places with In our own diocese, the Domano very different needs, but it was Sisters of the Immaculate always the same grace of mercy at Conception were established for work in them. Catholic education and care of the The Gospel tells us poor. about Simeon and Anna’s In India, Brother Paulus Moritz experience. Like them, your established the Franciscan Missionary founders were led by the Spirit, Brothers to bring development to the who revealed the Lord to them as a poor through village schools. light for the nations. In Italy, St. Vincent Pallotti The consecrated life reflects his worked to help lay men and light and now we pray that the women recognize their personal consecrated men and women of the call to live the message of Christ, Church may grow in faithfulness to their Benedictine Father Basil Burns and in his words “to revive faith and founders’ charisms and reveal the Oblate Father Charles Donovan in the rekindle charity.” mercy of God. entrance procession at the And two hundred years ago this celebration marking the end of the Year for Consecrated Life. year, St. Eugene de Mazenod and his

CELEBRATING GOD’S MERCY

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P A G E 4

Elijah and Mary inspire Carmelites

By: Rev. Ron Sequeira, OCD She was with him as he died and As we attempt to follow there she became the mother of all Christ more closely, we believers. At the beginning of the Carmelites find inspiration in the Acts of the Apostles we find Mary Old Testament prophet, Elijah and in the upper room praying with in the Blessed Virgin Mary. the other disciples waiting for the Elijah’s memory was kept outpouring of the Holy Spirit. alive especially on Mount Carmel For Carmelites, Mary is a constant where he challenged the people to presence in our lives, guiding us stop hobbling first on one foot and and protecting us as we seek to then on the other but to choose the follow Christ. God of Israel, Yahweh or Baal. The brown scapular has for According to Scripture, many centuries summed up the Father Ron Sequeira, OCD, celebrates the Eucharist at Elijah’s sacrifice was consumed Carmelite relationship with Our St. Peter’s Parish in Mackenzie on Christmas Eve. by fire from heaven which Lady. Wearing the scapular is a proved to the people that sign of consecration to Mary, the Yahweh was the true God. The first group of Carmelites took Mother of God, and is a symbol of the Elijah made himself available for her as their patroness, promising her person putting on the virtues of Mary God’s work and was sent into various their faithful service and expecting her and protected by her. situations to proclaim God’s word. protection and favor. They were proud to Mary symbolizes for the Carmelite During a long journey through the desert bear the title of Brothers of the Blessed everything we hope for: to enter into an he began to despair. He sat down under a Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel and intimate relationship with Christ, being bush and wished he were dead. defended this title with vigor when their totally open to God’s will and having our But God would not allow him to die right to it was challenged. lives transformed by the Word of God. and prodded him to continue his journey Mary consented to God’s will when Carmelites have always thought of to Mount Horeb. When he arrived, God she was asked to be the mother of the Mary as the Patroness of the Order, its became present to Elijah. God came not Saviour. She pondered the events of her Mother and Splendor. We seek to live in with the usual signs of fire, earthquake life and was able to see in them the hand spiritual intimacy with her so that we can and mighty wind but in the sound of a of God at work. Mary did not become learn how to live as God’s children. gentle breeze. proud about her unique vocation but Elijah and Mary play an important Elijah was sent back to his people to instead praised God who looked on her part in the life and spirituality of the carry out God’s will. lowliness and did great things in her. Order which sees itself as belonging to From Elijah, Carmelites learn to She was with Jesus at the beginning Mary and looks to Elijah as our spiritual listen for the voice of God in the of his public ministry when, at the father. unexpected and in silence. We seek to marriage feast at Cana, she made known allow the Word of God to shape our to him the simple need, “They have no minds and our hearts so that the way we wine”. live and the things we do may be prophetic and therefore faithful to the memory of our father Elijah. The first hermits on Mount Carmel built a church in the midst of their cells. This was the centre of their lives where they converged each day to celebrate Mass together. They named this little church in honor of Our Lady.

NORTHERN CATHOLIC NE WS VOLUME XXV, NO.2 P A G E 5

Eucharist leads to mission “Adoration alone may make us good tenderness, forgiveness and mercy to devotees,” he said, “but being a every man, woman and child.” devotee is one of the easiest things. It Pope Francis continued: “As you now is good. Christ is calling us to be disciples, to carry his cross; the Mass prepare to go forth at the end of this of the devotee ends in an hour. But Eucharistic Congress, there are two the Mass of the disciple is unending.” gestures of Jesus at the Last Supper “The Eucharist of the devotee is which I would ask you to reflect on. confined to the clean, decorated “Both have to do with the missionary altars of the church. The Eucharist of dimension of the Eucharist. They are the disciple continues with the streets as the altar.” table fellowship and the washing of feet. By: Rev. Rectorino Tolentino, Jr. During his talk, Bishop Robert “At each Eucharist, the table of the CEBU CITY - Canada was among 73 Barron, Auxiliary Bishop of the Lord, we should be inspired to follow countries participating in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles pointed out Jesus’ example by reaching out to others International Eucharistic Congress (IEC the right attitude towards the Eucharist: in a spirit of respect and openness in 2016), held in Cebu City, Philippines, January 24-31. order to share with them the gift we Representing the Diocese of ourselves have received. Prince George at the event were “The other image which the Lord Rev. Rectorino Tolentino, Jr., offers us at the Last Supper is the Vicar General, Terry Bopp from washing of feet. The Eucharist is a St. Mary’s Parish in Prince George, Anita Pastoral from school of humble service. It teaches Sacred Heart Cathedral and Tyler us readiness to be there for others. Andres from the Church of the “This too is at the heart of Resurrection in Fort St. John. missionary discipleship.” Being part of the IEC 2016 is a One consistent truth that great experience of the universal Church gathered together. The reverberated throughout IEC 2016: presence of everyone at the Everyone who believes in and Congress made it more obvious that we “We should stretch out our hands as celebrates the Eucharist should give flesh are the Body of Christ, constantly though we are starving,” he said. to it. Every Eucharistic celebration, nourished through his life giving Word “We have to remember what it is like adoration and reception should find a and the celebration of the Holy to starve for the Bread of Life.” He real connection with our daily lives and Eucharist. continued by sharing three important The Eucharistic Congress is an points: Eucharist as Meal, Eucharist as vice versa. international gathering of people to Real Presence and Eucharist as Sacrifice. promote an awareness of the central In the video message of Pope Francis place of the Eucharist in the life and at the conclusion of the Congress, the mission of the Catholic Church. Holy Father noted that the theme, “Christ The Roman Ritual De Sacra Communione et de Cultu Mysterii in You, Our Hope of Glory”, is very Eucharistici extra Missam defines the timely. Congress as “a pause for commitment “It reminds us,” he said, “that the and prayer to which a particular Church risen Jesus is always alive and present in invites the universal Church.” his Church, above all in the Eucharist, During this time “the celebration of the sacrament of his Body and Blood. the Eucharist becomes the center and vortex of all forms of piety, of Christ’s presence among us is not only a The Dogmatic Constitution on the theological and pastoral reflections, of consolation, but also a promise and a Church teaches that the Eucharist is “the social commitment.” summons. source and summit of the whole In his homily at the opening Mass, “It is a promise that everlasting joy Christian life.” It may be worth asking Charles Maung Cardinal Bo, papal legate and peace will one day be ours in the and Archbishop of Yangon, Myanmar, ourselves this question: What has been spoke of the purpose of the Eucharist: fullness of God’s Kingdom. But it is also the fruit of our Eucharistic celebration, “From Eucharistic celebration to a summons to go forth, as missionaries, adoration and reception? Eucharistic commitment: mission”. to bring the message of the Father’s P A G E 6

Discerning a call to life in the Arctic By: Therese Steiner continued to pray about TSIIGEHTCHIC - As I sit and reflect on the last few years in our what it was specifically family’s life, I glance out the window to the beauty of the Arctic that God was calling winter and the smoke curling from the woodstoves here in our family to do. Tsiigehtchic, Northwest Territories. The process of This year my husband Ray and I and our five children moved discerning, not just here from Fraser Lake to be missionaries in the north. It was a long deciding, proved to be journey. a bit complicated for a family. It was both a Countless things occur during our lives to propel us along our blessing and a chal- journey closer to God. The most profound time for us was five lenge. We learned it years ago when our eight-year-old son, Luke, died unexpectedly. It was important to be was a time of great sorrow, but also a time of enlightenment, of together in prayer. Al- Ray and daughter Mae seeing life differently. so, beyond what God Steiner get firewood for the We saw God as we never had before. The brevity of life and the was saying to us as a mission in the back focus on our eternal lives became so evident. couple, we needed God’s country near Tsiigehtchic. It also opened our eyes to other possibilities. Before Luke’s guidance for us as a death we tried to make good choices and to be a good family with family, considering each child’s unique needs, concerns and gifts. God as an important part of our lives. And life was very good. It was a time of trusting in God and his plan for our lives, with- But then we felt our eyes and hearts opened to see a depth and out having to have all the answers. width to life that we had not recognized before. And so our focus The support of friends helped us to persevere with enthusiasm. It in life started to adjust. took much patience and listening for God’s direction. At times, In 2013 we met Most Rev. , then Bishop of White- horse, at the Rose Prince Pilgrimage. He was quick to point out our God-given gifts and the need for missionaries in northern Canada. He encouraged us to discern a call in the missions. Acutely aware of the pain and brokenness linked to dysfunction- al relationships in so many communities, Bishop Gary was inspired to invite fami- lies to come The Steiner family children with local elder and bear wit- in the mission house at the Holy Name of ness to their Mary parish in Tsiigehtchic, NWT. Daniel (4 Christian family mo.), Kathleen (11), Matthias (14), Mae (7) life. He created and Theresa Rose (3). the Holy Fami- ly Apostolate (HFA) to help families dis- cern God’s call. As a child of two former Frontier Apos- tles, I could relate to this notion. Ray was not so sure how this fit with his gifts. Ray is a builder by trade and during the next year we helped out on various building projects in the Yukon. We also got to know some of the people involved in the HFA and some of the missionaries in the Whitehorse Diocese. This time in the Yukon helped us to see how blessed we were at home and it gave us the opportunity to spend time with inspiration- al missionaries who were working for the Church in the Yukon. Their great faith, humility, tireless service and the sense of peace in their presence showed us beautiful examples of living a simple life focused on God. We treasured this time helping out on these projects. Ray was right in his element swinging a hammer, but like St. Francis, we wondered if this was what God meant by “build my Church”. We (Continued on page 7) VOLUME XXV, NO.2 P A G E 7

Arctic call continued

God revealed himself in unbelievable ways which brought a renewed clarity and confidence in God’s love and peace. One of the biggest challenges was to not close our hearts to God’s call because of fear. Our need to protect and provide for our children was paramount, so most of our concerns centered on the lives of our children. Another challenge was to not be disheartened by times of negativity. We needed to wait on the Lord and not be guided by fear, trusting that God would continue to take care of everything. We came to peace, accepting God’s call to be a missionary family wherever we were asked to go. We thought we would be in the Whitehorse Diocese, but instead were asked to work with Bishop Mark Hagemoen in the Diocese of MacKenzie-Fort Smith in the Northwest Territories. Bishop Mark told us about Tsiigehtchic, a village north of the Arctic Circle and historically a Catholic community. A priest vis- The Steiner family on Church Hill, Tsiigehtchic, its once a month but there has been no live-in Church presence NT, overlooking the MacKenzie River. there for many years. We travelled north to meet the people of Tsiigehtchic in July 2015. After returning home for the birth of our baby, we returned Through the grace of God, we are here and we do not need to be in October and committed to stay for a year. afraid. All our fears that threatened to keep us away have not In Tsiigehtchic we try to live our lives as a Christian family, come to pass. witnessing our love and service. We thank God for bringing us here to the beauty of this Arctic We visit the elders, welcome the young, spend time with the land, for kind people who welcomed us into their community and lonely, support those in hard times, bring Communion to shut-ins, opened their lives to us, for the blessings our family experiences prepare people for the sacraments, repair the church buildings, in this special time in our lives. ensure the church is warm and welcoming and help with the pas- Scripture says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is toral leadership wherever there is a need. made perfect in weakness”. We don’t really know why God We begin each day in prayer and stay open to what the day brought us here. We just do our little part and leave the rest up to brings and how the Spirit moves us in the lives of those around us. God.

Attention: Former Frontier Apostles

The Frontier Apostolate was established in the Diocese of Prince George in 1956 by Bishop John Fergus O’Grady, OMI. A group of former Frontier Apostolate volunteers are planning a reunion to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the founding of the program. Some early planning details for the August 2016 reunion are: DATE: August 19-21, 2016 LOCATION: Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Prince George EVENTS: Friday Evening—Welcome Gathering Saturday Afternoon & Evening—Mass, Dinner & Entertainment: International Night. Sunday —Closing Mass Limited accommodation is available at the Domano Renewal Centre CONTACT PERSONS: Terry Murphy - Sacred Heart Parish, Prince George Mary Jane Wirges - Las Vegas, USA To receive more details as they arise in the new year, please send your email address to [email protected]. P A G E 8

Grateful for years of service By: Lorraine Lawrence PRINCE GEORGE - Members of the Prince George Pro Life Society are grateful for the faithful and conscientious service given by Laura Fowlie during her 14 years as President of the Society. Her tenure ended at the February Annual General Meeting when Tony Donovan was elected as President. In her final speech to the Society, Laura spoke about a number of initiatives during the past year. These include:

 40 Days for Life held during Lent 2015  Educational display at the Diocese’s Social Justice/Life Issues Summit  Replacement of a previously vandalized billboard with a new one portraying a mother admiring her newborn baby along with the statement: “You’ll Never Regret Loving This Much.” It was vandalized just two months later.  Two witnessing events on 15th Avenue: “Stand Up for Life” and “Life Chain”, Laura Fowlie stepped down after reminders to pray to end abortion and for all those hurt by it  Family information booth at the BCNE (Exhibition) included medical fetal models, 14 years as President of the free educational handouts. Public response, expressed by people of all ages, was Prince George ProLife Society. positive. PHOTO BY: Lorraine Lawrence.  Event featuring Dr. Charles Lugosi, a renowned lawyer and bioethicist. He provided insights regarding legalities and protection of unborn human life as a civil rights issue.  10,000 Flags Display in October, each flag representing 10 babies aborted for a total of 100,000 each year in Canada  Invitation from the Evangelical Free Church to set up an information table during their Social Justice Conference. Pastor Jim Witteveen from the Canadian Reformed Church spoke eloquently on our duty to protect life.  Vigil for All Nascent Human Life: remembering the loss of babies to miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion and loss soon after birth  Joining a Canadian national pro-life website (in process) lifecollective.io, (select “Prince George Pro Life Society”)  Quarterly newsletter available to members  Assisted suicide postcards sent to previous federal government showing concern that the legalization of assisted suicide would open the doors to a “slippery slope,” when more palliative care ought to be the option  Financial assistance for two students to train at the Canadian Centre for Bioethical Reform in Edmonton. Laura concluded her speech by thanking all those who, in so many ways, gave support to the Pro-Life Society especially throughout this past year.

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A beautiful tradition continues By: Bev Bagnall young adults, PRINCE GEORGE - There are unsung our parish heroes who walk among us. community, These are the silver haired ones who our school quietly go about living their lives, community— offering prayers for their families, all coming community and for the world. together to honor our These are the ones who dispense elders. wisdom and memories from a life time of lived experience (never unasked!). Teamwork makes it These are the ones who remember the happen. days of simplicity, who know what it is to make things from ingenuity and A date is set Happy cooks provide a luncheon for seniors at Immaculate resourcefulness rather than from and a team Conception Parish hall in December: from left, Ann Daigle, instructions on Google. meets to make Terri Lloyd, Linda McEachen, Catherine Mills, Claudette Burri, the soup in the Sandi McEachen and Joanne Wilczek These are the ones who see that plants church hall need watering, gardens need weeding, kitchen. Only PHOTO BY: Ralph Lloyd something needs fixing, tickets need the finest and the joy of creating something selling, help is needed to make soup and garden ingredients are used. sandwiches for St. beautiful is shared. At the end of the Vinny’s; they quietly event these lovely attend to the tasks. centerpieces are given On December 6, 2015 to anyone who wishes these generous people to take them. were honored at The parish community Immaculate Conception is brought on board Parish. with announcements The tradition goes back and bulletin notices. 25 years and evolved Always very from a Christmas tea to a generous, there are luncheon. It includes more than enough many generations— donations of children, teens, young adults, not so There is comradery, laughter, chopping sandwiches and goodies. and taste testing as smells fill Nothing goes to waste; leftovers are Immaculate Conception Parish Youth Group the school and parish. If you offered to our guests to take home and responded generously when asked to serve at ask nicely, you may even get a the rest (including leftover soup) is the seniors’ luncheon. Roman Resendes sets bowl or maybe some coffee and donated to the St. Vincent de Paul Drop out bowls of homemade soup for two of the 70 zucchini cake. In Centre. seniors who attended. Immaculate Conception School In response to Pope Francis’ PHOTO BY: Ralph Lloyd. choir is invited to sing. exhortation to “open the church doors”, people are encouraged to invite shut-ins It is a joy to see the smiling and those who are lonely to the young faces and hear their beautiful voices singing carols. luncheon. Parents and grandparents of This year we hosted 70 seniors. It is choir members are also invited indeed a beautiful tradition where all of to join in the festivities. us benefit. We are grateful to our seniors who have shown, through their Servers are needed. The youth group leader is contacted and example, the joy of giving. volunteers are solicited; it’s In the words of Sir Isaac Newton, great to have teenagers and “We are able to see further (and give young adults involved. more) because we stand on the We must have centerpieces. A shoulders of giants”. group of crafty women meet and, again, fellowship, laughter P A G E 10

Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive

Family challenged to families and faith communities, but to self-giving love all of humanity which is part of a By: Ronald & Maricar Paracuelles bigger family under God’s FORT ST. JOHN – The World parenthood. Meeting of Families took place in Made in God’s image and likeness, Philadelphia on September 22-27, God did not and does not turn away 2015. We were among the thousands from our misery. The highly-spirited of people who traveled from all over Cardinal continued, “Christ entered the world to participate in this into our wounds by being wounded wonderful event. himself and transformed our wounds Marilyn met us at the Greyhound into a triumph of love and healing”. Terminal in Philadelphia and after Maricar & Ronald Paracuelles are pictured in Cardinal Turkson, President of the some quick introductions we drove Philadelphia during the World Meeting of Pontifical Council for Justice and Families. for about 45 minutes to her home Peace, noted that the wounds of sin where her husband, Andy, was are not limited to humanity. In his talk waiting. We were humbled by the on Environmental Stewardship he referenced to the papal encyclical, Laudato Si accommodation and deeply moved by noting that our bigger home, the environment, also suffers and needs healing. their willingness to host us for free for the “God overcomes evil with good!” asserted the Prefect of the Congregation for entire weeklong event. Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments, His Eminence Robert This was the “imago Dei” as eloquently Cardinal Sarah. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, healing came even to a shared by Most Reverend Robert Barron, wounded enemy. Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of But for healing to be completed, the wounded had to be brought home where Los Angeles. His touching words invited there is loving presence, care and attention. This is the home that cradles the us to rediscover the true face of God, the family, “the well-spring of faith, hope and love”. face of love, mercy and compassion and, This remarkable event, no matter how clear the message was delivered, beginning with the family, “the domestic remains fruitless until my family takes up the challenge, especially on the church”, become bearers of this face to vocation of self-giving love to every person and responsible stewardship of my the world. environment. Although they are not Catholic, through In short, Cardinal O’Mally is asking that we, with the guidance of the Holy their hospitality this young Christian Spirt, become another Andy and Marilyn in our own humble home. couple, Andy and Marilyn, live this mission. We came to realize that paradise is not lost forever, after all. It is however the darkness of our sin that we fail to recognize Eden in our midst. The Archbishop of Manila, His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, pas- sionately pointed out that everyone, including himself, is wounded. Sadly, the more we sin, the deeper the wound and therefore the pain inflicted, not only to ourselves, not only to our

NORTHERN CATHOLIC VOLUME XXV, NO.2 P A G E 11

Together within the heart of Jesus

being made in the image of God comprises both our mission and responsibility. Throughout the week there were separate sessions for adults and for kids and lots of occasions to come together across the generations for fun and education. Some of our children’s favorite speakers and worship leaders were Father Mike Schmitz, Jason Evert, Ike Ndolo, Steve Angrisano and Chris Stefanick. When asked for a short summary of their experience, our kids said, “We got to encounter other people from around

The Matte family happily waits for Pope Francis to arrive at the the world, learned how to love others the way Jesus wants Ben Franklin Parkway for Sunday Mass at WMOF. From left to us to, how to be our each other’s keeper and that Pope right: Joel, Gianna, Raina, John-Paul, Christine, Jacinta, Austin Francis is reminding us that love is our mission in life.” and Eldon. WMOF was targeted primarily for Roman Catholics, but By: Christine Matte like the pope’s visit, it brought in those of other faiths to be PRINCE GEORGE - “O Jesus, I surrender myself to you, part of the massive event. Officials said as many as 1.5 take care of everything!” million to 2 million gathered in the vicinity for Sunday’s So began the novena our family prayed as we discerned events. our Lord’s invitation to the World Meeting of Families (WMOF). It seemed that Jesus was opening all the doors necessary for us to make this journey. On September 12, 2015, beginning with Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral and Father Melvin Pinto blessing our van and travel trailer, our domestic church embarked on an amazing 4,800 kilometer Eucharistic Road-schooling Missionary Pilgrimage to Philadelphia. We prayed our experience would lead us closer as a family, bound together within the heart of Jesus. Along the way we turned the ride into a classroom on wheels, with readings, stops that were educational, spiritual and simply fun, from a dinosaur museum to visiting Eucharistic Close enough to get a great picture of Pope adoration chapels. Francis passing by at closing Mass of World We entrusted everything to Jesus and despite difficulties, Meeting of Families in Philadelphia. he did not disappoint. We were so happy to finally arrive in Philadelphia on the We arrived early in anticipation of the closing Mass and 21stof September . In thanksgiving to God we went to Mass. were blessed to find an opening along the roadway where Eldon, however, had to find a parking place for our 30-foot we would soon see the Holy Father pass by. As we waited, a trailer. We soon found ourselves camping adjacent to the reporter and photojournalist approached us. Their article Pennsylvania Convention Centre where everything was and more photos of the World Meeting of Families can be within walking distance. found at http://national.deseretnews.com/article/6219/ God is so good! Families-at-heart-of-Pope-Francis-farewell-Mass-in- Nearly 20,000 pilgrims gathered during the week to America.html. celebrate the theme, “Love is our Mission: The Family The whole event was an enriching experience and we are Fully Alive”. The opening Mass was followed by an eternally grateful to God and everyone who supported our inspiring talk by Bishop Robert Barron explaining how family in making this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage. P A G E 12

International students: good-bye/hello

Tony, an international student, quick- ly became part of the Panther Family at Sacred Heart School after his arrival two years ago. Only planning to stay 6 months, To- ny loved the Canadian way and found a home away from home. Tony did not know much English when he arrived but now can converse like any other Grade 5 student. Learn- ing and sharing culture were part of his experience in Canada and, of course, participating in his favorite sport, soc- cer. He will be missed by his Panther family but Tony is adamant that he will Philippines and has found new friends be back soon to be reunited with his at Sacred Heart School. Canadian family at Sacred Heart Quickly settling into life in Prince School. George, Yuhee has additional support By: Rebecca Gilbert Grade 1 student, Yuhee, is the latest from Mrs. Craig who shares the same PRINCE GEORGE - Tony Na is head- international student to join the Panther dialect. ing home to Korea. family. She just arrived from the

Students respond to needs of the poor

In a recent newsletter, the Association invited students to learn about the beautiful but challenged country of Mada- gascar. Although it is a relatively peaceful country, most of the population lives on less than $1.25 per day. One in four children is involved in some form of child labor. Seventy percent of the Madagascar’s population lives in the countryside and are susceptible to the effects of severe soil erosion as a consequence of deforestation and over grazing. Surface water is often contaminated with raw sew- age and other organic waste material which, combined with lack of sanitation and few clean water sources, has led to Students from Notre Dame School use their higher than normal child mortality rates. talents to raise funds for the Holy Childhood After receiving the change boxes, three Grade 2 students Association. along with a student in Grade 1 and another in Grade 3, got together to create a large collection of loom bracelets and By: Meghan Buller perler bead crafts. They arranged to set up a stand in the DAWSON CREEK - In December, Notre Dame School Dawson Creek Mall on December 12th. On that day they gave out little change boxes to every student and encour- sold their trinkets and put all funds towards this charity. aged them to find ways to raise money for poor children in All together their efforts resulted in approximately $300 Madagascar through the Holy Childhood Association. for the Holy Childhood Association. Under its motto, Children Helping Children, the Holy Staff and students at Notre Dame School are all very Childhood Association encourages children to not only do- proud of the students who took the initiative to respond to nate funds for poor children throughout the world, but also the needs of children in a country on the other side of the to learn about their countries and how they live. world.

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Staff and students enjoy Shrove Tuesday treat

Immaculate Conception School students line up for a fantastic pancake lunch prepared by members of the Knights of Colum- bus Domano Council. The Shrove Tuesday event was a great opportunity to learn about the traditions of this particular day and to help students prepare for their Lenten journey and their focus on prayer, fasting and giving alms.

School spreads the love of St. Valentine

PRINCE GEORGE - For many years, parents of Immaculate Conception School students baked Valentines cookies as a fundraiser. Students could purchase the cookies and give them to friends. Last year it was decided to take a new approach. Rather than purchase a cookie for a friend at school, students purchased cookies to hand out to others around Prince George. Over 700 were made and on Friday, the 12th of February , teams com- prised of staff and students headed out around the city to spread the love of St. Valentine. Cookies were delivered to the pediatric ward at the hospital, at the St. Vincent DePaul Drop-in Centre and Shepherds Corner, to seniors of the parish as they enjoyed their morning coffee and to children at other schools.

Principal Donncha O’Callaghan and a team of students are pictured outside the hospital after dropping off cookies at the pediatric ward.

A new gym floor for Immaculate Conception School PRINCE GEORGE - The parents Support Group. “This new re- of Immaculate Conception School source will be well used and we have made a huge investment in are very grateful to our amazing the health and physical well-being parents,” said school principal, of their children with the recent Donncha O’Callaghan. completion of a new gym floor. Immaculate Conception School At a special assembly the new places a strong emphasis on floor was blessed by Father Chris healthy living and has a physical Lynch, pastor of Immaculate Con- education specialist on staff. Stu- ception Parish. Chris Dugdale, dents attend gym class every day. Superintendent of Catholic Inde- In addition, the children can pendent Schools, was on hand to sign up for a wide range of differ- The student leadership club thanked the help cut the ribbon at the Parents Support Group for their fund rais- ent sports throughout the year as ing efforts that resulted in a new gym ceremony. well as an extensive intramural floor at Immaculate Conception School. At The floor was funded through program. the assembly they presented the parent the efforts of the school’s Parent group with a huge card of thanks signed by all the students. P A G E 14

Knights 4th Degree exemplification

In honor of the late Father William Walker, OMI, a former pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish, nine members of Smith- ers Council 7973 took the 4th Degree Exemplification, January 10, 2016. Congratulations James Schwab, Ciril Habjan, George Comeau, Paul Fradette, David Hemenway, Daniel Ford, Gabriele Lazaretto, Stephen Watson and Henry Doherty. The 4th Degree Team comprised of Andy Sambrielaz, Frank Visentin, Bill Young, Germano Carrita and Gualter Rego traveled to Smithers for the ceremony. Pictured with the Knights is Father Pier Pandolfo, pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Smithers.

By: Dan Ford Local Council earns distinction SMITHERS - Knights of Columbus Council 7973 of Smithers earned the distinction of Star Council for the fraternal year 2014-2015. This is one of the organization's top awards and recognizes overall excellence in the areas of membership recruitment and retention, pro- motion of the fraternal insurance program and sponsorship of service-oriented activities. The award was presented to the membership by District Deputy Germano Carrita on January 13, 2016. The Council was also presented with the Father McGivney and Columbian Award for Membership and Programs. Grand Knight James Schwab, Deputy Grand Knight Paul Fradette, and Membership Director Daniel Ford also received the Star Knights of Columbus District Deputy Germano Carrita, far right, is Council Pin for 2014-2015. pictured with Council 7973 Deputy Grand Knight Paul Fradette, Receiving these awards is quite an honor for Grand Knight James Schwab and Membership Director Daniel Ford. the Council and members were extremely proud of this accomplishment.

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Celebrating 150 years in Fort St. John

Resurrection Parish in Fort St. John kicked off its 150th Anniversary celebrations with an International Potluck Supper, September 18, 2015. Over 250 people participated in this relaxing and enjoya- ble evening. Representing 32 different countries, the delicious food was provided by parishioners. A number of talented parishioners also provided the evening’s entertainment.

Sinulog Festival a colorful event

The Church of the Resurrec- tion celebrated its second Feast of Sto. Nino (Sinulog Festival) on January 17, 2016. The Fili- pino Commu- nity of our parish out did themselves for a second year by presenting a most colorful celebration starting with a Filipino Mass followed by an elaborate procession and dance recital. The dinner provided by the Filipi- no community was excellent as usual, everyone had a good time. There were over 300 people in attendance

Knights honor deceased

The St. John Council of the Knights of Columbus in Fort St. John held its first Necrology Mass for deceased members on November 18, 2015. There were a total of 43 members honored at the service. Pictured above with Council Chaplin Father Vener Sabacan are the members that were in attendance. PHOTO BY: T. Jefferies P A G E 16

Parish mourns “Momma Miranda” By: Susana Borges priest or two when they wore the KITIMAT - A bouquet of white roses wrong liturgical color. marked the seat where Ilda Miranda Each Saturday found her arranging sat since the opening of the current flowers in the church. She collected church. empty cans and bottles to raise money The seat is now empty. Mrs. for those flowers, close to $7,000 Miranda, affectionately known as which she divided with the parish “Momma Miranda”, died on the 6th of building fund. January. Vigil prayers and the Mass of All of this was in addition to being a Christian Burial were held the wife, mother, grandmother and great- following Monday and Tuesday. grandmother. Ilda Miranda Ilda Miranda began her church The funeral Mass was filled with ministry at Christ the King Parish parishioners from Kitimat and Terrace when Father Bill MacDonald, OMI, and was concelebrated by five priests, to get her driver’s license - and her invited her to help clean the old including current pastor, Father Babji devotion to a life of prayer. church located in the basement of St. Merugu, SAC, Vicar General Father They also recalled her advice in Anthony’s School. Rectorino Tolentino and former times of frustration and This simple invitation over 50 years pastors Fathers Bill MacDonald, OMI, discouragement: “Father, forgive them ago evolved. Soon she was Pier Pandolfo and Dominic Apaatah. for they know not what they do.” indispensable as we all began to During the Vigil Prayers and the One priest in particular encouraged depend on her for just about reception, parishioners shared how Mrs. Miranda’s family to find everything. About the only things she Mrs. Miranda was like a second someone among themselves to fill her did not do were to celebrate Mass and mother to them when they immigrated shoes, to take up her work in the provide absolution! to Canada and had no other family parish and to not let her place in the Mrs. Miranda was a member of the here. pew remain empty. He appealed to all CWL for over 30 years. As parish She also became a second mother to to call upon her for intercession in sacristan she set the altar for daily and many priests who served in the parish, prayer saying that good things would weekend Masses, for baptisms, some of them young and serving their happen. weddings and funerals. At least 100 first parish. Mrs. Miranda was there Could we have had a saint in our altar servers received training from with her wisdom, knowledge and midst? her and she accompanied pastors on motherly love and that is how she She had a great love of God and the hospital and home visits. became known as Momma Miranda to Church and we were extremely Her many acts of service helped the priests and others in the blessed to have a woman of her faith make her a recognizable face of the community. in our midst. There will never be parish in the community. Priests shared that, out of deep another “Momma Miranda”. She represented Christ the King respect for her, they called her “Mrs”. “Blessed are those who have died in Parish at the Diocesan Chrism Mass , They recalled her faithfulness, as the Lord; let them rest from their was an extraordinary minister of someone ahead of her time - one of the first female Portuguese immigrants labors for their good deeds go with Communion and even helped dress a them.” Momma Miranda, pray for us!

The Rite of Election The Rite of Election is a significant step for those who want to be received into the Catholic Church. Each year in every diocese, catechumens and candidates preparing for full communion in the Church gather with the Bishop at their respective cathedrals to bear witness to their developing faith and their commitment to Christ in the Church. The celebration marks the transition into a more intense period of preparation during the season of Lent. It reflects an understanding that each of us is called by God: “You did not choose me, no I choose you”. On the 14th of February Bishop Stephen Jensen celebrat- ed the Rite of Election at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Pictured with him here are the newly Elect, their sponsors and can- didates preparing for full communion in the Church. PHOTO BY: Armand Sadiwa VOLUME XXV, NO.2 P A G E 17

All are called to play a part

By: John Connelly Good things are happening in the Diocese of Prince George and at the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis and the Youth and Young Adult Office we believe more good developments are on the horizon. God is at work in the Church today and throughout the world there are signs of renewal and spiritual awakening. We need to remember that we are all called to participate in the many different ways God A large crowd gathered for a seminar on parish renewal wants to work in our Diocese. held at Christ Our Savior Parish. The intention of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis (OEC) is to document, The Missionary Dynamic of towards parish, family, educational and encourage everyone to live as authentic Parishes Today, is used as an inspiration institutional renewal on every level. missionary disciples of Jesus and be and guide. instruments of his mercy in our world. Upcoming events of the Office of In it Pope Francis is quoted: Evangelization and Catechesis include: Divine Mercy was the theme of a series of mini-conferences offered by the OEC in “The parish is the presence of the  The Joy-Filled Marriage Preparation three locations in the Diocese in the fall of Church in a given territory, an Seminar: March 12-13 2015. Father Basil Burns was the keynote environment for hearing God’s word,  Diocesan Youth Conference - The Ascent: April 29-May 1. We speaker and he will be a primary professor for growth in the Christian life, for encourage youth to register soon. dialogue, proclamation, charitable in the upcoming Formation Program.  IGNITE Summer Camp for Youth at outreach, worship and celebration. He has already been asked to do Camp Morice with Face to Face Ministries missions and retreats in many parishes. We “In all its activities the parish encourages and trains its members to  Diocesan Assembly: Sept 21-23 welcome him as a member of the Diocesan  Diocesan Formation and Leadership be evangelizers. It is a community of team. Program beginning fall 2016 communities, a sanctuary where the We are working with Christ Our Savior  Ongoing Youth and Young Adult thirsty come to drink in the midst of meetings Parish and other parishes who want to see their journey and a centre of constant  Parish Missions, Seminars and parish renewal as a top priority. The missionary outreach. Retreats by request Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’  Several other events yet to be “We must admit, though, that the call finalized to review and renew our parishes has We welcome our new Assistant, Angelo not yet sufficed to bring them nearer to Sabbatini. For more information on people, to make them environments of programs or to register for the above living communion and participation events contact Angelo by phone at and to make them completely mission- 250-964-4424 or by email at oriented.” [email protected]. Imagine if every parish internalized this Together let us continue to spread the vision and began to live it more fully. mercy of Jesus in every corner of the What could happen in our Church and our Diocese. We are all called to play our part world? in what God is doing in our Diocese and our world. Let us ask Jesus daily: “Lord Our hope is that our entire Diocese will Father Basil Burns what do you want me to do?” continue to take up the Pope’s call to work

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Bishop Thomas J. Lobsinger, OMI Memorial bursary Program Underway The annual and Yukon Bursary program is known as the Bishop Thomas J. Lobsinger, OMI Memorial Bursary Program. The 2016 program is now receiving applications. Once again we are privileged to offer thirty bursaries of $500.00 each to Catholic students across the Province of British Columbia. These bursaries are made available on a one-time only basis to young practicing Catholic students who are in their second or subsequent year of post secondary education at a recognized institute of higher learning within the Province. Applications are accepted from January 1, 2016 until June 30, 2016 with the bursaries being awarded in the fall. The Terms of Reference can be found on our web site at: http://kofcbc.org/files/2013/08/Bursary_2015-16.pdf

Requests for application should be addressed to: Knights of Columbus BC & Yukon Attn: Koon Ming Lau, Bursaries Chairman 2456 E. 20th Ave Vancouver, BC V2M 2T6

We would like to once again congratulate the many recipients over the past years and look forward to the opportunity to assist many more young people in the advancement of their education.

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WYD 2016: “I am excited to see what God has in store …”

PRINCE GEORGE - In July, 19 people from the Diocese of Prince George will travel to Krakow, Poland to participate in World Youth Day. Each of the pilgrims was asked about their motivation for going and what their expectations are for the event. The opportunity to travel rated high in their answers and, as Mark Raine said, it is “something I have always want to do”. Most, like Roman Resendes and Abbie McCormick, expressed a de- sire to grow in faith and to experi- ence the vibrancy of the universal Church gathered together in one place. thinks it is “a perfect opportunity to attend and be a support for the youth.” “I want to experience my Catholic faith in a new culture and with millions of other like-minded people,” Hannah Connelly “I am excited to see what God has in store for every step of said. the journey, from the Days in the Diocese, meeting people of Poland, the World Youth Day Masses, events, talks and walking Eunice Hii, Diocesan Youth and Young Adult Ministry Coor- in the footsteps of St. John Paul II,” Sharlene continued. dinator, elaborated: “I’m excited to once again travel and be among millions of other young Catholics. It is truly neat to see Katerina Liss sees World Youth Day as an opportunity to so many worshipping in their own [languages] and cultures but “build community, deepen my faith and to be a part of history gathered around the same Christ.” and what is going on in the global Church”. Michael Horianopoulos said he decided to go because he likes Boyd Marchand said he is most looking forward to the music “experiences that help me be more open to God working in my and seeing the Pope. life. World Youth Day seems like an event that might just do When asked what they would ask Pope Francis given an op- that!” portunity to speak to him privately, a few thought it would be Angelica LeFebvre was one of several who said she was look- interesting to find out what books he recommends. Others want- ing forward to “traveling to a few of the places that were im- ed to know more about his spiritual journey, especially his voca- portant in the lives of St. John Paul II and St. Faustina”. tion to the priesthood and his life as Pope. “It would be awesome to visit St. John Paul II’s home town “I would ask him about his vocation story,” Matthew and see the church he went to when growing up in Krakow,” Bellerive said. “It’s always interesting to hear how a man comes Austin Matte said. to the priesthood.” Sarah Marchildon is looking forward to being able to “see Father Basil Burns, chaplain for the pilgrims, said he would other parts of the universal Church all together in one place”. like to know what the Pope thinks God most needs from the She is excited about being in Poland during the Year of Mercy, priesthood. He wants the Holy Father to elaborate in writing: “It “especially since John Paul II and Faustina, the biggest mercy has been awhile since an official and impassioned statement has saints ever, were from there.” been made for a generation of priests greatly under stress and attack”. “Experiencing hundreds of thousands of young adults seeking God in one city,” Derek Joyce said when asked what he is look- Seminarian Ken Anderson said he wants to know how the ing forward to in Krakow. “I am excited to explore more ecu- Pope encountered Jesus today. “I am sure the Pope always has a menical relationships, especially meeting Catholic brothers and fresh answer to this question.” Joseph LeFebvre said he would sisters from around the world.” simply ask the Pope to pray for him because “he would do it”. Sydney Irving said the event is an opportunity to experience a If others are interested in joining these pilgrims, it new country and to grow in faith with lots of other young adults. may not be too late. To inquire, contact Eunice Hii at Her mother, Sharlene Irving, will also travel to Krakow and she [email protected].