Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Dabrowski, Csma

Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Dabrowski, csma

N TE CONF JESU I IDO

Regardless of age, pre-planning your cemetery arrangements together simply makes sense - financially and emotionally. See back page for details Congratulations to Rev. Joseph Dabrowski CSMA Photo by Don Learn Don by Photo upon his election to the college of bishops and appointment as an auxiliary of the Diocese of London!

The prayers of the entire Holy Trinity Parish in Windsor are with you Holy Trinity Polish Parish Est. 1916 1035 Ellis St East, Windsor ON evangelization, if it is to be effective, needs to take into “Father Joe” Bishop Fabbro on account the influences of culture. He has integrated extremely well into the Named Auxiliary Bishop Dabrowski Presbyterate of our diocese. Our priests admire him When I first received the news that Fr. Joe and consider him to be a Bishop of London Dabrowski was named our new Auxiliary fellow labourer in the Lord’s vineyard. Several On January 31, Pope Francis named Holy Father. Bishop, I was delighted. He is a pastor at heart years ago, we asked him to serve on a diocesan Rev. Joseph Dąbrowski auxiliary who is totally dedicated to the service of Christ committee to assist our linguistic and ethnic bishop of the Diocese of London, He was ordained to the priesthood and his Church. communities. one of the largest English-speaking at the Pontifical Sanctuary of Santa dioceses in Canada. He is currently Maria ad Rupes, in Italy on May In his appointments as pastor and associate Many have noted how fitting it is that his pastor of St. Mary’s parish in London 4, 1991. Four days later, he was pastor, we have seen the excellent pastoral skills appointment takes effect during the Year and Superior of the Michaelite assigned to join the Michaelite he possesses. He cares deeply for people and of Consecrated Life. He is a member of the Fathers in North America. Fathers community in London. connects well with them. His parishioners trust Michaelite Fathers, who since 1962 have sent Upon arriving in London, he took him and know that they can turn to him when good, faithful priests to serve Polish-speaking Bishop-elect Dąbrowski, 50, was an English-language program at they are in need. With joy and enthusiasm, he and English-speaking parishes in our diocese, born on July 17, 1964 in Poland, the Fanshawe College. encourages people to encounter Jesus and to as well as their retreat house in Melrose. Bishop second of five children. The son of develop a personal, living relationship with him Dabrowski’s appointment is a wonderful tribute Czesława and Ludwik, he grew up in “Fr. Joe,” as he is affectionately through the sacraments and a life of prayer. to their community for the outstanding service Wysoka Strzyżowska, a small village known by his parishioners, has He appreciates the gifts of his parishioners and they have given us over these years. in Poland. He is fluent in English, served as associate pastor at Our empowers them to use their gifts for the spread Polish, Italian, and has studied Lady of Częstochowa in London of the Gospel. I am sure the parishioners of St. He readily acknowledges that he owes a great Russian, Latin and Spanish. from 1992-1993; St. Michael in Mary’s Parish are happy for him, even though deal to the Michaelite Fathers. His formation Leamington from 1993-1996; they will certainly miss their beloved pastor. as a priest and as a religious consecrated to Dąbrowski’s parents laid the St. Pius X (now Holy Family) in God through the vows of chastity, poverty and foundations for his life of faith. London from 1996-1997; and St. It was on January 31 that Pope Francis made the obedience has occurred within his community. Daily prayer was a priority and his Mary in London from 1997-1998. announcement of our new Auxiliary Bishop. Living in community with his brothers has family was very close: they prayed In 1998 he was named pastor of St. Bishop Dabrowski remarked that it was the been a life-giving experience for him. His care together, ate their meals together Mary’s Church in London. Feast Day of St. John Bosco, one of the saints not only for his Michaelite brothers but also and attended Sunday Mass together. to whom he has a special devotion. He knows for his brother priests in our diocese shows Although life at home in Poland was In 2013, he was appointed as the that popular piety plays an important role in how profoundly his life and ministry have been simple, the fact that the family was Superior of the North American the spiritual lives of his people, especially the shaped by his experience of community. together always made for joyous Vice-Province of the Congregation immigrants who have come to our parishes times, whether this involved playing of St. Michael the Archangel (the from other countries and traditions. It is an The special charism of the Michaelite Fathers with siblings, working hard on the Michaelites). expression of their faith and can help them is serving young people. In his appointments, family farm, or the devotion to interiorize their Bishop Dabrowski has reached out to the family prayer. faith and root it in children and the youth in his parishes. He takes their daily lives. time to visit families and the local Catholic Dąbrowski’s uncle, a Congratulations Whenever I have schools and invites them to be involved in their hardworking, faithful and visited St. Mary’s, I parish community. His love of the consecrated committed priest, is credited Bishop Dabrowski have been struck by life and the priesthood inspires the good with influencing the bishop- the many devotions work he has done in promoting and fostering elect’s call to the priesthood. In – to Divine Mercy, vocations among young people. addition, a Michaelite missionary From the Parish of North American Martyrs, the Blessed Virgin priest sparked Dąbrowski’s initial St. Michael’s, Dresden Mary, St. Joseph The Michaelite Fathers appointed him the first interest in serving the poor and & St. Paul’s, Thamesville and the saints – Superior of the newly established Vice-Province marginalized overseas, far from that contribute to of their congregation in North America. The his Polish home. this vibrant parish. appointment was a fitting recognition of his It is one of our parishes that has perpetual fine leadership abilities. He generously accepted After graduating from a high school Beyond his deep commitment to his Eucharistic Adoration. Bishop Dabrowski these new responsibilities, which added to administrated by the Michaelite parish and his religious community, appreciates that with good leadership these the heavy ones he already had as pastor of St. Fathers, he decided to enter the Bishop-elect Dąbrowski is well devotions can draw the faithful deeper into Mary’s. As Superior, he had a clear vision of the Michaelite religious order. After known across the diocese and has the Eucharist, the central mystery of our faith, direction his community needed to take as it completing his one year of Novitiate served on the Ministry to Priests and imbue them with a missionary spirit that looks to the future. The leadership experience and one year of Internship in committee, the Council of Priests, enables them to bear witness to the Lord in their that he has gained with the Michaelite Fathers Poland, he was selected to study the Cemetery Advisory Board, everyday lives. is a good foundation for his ministry as our in Italy, at the St. Peter Institute of and the Linguistic Communities Auxiliary Bishop. Philosophy and Theology in Viterbo. committee. In recent years, we have acknowledged that the He graduated from the Pontifical New Evangelization must be the focus of all Bishop Dabrowski’s warm and joyful Athenaeum of St. Anselm in Rome. Bishop-elect Dąbrowski enjoys of our diocesan activities. Bishop Dabrowski’s personality, his personal holiness and love of learning languages, travel, and international experience will be a blessing for consecrated life and the priesthood have been As a seminarian, he cherished the playing the guitar. His favorite sports us in carrying out this mission. He is from an inspiration to the clergy and lay people of our privilege of serving several Masses are volleyball, skiing, tennis, and Poland, did his theological studies in Italy and diocese. We are grateful to him for accepting with Pope (now Saint) John Paul soccer (he is a big fan of AS Roma). is fluent in Polish, Italian and English. He has this appointment as our Auxiliary Bishop and II. A few years later, he was deeply adapted well to the different cultures in which offer him our heartfelt congratulations and inspired as a result of meeting and he has lived and has a good understanding that support, promising him our prayers as he takes concelebrating Masses with the late on his new responsibilities.

The Newspaper of the Diocese of London, Publisher: Diocese of London ISSN: 0831-9715 Editors: Mark Adkinson and established in 1980, is published quarterly in Publications Mail Agreement #: 41699033 March, June, September and December, Emma Moynihan with approximately 37,000 copies distributed Subscriptions 1070 Waterloo Street throughout nine counties in southwestern Ontario: $12/year. Individual copies are 50 cents each. London, ON N6A 3Y2 Elgin, Essex, Huron, Kent, Lambton, 519-433-0658 x227 Middlesex, Norfolk, Oxford and Perth. Advertising [email protected] Please visit www.dol.ca for latest rates. Congratulations Most Rev. Joseph Dabrowski Bishop Joseph from Dabrowski Most Rev. Richard Grecco May God grant you Diocese of Charlottetown many years in your Prince Edward Island new calling of Bishop

From your former pastor, Bishops: Successors Fr. Joseph Hardy to the Apostles Original By Richard Szczepanowski, Catholic From time of Apostles, bishops have Council of Baltimore decreed that “no one his ministry from within the episcopal Standard, Archdiocese of Washington served as “ambassadors of Christ.” Indeed, is allowed to preach Christian doctrine college, in communion with the bishop of Modified by Mark Adkinson bishops are successors of the Apostles. without the consent of the bishop, or at Rome, the successor of St. Peter and head When he was called last month by Pope St. Clement of Rome, writing in 96 A.D., least without his knowledge.” of the college.” Francis to be a bishop, Bishop Joseph said the Apostles “laid down a rule once Dabrowski became what the Catechism for all to this effect: When these men The Catholic Encyclopedia notes that it The catechism is clear that a bishop of the Catholic Church calls a “guarantor die, other approved men shall succeed to is through “divine law” that bishops not should model his pastoral duties on that and servant of the unity, catholicity and their sacred ministry.” It is not clear when only teach Christian doctrine, but “the of the Good Shepherd (paragraph 896). apostolicity of his Church.” the office of bishop was first instituted in obligation of instructing the faithful is It also stresses that bishops must “have the early Church; however, the Catholic incumbent upon them.” The encyclopedia compassion for those who are ignorant With his April 14 ordination, Bishop Encyclopedia notes that during the time also notes that bishops are “bound to and erring. He should not refuse to listen Dabrowski will enter into what the of St. John – the last surviving Apostle – see that in the parish churches, the to his subjects whose welfare he pro- Catholic Encyclopedia says is the “the the role of bishop was already established. parish priests fulfill the requirements of motes as of his very own...” fullness of Christ’s priesthood, having the The catechism says that the bishop is preaching and teaching” the Catholic power and authority to administer all the “the steward of the grace of the supreme faith. Most importantly, though, the bishop is to sacraments, including ordination,” and priesthood, especially in the Eucharist.” bring the faithful to Christ. hence the connection with the apostolic The bishop, the catechism continues, joins The bishop also functions in what the origins of Christ’s Church.” with priests to “sanctify the Church by catechism calls “episcopal communion” “Since it is in the Eucharist that the their prayer and work, by their ministry of with the pope. The says that the office of sacrament of the Church is made fully The word bishop comes from the Greek the word and of the sacraments.” bishop must have a “collegial character.” visible, it is in his presiding at the word episkopos, which means overseer. Eucharist that the bishop’s ministry is As an “overseer” of his local Church, As a leader in their local Church, the “Chosen together, they (the Apostles) most evident, as well as, in communion or diocese, the bishop is, according to catechism stresses, bishops sanctify the were also sent out together, and their with him, the ministry of priests and the Second Vatican Council’s Dogmatic people of God “by their example ... thus, fraternal unity would be at the service deacons,” the catechism says in 1142. Constitution on the Church, “the visible together with the flock entrusted to them, of the fraternal communion of all the source and foundation of unity in their they may attain eternal life.” faithful: they would reflect and witness to own particular Churches... contributing to the communion of the divine persons,” the welfare of the whole Mystical Body.” One of the most important roles of the catechism says in paragraph 863. a bishop is that of teacher. The Third “For this reason every bishop exercises

most influential being the apostolic Congregation for Bishops: A nuncio, the Congregation for department of the Roman Curia, Stage 1: Bishops’ How a Bishop Bishops, and the pope. It can be headed by a Cardinal. The head Recommendations a time consuming process, often of the Congregation, called the Every bishop may submit to is Appointed taking many months to complete. “prefect,” is presently Cardinal the archbishop of his province Marc Ouellet, a Canadian. Among the names of priests he thinks Introduction the congregation’s responsibilities would make good bishops. Prior Key Terms are moderating all aspects of to the regular province meeting The ultimate decision in appointing Apostolic nuncio: The pope’s episcopal appointments. (usually annually), the archbishop bishops rests with the pope, and representative to both the distributes to all the bishops he is free to select anyone he government and to the hierarchy Diocesan Bishop: Pastoral and of the province the names and chooses. But how does he know of a given nation; a key person legal head and representative of a curricula vitae of priests which whom to select? in deciding what names are diocese. have been submitted to him. recommended to the Congregation Following a discussion among the The process for selecting for Bishops for possible episcopal Province: A territory comprising bishops at the province meeting, candidates normally begins at appointment. the diocesan level and works one archdiocese, called the a vote is taken on which names metropolitan see, and one or more to recommend. The number of its way through a series of Auxiliary Bishop: A bishop dioceses, called suffragan sees. names on this provincial list may consultations until it reaches appointed to assist a diocesan vary. The vote tally, together with Rome. It is a process bound by bishop. Whether in a diocese or Terna: A list of three candidates for the minutes of the meeting, is then strict confidentiality and involves a archdiocese, his title is bishop. number of important players – the a vacant office, including the office forwarded by the archbishop to of bishop. the apostolic nuncio in Ottawa. Archbishop Terrence Prendergast and Joseph Dabrowski: the faithful of the Archdiocese of Ottawa The Early Years extend prayerful best wishes to Bishop Joseph Dabrowski grew up Bishop Dabrowski remembers on a farm near the town of Wysoka being the first one up and Bishop Joseph Dabrowski Strzyzowska in the South of Poland, the walking a half an hour to get second of five children. His family lived to his local parish for 7am on the occasion of his what he describes as a very simple life: Mass. appointment as Auxiliary “Life on our farm was very simple, but also His parents have a great very beautiful,” Bishop Dabrowski recalled. devotion to Mary and Joseph. Bishop of London The family home reflected www.CatholicOttawa.ca “Life was very family oriented: we did this devotion, decorated with everything together. We went to school, we religious images including grade two, and enjoyed it so much he worked on the farm, we ate all our meals the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Mother “I know my parents still pray for me every continued to serve throughout his high together, we prayed together as a family, Mary. His parents were also devoted to day,” Bishop Dabrowski said. school years, until he joined the Michaelite and we all attended Sunday Mass together.” instilling their Catholic faith values in Order. their children. Young Joseph started altar serving during Vocation Discernment Joseph’s uncle, Fr. Frank (on his mother’s His parents were sad to see him go (as am but one, and I have twelve churches advice. side), was a Diocesan priest. Although his all parents would be), but they accepted serve.’ I believe that this was my calling. uncle’s parish was not his family’s home and supported his decision, knowing and I remember thinking: Here is someone “He didn’t give me a specific answer,” parish, they visited him often, and Joseph trusting that their son’s choice will bring who really needs help. I sincerely believe Bishop Dabrowski said, “But he said, would gladly serve for him: him great joy in the future. that that missionary priest planted a seed ‘Pray, and God will give you the answer.’ It in the same way my uncle did: in a very seemed like a very generic answer. But it “I loved being with him,” He said. “Being Life on the family farm nurtured many unassuming, nurturing, quiet way.” worked for me then, and it still works for with him was like being rewarded for skills for Joe, such as carpentry. During his me today!” something good you had done. It felt like high school years, he helped a Michaelite This influence was most powerful. you were on a holiday.” brother make furniture for various Following high school, Bishop Joe was Soon after, Bishop Dabrowski made the churches, including pews and altars. This unsure about what he wanted to do. He decision to enter to the Michaelite Fathers His uncle’s life example and faith type of work was part of the Michaelite’s went to one of his teachers, a priest, for Novitiate for one year. leadership had a significant impact mission, which included on Bishop Joe’s decision to enter the tending to orchards, priesthood. gardens and greenhouses, designed to help make the “He never asked if I was thinking about Order self-sustainable. Congratulations becoming a priest; nor did he suggest that I might make a good priest,” Bishop Toward the end of his Dabrowski remembers. “His influence high school education, a Bishop Joseph Dabrowski came through the way he lived and spoke. missionary priest visited I was enthralled to just watch and listen to the school and shared his what he did and said. I simply loved it.” experiences about working on Missions. From St. Michael’s Parish in Leamington, His uncle encouraged young Joe to your second parish assignment attend a high school dedicated for boys, “What struck me about his administered by the Michaelite Fathers, talk,” Bishop Dabrowski 1993-1996 where his vocation matured: “He always recalls, “was that he said, told me to “Follow your heart.” ‘There are many priests in Poland. Where I am, I

Stage 2: The Apostolic For Auxiliary Bishops Stage 3: Congregation Stage 4: The Pope Nuncio • A diocesan bishop must for Bishops Decides By overseeing the final list of justify to the apostolic nuncio Once all the documentation from At a private audience with names forwarded to Rome, his need for an auxiliary the nuncio is complete and in the pope the prefect of the the apostolic nuncio plays a bishop. This is easier if he is order, and the prefect approves, Congregation for Bishops decisive role in the selection requesting a replacement for a the process moves forward. presents the recommendations process. He not only gathers retired or deceased auxiliary. A cardinal relator is chosen to of the Congregation to the Holy facts and information about • The diocesan bishop prepares summarize the documentation Father. A few days later, the pope potential candidates, but also the terna, or list of three and make a report to the full informs the Congregation of his interprets that information candidates, for his requested congregation. After hearing the decision. The Congregation then for the Congregation. Great auxiliary and forwards it to the cardinal relator’s report, the notifies the nuncio, who in turn weight is given to the nuncio’s apostolic nuncio. congregation discusses the contacts the candidate and asks recommendations, but it is • The nuncio then conducts appointment and then votes. The if he will accept. If the answer is important to remember that his his own investigation of Congregation may follow the “yes,” the Vatican is notified and a “gatekeeper” role, however, the priests on the diocesan recommendation of the nuncio, date is set for the announcement. does not mean that his bishop’s terna, sending chose another of the candidates recommendations are always the names to Rome with on the terna, or even ask that followed. a report and his own another terna be prepared. Source: United States Conference recommendations. of Catholic Bishops Plan now for 2015 and 2016! Just contact us for Tour & Pilgrimage Opportunities We will customize pilgrimages to anywhere! more information: June 1-5 & Sept 14-18 Sept 24-Oct 4 2016: April 1-15 May: Shrines of France George Cifa Pilgrimage to Fatima, Santiago de Nexion Canada Travel Quebec Pilgrimage: Holy Land and Rome June: Shrines of Quebec 519-660-6966 x237 St Joseph’s Oratory, Ste Anne de Beaupre, Compostela, Lourdes and Barcelona with Fr. Matt Kucharski Sept: Shrines of Italy 1-800-361-1334 Shrine of Our Lady of the Cap, and St Kateri with Fr. Graham Keep travelmerchant@ Limited seats available! quadro.net Congratulations Bishop Dabrowski! The Michaelites and Italian Studies Bishop Dabrowski became interested in only son. His mother knew how hard After his first year of the Novitiate, Joe also sought the advice of his best friend, the Michaelites for a variety of reasons. her brother, the priest, worked. The completed an internship at the Chancery whom he had known since high school, He became very comfortable with the Michaelites were an unknown, and his for the Michaelite Fathers. Following his and who was also studying with the Michaelite fathers during his four years desire to be a missionary priest might internship, he planned to go to Cracow Michaelites. of formation in high school. Once he result in his being sent far away. in Poland to begin his theology and learned more about their missionary work philosophy studies. “I told him I was asked to go to Italy,” and focus on young people, his interest The novitiate year was very difficult. Even Bishop Dabrowski remembers. “He said, was sparked, and he became excited though he had experienced life away from Before he could make any plans, Fr. ‘Oh my gosh, I was asked too! Let’s go!’ “ at the prospect of possibly having an home when he attended high school, this Aleksander Ogrodnik the Superior opportunity to become a missionary, or was a very different experience. At the end General, informed him that the That sealed the deal. The two went off to work with young people. of the year, however, he knew he was on Michaelites planned for him to travel to Italy, studied together and were ordained the correct path, and entered this phase Italy to study. This was a huge surprise. on the same day. Fr. Swiatkowski remains His parents were concerned at first. They of his life full of confidence and support. Only two of the 32 students in the a Michaelite priest with a parish in were happy about his decision, but, like He took his vows of poverty, chastity, and program were chosen to go to Italy. northern Italy. They still keep in touch to all parents, they were worried about obedience, with his family by his side, this day. losing him. His father was worried about at the end of his Novitiate, at the age of He was given some time to pray and the family farm, since Joseph was his nineteen. discern before making his decision. He

“When I came to Canada, I started to try time after, the bishop at the time, Bishop Canada Bound to integrate and immerse myself in the John Michael Sherlock, called to let him Joseph Dabrowski was ordained to the like life in Canada, he could return and culture,” Bishop Dabrowski said. “One of know that he had a new assignment for priesthood on May 4, 1991. Just four continue his studies. This put the newly the first things I did was enroll in English Fr. Joe, as associate pastor in Leamington, days later, on May 8, he received notice ordained priest at ease. Although it wasn’t classes at Fanshawe College.” under the direction of Fr. Clare Coleman. from late Bishop Jan Chrapek, CSMA, the quite the missionary experience he had Superior General at the time, that he was been initially hoping for, he was excited to Our Lady of Czestochowa, London’s Pol- “Leamington was a completely different sending Fr. Joe to Canada. experience Canada. ish parish, was Bishop Joseph’s first parish, experience,” Bishop Dabrowski said. “First where he served as associate pastor. One of all, the English exposure was greater. Fr. Dabrowski spoke to the Superior Clearly, Canada has had a good impact on might assume this would have been com- Second, it was very busy because the par- General, who told him he should go for a him as twenty-four years later, he is still fortable and familiar, but such was not the ish was massive. There were two churches few years, learn English, and, if he didn’t here! case. at that time. Every weekend, there were nine masses, in four languages [Portu- “Here I was, fresh from guese, Spanish, Italian and English].” Italy, without any pastoral “ My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour” preparation for a Polish Since the parish was supported by a num- (Lk. 1:47). parish,” he said. “Even ber of bilingual priests, Fr. Joe had the though I grew up speaking opportunity to visit the high schools two Polish, my formation was days a week, allowing him to do the youth We are united with all in Italian. Surprisingly, work he was so passionate about. One Heart, One Voice, One Mission. it was quite an adjustment for me. It was a unique In 1996, Fr. Joe went on to serve as as- experience. After a while, sociate pastor at Holy Family (St. Pius X) On the Feast Day of Our Lady the language and all the in London as well as the chaplain at St. of Good Counsel on April 26th, prayers came back to me. Thomas Aquinas high school. I learned that you never let us remember to recognize the really forget those things Within his first six years in Canada, Fr. Holy Spirit in one another as so important to you. Soon, Joe was asked to make his third move. He Mary and Elizabeth did at the Visitation. I started to really feel at was asked to become pastor at St. Mary’s home.” in London. Fr. Joe was unsure of this decision, because he felt he was too young To learn more about League activities “Fr. Joe”, as he was affec- and inexperienced to take on a parish as tionately known, integrated large as St. Mary’s, especially when the and to explore the blessings of himself into the parish, church and the rectory were in need of membership, please visit www.cwl.ca. starting youth groups, a major repairs and renovation. Fundraising folk band, and even visit- would also provide significant pressures Find us on Facebook and on Twitter @CWLNational. ing high schools in differ- for a new priest. ent communities, assisting new immigrants upon It was a difficult decision, but eventually their arrival, and sharing Fr. Joe knew his answer. He made himself The Catholic Women’s the Good News in their available to the Bishop to serve the Italian League of Canada native Polish language. He community. The Bishop came up with a really started to enjoy his compromise in the form of Fr. Joe Hardy. C-702 Scotland Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3M 1X5 time there, but this was Fr. Hardy came to St. Mary’s as the pastor, (888) 656-4040 only intended to be a one- year assignment. A short continued on next page

Ontario Publication: Diosceses of London Size: 6” wide x 5.75” deep and Fr. Joe was named the Associ- greatest blessings for the parish, ate Pastor. and perhaps it’s pride and joy, is the Perpetual Adoration Chapel, “We didn’t know whether it was which is open 24 hours a day for going to work,” said Bishop Dab- those wishing – or needing – to rowski. “We didn’t know if it was attend, pray and/or adore - in going to be a long-term or short- silence. term solution. Fr. Hardy agreed to be the pastor, and I agreed to Having worked in parishes for look after the Italian community. twenty-three years, Bishop Dab- The community was on its way to rowski hopes to continue the work being integrated. After a couple he started as a pastor, but realizes of months, we thought that, for his role amongst the people is the best of the community, there destined to change. He also looks should be one Pastor for the whole forward to continue working with community.” and helping more people, especially those from other countries, This resulted in Fr. Joseph being new to our Diocese. appointed as pastor of St. Mary’s in 1998. “I understand the challenges faced by the people who come from dif- Today, St. Mary’s remains a vibrant ferent countries,” he said. “It is im- parish with unique characteristics portant to be sensitive to the needs and blessings. Under Fr. Joe’s guid- of people new to this country. Congratulations ance, the parish has been repaired Sometimes it can be easy for us to and restored through the generous be quick to judge, but we don’t al- Bishop-elect Dabrowski donations and contributions of ways realize that these people have parishioners. Out of the parish’s lived in situations that we can’t 1,400 families, only about 50 live relate to – or even imagine.” From all of us at in the parish boundaries. Socio- King’s University College economically, it is located in a poorer area of town. However, the parish rallies generously to help those in need, by:

• Distributing food once a month to approximately 120 families • Dedicating themselves to serve a local community in Joseph Dabrowski: need – beyond their parish. (For example, at Christmas time, out of 150 food hampers Professional Soccer Star? only 5 were given to parishio- I always dreamed I would become a soccer player! It seems like a simple sport, but it is so much fun. Everybody ners, who Fr. Joe identified as played soccer growing up. We had a rule in our home that you could not watch TV on Sunday morning or play a being in need) soccer game until after you went to Mass. Joseph was a huge soccer fan. He would love to watch games (often • Committing financially and televised in the morning), and enjoyed playing on a soccer team in the afternoon. through personal labor to full restoration of the church and Unfortunately a knee injury (he suffered back at the seminary) and a very busy academic schedule put an end to rectory his soccer career. However, he recalls being part of a “very competitive soccer team at the seminary in Italy, where we won a couple of very important tournaments”. During his time at St. Mary’s, Fr. Joe nurtured a strong sense of be- Bishop Dabrowski still follows his favourite soccer team, A.S. Roma. His team (from the seminary in Italy) received longing, and created a community soccer jerseys from A.S. Roma, and as a gesture of appreciation, Joseph sent an invitation for his Episcopal of approximately 500 volunteers, Ordination to his good friend and A.S. Roma’s Team Captain, Francesco Totti. who regularly give their time and energy to enhance the parish’s pro- At the Noviciate, the boys were not allowed to play soccer, but they could play volleyball. This sparked a new grams and various ministers, too interest that Bishop Joe has never forgotten: “At every parish I went too, I’m proud to say I started a parish numerous to mention. One of the volleyball team. Every parish!”

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From Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Experiences with Most Precious Blood Parishes

St. John Paul II great celebration, a Bishop Joseph was in high school when the strong sense of national announcement was made that Karol Wojtyla had pride, and personal joy.” been elected Pope. He describes the moment they found out: Bishop Dabrowski had the privilege of meeting Saint John “I remember that we were playing soccer at the time Paul II many times, and served at the announcement was made. When we heard it, several of his Masses. everyone stopped, and we all went to the Chapel, and we prayed. It was difficult to grasp the importance. “We always went during Everyone was filled with joy and happiness. We had Christmas time because the Pope no idea what he was going to bring to the Church… loved Polish Christmas carols,” and, indeed, to our Catholic faith. It was a time of He recalls. “We’d pick up our guitars and we played for him.”

A Pillow Fit for a Pope. A story in Bishop Dabrowski’s words… One of my favourite memories of Pope John Paul II was when he visited CONGRATULATIONS, our seminary. It was intended to be a quick visit, Bishop Joseph Dabrowski, CSMA followed by lunch. Since on the occasion of your he always loved to talk with the people in Polish, he was behind schedule. Episcopal Ordination One of his secretaries said, “Your Holiness, it’s that his espresso was ready. He drank his espresso, time for your siesta”. We found a quiet room and his assistants announced it was time for his next for him to use. His assistants looked at some meeting. Apparently, that was his normal routine. of the pillows available and decided one of my I have kept that pillow, and will always cherish it cushions, which my mother made for me back as a reminder of St. John Paul II and his wonderful in Poland, was the best one. They allowed him leadership in our faith. only about 15 minutes to rest, and after that time, they knocked on his door to inform him History of the Diocese of London

By Debra Majer During the seventeenth century, French missionaries - first the Franciscan Recollets and then the Jesuits - came to Southwestern Ontario to evangelize the Huron “We are competent, experienced lawyers who offer personal, Indians. Although early missions were established along major fur trading routes, it would be some time before a courteous service at reasonable rates.” church was formally established in the region. The mid- eighteenth century was a pivotal time for the Catholic Real Estate • Wills • Powers of Attorney • Estates Church in Upper Canada: a permanent location for what would become the first parish in the Diocese of Family Law • Collaborative Family Law • Employment Law London and the mother parish of the Catholic Church in Ontario was founded. Our Lady of the Assumption, Incorporations • Mediation • Small Business originally located on the north shore of the Detroit River, was first moved to Isle du Bois Blanc (now Daniel J. McNamara, LL.B. Norman A. Pizzale, LL.B., LL.M. commonly known as Bob-Lo Island) before a mission church was built on the south shore of the river. At this Laura M. Pizzale, B.A. (Hons), M.A., J.D. time the French began to settle in the area of La Pointe 200 Queens Avenue, Suite 220, London, Ontario • 519-434-2174 de Montréal (present day Windsor) and by 1767 Our Lady of the Assumption was erected as a parish. diocese with a steady growth of Catholics and new coinciding with Bishop Cody’s 25th anniversary as a By the early nineteenth century, southwestern Ontario had churches. Bishop Dennis O’Connor, CSB (1890–1899) bishop, Pope John IIXXX named St. Peter’s Cathedral a a few priests and a small Catholic population. The Church and Bishop Fergus Patrick McEvay (1899–1908) were“We minor are basilica. competent, in Upper Canada was under the control of Québec, but fortunate not to have a host of serious issues to deal with soon would be at the hand of Bishop Alexander Macdonell during their episcopacies. They were able to operate experiencedthe By the mid 1960s, both lawyers Church and society were who was appointed the ordinary of the newly created diocese with controlled debt and were fervent promoters evolving. Bishop Gerald Emmett Carter (1964–1978) Diocese of Kingston in 1826. As the province’s Catholic of separate school education. wholed theoffer diocesan-wide personal, dissemination of the formal population continued to flourish, the Vatican erected a teachings of the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) diocese in Toronto in 1841 to tend to Canada West (the A new era for the Catholic Church’s history in courteousand implemented servicethe new liturgical changes across the former Upper Canada) which included southwestern Southwestern Ontario began with Bishop Michael diocese. In addressing renewal and church reform, the Ontario. The slow-growing Catholic population of Francis Fallon, OMI (1909–1931). A man of great bishop called upon clergy, religious men and women and Southwestern Ontario greatly expanded in 1851 with an accomplishment, as well as great controversy, Purposefullyat reasonablethe laity to participate in the rates.” Second Synod of the Diocese influx of Irish Catholic immigrants, arriving in wake of the Bishop Fallon worked to claim Catholic men and women of London (1966–1969) resulting in a new diocesan Great Famine. The bishop of Toronto, Arman-François- their rightful place in the religious and social spheres. He administrative structure and a progressive move to have Marie de Charbonnel, was aware of the pastoral needs was a proponent of Catholic education, founded St. Peter’s the laity actively participate in church affairs. of the growing Church in Southwestern Ontario which Seminary andReal supported Estate the establishment • Wills of Brescia • Powers of Attorney • Estates ultimately led him to make the decision to divide Toronto College. Bishop Fallon did have adversaries in the local Bishop John Michael Sherlock (1978–2002) ensured into three dioceses. The Vatican Family LawChurch • asCollaborative he did not support bilingual Family that many Law of these •administrative Employment changes were Lawcarried announced the erection of the Diocese Catholic education or the status of through and also adapted to the new realities of a of London on February 21, 1856 and Incorporationssome French parishes. His •episcopacy Mediation changing • church Small in the Business1980s. A great shift in the concept the Diocese of Hamilton on February is remembered as one of the fieriest. of ministry emerged at the administrative and parochial 29, 1856. levels. Lay people became increasingly involved in the As the world was dealing with the ministry of the local Church and a new approach to have The second half of the nineteenth Daniel GreatJ. McNamara, Depression, Bishop LL.B. John Normanlay people A. working Pizzale, for a salary LL.B., was introduced. LL.M. century proved to be a time of growth Thomas Kidd (1931–1950) was the and expansion for the Church in right man Laurafor the time. M. APizzale, leader of B.A.Bishop (Hons), Ronald M.A., Peter J.D.Fabbro, CSB (2002-present) is Canada West. After spending just a 200 Queensgreat piety Avenue, and shrewd Suite in financial 220, London,known for Ontario his pastoral • planning 519-434-2174 and focus on healing, short period of time in London, the affairs, Bishop Kidd managed to keep revitalization and progress. With strong faith and first Bishop of London, Bishop Pierre- the diocese financially sound and dedication in preparing the diocese for a future full of Adolphe Pinsoneault (1856–1866) was adopted strategies to continue to open hope, Bishop Fabbro initiated a process of parish and not satisfied with living in a majority churches during the Depression. By diocesan reorganization where the map of the diocese Protestant city and moved the seat the late 1940s, the face of the diocese itself was essentially redrawn. of the diocese to Sandwich, where it quickly changed with the end of the was recognized to be more Catholic Second World War and Bishop Kidd Information researched and collected from Gather Up of the in population. Bishop Pinsoneault’s responded to the needs of post-war Fragments: A History of the Diocese of London. By Michael vision for directing the diocese proved Catholic immigrants as they flooded Power, Daniel J. Brock, et al. to be somewhat questionable, and after just ten years as into the Southwestern Ontario landscape. The influx ordinary, the pope accepted his resignation. of the myriad Eastern and Western European Catholic Order your own copy of Gather up the Fragments: immigrants resulted in the establishment of many new A History of the Diocese of London! Cost is $30 each (in- cludes HST) plus shipping and handling of $7 per copy. Acknowledged as the diocese’s true founder, Bishop John churches, national communities and a new diocesan Walsh (1867–1889) was ushered in as the second bishop culture. Simply complete the order form on this page, complete and expended great energy into the troubled diocese. payment option (cheque or money order; sorry, no credit He brought the seat back to London in 1869 and worked This period of integrating a new Catholic populous cards) and choose one of the following options: assiduously to build relationships with clergy and laity. into the diocese also characterized the episcopacy of Mail your contact information and payment (cheque One of his greatest monuments he spearheaded for Bishop John Christopher Cody’s (1950–1963) who also organized the First Synod of the Diocese, established or cash only) to Diocese of London, Attn: History Book Southwestern Ontario was the construction of St. Peter’s Orders, 1070 Waterloo Street, London, ON N6A 3Y2 Cathedral, which was completed in 1885. Peruvian missions, opened Christ the King College (now King’s University College), two junior seminaries (Sacred You may also bring order form and payment to the The end of the nineteenth century and the beginning Heart in Deleware and Regina Mundi) and founded Diocesan Centre, 1070 Waterloo St., London, (M-F: 8:30 of the twentieth century were prosperous times in the the Diocesan Catholic Immigration Centre. In 1962, am-Noon, 1-4:30 pm) London’s Most Experienced Stained Glass Craftsmen 97 Wharncliffe Rd. S. London, Ont. Heritage 519-432-9624 Memorial • Quality • Storm Windows Restoration & Glazing www.sunrisestainedglass.com Since 1979 Woodwork

Bishop Dabrowski’s Congratulations Coat of Arms Bishop Dabrowski Bishop Dabrowski’s coat of arms is pictured cords pendant from each on the front cover of the newspaper. side and each cord ending in six tassels Vert. Wishing you all the best The Coat of Arms of the Most Reverend Jozef Dabrowski , CSMA Auxiliary Bishop Motto: as you begin your role of London and Titular Bishop of Casae in “JESU IN TE CONFIDO” as Auxiliary Bishop Numidia. Ordained to the Episcopate in the Cathedral Church and Minor Basilica Since the dawn of of the Diocese of London. of St Peter, London, Ontario 14 April, 2015. heraldry in the twelfth century bishops and other Arms: Tierced in pairle reversed Argent ecclesiatics have used Gules and Vert in dexter chief a Lombardic personal coats of arms as flags being red and white) and in that priestly ministry was exercised for many majuscule M ensigned with a crest coronet a means of identification. In following this of Italy (red, white, green). Poland is his years. The upper-case J signifies not just Gules in sinister chief a carpenter’s square ancient tradition Bishop Dabrowski has land of birth, Canada his present home the initial of his baptismal name but angle in chief surmounted over the sinister chosen colours and symbols meaningful and Italy is the country where bishop indicates his devotion to Saint Joseph arm of a Lombardic majuscule J Argent to him in that they represent his Christian Dabrowski studied for priesthood and the Worker who is represented by the and in base a Sword point in chief the blade faith, spiritual devotion, and familial also the country of origin of many of his emblem of his trade, the carpenter’s wavy conjoined to a pair of wings displayed origins. The shield is divided into three parishioners in the last parish where he square (Matthew 13.55). St Joseph is the and inverted Or. sections the upper right being white the served and ministered as Pastor before patron and protector of the Universal left, red, and the lower part green. These being appointed a bishop. Red and white Church. It is also a reference to his home Behind the shield is placed a Bishop’s Cross colours are those to be found in the flags are also the colours (see John 19.34) of parish church of St Joseph in the village of Or and over all an Ecclesiastical Hat with of Canada and Poland (both country’s Divine Mercy to which devotion (which is Wysoka Strzyzowska, Poland where he was the endless mercy of God baptized, confirmed and said his first Mass towards all people) Bishop as a priest. Dabrowski is dedicated. White is the colour In the lower part of the shield is placed associated with peace, an upright sword with a flame-like blade harmony, righteousness and conjoined to a pair of wings. This image purity. Red represents love, represents the archangel Saint Michael. sacrifice, passion and the Bishop Dabrowski’s home village is located Holy Spirit. In green is seen within the larger municipality Gmina life, growth, renewal, vigour Strzyzow the coat of arms of which feature and service. the image of St Michael. In that community there is also a large centrally located statue Letters are not often used of the Saint. Bishop Dabrowski is a priest in heraldry as charges of the Congregation of Saint Michael the on a shield, however, Archangel. As a Michaelite Father he has they frequently occur in devoted himself in service as a member ecclesiastical heraldry and and leader in that community for many in Polish coats of arms (as years. The flaming sword of the Archangel in the arms of Saint John Michael is found in the Congregation’s Paul II and in the arms of coat of arms. St Michael is called God’s the Diocese of Rzeszow). In champion and the defender of God’s people the white section is placed (see Revelation 12.7-12 and Daniel 10.12- a crowned capital letter 21;12.1). Here this symbol of the saintly M. This is the monogram archangel is a fitting emblem for a bishop used to represent the of Christ’s church. Blessed Virgin Mary. It has been used in this fashion Bishop Dabrowski has chosen for his since the Middle Ages motto, “Jesu in te confido” (Jesus, I trust in and pilgrims journeying you), the phrase which accompanies the to various Marian shrines image of Jesus the Divine Mercy. often used it as a badge. Here it represents the The external ornaments, the green Bishop’s devotion to the ecclesiastical hat of a bishop and the Theotokos, Mary, the bishop’s cross, indicate his position in the Mother of God and the hierarchy of the church and were assigned Mother of the Church. St by Pope Paul VI by a special Instrument Mary is also the dedication dated 31 March, 1969. of the parish in London, Ontario where he his Canon D. G. Bowyer Roof Tile Management is Holy Name of Mary, St. Mary’s proud to have worked with the Diocese of London on a St. Joseph, Chatham wide range of projects: St. John the Evangelist, Woodslee Our Lady of Mount Carmel, St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica, Mount Carmel General Contracting, London St. Anne, Tecumseh Roofing and Sheet Metal, Masonry, St. Justin, London St. Patrick, Kinkora Woodworking and Interior St. Mary, London St. John the Baptist, Amherstburg Restoration St. Patrick, London and many others Contact Us: St. Clement, McGregor 360 Gibraltar Drive, Mississauga, ON L5T 2P5 905-672-9992

Congratulations and Prayerful support to Bishop Dabrowski, from

Congratulations and prayerful blessings to Fr. Joseph A. Dabrowski, C.S.M.A. on the occasion of his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of London.

From the parishioners of St. Mary’s, London.

Sinceri auguri e sincere congratulazioni al nostro parroco p. Giuseppe A. Dabrowski CSMA per l’importante nomina di Vescovo Ausiliare della Diocesi di London.

Dai parrocchiani della chiesa di s. Maria, London. The Catholic School Boards serving the Diocese of London wish to thank all the parents, volunteers, parishes and community leaders for supporting Catholic education!

Excellence in Learning, Living in Christ

Brant Haldimand Norfolk Huron-Perth Catholic London District Catholic St. Clair Catholic District Windsor-Essex Catholic Conseil scolaire catholique Catholic District School Board District School Board School Board School Board District School Board Providence 322 Fairview Drive, PO Box 87 Mill Street, PO Box 70 5200 Wellington Road South 420 Creek Street 1325 California Avenue 7515 prom. Forest Glade 217 Brantford, ON N3T 5M8 Dublin, ON N0K 1E0 PO Box 5474 Wallaceburg, ON N8A 4C4 Windsor, ON N9B 3Y6 Windsor, ON N8T 3P5 519-756-6505 519-345-2440 London, ON N6A 4X5 519-627-6762 519-253-2481 519-984-9227 www.bhncdsb.ca www.huronperthcatholic.ca 519-663-2088 www.st-clair.net www.wecdsb.on.ca www.cscprovidence.ca www.ldcsb.on.ca The Michaelites Dear Bishop Joseph Dabrowski, The history of the Michaelite life of diocesan ministry on many St. Joseph-St. Charles Parish, Corunna, wishes to extend our Fathers in Canada dates back to the levels. Currently there are 13 most sincere congratulations on your Ordination as Bishop. We days when their founder, Blessed priests ministering in the Diocese Father Bronisław Markiewicz, of London, the Archdiocese of wish for you a continuing journey of faith, love and service as you sent some of the priests working Toronto, and the Archdiocese of begin your new chapter in the book of discipleship. with him to the United States Detroit. of America. Many of them were Prayers and blessings from our Pastor, Fr. Jan Pochwala, ordained and made the USA their FATHER BRONISŁAW home, since the political, social and the parish of St. Joseph-St. Charles, Corunna. and religious situations in their MARKIEWICZ homeland were not favourable for Born on July 13, 1842 in Pruchnik their return. near Jarosław (south-eastern Poland), Father Bronisław One of these priests, Father Markiewicz was a priest of the Bartlomiej Slawinski, while Przemyśl Diocese, a revered ministering in Detroit, Michigan, churchman recognized for his made connections with the Polish spirit of sacrifice. He was also priests in London and Windsor in a professor at the local major the late 1950s. With the support seminary. of Bishop John Cody, the first Religious House of the Michaelite From the very beginning of his Fathers was opened in Windsor priestly life, he was particularly and a congregation in the Diocese sensitive toward the religious, of London was officially established moral, and material negligence in 1962. The first group to join of children and youth and to Father Slawinski included Father S. the plight of simple people. He Nierychlewski, Father J. Chmura, spoke out strongly against the Father J.T. Dabrowski, Father E. national vices of the Polish nation. Mucha, and Father S. Soltysik. He believed that the solution to overcoming social problems By the end of the 1960s, the depended upon the proper Michaelite Fathers left Windsor education of young people and on and made their permanent home changing the moral climate of the outside London, in Melrose. There, whole society. they built a house to accommodate a growing number of confraters Following a divine calling, he went as well as to provide a place for to Italy and became a follower of retreats. Today, the house is well Saint John Bosco. After seven years, known as the Michaelite House in 1892, he returned to Poland and Retreat Centre and also serves as was put in charge of the parish in the headquarters for the Michaelite Miejsce Piastowe (south-eastern Fathers in Canada. Poland). In addition to his pastoral work, he established a widespread 50 years later, over 30 Michaelites educational system, which not have ministered to the people only provided academics, but of God on Canadian soil. The also dealt with the spiritual and Michaelite House Retreat Centre physical growth of the children. He is a well-known entity, not only soon thought of founding a new within the Diocese of London, but religious congregation. beyond, opening its doors for over 40 years. The Michaelite Fathers On September 23, 1897, he have built new churches, led petitioned the Bishop of Przemyśl retreats, pilgrimages and parishes, and the Pope to allow him to found and they have participated in the the Congregation of St. Michael the Archangel. In spite of intensive efforts on his part, Father Markiewicz did not live to witness its approval and died on the 29th of January, 1912.

On September 29, 1921, Adam Stefan Sapieha, Bishop of Kraków, issued the Erecting Decree of the Congregation. On the June 15, 1966, the Congregation was affirmed under papal law.

As a testament to his heroic self-denial, Father Markiewicz was counted by the Catholic Church among the blessed. His beatification ceremony took place in Warsaw on the June 19, 2005. Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of London Serving the needs of the faithful in Southwestern Ontario

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