World Day of Prayer for Vocations Our diocesan family joins Catholics around the world this month in praying for an increase in vocations to religious life and the priesthood, and for an increasing awareness of how God calls each person to their vocation in life. Testimonies by some of those in our own diocese who have discerned a call to religious life can be found in this edition of the Diocesan Newsletter, including articles by Colin Roy and Daniel Yasinski (pictured at left with Bishop Don Bolen), who will be ordained to the priesthood 7 p.m. Bishops reflect on call to Friday, June 14, 2013 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family. care for the environment VOCATIONS • PAGES 14-17 DOCUMENT • PAGE 7

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Benedict XVI resignation and the selection of Francis sparks interest and reflection in diocese By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Latin America, that they had chosen The attention of many in the a Jesuit, that they had chosen diocese – and around the world – someone who I had met before, and was focused on the papal transition who had struck me as a person of this spring, as first Pope Benedict simplicity and humility, someone XVI took the historic step of who was self-effacing and gentle,” resigning as head of the Catholic said Bolen. Church, and then the cardinals While working in Rome for the elected Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, Pontifical Council for the Promo- SJ, of Argentina, who was installed tion of Christian Unity several years March 19 as . ago, Bolen met and shared a meal Bishop Donald Bolen called for with Cardinal Bergoglio, whom he prayers throughout these weeks of describes as a down to earth person transition -- for the retiring pontiff, who did not draw attention to for the cardinal electors and for the himself. newly-chosen Pope Francis. With “It’s a stroke of genius that he the new pope announced March 13, has chosen the name Francis,” said a diocesan vespers service March 14 Bolen. “As a Jesuit, the Holy Father at the Cathedral of the Holy Family stands in the tradition of St Ignatius in Saskatoon became a time of of Loyola, the tradition of the thanksgiving and prayer for the new pursuit of knowledge and of mission Holy Father. and radical discipleship. But that he Easter baptisms Bolen said that he experienced a should connect the papacy to St. Rev. Ron Beechinor baptizes Sawyer Scott during the Easter Vigil celebration at St. thrill of surprise and delight when is a way of saying parish in Saskatoon March 30. Sawyer’s older sister Keanna ( right ) also received the sacraments he heard the name Bergoglio. to the Church: ‘I will be a servant of initiation at the celebration, supported by godparents Brent and Delous Scutchings, and parents “It was the recognition that we leader. I want to lead in humility and Kim and Willy Scott (l-r ). The initiation sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist were being taken into completely simplicity. I want to lead with joy in were celebrated in many parishes across the diocese during the Easter Vigil and will continue new territory in an inkling – that the the spirit of St. Francis.’” throughout the Easter season, as the season of parish confirmation and First Eucharist celebrations begins. - Photo by Tim Yaworski cardinals had chosen someone from PAPAL TRANSITION Page 3

BYY KeIPLY aLUKrAN YoAWOfRS KI Faith Feinscludtedi pvarisah brlea kfapsts, la afaminly dnance ewithd faith The diocese of Saskatoon will mark the conclusion testimonies, a faith-based concert for young children, of the Year of Faith with a three-day festival of events speakers and presentations, and special times of prayer. November 8-10, 2013 . “We really encourage you to think about how you Special guest speaker for the diocesan Year of Faith are going to be involved,” he told DPC representatives Festival in November will be Most Rev. Gérald from deaneries and groups across the diocese. Lacroix, who is the Archbishop of Quebec and the The Year of Faith has been “a summons to an Primate of , announced Bishop Donald Bolen at authentic and renewed conversion to the Lord,” as a Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) meeting April 6 in described by Pope Benedict in his Apostolic Letter Saskatoon. Porta Fidei . Parishes, deaneries, CWL and Knights of Columbus Catholics are being called both to renewal and to councils and any other interested organizations or small find ways to give new and relevant testimony about groups will be encouraged to organize concurrent their faith and hope in Jesus Christ, said Bolen. “I Love Life and Family” Video Contest events across the diocese during the Nov. 8-10 weekend “We are called to find creative ways to be in Get out your camera and create an original video for this diocesan Year of Faith Festival , said the bishop. dialogue with the culture around us,” Bolen said, (under two minutes) celebrating life and family! All the independently-organized events throughout describing recent public challenges that insist that faith It is a chance to win fun prizes, share your the diocese would then be promoted as part of the does not have a place in the public sphere. festival, along with the main keynote talks by The Year of Faith Festival will hopefully create an insights and joy, and help the diocese Archbishop Lacroix, which will be offered in English exciting opportunity for many groups to step up and and the eparchy of Saskatoon celebrate and in French, he said. host faith-centred events that will enrich and engage Life and Family Week (May 12-19). Ideas for the festival suggested at the DPC meeting many in our communities, he said. The contest deadline has been extended to 5 p.m. Monday, April 29 to give contestants of all ages INSIDE: a bit more time to polish up their entries! • Congress Day held at three locations across the diocese • Page 4 For more information about how to enter, contest • Idle No More and Catholic Social Teaching • Page 6 guidelines, and needed forms visit our website: • Bulletin • Pages 20-21 www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com 2 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 Diocese continues to work toward long-term financial stability As one of the first dioceses in Canada to acknowledges this reality, saying, “The have a Bishop’s Annual Appeal – first ministry and administration of the diocese is Episcopal Corporation of Saskatoon established under the leadership of Bishop dependent on a declining source of revenue James Mahoney – the Roman Catholic Diocese and smaller, less financially stable parishes are Statement of Revenue and Expenses of Saskatoon has a long history of financial looking to us for increased ministry and For year end June 30, 2012 leadership and innovation. administrative services.” “Over the last decade,” says Diocesan The Episcopal Corporation (the diocese) 2012 2011 SuPPORT AND REVENuE Finance Committee Chair Neil Redekkop, finished the fiscal year with a planned deficit of Bishop’s Annual Appeal $ 946,590 (A) . $ 995,938 “under the leadership of Bishop Albert LeGatt $265,041 ( see Note C ). The Foundation Parish assessments 1,072,822 . . 1,022,916 and then Bishop Donald Bolen, the diocese originially anticipated having a much larger Investment income 67,134 . 63,608 recognized the need to find additional ways to deficit this fiscal year, but an increase in Donations 560,528 . 1,081,941 raise funds and ensure long-term financial unrestricted donations (accounted for in Brazil collections 96,305 . 81,626 stability. That was the reason behind General Donations) significantly reduced the Ministry 128,618 . 160,747 establishing the development office in 2007.” projected deficit at the end of the year. As such, Foundation asset allocations and external grants 368,615 (B) 396,763 The diocese hired fundraiser and local funds were transferred after the end of the . 3,240,612 . 3,803,539 . Catholic Don Gorsalitz as the director of fiscal year to cover the diocesan deficit, while EXPENSES 1,251,291 . 1,311,288 development, with a view to long-term creating a larger deficit for the Foundation. Pastoral services Outreach grants & donations 314,412 . 542,344 financial stability for the diocese, and in “We cannot and will not run successive Clergy and vocations 584,325 . 952,972 conjunction with a Uniting in Faith campaign deficits,” noted Redekkop, “but it was a sound Brazil mission 96,305 . 81,626 that was undertaken to build a new diocesan decision as we waited for the completion of Administration and chancery 923,565 . 780,583 Cathedral and Pastoral Centre. Uniting in Faith Campaign. Parish support 324,609 . . 220,351 The people of the diocese of Saskatoon As pledges for the construction of the 3,494,507 . . 3,889,164 responded generously, raising close to $22 Cathedral and Catholic Pastoral Centre wind Revenue less expenses before undernoted items (253,895) . (85,625) million for the construction of Holy Family up, the Foundation office is connecting with Gain (loss) on disposal of investments (6,144) . (4,459) Cathedral and Catholic Pastoral Centre as well donors, asking them to consider continuing the Unrealized gain (loss) in market value of investments (5,002) . 53,350 .. as sustaining participation in the Bishop’s same level of giving, but now directing Uniting . (36,734) Annual Appeal. in Faith donations to ministry and REVENuE LESS EXPENSES (265,041) (C) During the winter of 2012, the programming needs in the diocese. 1,280,440 1,317,174 FuND BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR development office was incorporated as the A video message from the bishop was $ 1,015,399 . . $ 1,280,440 Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation, a recently mailed to a number of donors making FuND BALANCE, END OF YEAR distinct fundraising organization for the this request. To view the video or find out more diocese whose mandate includes planned information about stewardship and planned giving, major gifts, the administration of all giving, see the Catholic Foundation website at: Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation Inc. diocesan campaigns, and fundraising support www.dscatholicfoundation.ca for parishes who want it. The Foundation’s sole Gorsalitz is confident that the diocese is on Statement of Operations purpose is to raise funds for the use of the the right track, explaining, For year end June 30, 2012 diocesan church, according to the priorities “We have established the Foundation to 2012 2011 established by the bishop. allow us to continue to grow toward long-term SuPPORT AND REVENuE Over this same time, however, the diocese financial stability and are already seeing the Bishop’s Annual Appeal donations $ 1,426,281 . $ 1,354,326 Bishop’s Dinner revenue had anticipated that the Uniting in Faith fruit of that decision. And we will have to 125,000 . . 127,105 General donations campaign would impact the growth of the continue to work at communicating the needs 586,981 (D) . 48,274 Investment income 95,682 . 159,649 Bishop’s Annual Appeal. “While the average of our church family to ensure that we are Uniting in Faith donations 2,327,294 . 2,517,282 gift to the Appeal has increased,” says Appeal providing ministry and service that is both Unrealized (loss) gain in the market value of investments (71,005) . 194,611 Administrator Cathie Rogers, “the total pastorally needed and fiscally responsible.” 4,490,233 . . 4,401,247 number of givers has decreased in recent years, The faithful in the diocese can be assured EXPENSES keeping the total collected relatively stable of the gratitude of the diocese for their Operations and administration 513,756 . 522,489 during the campaign.” The 2012 campaign generous support of their parishes, the Uniting Bishop’s Annual Appeal allocations 1, 134 ,735 (A) 1,093,874 (A) came close to raising $1.4 million. in Faith campaign, the Bishop’s Annual Appeal Bishop’s Annual Appeal parish sharing 153,561 (A) . 126,818 (A) The Bishop’s Annual Appeal was started and the ongoing fundraising efforts of the Asset allocation 347,478 (B) . 694,639 with a vision for supporting ministry out of the Foundation, says Bishop Don Bolen. Management fees 25,497 . 31,086 Professional fees 18,698 . 7,103 Catholic Pastoral Centre for the benefit of “I am overwhelmed by the support and Uniting in Faith allocations 2,227,195 2,345,000 parishes and the larger community. This generosity of our people,” the bishop said. Uniting in Faith parish sharing 106,082 113,076 continues to be the case. In recent years, “And the scriptures remind us that much will 4,527,002 4,934,085 however, the appeal has not kept up with be asked of those who have been given inflation and the growing ministry needs. generously. God has given us so much, and DEFICIENCY OF SuPPORT AND “We have managed to maintain current will continue to ask us for faithful stewardship REVENuE OVER EXPENSES $ (36,769) (C) $ (532,838) . programs in the diocese by reducing funding to of those gifts. As a diocese, in turn, we will our Catholic ministry partners in the continue to ask for what we need, trusting that community,” says Bishop Donald Bolen. “This God will provide in abundance.” Explanatory notes for the financial statements is not a sign of our lack of support for (A) Revenue from the Bishop’s Annual Appeal does not all come into the diocese. Some of the these ministries, but an indication that we revenue is dispersed to Catholic organizations and ministries outside of the Catholic Centre, as are under many of the same financials Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation reported in the Bishop’s Annual Appeal brochure. Further, the revenue for the 2011-2012 fiscal year pressure faced by many organizations Allocation of Assets (See Note B at right) includes a segment of funds from both the 2011 and 2012 Appeals. today.” June 30, 2012 (B) Allocated donations to the diocese are held by the Foundation. Many of the funds are specified, The diocese also receives income of Seminarians $ 830,751.63 Seminarians - Philosophy Tuition $ 247,755.50 and the diocese must honour the intention of the donors by using these funds as allocated. As per from parish assessment, wherein the Unspecified use (General use) $ 968,582.64 (C) the annual budget, income is transferred to the diocese to cover expenses in these areas. This parishes submit 15 per cent of their Education of Priests $ 271,727.91 shows as income for the Episcopal Corporation and expense for the Foundation. The diocese also annual collections to the diocese. As Brazil Mission $ 594,053.20 receives external grant money that is accounted for in this income line. many parishes can attest to, parish Refugee Aid $ 40,134.82 (C) The deficit in the Episcopal Corporation (diocese) was covered with a fund transfer from the revenue is not generally keeping up with Native Ministry $ 190,072.06 Foundation after the end of the fiscal year. This money comes from the Unspecified Asset account. inflation. Diocesan Mission Works $ 11,578.92 Priests’ Pension $ 168,452.03 (D) The general donations to the Foundation include income from all fundraising efforts for the year, Leah Perrault, director of pastoral TOTAL $3,323,108.70 including major, planned and other gifts. services for the Catholic Pastoral Centre

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon 7th ANNUAL BISHOP’S DINNER Friday, May 10, 2013 TCU Place, Saskatoon This delightful evening focused on “Things Old and New ” will begin with a champagne reception Hospital chaplaincy gathering at 6 p.m., followed by a gourmet dinner and dance. A number of the Catholic hospital chaplaincy volunteers and priest chaplains who provide spiritual care at Saskatoon City and Royal university hospitals in Saskatoon gathered for a luncheon at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in December with diocesan chaplaincy coordinator Céline Hudon, and Tickets are $350 per person and are available by Saskatoon Bishop Donald Bolen. The diocesan Chaplaincy Office is supported by the Bishop’s contacting Myla Telig at (306) 659-5851 or e-mail: Annual Appeal. Those seeking more information about volunteering are invited to contact Céline [email protected] Hudon at (306) 292-5531. - Photo by K. Yaworski Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 3 Bishop reflects on papal transition (Continued from Page 1) doubt Cardinal Bergoglio – now communicated beforehand his called to this office as successor of conviction that if a pope is no longer Christ’s call to St. Francis Assisi Peter – has also struggled to be a able to carry out the responsibilities, at San Damiano to “Rebuild my faithful and has also fallen then it’s not irresponsible to retire, church” also comes to mind, Bolen short. In the days to come we may and there might even be a moment added. hear of his shortcomings and we when there would be an obligation to “The choice of that name, may experience them. This will not do so.” coupled with what we know about minimize God’s grace working Bolen made particular note of Cardinal Bergoglio as leader – that through his ministry and the Petrine the legacy of Pope Benedict XVI’s he chose not to live in the office. So it ever was: God does not teaching ministry. archbishop’s mansion, but in a scorn what is human to redeem “He has really focused on the single apartment, caring for a what is human.” foundations of Christian faith. His brother priest with many needs; that The bishop called for encyclicals – such as Deus Caritas Students at St. Therese Institute in Bruno watch the news reports he chose to use public continuing prayer for the Holy Est , Spe salvi , Caritas in Veritate – about the appointment of a new pope. - Photo by James Riley transportation; that he carried Father and for the Church. “Let us have been a great blessing. They himself simply and led in a way keep him in prayer; that the Holy have explored those foundations of which was strong but not Spirit might send every good Christian faith in a very intelligent, ostentatious; that he is deeply blessing on him, that he might be a thoughtful, creative way, speaking Reaction to Pope Francis: concerned with the poor, making shepherd after the heart of Christ,” to a 21st-century audience.” frequent visits to the slums – all of he said. Bolen also noted the impact of joy, hope and thanksgiving this suggests that he is going to lead “My hope and prayer is that Pope Benedict in clearly identifying BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI seeing what Pope Francis will bring the Church in a way that will call us Pope Francis, by his example and the secular push towards relativism, Visiting family in Calgary, Sister to the Church,” Perrault added. dramatically back to the simplicity by his pastoral leadership, will lead and in challenging the secular Teresita Kambeitz, OSU, first heard During a diocesan Vespers of the gospel, in its simple but us more deeply down that path of notion that there is no certain truth, that a pope was elected when her service March 14 at the Cathedral of profound proclamation of hope and lived discipleship, so that the good but only competing points of view. sister received the text “white the Holy Family, Fr. Tumback joy in Christ, and in its radical news might be heard throughout the “He was saying that long before I smoke” on her cell phone. As the reflected on the joy of Pope Francis’ invitation to live Christian world, and that those whose faith is could see it – and I think I am not a news about Pope Francis unfolded, appointment. discipleship deeply and freely,” said marked by doubt might come to a minority in that regard. He has Kambeitz said she was pleased with “This wonderful moment that we Bolen. deep trust in the integrity of the taught us something about the what she saw and heard. share today is one in which we as The morning after the Christian message – a trust in a challenges with which the secular “I was so touched by the sight of disciples are called to give of announcement, the bishop discipleship that is worth world confronts Christianity, and the crowd of 250,000 people in silent ourselves again: with renewed hope, celebrated Mass with staff at the everything, because it is of God and given us a language to face that prayer: how he asked them to bless renewed faith and renewed vigour, to Catholic Centre in Saskatoon, it is lasting,” said Bolen. challenge.” him,” she said of the scene in St. be agents of God in a world that is so reflecting on the Gospel of John 21, In doing so, Pope Benedict has Peter’s square March 13. desperately in need of God’s love,” in which Christ questions Peter Integrity of Benedict XVI also helped to open a path for “There is such a sense of joy to Tumback said. three times, urging him each time to The announcement that Pope dialogue with that secular culture. hear that we have a progressive pope “We have a man (as pope) who feed his sheep. Benedict XVI had taken the historic “He hasn’t done that alone, but I in the sense of outreach to the poor for the first time comes from outside “In that threefold call to love, step of resigning also prompted think in particular of the work of and marginalized,” Sr. Teresita Europe; it is the first time we are Peter is called in a way that draws reflection about his legacy. the Pontifical Council for Culture, added, reflecting on reports about the blessed with a Jesuit father in the seat to the forefront his denial, his Bolen descried Pope Emeritus the appointment of Cardinal new pontiff’s simple lifestyle and of Peter; we have a man who failure to follow Jesus, but which Benedict as a person of profound Gianfranco Ravasi and the creation commitment to the poor. “The man’s represents a part of the world that has reveals the profound forgiveness integrity. “I think his decision to of the ‘Court of the Gentiles’.” whole demeanor suggests to me a forever experienced ,” he that is given him in that moment of retire comes out of that integrity,” This new initiative –designed to gospel holiness, a humility.” described. deep calling,” said Bolen. “No said Bolen. “The Holy Father had foster dialogue between believers Having a pope from South “I remember the prophetic words and non-believers – was first America celebrating with youth at of the late great John Paul II when he proposed in a December 2009 World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro is spoke in Edmonton of the oppressed address by Pope Benedict XVI to something that diocesan Youth people of the world. He said ‘my the Roman Curia, in which he Ministry coordinator Colm Leyne is brothers and sisters, the day will spoke about the "Court of the eager to experience this summer. come when the poor south will reign Gentiles," a space in the ancient “I am really encouraged by his over the rich north.’ At one o’clock Temple of Jerusalem open to those witness of the gospel, how he was yesterday afternoon our time, the of any culture or religion. among the poor, living a simple life: poor south came to rule over the rich “What an excellent initiative: it that’s going to be a great witness,” north, but not in a way that in any models the way in which Christian Leyne said. way degrades any of us, but in the faith can faithfully and intelligently Reflecting on the moment when way in which God’s promise of be brought into dialogue with non- Pope Francis stepped out on the faithfulness is experienced in a new believers in a way which is balcony in St. Peter’s square, Leah and exciting way.” respectful,” said Bolen. “It is a way Perrault, diocesan director of This new moment in the life of forward, and it is preferable to Catholic Pastoral Services said: “I the Church represents a call to each simply complaining, or judging didn’t see his power, or his fame or of us to be present to the poor and the harshly, or lamenting. It’s a way all the things that he would do for us. suffering, and to be an instrument that is faithful to the gospel and the I saw a man who loves us like Jesus that will help “all our brothers and Pope Benedict XVI greets Bishop Don Bolen. call to give an account of our hope loves us.” sisters find in our Church a haven - Photo courtesy of L'Osservatore Romano in a respectful way in our day.” “I’m really looking forward to and a home,” Tumback said. Young diocesan priest reflects on legacy of Pope Benedict XVI BY FR. M ATTHEW RAMSAY This anecdote illustrates the diversity that who makes liberal/conservative categories following words, as a prayer to Mary, “Show PASTOR OF PARISHES AT DODSLAND , exists within the , and even superfluous. In his own words, “Being us Jesus. Lead us to him. Teach us to know and KERROBERT , L USELAND , M AJOR within the faculty of a single seminary. Pope Christian is not the result of an ethical choice love him, so that we too can become capable of (Originally published by The Globe and Mail) Benedict’s legacy reflects this diversity, which or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, true love and be fountains of living water in the is why our world has such a difficult time a person, which gives life a new horizon and a midst of a thirsting world.” His first papal Pope Benedict was elected around 9 a.m. pinning him down. decisive direction” (Deus Caritas Est 1 ). Maybe word was a prayer that Christians would know Pacific Time. I know this because at that time Was he conservative? He stood against he was a man in love, and the one he loved the love of Jesus and be able, in that love, to I was studying at Mount Angel Seminary in abortion, gay marriage, and the ordination of explodes our limiting human categories. love the world. Oregon, preparing for the Catholic priesthood. women. In the summer of 2011 I travelled to His last Urbi et Orbi Christmas message Between morning Mass and our first class, the Was he liberal? He spoke for the poor, Madrid with 30 Saskatoon college students to contains what is, for me, his greatest summary monastery bells began to ring. Knowing what condemned the Iraq war, and had solar panels see Pope Benedict at what we now know was of the Christian faith: “Only the God who is those bells meant, seminarians and faculty installed at the Vatican, hoping to make his last World Youth Day. love, and the love which is God, could choose gathered in front of whatever TV we could Vatican City the world’s first carbon neutral These students came from all sides of the to save us in this way.” By “this way,” the Pope find, turned on CNN, and waited to see who state. Catholic Church, daily Mass-goers to means the way of Incarnation—the way of had been elected. He argued against philosophical relativism Christmas and Easter (if that) attendees. taking on our humanity, living our life, and The reaction among the faculty when the and defended Catholic dogma. And he sought Seeing the Pope in person, one word stood out dying our death. name Ratzinger was announced was common ground with other Christians, Jews, for them: humility. Whether he greeted the To a world that didn’t always seem to care, mixed. Some were excited, as were most of the Muslims, atheists, and anyone willing to talk Spanish royal family, knelt in prayer, hid from Pope Benedict asked, What if this is true? seminarians. Others were quieter, concerned seriously. the rain under a white, papal umbrella, or was What if God exists? What if this God loves? he would be too conservative. Once the There are two ways of looking at such a applauded by a crowd of one million, the What if this love became man to be near you cheering, celebrating, and arguing was over, I man. Maybe he was confused, unwilling to impression remained: humility. Many of them and to bring you forever to himself? Most went to class. There my Benedictine monk pick a side, trying to please everyone. This is were surprised. The harsh, doctrinaire image importantly, if this love is true what can we do philosophy professor told us he was concerned doubtful, because each of these positions upset they had imbibed from CBC specials and their but live for it? because Ratzinger was such a liberal. many people. Rather, he followed a Master religious studies courses seemed far removed As a young priest, less than two years into from the smiling, grandfatherly man who had my ministry, this is the legacy I take from my With funding from the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, this newsletter is published by the come to see them. Holy Father. He challenged us to walk the way Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Editor: Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Communications Humility is a good word for this Pope, but of love. This was his way, but more Phone: (306) 659-5844 (office) or Toll free: 1-877-661-5005; Ext: 844 Fax: (306) 244-6010 for me another word better sums up his legacy. importantly it’s the way of Jesus. It’s the way Mail: 123 Nelson Road, Saskatoon, SK S7S 1H1; That word is love. His first encyclical, Deus of the Gospel. And it’s the way all Christians [email protected] www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com Caritas Est (God is Love), ends with the strive, stumbling, to follow. 4 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Diocesan Congress

Leadership focus of Congress Day 1 The structure and role of deanery councils was one of the topics of discussion at the Congress Day Keynote speaker Brett Powell of Catholic Christian Outreach 2 sessions held in three locations across the diocese. Humboldt deanery co-chairs Victor Granger presented sessions on leadership to pastors, parish and (left ) and Don Courchene ( right ), and Wadena co-chair Marion Sigstad were among the speakers at a deanery representatives at a diocesan-wide Congress Day Nov. Congress Day 2 session with Bishop Donald Bolen held March 2 at St. Augustine parish in Humboldt. 22 in Saskatoon. Congress Day planning committee member Saskatoon City Deanery chair Joe Simonot, Saskatoon Rural Deanery chair Lisette Fontaine and Madeline Oliver of St. College chaplaincy team Outlook Deanery Chair Bill Paslawski spoke at the Congress Day 2 event Feb. 2 at the Cathedral of was the MC for the diocesan event. Find more on the leadership the Holy Family in Saskatoon. Kerrobert Deanery Chair Stephen Kloster (below right) spoke at the vision presented at Congress on the website news archive at: Congress Day March 9 in Kindersley. Eatonia Deanery does not have a chair at the moment. www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm - Photos by K. Yaworski and B. Sittler Congress Day 2 repeated in three locations BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI gathering of all parish and ministry Parishes are also adjusting to meet (see chart, below ). “We are trying to A Congress Day was recently leaders in the fall ( see photo above the requirement of always having at strengthen the structures that the held in three locations across the left) , and a second day in the New least two adults present for bishop uses to listen well to his diocese of Saskatoon, offering Year, held in various centres across activities or pastoral outreach people,” explained Director of parishioners a chance to meet with the diocese and open to anyone involving youth or vulnerable Pastoral Services Leah Perrault. diocesan leaders to exchange interested, including deanery and persons. Each Congress Day 2 agenda information and ideas. parish pastoral council members, While some expressed dismay concluded with an experience of Held Feb. 2 in Saskatoon for the parishioners or members of groups that such policies are necessary, one faith enrichment that might be Outlook, Saskatoon City and such as the Knights of Columbus or parishioner in Saskatoon said his undertaken in this Year of Faith: a Saskatoon Rural deaneries; March 2 the CWL. community is enthusiastic about the screening and discussion about one in Humboldt for the Wadena and Discussion about the imple- document and the education episode of the 10-part video series Humboldt deaneries; and March 9 mentation of a recently-revised process. “It gives us an opportunity Catholicism by Fr. Robert Barron. in Kindersley for the Eatonia and diocesan policy began the day in to improve our image – the image And at each location, Eucharist was Kerrobert deaneries; Congress each location. The new Covenant of of our diocese, and the image of our celebrated to close the Congress Stephen Kloster, chair of “Day 2” included discussion of the Care and Sexual Abuse and church: and it is really about Day. Kerrobert Deanery Covenant of Care protocol, Misconduct Protocol addresses the creating a community that is safe, presentations on the deanery and care of vulnerable persons, and caring and compassionate,” he said. consultative structure of the outlines policies to prevent and The Congress Day also included diocese, and a Year of Faith address any abuse and misconduct. a presentation on the deanery enrichment session. Requirements such as a criminal structure, in an effort to Since 2010, the diocese has record check for anyone working increase awareness about the divided its annual Congress Days with vulnerable persons – including consultative bodies in into two portions – a one-day volunteers – are well underway. place in the diocese

Fr. Mick Fleming, CSsR, Priest Moderator at Our Lady of Guadalupe parish in Saskatoon shares his table’s response to questions about the diocesan Covenant of Care during a Congress Day Feb. 2 in Saskatoon.

Celebration of Mass at Congress Day for the Kerrobert and Eatonia deaneries was held at St. Joseph parish in Kindersley March 9, with (l-r ) Fr. Michel Bedard, pastor of parishes at Biggar and Landis; Fr. Johnny Mangalath, VC, pastor of parishes at unity and Tramping Lake; Bishop Don Bolen; Fr. Aloysius Anyichie, administrator of Religious, lay and clergy gathered together at St. Augustine parish in Humboldt for parishes at Wilkie, Handel and Leipzig; and Fr. Gerard Cooper, pastor of parishes at discussions at a diocesan Congress Day for the Humboldt and Wadena deaneries. Kindersley, Marengo and Eston. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 5 Covenant of Care / Development and Peace

BWY BLeAKsE SItTTeLErR n dioceses gather to discuss sexual abuconscerened paborut eimvplemeenntatiotni of new Eighteen people representing 13 dioceses policies, volunteer screening coordinator for in Western Canada, gathered March 7 at the the diocese of Calgary, Barbara Raleigh- Faithful Companions of Jesus Center in Smith, reported that the numbers of volunteer Calgary to discuss the respective diocesan visitors increased after new practices were policies on the prevention of sexual abuse and implemented. misconduct in the Church. The group was a mix of lay and ordained, The one-day event was a collaborative male and female, pastoral and financial effort of the Roman Catholic Dioceses of representatives. Calgary and Saskatoon. Participants said they appreciated the The purpose of the gathering was to opportunity to hear about the development of develop a network of those responsible for the good policies from the various perspectives development, implementation and education of those who attended. around the various protocols that exist to “When I hear the story about a priest create safe ministry environments in the wake [abusing a child], I mourn for that child and I of the sexual abuse crisis in the church. Representatives of western dioceses gathered March 7 in Calgary. am ashamed,” said one ordained participant. Some members of the group had only - Photo by Blake Sittler “We have to set a new, healthy example.” been working in the area for less than a year role in helping to develop some of the homes. It means that more preparation will be The group discussed the many issues that while others at the meeting had been involved boundaries being developed in that necessary to plan visits. are involved in implementing diocesan indirectly or directly in the field for nearly organization. He noted that some people Five steps to maintaining a safe policies and protocols. For instance, non- twenty years. resisted and most had difficulty with some of environment were outlined, and included diocesan groups ministering in the diocese “We have lost the trust of the culture and the new expectations around appropriate everything from screening to monitoring and must come to understand how they relate to community in which we minister,” began the styles of relating to the players. training. Information about common the policy practices. Audits of moderator, Deacon Stephen Robinson. “We He said that in all groups and grooming practices of potential abusers was implementation need to be done regularly. must work to rebuild that trust.”. organizations, there is a particular culture of also provided. Some practices, while benign Records of accusations, interviews, and Andrew Papenbrock, the director of the how things have always been done. Attempts on their own, are now being examined to Criminal Record Checks of all staff and Youth Evangelization Office for the to shift practice of any culture in a new way, ensure that they are not attempts at grooming. volunteers need to be maintained, not just archdiocese of Edmonton, began the day with even a healthier more transparent direction, Grooming is the active effort to create an while individuals are actively ministering but a formal presentation of the archdiocese’s will be met with resistance. unhealthily intimate relationship of trust that decades into the future. experience of implementing their policy. “We are trying to change culture,” he said. will allow a leader or person in authority to Chris Rigg, an insurance broker and “This was an opportunity to share best “And this is not an easy or quick thing to do.” manipulate the relationship in such a way that partner in the Capri Insurance Group also practices and mistakes that we’ve made along One of the most important changes that is abuse will be easier. spoke, discussing the importance of education the way,” said Papenbrock. “Whether we’ve taking place in every diocese represented is While some in ministry were initially and getting all partners on-board. been involved two months or twenty years, the evolving practice of ministers visiting in we all still feel like we’re just beginning to twos if there is no one else present with the Find the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon’s Covenant of Care deal with this issue.” person being visited. This will have very real Papenbrock told the story of his implications for priests and lay ministers who and Sexual Abuse and Misconduct Protocol online at: involvement with Softball Canada and his visit the sick and elderly in their private www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/covenantofcare/index.cfm

CWL welcomes solidarity visitor from Afghan women’s centre BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI women as a road to sustaining peace During a presentation March 15 and promoting democracy, at St. Anne Catholic parish in Hashemee explained to her Saskatoon, members of the Catholic Canadian audience. Women’s League – along with “We have a vision,” she said of friends, family members and fellow the organization that she helped to parishioners – learned more about establish. “Because in our culture the struggles of women in women are seen as passive victims. Afghanistan, and how a women’s We want to make them active agents organization supported by Canadian of positive change in their Catholics is making a difference. community and nation.” Some of those in attendance at the St. Anne event pose for a photo with Partawmina Hashemee. Partawmina Hashemee, direct- Life is difficult for women in - Photo by K. Yaworski or of the Afghan Women’s Resource Afghanistan, with widespread forward in 2004 when the country for children of very poor families, in grassroots level is important if we Centre, a partner organization poverty, she said, describing basic received a new constitution that which the mothers are engaged in want to change our country.” supported by the Canadian Catholic facts about the nation. Some 87 recognizes rights – for men and for vocational training, or learn about She expressed fears about the Organization of Development and percent of women are illiterate and women, she explained. nutritious food. international community’s plan to Peace (CCODP), was a Solidarity only about 30 per cent of girls have Now operating in six provinces The centre also offers classes in leave Afghanistan next year. The Visitor in from access to education – but even that of Afghanistan, the Afghan journalism, to give women the Afghanistan government is not March 4-18. She was the guest number is a vast improvement to the Women’s Resource Centre uses a capacity to raise their voices; classes strong enough to stand alone, she speaker at a Lenten poverty supper “darkest time for women in number of strategies to promote in management, so that women can said, adding that negotiations are at St. Anne parish, hosted by the Afghanistan” from 1996 to 2001, gender equality, education and get involved in decision-making; as going on with the Taliban. CWL. during the civil war when the improving livelihood for women, well as classes in computers and She asked her listeners to Established in 1989 in Pakistan Taliban took power over much of Hashemee described. English, Hashemee listed. Programs encourage Canada to continue to as an outreach to Afghan women the country, and rights disappeared. “We believe education is the key that will enhance the livelihood of play a role in supporting peace and living as refugees, the Afghan Even with the Taliban removed to women’s empowerment and self women and their families – democracy in Afghanistan. “We Women’s Resource Centre is from power, cultural barriers con- sufficiency.” The centres for women beekeeping, kitchen gardening, food want you to raise your voice,” she dedicated to gender equality and the tinue for women in Afghanistan. offer home-based literacy programs processing – are also offered. said. “We don’t want the dark time education and empowerment of However there was a great step for women; as well as kindergarten “We believe that our work at the back.” Rachel’s Vineyard participant shares testimony about post-abortion healing My name is Molly, and it was a little more pew, wondering if people could see that it was saw myself, dirty and unlovable. Rachel’s Vineyard Ministries believes that than two years ago when our Lord placed in me to whom he was speaking. I told myself he I continued to feel God’s presence in the Jesus calls us to walk with him and to spread my ear a call to a vineyard. had to be talking to someone else, that it leaders who guided us through the weekend. the news of his forgiveness. I am grateful for By coming back to the Church with a couldn’t be me because I didn’t need to bring it When I finally emptied myself of all the pain, the gift of support it offers to singles and granddaughter who came to live with my all back up again. I had buried it so long ago. I felt Jesus wrap his arms around me and weep couples, men and women alike, all ages and husband and me, it all began. In a simple Answering every reason I gave not to go, I with me. Jesus took my hand and told me that faiths. You can help by becoming informed on homily, 30-plus years of denial about my eventually gave in. I finally laid down the fear he loved me and that I was forgiven. He asked what Rachel’s Vineyard is about. You can abortion was awakened. How did this priest I blanketed myself with so long ago, fear that I me to forgive myself and told me that a very become educated in life before birth. It is likely know to reach into my heart and squeeze it? used to deny my access to my Lord. dear child in heaven was praying for me and many of us are connected in some way to “God’s desire,” he said, “is to grant us I went to the weekend retreat, and through was waiting to be reunited with me. When my abortion, as one in four men or women is mercy, forgiveness and love, softening our the living scriptures, I came face to face with tears slowed down, I found that all I hated in suppressing this trauma in their life. hardened hearts so that we can repent and have Jesus. As I shared with the group, I myself seemed to be dying, and thoughts of I believe God wants us to love each other, eternal life with him.” The priest was telling us remembered all the sins that piled up over the new life, filled with his love, rose up in me. He reach out to each other, and bring those in pain about Rachel’s Vineyard, a confidential years and with my eyes closed, feeling turned something ugly and sinful into a joyful to the path of his mercy. weekend retreat for people exposed to vulnerable, afraid and full of shame, I cried and beautiful awakening of God’s love and (Reprinted from the Life in Focus Newsletter. abortion. I found myself shrinking down in the once more in fear that God would see me as I mercy. Contact Rachel’s Vineyard at: (306) 480-8911. 6 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Justice and Peace To live as one human family: ‘ Idle No More’ and Catholic Social Teaching BY MYRON ROGAL local church, we tend to grow work of Idle No More. “The poor OFFICE FOR JUSTICE AND PEACE comfortable in theological, Justice and Peace have the first claim in our personal At a recent social justice academic and ideological ghettos: is supported by the: and social resources. The church conference in Saskatoon, Mary Jo places where we disregard our does not pit one group against Leddy referenced Northrop Frye in neighbour at times to the extent of another but instead follows the a phrase that it is “a colonial trap to indifference. We tend to look not for example of our Lord who is poor define ourselves by what we are the truth our neighbour speaks, but and vulnerable.” (USCCB, 1986 Econo- against.” How often have we as how their truth is a siege on the truth mic Justice For All ) Coordinator individuals and as a collective body we hold. Pacem in Teris #30 reflects fallen into these clever trappings? Father Raymond De Souza conception, life, death and eternal many rights that are being petitioned Justice and Peace Parts of our society feed on, recently mentioned in an interview life in Christ’s Paschal Mystery. for in the Idle No More movement, thrive, and attempt to survive with that the Church is “used to Catholic Social Teaching takes such as the right to water and the Myron Rogal the sustenance of division. In our persecution.” Indifference on the the long road; it is highly idealistic right to social services. Caritas in other hand, is the new persecution. and eternally hopeful. Idle No More, Veritate #43 makes explicit that A contemporary band named The clearly reflecting four of the seven these rights are not an excess, or Principles and Themes Lumineers allude in their music that pillars of Catholic Social Teaching, entitlement, but basic. the opposite of love is indifference. sheds light on the gospel. Treaty rights, for example, are of Catholic Social Teaching The story of God’s people reminds Idle No More, now out of the not a one-way street, they ought to Catholic Social Teaching is grounded in scripture and the gospel us in Genesis 4:9 where Abel is fog of media attention, is committed lead us into consultation, dialogue, of Jesus Christ. It is contained in a range of church documents: asked where is his brother, to which to the long road, a road that has common prayer and friendship. from Pope Leo XII’s encyclical “ Rerum Novarum ” to the documents Abel replies: “I do not know; am I many curves, is not often clear, has We are all treaty people. It is of Vatican II, as well as the writings of John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Catholic Social Teaching is not a my brother’s keeper?” many parts, and frequent decoys. It important to name (as the movement fixed doctrine, but has focused on major themes that have evolved Evangelium Vitae #19 in is the road of peace, marked with the has clearly stated) that this is not in response to challenges of the day and the “ Signs of the Times. ” response reminds us that “God prayer of the sacred round dance: about money; money can make Principles and themes of Catholic Social Teaching include: entrusts us to one another.” Jesus the movement is relentlessly problems deeper, and no justice challenges us to “love our neighbour idealistic and believes that real issue is ultimately about money. • Life and the Dignity of the Human Person - as we love ourselves.” (Luke 10: 27 ) change can happen on this side of Environmental movements at We thus know who our neighbours heaven. Idle No More is igniting the times can point fingers and lack are, however it is the “how” that message of Jesus to the people in hope. First Nations people have a requires a workout. reminding us of our responsibility to beautifully harmonious under- Every G.K Chesterton once wrote that justice and relationship. standing of living in relationship person is created in the image of God, and every person is “the only benefit we deserve is the To be one human family is not a with all life around us, without •pr Techieou Cso. mAllm socnia Gl loawods, aprnadc ttichees aCnadll itnost iFtautmioinlys , must benefit of the doubt.” If we practice burden or an impulse toward petty disconnect. There exists a true love Cproomtemct u–nniotty u anndder Pmainrtei c–iphuamtioann li-f e and human dignity, charity towards our neighbours in charity, but a gift. “Solidarity is not story for the environment, one from conception through natural death. freedom, not blinded by semantics, a feeling of vague compassion or which we are full participants. we will uncover and fall in love with shallow distress at the misfortunes Pope Benedict XVI Emeritus the living truth in each human being of so many people, both near and writes in his book The Environment We are social beings who and even each grouping of human far. On the contrary, it is a firm and that “ultimately whatever we do to realize our dignity and human potential within families and beings: “seek and ye shall find.” persevering determination to com- the environment we do to communities. The family is the basic cell of society; it must be (Matthew 7:7 ) mit oneself to the common good; ourselves.” supported. Government has the mission of protecting human What has been found, or rather that is to say, to the good of all and Idle No More presents an life, promoting the common good of all persons, and defending what is already present, is that the of each individual, because we are enveloping and holistic outlook on all really responsible for all.” the right and duty of all to participate in social life. Every Holy Spirit is flourishing in our the environment that unites, invites midst. “Idle No More” is a (Sollicitudo rei Socialis, #38 ) questions and is bringing in freshly •in dRiivgihdutsa la hnads aR deustpyo tno ssihbairliet ien sp -romoting the welfare of democratic movement representing, Solidarity brings to our cross-pollinated perspectives. the community and a right to benefit from it. This is true at as one of the founders described: awareness an empathic outlook, Idle No More breathes life into every level, local, national and international. pro-democracy, pro-environment breaking us out of selfishness – it our community and Church as the The Church upholds both and pro-human rights. The scope of moves us out of the mindset of movement brings to the light with personal responsibility and social rights. The right to life is issues represented appears as a victim and aggressor into dialogue, expounding energy the suffering of understanding and friendship fundamental and includes a right to food, clothing, shelter, rest, flurry on their Facebook site, yet our neighbours and the injustices these three broad principles serve as The reality of human solidarity, that we hide in ourselves. medical care, and essential social services. Every person has • Option for the Poor and Vulnerable - the umbrella which all else stems which is a benefit for us, also We are called not to hide from the right to raise a family and the duty to support them. Human from, a grassroots base. imposes a duty. “Many people today suffering, to live with the lepers, dignity demands religious and political freedom and the duty In a way, we have become would claim that they owe nothing work with our enemies, to see the (cf. Mt 25:31-46). to exercise these rights for the common good of all persons. accustomed to more polarized to anyone, except to themselves. Christ right in front of us and remain The Church movements that we can swiftly They are concerned only with their relentlessly hopeful in the search for rights, and they often have great follows the example of our Lord, who identified himself with support, or dismiss, that have clear truth. short term goals, that are focused on difficulty in taking responsibility for Idle No More points us not only the poor and the vulnerable Giving priority “them.” What is clear about Idle No their own and other people’s integral to injustice but to truth. Join this concern to the poor and the vulnerable strengthens the health • The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers - More is that the focus is all of us. development.” (#43 Caritas in Veritate ) universal community of change by of the whole society. The human life and dignity of the poor Catholic Social Teaching, Rights and responsibilities and watching announcements for up- are most at risk. The poor have the first claim on our instructs us that the cycle of life is the option for the poor are coming events in your neighbour- personal and social resources. not birth, life, and death, but intertwined in the pro-human rights hood and consider participating.

Workers have rights to decent work, just wages, safe working conditions, unionization, disability protection, •re Stiurebmsiednita sreitcyu rity and economic initiative. The economy exists for the human person; the human person does not exist for the economy. Labour has priority over capital. • Solidarity - All power and decision-making in society should be at the -m ost local level possible, compatible with the common good We are .one human family, whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic and ideological differences. There is a universal common good that reaches beyond national borders to the global community. Solidarity recognizes that the peoples of the earth are linked. •So Cliadraeri tfyo re Gquoidre’s rCicrheeart inoanti o- ns to aid poorer ones, commands respect for different cultures, demands justice in international relationships, and calls on all nations to live in peace with one another. We show our respect for

the CTrheisa tsourm bmya royu wr asst ecwomaprdilesdh iups ionfg cerxecaetripotns .f rHoumm twaon sw aebresi ta es: part owf wcrwe.actaiothno iltisceslfo. cWiael tmeaucsht ilnivge. oinrg h.uakrm/porinnyc iwpiltehs /thae nd: rewswt wof. ucsrcecabti.orng a/bnedli epfrse-saenrdv-ete iat cfhoirn fgust/uwrhea gt-ewnee-rbaetliioenves./catholic- -social-teaching/seven-themes-of-catholic-social-teaching.cfm Idle No More event held near Saskatoon’s Vimy Memorial. - Photo by John Lagimodiere, Eagle Feather News Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 7 Justice and Peace Document highlights recent Church teaching on the environment BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI engage in other work for the common good.” should be capable of responding to the basic benefits do not have a negative impact on A new Canadian bishops’ document It is a holistic model of social engagement needs of present and future generations. This living creatures, human and not, present and summarizing themes of recent church that places each issue within the broad vision attention constitutes an essential dimension of future; that the protection of private property teaching on the environment is an urgent cry of the common good, inspired by Jesus’ solidarity between generations.” does not conflict with the universal for action, says Bishop Donald Bolen of the teaching on the kingdom of God, and “by the Responses to current environmental destination of goods; that human activity does Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. notion that we are in a covenantal relationship problems cited by the bishops’ document not compromise the fruitfulness of the earth, “Recent church teaching and papal with all of creation (as we hear in Genesis 9: include the urgent need for action, a need for for the benefit of people now and in the statements are clearly telling us that the way 9-10) as well as with all human beings,” he policy development to protect the future.” we are living is not sustainable,” said Bolen, stressed. environment against selfish interests, whether The document invites human beings to a one of the bishops on the Canadian bishops’ In the past decade, the Canadian Catholic corporate or individual; and a need for stance of wonder before the created world, Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace, Conference of Bishops (CCCB) social affairs international cooperation and policies that go added Bolen. “This profound wonder is what which released the new resource April 8 commission has released two pastoral letters beyond borders. can motivate us to care properly for the entitled Building a New Culture: Central addressing the Christian ecological The document also states that the costs of environment, and it also points us to God’s Themes in Recent Church Teaching on the imperative (2003) and “ Our Relationship implementing policies to address environ- presence in creation.” Environment. with the Environment: The Need for mental problems should “lie primarily with As the document states, quoting a 2002 “Care of the environment is a growing Conversion ” (2008). The latest document the states who bear responsibility for the statement from Blessed John Paul II: area of concern for the Church and for all from the Episcopal Commission for Justice problem in the first place and not with those “Through the human person, spokesman for human beings, and in fact the Church has and Peace is described as a resource, offering states who are its victims and who represent all creation, all living things praise the Lord. been speaking about this – and in particular, an overview of Church teaching. the poorest populations.” Our breath of life that also presupposes self- recent have been speaking about this – “The unique contribution of this The bishops’ message also calls on those knowledge, awareness and freedom becomes not only with regularity, but with passion,” document is to say: these are the principles in developed nations to reduce their the song and prayer of the whole of life that said Bolen. we would invite you to draw on as you go consumption of goods, citing a message for vibrates in the universe.” Bolen noted that it is important to forth and engage in this issue and as you take the World Day of Peace 2010 in which The complete document can be found understand the genre of the document. Rather action,” said Bolen. Benedict XVI stated: “Natural resources online at: www.cccbpublications.ca or call 1- than addressing specific government policies, The document highlights teaching by should be used in such a way that immediate 800-769-1147. it lays out guiding principles for Catholic John Paul II and Benedict XVI “who both engagement on such issues. spoke very strongly and wisely on this A reflection on human health and the evanishment, and the “The bishops are trying to foster a mature subject,” Bolen said. Christian call to care for creation was presented Feb. 12 at Queen’s House church, where educated, passionately The document distills eight foundational by Dr. Dennis O’Hara. For coverage see the diocesan website at: committed, well-informed will take the themes from recent papal teaching on the lead in addressing these critical issues of the environment, namely: www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm day,” he said. • Human beings are creatures made in For those who believe the environmental God’s image; crisis is not the Church’s concern, the • Creation has an intrinsic order; document will hopefully serve as a wake up call, encouraging them to become responsibly • Human ecology and its relationship to engaged, he said. environmental ecology; Yet it does so not by entering into debate • Responsible stewardship; about particular strategies, but by setting forth • Care for the environment is a moral issue; a vision, he said. “It makes clear that for • Solidarity; Catholics, the care of the environment is part of a larger vision. We want to situate the • Creation and spirituality; environmental issue within this vast vision of • Responses to current environmental what we are called to on this earth,” Bolen problems. said, describing how the new document Within those eight themes, the document makes connections between different areas of affirms that there is a significant moral responsibility for Christians. environmental crisis, that this is an urgent “It makes connections between care for situation, and that human beings must change the environment and economic issues,” he their behaviour to become faithful stewards explained. of God’s sacred creation, described Bolen. “It Participants in 40 Hours for Life gathered each day from Ash Wednesday to Palm “It makes connections between is critiquing our society’s preoccupation with Sunday for an hour outside Saskatoon City Hospital – praying for an end to environmental responsibility and concern short term economic interests and the selfish abortion. - Photos by Denise Hounjet Roth with human beings, especially those in quest for pleasure or profit,” he said. greatest need, especially the poor and the In the words of John Paul II, quoted in the marginalized. It makes connections between document: “I encourage public authorities Forty hours of witness in Lent: environmental work and the promotion of and all men and women of good will to dignity of all human beings, and protection of question themselves about their daily human life from conception to natural death. attitudes and decisions, which should not be praying for end to abortion BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI “God used 40-day periods to transform “And it challenges the Catholic dictated by an unlimited and unrestrained Lent arrived early and winter is staying individuals and communities and the entire community to make those connections as we quest for material goods without regard for late – but that did not deter dozens of world. During these 40 days of prayer, address environmental concerns or as we the surroundings in which we live, and which people from holding a daily prayer vigil in fasting and peaceful activism, we seek to February and March, outside a Saskatoon change the hearts and minds from a culture hospital where abortions are performed. of death to a culture of life,” she said. Known as “ 40 Hours for Life ” the event involves participants spending an hour each day in a peaceful vigil on the sidewalk outside Saskatoon City Hospital. The event ran for 40 days, from Ash Wednesday, Feb. 13 to Palm Sunday, March 24. Participants prayed for an end to abortion and provided a public witness to the value of each unborn child. The 2013 event went well, reported Denise Hounjet-Roth of Campaign Life Saskatchewan, with about 10 to 20 people participating each day. “There are some The Saskatoon March for Life family groups that come almost every day, (pictured above) will be held this year and others on one day a week.” from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Mother’s Day, Members of Catholic Christian Sunday, May 12 along College Drive in Outreach were among the regular Saskatoon. Signs are provided and participants during the Lenten season. following the walk there will be short Such youth involvement is Social Justice since Vatican II presentation and refreshments. For info encouraging, she noted. For instance, the The heart and history of the Second Vatican Council and its abiding impact on contact Denise at (306) 249-2764 or e- youth group from the Trinity pastoral the search for social justice and the common good was explored from a range of mail: [email protected] perspectives March 8-9 at St. Thomas More College in Saskatoon. Sponsored by region of Catholic parishes at Vonda, Prud’homme and St. Denis came out this the Catholic college’s newly-established Leslie and Irene Dubé Chair for Catholic The Provincial March for Life will be year, as did members of the Catholic Studies, the two-day conference brought together some 100 participants to held Thursday, May 9 with a gathering ConQuest Catholic Boys Club. listen and reflect on how Vatican II involved a “turning to the world” for the at 1 p.m. at the Saskatchewan Legislature Catholic Church. Seated in the front row at the conference opening are (l-r): Again this year there were some in Regina, followed by prayer, greetings, speakers Dr. Catherine Clifford and Bishop Emeritus Remi De Roo, with counter protesters gathering nearby on addresses and a march along Albert Saskatoon Bishop Don Bolen, speaker Dr. Duggan and STM President some afternoons, noted Hounjet. Street. Those needing transportation can Dr. Terry Downey. For more coverage see the news archive at: The mission continued: rain, snow or contact Louis at (306) 249-2764. www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm shine, she said. 8 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Holy Family vision includes outreach and mission BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI to on a mission trip through the Broken Wings ministry established Partnering with the Saskatoon in Haiti by Saskatchewan resident Friendship Inn to provide concrete Peter Eyvindson. local outreach to those in need is one Engaging in a visioning process part of a new vision being is already helping the parish to implemented by the Cathedral of the focus, said Clarke. “We truly are Holy Family parish community. focusing on areas where we can The parish has committed itself make a difference, recognizing that to serve meals at the local soup we can’t be all things to all people,” kitchen one day a month. As well, he says. the “loose” collection from “I think sometimes that is where Christmas Masses at the Cathedral churches go wrong: we try to do of the Holy Family – amounting to everything, and we wind up doing a some $16,000 – was recently lot of things poorly. If you narrow donated to the Friendship Inn. your focus, you can perhaps do a The generous response of few things with great impact.” parishioners in stepping forward and Clarke adds that in everything signing up to volunteer to serve at related to the parish vision, there is the Friendship Inn has been a strong focus on the parish’s extremely moving, says Holy identity as a “holy family” – a Family pastor Rev. David Tumback. community of love and belonging. “We do recognize that we are in By intentionally choosing the solidarity with the poor. So having On a snowy Saturday in February, a team of 13 volunteers of all ages from the Cathedral of the Holy Friendship Inn, for instance, the that very concrete service provided Family in Saskatoon were serving meals at the Friendship Inn. - Photo by K. Yaworski faith community is being asked to by our parishioners at the Friendship journey with others, Tumback Inn, answering a need right here in support the Friendship Inn came liturgies this fall, the parish youth range of events and faith enrichment stresses. our city – and their willingness to about) and making a difference ministry coordinator Anthony activities; and the parish is also “It means that we have to totally step up to help – it all speaks to that beyond our borders. In terms of Olusola worked with administration working on engaging more people in eradicate the walls of solidarity,” Tumback says. He added international outreach, connection from four elementary schools in the the diocesan Lay Formation discrimination, racism, and all of that he hopes such concrete, personal and mission, the parish is working to parish attendance area to have program, recognizing the contribu- those kinds of things that have to action will help build understanding establish a relationship with Bunda students assist at the Friendship Inn tions that those graduates make to come down before we can build and overcome perceptions of an diocese in Tanzania, he says. once a week during Lent, noted building up the life of the parish relationships,” Tumback says. east-west divide in the city. “What was most important to us Clarke. community, says Clarke. “We do this with a great hope “Making a difference in our was that making a difference in our The other two priorities In the priority area of Youth that as we break down barriers with world” was one of three priorities world was not just about raising identified in the parish visioning Ministry, Olusola is aiming to make the poor and we break down identified in a parish visioning funds, giving cash and wiping our process were faith formation and sure youth are “active tomorrow, barriers with those in other parts of process launched when the Holy hands,” says Tumback, “but it is also youth ministry, he reports, starting today,” says Clarke. the world, that it will all be part of Family parish moved into their new about relationships. With Friendship explaining how the process included Youth gatherings, dances, and breaking down walls, including cathedral home just over a year ago, Inn, it’s about giving up time to go surveys and “Town Hall” meetings groups for all ages are being offered walls among our brothers and explains Cathedral Administrator Pat and serve meals throughout the that attempted to engage the entire at Holy Family. The parish is also sisters who share our Christian Clarke. year.” parish, which in recent months has challenging young people to make a faith, and our brothers and sisters of Within that particular priority, In addition to teams of grown to include 1,900 families. difference in the world: in addition other faiths, so that we can all walk there are two focuses: making a Friendship Inn volunteers who In the priority area of faith to the participation of youth in the in solidarity, together in the beauty difference in the local community signed up in a matter of minutes in formation, coordinator Andy Friendship Inn initiative, 10 senior of God’s creation … it’s all part of (which is how the decision to the welcome area following Sunday Korvemaker has been organizing a high youth and five adults will travel the larger goal.” Refugee sponsorship is part of St. Philip Neri vision BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI are both deaf, have three young children, and Welcoming the stranger is one key struggle with literacy, numeracy and Others involved in refugee sponsorship (either full sponsorships element of a parish vision recently American Sign Language. or in partnership with sponsoring families) under the diocesan implemented at St. Philip Neri in Saskatoon. Parish refugee committee member Sheila Sponsorship Agreement include: Holy Spirit, Our Lady of Lourdes, As part of a parish visioning process, a Flory said she originally got involved in the St. Augustine, Sacred Heart Chaldean, St. Francis Xavier, and priority to engage in “intentional outreach” parish refugee sponsorship committee St. Mary parishes, as well as St. Patrick Knights of Columbus, as “a response to Christ’s call to touch our because she wanted to support and promote the Ursuline sisters, and many other constituent groups. world” has included a long-term and social justice. dedicated commitment to welcoming and “When I heard the stories of the refugees’ June Rivard of Our Lady of Lourdes explain s: “We are all called by Jesus sponsoring refugees, as well as supporting lives before they came to Canada, I realized to care for those less fortunate whether it be a matter of hunger, isolation or the work of a local initiative in Saskatoon’s we had not only made a real difference in persecution ... The more I became involved, the more my passion and my love core neighbourhood called The Bridge on their lives – it made a real difference in my 20th. life. I became much more appreciative of the grew for all of the newcomers I have been privileged enough to have met. ” Right now, the parish and its refugee freedoms that we enjoy – and take for sponsorship committee are busy providing granted.” commitment falls to a small group of some just donate money or goods, and not get extraordinary support to a refugee family Generally, the parish refugee committee four to six who carry through until the personally involved. from Iraq (who arrived in Canada via begins a sponsorship with some 15-20 completion of the sponsorship, noted Flory. But this parish outreach comes down to Damascus and Amman). The parents, who members, but as time goes on, the Each person is critical to the successful the gospel imperative to “welcome the outcome of the sponsorship, as is the support stranger,” she said. “That is what we are called of the parish, she said. to do – ‘whatsoever you do to the least of “Most of us are complacent in our safe, these in need.’ This is an active expression of secure environment, we don’t have a real our faith and our belief.” appreciation for what people in other parts of Both Nordick and Flory say they the world have to deal with on a daily basis. appreciate the assistance and advice provided Working with refugees certainly opens our to parish committees by the diocesan eyes.” coordinator of the Migration Office, Ellen Parishioner Mary Nordick has been Erickson, who oversees issues related to the involved in refugee sponsorship for years, diocese of Saskatoon’s sponsorship agreement beginning when the Southeast Asian “Boat with the government. People” were arriving in Canada. “All of our refugee work comes under the “This is a chance to give people a new Sponsorship Agreement Holder, which is the life,” she says of the sponsorship outreach. diocese of Saskatoon,” said Nordick. “And we probably gain as much as they do. It “Joyfully Building Up the Church” is the Breast Friends cookbook wins top prize reminds us of the importance of some things. mission statement of St. Philip Neri parish. In The “Breast Friends” cookbook phenomenon was recently highlighted on the international You certainly learn about the resilience of the addition to the “intentional outreach” of stage as their fifth publication “Breast Wishes for the Men in Our Lives” won the top prize human spirit when you hear what some of the having an active committee undertaking in the charity-fund raising cookbook category at the Gourmand Awards held Feb. 23 in refugees have gone through.” refugee sponsorships and supporting the Paris, France. Dedicated to men’s prostate cancer awareness, the latest cookbook had also The greatest need of the refugees who Bridge on 20th in various ways, other previously won the Gourmand Award for top charity cookbook in Canada. The Breast arrive in our community is friendship, said priorities of the parish vision include creating Friends cookbook series is an initiative of 10 women from Foam Lake, SK., responding to the devastating impact of cancer on so many lives. The books have raised about $1.3 Nordick. “The simplest thing is to be friends: a vibrant parish community by facilitating million, donated to cancer research, equipment, patient needs, awareness and prevention. talk with them, share experiences: that is more faith development; and building parish Eight of the women were able to travel to Paris for the awards ( l-r ): Darlene Cooper, Val important than anything else we do.” community through initiatives such as Helgason, Jacquie Klebeck, Linda Helgason, Cecile Halyk, Anne Reynolds, Patti Hack, and Sometimes it is also the hardest thing to do, increasing the number of Small Christian Nat Dunlop. Photo courtesy of www.breastfriends.ca she added, pointing out that it can be easier to Communities in the parish. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 9 Restorative Ministry Grieving program addresses unresolved feelings, brings healing BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI such as clay and paint, as well as ones who have died are written and A prison ministry program to journalling about feelings, and the then placed ceremonially into a fire; help inmates deal with grief and creation of a box as a place to hold signs of grieving are buried; and at trauma is bringing healing and what is created throughout the the end, participants engage in a changing lives. process. “The box becomes where movement session, with fringed The grief support program they keep their grief, and when they arm bands flying as they leap, dance being offered at Saskatoon want to deal with it, they open it and “fly” with a new-found sense of Correctional Centre to different up,” explained Dianne. freedom. groups of men each month includes The results fill the team with Asked about the program’s music, meditation, journalling, hope. “I am just amazed by these impact, Yvonne points to some of therapeutic art, and sacred rituals. guys and what they have done, how the many positive words written by Diocesan Restorative Ministry far they’ve come and the participants themselves in their coordinator Dianne Anderson and transformation that takes place,” evaluations: volunteer Yvonne Powell both said Dianne. “This is the first time dealing with received grief support training last She recalls one young inmate, my trigger to disaster and its been year from Dr. Jane A. Simington of whose 16-year-old sister committed holding me and my family from Taking Flight International . They suicide. “He had never ever dealt moving forward.” are now regularly providing the Dianne Anderson, Yvonne and Russ Powell (l-r) with grief boxes with the pain. It was just buried, and program to inmates with the help of created by men in the program. - Photo by K. Yaworski he’s been so angry. By the end of “It gave me a chance to look at Yvonne’s husband Russ, and a the program, he had worked what I need to deal with in life.” prison ministry coordinator from deaths of family and friends, but it way to offer something more than through his feelings. He made a Mennonite Central Committee. also stems from other losses: loss of just one-on-one listening, said Russ. figurine of her – he just made it so “I am now able to think about my When providing ministry at the freedom, loss of a childhood, or “It is a bigger and more bright, so beautiful and created grievances and how to work them prison, it soon becomes obvious traumatic incidents, said Russ. comprehensive and more human flowers that are there for her like a out, rather than dwell on them with that most of the men have suffered “There is always grief in way of dealing with the problem. garden… saying he now just wants anger and sadness.” losses and experienced often-severe there… and we can clearly see that This is very intentional and it gives to let her fly. He doesn’t want to “It helped me and made me realize trauma, says Yvonne. “I was hoping they’re not dealing with it,” said them tools to work with the hold her now, he wants to let her go. that I needed this and maybe if I that this program would help to heal Dianne. feelings,” he said. He just blossomed: it was amazing knew about this class a long time some of the deep wounds in their The program, which has so far Those tools include visualizing to watch the change in him.” ago and how to use these tools, past.” been offered three times at and expressing grief in a variety of As part of the process there are maybe certain stuff in my life The grief is often related to the Saskatoon Correctional Centre, is a ways, including creative outlets ritual moments: letters to loved would have been different.” Blessings of ministry at Correctional Centre BY KERI KOTYK people care. It isn’t so much the ST. A NNE ’S PARISH , S ASKATOON chocolate bunny or the socks and For several years I felt a note pad, it’s that someone actually tugging at my heart – a calling if came and cared enough to visit. you will – to get involved in prison When we open up the Prayers ministry. For that same several of the Faithful at our service, you years, I “ran like hell” in the other know what these gentlemen pray direction! Why would I want to get for? Sure they pray for their involved with prisoners, they’re families, etc., but they also pray for bad people, right? their enemies, for peace, for those Wrong. I finally came to the suffering under addictions, and for realization that these are not bad us, the volunteers who come there. people, but good people who have They are amazing men! Bishop Donald Bolen blesses worshippers during Easter Sunday Mass at the Correctional Centre. made some bad decisions, not My favourite Bible passage is - Photos courtesy D. Anderson unlike the rest of us. Matthew 25:31-46 about our get involved and be truly blessed. I have since been involved with judgment day: “Come, you that are I also think that society needs to St. Anne’s Prison Ministry team, blessed by my Father, inherit the take this a step further. Instead of going out to the Saskatoon Kingdom prepared for you from the sending the men out on Miller Correctional Centre every five or foundation of the world; for I was Avenue with their garbage bag of six weeks and helping with the hungry and you gave me food, I all their worldly possessions to Catholic lay-led service. was thirsty and you gave me catch a bus when their sentence is I have enjoyed the Stations of something to drink, I was a stranger done, we need to provide a home, the Cross with the inmates on Holy and you welcomed me, I was naked food and support for a transition Thursday, had fun playing Easter and you gave me clothing, I was period for each one of them. Many Bunny and distributing chocolate sick and you took care of me, I was have nowhere to go, and thus, bunnies to all the gentlemen, then in prison and you visited me.” return to their old lives, the lives celebrating Easter Mass with them I think that sometimes we that brought them to the and Bishop Don, and playing Santa forget this part about those in Correctional Centre in the first Claus on Christmas Day, giving a prison. place. small gift to everyone, and again, The blessings I get back from For more information about celebrating Christmas Mass with these gentlemen are far greater than ways to assist with prison ministry the men and with Bishop Don. anything I can give. I encourage contact Dianne Anderson, diocesan anyone who is still “running like These men, some so lost and coordinator of Restorative Ministry Volunteers donned bunny ears and Easter bonnets to deliver hell in the other direction” to stop, lonely, light up when they find that at (306) 659-5845 . chocolate rabbits to all the prisoners on Easter Sunday. Messages from prisoners at Saskatoon Correctional Centre about the work of Restorative Ministry (names have been withheld) “I am writing this letter to tell you how much Dianne Anderson has helped me get through this time in jail. She has given me guidance Restorative Ministry and spiritual strength with her wisdom, faith, and unconditional love is supported by the for us all. She makes so many inmates smile and have a new outlook on how we treat each other, and staff, everybody, but most important, ourselves and our family relationships on the street, outside of prison. She gives me hope I have never quite known before.”

“What does it mean to me for Dianne Anderson to come into the Correctional Centre to see us inmates? For me it is a sign that someone cares and gives me hope and the strength to forgive and stay alive in here. Before I started to go to chapel, I felt depressed, upset, and I felt that life wasn’t worth living anymore. I go to chapel to open up to God and now the thoughts of ending my life are gone. My girlfriend noticed that I have changed. If there was no one to come and spend time with us, there would be no peace in the Correctional. Dianne has shown us to move forward, to forgive, and she has helped us heal in our hearts. The Stations of the Cross were prayed outdoors at the Saskatoon I thank the chaplains and Dianne for coming in to help us. Thanks so much for helping me change my life.” Correctional Centre during Holy Week. - Photos courtesy D. Anderson 10 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Christian Initiation and Catechetics

Easter Vigil in Wadena Fr. Fred Caylan ( above, left ) welcomes two newly-received candidates at the Easter Vigil at St. Mary’s parish in Wadena where they made a profession of faith, were confirmed and welcomed to the Table of the Lord. Two young children were also baptized during the joyful celebration ( photo at left ). - Photos by Susanne Byman

Rite of Election Stanley Riehl (second from right) of Immaculate Heart of Mary parish in Outlook was among the catechumens welcomed by Bishop Don Bolen Feb. 17 at the Rite of Election held at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, pictured here with his sponsor Lawrence Kardash and RCIA team members Maxine Prentice, Marguerite Chomyshen and Donna Kardash. Outlook catechism service project Students involved in catechism classes at Immaculate Heart of Mary parish in Outlook recently participated in a service project to raise funds for Chalice, a Catholic sponsorship and development program (www.chalice.ca). With support from the parish, over $500 was raised for the purchase of equipment and small farm animals for families in the Third World. - Photo by Lisa Clark

Harley Jones of St. John Bosco parish in Saskatoon was welcomed at the 2013 Rite of Election in Saskatoon. - Photos by Tim Yaworski

Chancellor Kroeger ( right) of Preparing for sacraments and reaffirmation of faith St. Andrew parish, Kenaston, Christian Initiation A young parishioner in the pew watches as children preparing for sacraments, along with junior watches as his sponsor signs and Catechetics and senior “ Steps in Faith ” participants, presented commitment contracts to Fr. Joseph Gym- a page in the Book of the is supported by the Austin at Immaculate Heart of Mary parish in Outlook. The parish is preparing eight children for the Elect, in which all the names sacraments of confirmation and first communion.There is also a class of young people who are of those to be baptized at completing their final year of the diocesan “ Steps in Faith ” program to deepen their personal Easter are enrolled during the commitment to their faith. Both groups will be presented to Bishop Don Bolen when he comes to Rite of Election celebration on the parish to celebrate with the community June 5, 2013. - Photo by Lisa Clark the first Sunday of Lent.

Evangelizing through the Lens of Faith and Culture 23rd Conference of the Western Conference for the Catechumenate June 7-8 at the FCJ Sisters Christian Life Centre, 219-19th Avenue SW, in Calgary, AB. The WCC conference June 7-8 features speaker Msgr. Michael Clay, a priest of the diocese of Raleigh, NC, and an assistant professor in pastoral studies at The Catholic University of America in Washington. For 25 years, Msgr. Clay has been an internationally recognized authority on the implementation of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). For information or to register, contact Michelle Sieben at (306) 358-2057 or e-mail [email protected] Registration deadline is May 27 . Cost per person: $150, or for two or more people from the same parish, there is a reduced rate of $140 each (includes Saturday lunch and dinner, as well as light refreshments throughout the event). Pre-registration is required. This is a great conference for anyone who prepares adults or children for the sacraments, or works in Members of the RCIA team from St. Paul Co-Cathedral applaud for offices of liturgy or catechesis, including lay people, volunteers, pastoral associates, and priests! the newly-elect enrolled at the 2013 diocesan Rite of Election. - Rite of Election Photos by Tim Yaworski Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 11 Faith Formation / Ecumenism

Lay Formation grads will be sent forth Sunday, June 2 For 25 years, the Lay Formation program in our diocese has provided a faith enrichment experience to lay people focused on prayer, learning and community. Held at Queen’s House in Saskatoon one weekend a month for two years, Lay Formation alumni gathered for a recent 25th anniversary celebration. - Photo by Francine Audy Lay Formation now includes a Ukrainian Catholic stream and an Aboriginal Catholic stream. Lay Formation The missioning celebration for the 2013 diocesan is supported by the Lay Formation graduating class will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 2 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon with Bishop Don Bolen presiding at the Eucharist. All are welcome to attend (tea to follow) .

At a recent Lay Formation weekend at Queen’s House, participants gathered in the chapel for worship. The program focuses on prayer, learning and community. - Photo by Kate O’Gorman

To find out more or apply for Lay Formation, go online at: Participants in the three streams of Lay Formation celebrated the Great Water Blessing www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/layformation/index.cfm led by Bishop Bryan Bayda of the ukrainian Catholic eparchy on the January weekend. or call (306) 659-5847 or 1-877-661-5005 Ext. 846 - Photo by Tim Yaworski Prayer series offered in Lent BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI the series included Mona Goodman prayer- Response was positive to a Lenten fully reflecting on how we are God’s beloved; prayer retreat experience offered this year Christy Dupuis addressing the idea of prayer by the Foundations: Exploring Our Faith as an intimate conversations between friends; Together diocesan office. Sr. Dianne Sehn introducing “Lectio Divina” For the past several years the faith (praying with scripture); Garth Horn enrichment office at the Catholic Centre has presenting prayer in the style of Taizé ; and Fr. organized a multi-session speaker series to Kevin McGee introducing centering prayer. complement the single-night Foundations Attendance was around 50 or 60 sessions popularly offered in many parishes. participants each evening, with one parish – This year, coordinator Sharon Powell Our Lady of Guadalupe – making the series a organized the weekly series at the Cathedral Lenten enrichment for staff and volunteers. of the Holy Family, with a focus on different “There seems to be a real desire to deepen Sr. Dianne Sehn, OSu, ( left) leads a session on praying with scripture, with help from prayer forms – including time to pray. one’s prayer life and spend more quiet time Margot Taylor, Marci Deutscher, Mona Goodman and Sharon Powell ( l-r) . Entitled “ Be still and know that I am God ” with God,” Powell observed. - Photo by K. Yaworski

Prairie Centre for Ecumenism continues work for unity BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI A new website – found at www.pcecumenism.ca – is one of the latest undertakings for the Prairie Centre for Ecumenism in a year that has seen the arrival of new staff and new initiatives. Dr. Darren Dahl was appointed director of the PCE in May 2012, Administrator Hilary Klassen was hired in the summer, and Pastor Ron Bestvater became the new coordinator of Ecumenical Shared Ministries in October. Ecumenical Shared Ministries includes “any shared arrangement between two or Pastor Ron Bestvater, Dr. Darren Dahl and Hilary Klassen (l-r). more Christian denominations that - Photo by K. Yaworski De Margerie Series on Christian Unity involves facility, program or staff.” hosting the Summer Ecumenical Challenges of Aging and Spiritual Fr. Bernard de Margerie ( left ) greets Bishop Gregory Cameron This is one of three priorities Institute, which this year will be Growth in the Healthcare Setting of the Anglican Church of Wales, who was the inaugural identified for the Prairie Centre for held June 10-13 at the Cathedral of and Inter-cultural Inter-racial speaker in a new “De Margerie Series on Christian unity and Ecumenism, explains Dahl, along the Holy Family in Saskatoon. Journeying Together. The confer- Reconciliation” launched this January by the diocese of with education and raising the Plenary speaker is Bishop Mark ence will also feature a panel Saskatoon and St. Thomas More College. Named for local profile of ecumenical dialogue. MacDonald, the Anglican Church discussion and enriching worship. ecumenical pioneer de Margerie, the series coincided with the The centre also continues with of Canada’s first indigenous Find the detailed brochure at Week of Prayer for Christian unity. Find coverage online at: such long-standing initiatives as bishop, speaking on Reconciling www.pcecumenism.ca or e-mail www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm organizing the Week of Prayer for Churches, Reconciling Peoples. [email protected] or call - Photo by K. Yaworski Christian Unity in Saskatoon, and Workshops topics include, The (306) 653-1633 for information. 12 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Catholic education News briefs from Greater

SBY DaONsELLkA HaOFFtMoAN on Catholic Schools GREATER SASKATOON CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Spring break trips are a tradition for many high school students, but when teacher- chaplain Louise Bitz takes her Holy Cross Catholic high school groups out of the country, they do more than see the sights. One day of their trip is dubbed “Mission Day,” where the students spend time helping out in the country they are visiting. This year, for the second year in a row, Photo by K. Yaworski Bitz is travelling to Ecuador with 18 students. Students present Stations of the Cross Other years have seen her take students to Jared Binsfeld played Jesus in a dramatization of the Stations of the Cross Brazil, Thailand and Peru. presented March 20 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family by Grade 8 students This year on Mission Day, Bitz and the from Catholic School in Saskatoon. The dramatized prayer was students will spend the morning at a school presented to an afternoon gathering that included younger students, teachers, for children with special needs. One group of parents and parishioners, and repeated that evening for the broader community. students is bringing Canadian food so that they can cook Canadian dishes with the Superintendent Gordon Martell children, another will bring art supplies for - Photo submitted by GSCS art projects and the third will do music and teaching called “inquiry-based learning,” games with the youngsters. where teachers let students’ own questions in In the afternoon, the Canadians will move various subject areas take them down various on to an orphanage for boys. The nun who learning paths. Desks have been replaced runs the facility will speak to them about with tables to make group work easier and social justice and the importance of caring student work is prominently displayed in the for “people on the margins,” then the hallways. students will meet the boys, playing games like Jenga and Twister that they have brought with them and will leave as gifts. Gordon Martell recognized Though the trips are also filled with sight- for leadership in First seeing and experiencing local culture and Nations education food, Bitz says many of her students say that Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Mission Day is their highlight. Superintendent Gordon Martell was one of “What I witness is the students having a the inaugural winners of Indspire’s Guiding tremendous compassion. Their hearts are the Journey: Indigenous Educator Awards. Photo by K. Yaworski moved as they see themselves as brothers and (Indspire is the new name of the National sisters with these people whose faces and Aboriginal Achievement Foundation.) Youth and Liturgy Bishop Donald Bolen recently blessed and commissioned a group of students names they didn’t know before that day.” “Gordon Martell is a visionary leader with big dreams for First Nations people. He from four Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools who completed a Youth and Liturgy Project March 14, after learning about elements of liturgy and how to plan St. Anne School wins national is a thinker and a doer . . . and has the best interests of his community at heart,” reads his liturgical celebrations for their fellow students. Meeting several times at different award for innovation nomination for the national award, which church settings, including St. Anne parish, the Cathedral of the Holy Family, Our Lady of Guadalupe Aboriginal parish and a Byzantine ukrainian Catholic parish, The Canadian Education Association was led by the 11 principals Martell youth learned about liturgical symbols, kinds of prayer services and the liturgical (CEA) has recognized St. Anne School for its supervises in the division. innovative teaching and learning. It was year. Before their commissioning celebration, each group presented a sample awarded second place out of 78 entries. GSCS on Twitter and Facebook liturgy on a different theme, including thanksgiving, friendship, the Hail Mary, Staff at the K-8 school, led by principal Our school division has joined the and forgiveness. St. Augustine, St. Edward, St. Mary and Father Robinson Darren Fradette, have moved to a new way of “Twittersphere” - follow us @GSCSNews. schools participated in this year’s session, with support from GSCS Foundation.

Roughrider visit Teacher Mary Wrubleski ( left ) and a Grade 2 class at St. Volodymyr Catholic School in Saskatoon pose with Roughrider Ben Heenan ( right ), as students hold up the picture of two crosses that they managed to fill with toonies in Lent, as a fundraiser to help feed the homeless. The “Toonie for Your Thoughts ” event raised $1,630, which will go to a St. Joseph Catholic High School outreach in which high school students will deliver sandwiches to the homeless in downtown Saskatoon, reported teacher Janine Baier. By the end of the program, 15 St. Volodymyr classrooms had earned a visit from Roughriders Patrick Neufeld and Ben Heenan, who answered questions, played dodge ball in gym class, and read stories with students. Photo by K. Yaworski

St. Thomas More College holds Thinkfast in support of Development and Peace BY ANNA YAWORSKI Sr. Judy Schachtel, SMS; representatives Students and staff gathered together from the campus Oxfam outlet; and Assistant March 1 and 2 to raise awareness and just Professor Chris Hrynkow. The speakers over $1,600 for Development and Peace, addressed topics such as eco-justice, food exploring issues facing the global south in a sovereignty, and solidarity in history. spirit of solidarity as part of St. Thomas More Thinkfast participants stayed overnight at College’s first-ever Thinkfast event. the college, concluding the first evening with Thinkfast – a 25-hour fast to raise money a session of Taizé prayer, and getting up the for Development and Peace and inform youth next day bright and early to discuss “Justice about justice issues around the world – was in the Justice League” with campus minister introduced 25 years ago as a Development Michael MacLean. and Peace initiative to bring awareness about At the conclusion of the event, the group the work of the organization to a broader came together to break their fast at a meal Photo by Anna Yaworski audience. provided by the parish community of St. STM Thinkfast participants engaged in activities prompting discussion of issues Speakers at the STM Thinkfast included Thomas More Chapel. facing Development and Peace partners and their communities in the global south. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 13 Youth Ministry FacetoFace launches United conference BY BRANDI OLSON Theology on Tap

FacetoFace Ministries staged a new weekend conference, entitled United, attracting some 200 participants to St. Mary Parish Hall in Saskatoon Feb. 16-17. United brought together those who had been involved in FacetoFace Ministries events in the past 12 years, along with many first timers. It was a time to unite, support, Michael MacLean of STM campus ministry and guest speaker and challenge Catholics in their Leah Perrault (l-r) speak to youth at a recent Theology on Tap. faith, said organizer Jon Courchene, - Photo by Anne-Marie Hughes executive director of FacetoFace Ministries. The uplifting weekend was full Ken Yasinski, founder of FacetoFace Ministries speaks at the first- Young adults meet at local of music, inspiring talks, ever united Conference held Feb. 16-17 in Saskatoon. sacraments, prayer and fellowship. Photo by Tianna Mallet. “The Holy Spirit was tangibly pub for faith discussions present as youth and adults alike the journey to sainthood. He said as I did. I feel now like I have BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI professionals, Greg Mallon and prayed and worshipped together, that those who have deep peace are support to accomplish things. I can’t This year’s Theology on Tap Micheline Thibault, talked about participated in Eucharistic those who choose to be a . wait to reunite with my group next sessions for young adults have living their faith at work. On adoration, reconciliation and Holy Sainthood was a strong theme year to compare what we’ve done.” included a range of discussions March 4 the topic was “faith in Mass,” he said. throughout the weekend. Courchene summed up the related to faith and every day life, your social life” and the series Speakers included Ken Yasinski There was also a segment of the conference by describing it as an including a first-time-ever three- concluded March 11 with “faith (founder of FacetoFace Ministries), weekend where everyone had the incredible weekend. “We came into week series for the Year of Faith. in your family life.” Fr.Clair Watrin CSB, Masson chance to break off into groups the United Conference with great Blake Sittler opened the Theology on Tap is offered Normand, Garth Wruck, Colm focused on different areas of expectations but God had even 2012-13 season in the fall with a for young adults 19-plus at Leyne, and Leah Perrault. interest. greater. A real highlight was presentation on faith vs. religion. Lydia’s pub on Broadway Ave. in Each session started with Examples included: pro-life, witnessing the authentic love and A diverse crowd of some 50 Saskatoon. It is coordinated by worship music lead by a team of youth ministry, building up parish desire for holiness the participants people attended the second of the the youth ministry offices of the skilled musicians. Music also communities, and a range of other had as they prayed with one another Year-of-Faith-inspired sessions, Roman Catholic diocese and the contributed to an hour of adoration relevant tasks related to faith and to for courage and humility to go with Bishop Don Bolen speaking Ukrainian Catholic eparchy of of the Blessed Sacrament, a parishes. It gave each person a forward from the conference and about faith and creativity. Saskatoon, along with the St. highlight for many participants. chance to share their own gifts with share Christ with the world.” The author of the new book Thomas More College chaplain- Rev. Clair Watrin CSB, gave others, to see where the Holy Spirit This is a conference that Theology of the Body for Every cy team. several talks during the United was leading them to use their gifts, FacetoFace Ministries would like to Body and the Director of Pastoral Conference, including one focused and to connect people of the same see happen every year, he added. Services for the diocese, Leah Youth Ministry on how to get the most out of Mass interest so that they can support FacetoFace Ministries upcom- Perrault led discussions in is supported by the and another on sainthood. each other. ing summer events include the November about faith and One participant said: “Fr. Clair’s “Those [interest groups] youth camp Ignite Saskatchewan sexuality. challenges for sainthood were impacted my life!” said one August 12-17, and Ignite Alberta During Lent 2013, Theology amazingly inspiring.” participant. “They made me feel so August 20-25. More information on Tap ran once a week for three Watrin encouraged everyone to encouraged to find other teens that about events can be found online at weeks. On Monday, Feb. 25, two keep praying and to never quit on wanted to pursue the same ministry www.f2f.ca

Rock the Mount 2013 Diocesan group will attend World Youth Day in Rio 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24 The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon will “World Youth Day will be Pope Francis’ first major Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, north of Carmel, SK send a small delegation to World Youth Day this visit to South America since his appointment. With summer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. organizers already anticipating between 1.5 and two Theme: “March of the ” / Keynote: Fr. Domenic Roscioli The group of 12 will be on pilgrimage July 16-30, million pilgrims, there is sure to be even more now Mass with Bishop Don Bolen at 5 p.m. with visits to the diocesan mission in Maceió for with our Holy Father hailing from Brazil’s neighbor!” The Rock the Mount organizing committee is seeking new members mission week and to Rio for WYD week, as well as to For WYD details visit www.rio2013.com/en to help with a variety of tasks, large and small, as well as seeking the world-renowned shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida. For those looking to celebrate WYD closer to donations to support this FREE family and youth event. Diocesan Youth Ministry coordinator Colm Leyne home, Alberta’s Catholic dioceses are partnering to Contact Doug or Cathy Swarbrick at (306) 242-2721 or e-mail is the only diocesan coordinator from Western Canada host the One Rock Festival at Mount St. Francis in [email protected] or see: www.rockthemount.com attending World Youth Day. Cochrane, AB. from July 26-28. Details can be found “So look forward to the tweets, blogs, and youtube at www.onerock.ca videos of our experience,” says Leyne. Follow In the diocese of Saskatoon, Rock The Mount was “ymosaskatoon” on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, and originally envisioned as a post-WYD opportunity for watch the diocesan website for WYD and all year round. youth and families to gather at picturesque Mount “We ask for your continued prayers for a safe and Carmel, west of Humboldt, for a day of celebration, blessed journey. You can send any prayer requests for music, worship and enrichment. This year’s Rock the our pilgrims to offer during their daily masses by e- Mount will be held Saturday, Aug. 24 , including Mass mailing [email protected] ,” with Bishop Don Bolen. For more information see the added Leyne. website at: www.rockthemount.com

Photo by K. Yaworski We Day excitement About 15,000 youth from across the province earned their way to a “We Day” rally Feb. 27 at Credit union Centre in Saskatoon, by undertaking service, justice and peace advocacy, and charity efforts for a variety of causes, striving to “ Be the Change .” Featuring celebrities, musicians, performances and inspirational videos, We Day is an initiative of Free the Children, founded by Craig Kielburger. Find more coverage at: www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/news_articles/news_articles.cfm 14 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • World Day of Prayer for Vocations: April 21, 2013 PRIESTLY ORDINATION of Daniel Yasinski and Colin Roy

7 p.m. Friday, June 14 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family with Bishop Don Bolen presiding

All are welcome to atten d!

Daniel Yasinski: Colin Roy: Surprised by God’s call Discernment is filled to consider priesthood with abundant graces BY DEACON DANIEL YASINSKI of my parents’ deep faith, for without it I BY DEACON COLIN ROY “life sentence.” Praise God for his patience! Our God is a God of surprises. know I would not have been able to answer I was born on April 17, 1984, and grew In the fall of 2002, I attended the My life began on a cold autumn morning, the call. To them I am eternally thankful. up on a farm near Hoey, SK. I have been University of Saskatchewan, having made Oct. 5, 1983. The night before, my mother, I never gave the priesthood much thought blessed with good parents, Ben and Gisèle, the decision to become a teacher and Madeline Yasinski, whispered to my father, until I entered the University of and one older brother, Gilles, with whom I continue helping on the farm. I tried my best David Yasinski, “I think it’s time to go to the Saskatchewan in 2002, where I studied am very close. to put the idea of priesthood out of my mind, hospital.” Dad knew the drill. He had done chemistry and biology and received a My journey of faith began in my family, but it seemed that I was constantly being this all before. I was to be the fifth child. Dad Bachelor of Education. Here as a young and it was through my family that my faith reminded of it. calmly rolled out of bed, got dressed and adult, I began making the faith my own. grew and took shape. I can always recall my Having felt the call to priesthood prepared my mother for the short one-block At this time in my life I was blessed with mother’s insistence that we attend Mass on strongly throughout this time, I finally drive to the small town hospital in St. many genuine friendships with other young Sundays without fail, and the opened up to actually discerning this call Walburg, Saskatchewan. The nurses rolled adults who were also striving to live their encouragement I received when preparing after my third year of university. I my mother into the maternity ward (which faith. It is here where the call of the for sacraments. remember attending “come and see” consisted of one room), and a few hours later priesthood started to take shape in my heart. Active involvement in the Church was weekends, discernment retreats, and finally I was born. I vividly remember gathering with my also instrumental in helping to cultivate a getting a spiritual director. All of these Now one may think that this is the end of male friends at the pub, and as always the greater openness to God within me. As soon things, along with a couple of close friends my birth story, but it is not. As soon as I conversation would turn to faith, and as I received my first Holy Communion, I with whom I shared helped me to take the entered the world, the doctor looked at me eventually the priesthood. Some of us would began to serve Mass. I loved to serve, and next step. and said, “He’s so small.” I was just over six say, “Wouldn’t it be something if one of us this also allowed me to get to know our In the spring of 2007, upon completing pounds. He was perplexed because my became a priest?” But of course, it was just parish priests on a more personal level. my Bachelor’s of Education, I was accepted mother was quite large when she was conversation over a beer at the pub. The However, it was not until my high school to study as a seminarian for the Roman pregnant and so the doctor was expecting a reality of the priesthood for each one of us years that the seeds of faith within me began Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. I applied to baby of more substantial girth. Before the seemed too far removed for anyone to take it to germinate. It was during this time that I St. Peter’s Seminary and was accepted later doctor could utter another word my mother seriously. But of course, our God is a God of took part in a youth group at our parish in St. that summer. It was a real moment of exclaimed, “I think I have to push again.” surprises. Louis. It was through this experience that freedom for me. My good friend Daniel And seven minutes later my twin brother It all changed the day that Blessed John my faith became real for me. I always Yasinski had also been accepted to study for David Yasinski was born. Paul II, of happy memory, died. I remember believed that God was watching over me, the priesthood, so I have been extremely My parents were not expecting twins; it sitting in a church thanking God for the gift but I had never realized just how close God blessed with his friendship and mutual was a surprise (my mother would say that this of this man, when all of a sudden I felt a was to me through His Son Jesus, and support. is an understatement). In the one ultrasound burning desire within my heart for the through my baptism. I realized that God My time in seminary has been filled with my mother had, they were only able to make priesthood. desired a personal relationship with me. abundant graces, but periods of trial as well. out one heartbeat. At the time I was in a long-term Up to this point, I had never really The word “seminary” means seed plot, so it I share this story because we have a God relationship, discerning marriage with a thought about the priesthood. I was always makes sense that as we grow, God is also at who is a God of surprises. My life began with beautiful young Catholic woman. I wanted to convinced that farming, getting married, and work pruning us so that we might bear fruit. a surprise, that gift of a twin brother. And in get married and be a father. But the call to the raising a family was the life for me. Since I Nevertheless, looking back over my time many ways my call to the priesthood was a priesthood that I felt that day, persisted. And was a kid, this had always been my goal, at St. Peter’s, I readily recognize the surprise, in that I never seriously expected to I soon came to realize that if I wanted to because it was what I enjoyed and it was privilege of having studied the faith, become a priest. follow God’s will in my life, I at least had to familiar to me. I have many great memories growing in a life of prayer, and discovering I have many fond memories of growing give the priesthood a chance. And so in 2007, working with my brother and my dad on the more fully, through both the Church’s up in St. Walburg, Saskatchewan with six I entered St. Peter’s Seminary in London farm. discernment and my own, that God is calling other siblings, in a house always bustling Ontario, as a seminarian studying for the Nevertheless, in my grade 12 year I had me to the priesthood. What a tremendous with activity. diocese of Saskatoon, and I have not looked an experience that was kind of like a rock gift. Thanks to my parents, faith always had a back since. going through a combine. I attended a I have also been blessed with numerous important place in our home. We had prayer This summer I humbly anticipate to be FacetoFace Retreat in Albertville, SK, and friendships that I have made over the years. before meals and before bed. Mass was a ordained to the Catholic priesthood. Now at the end of the retreat, those who felt called Throughout my time in formation for priority on Sundays and it was always those evening conversations at the pub with to the priesthood or religious life were priesthood I have received the unfailing followed by a sumptuous pancake breakfast my friends do not seem far invited to receive a support and encouragement of my family, with extended family and friends. off. Our God is indeed a The Vocations Office blessing. In that moment, I and for this I am grateful. One of the most tangible ways the faith God of surprises: I thank and the felt the Holy Spirit stir in As I look ahead to the priesthood, I was visible in our home was in the late him every day for that. And Education of my heart and I had the desire to respond to this great invitation of evening, when my father would go around to the many young men and Future Priests are distinct sense that God our Lord to come and work in his vineyard, the house and call all his children to the women who are reading was calling me to the knowing that the harvest is indeed plentiful. family room to pray the rosary. And here each this that see the priesthood supported by the priesthood. I literally Above all, as a priest of Jesus Christ, I want night my father would entrust his family to or religious life as squirmed in my seat, since to be a man of communion, to help bring the Mary while leading us on his knees something that is far off, I I really was not open to souls to Christ, and ultimately to allow our in the recitation of the rosary. In this sense, hope that God surprises the priesthood, thinking Lord to use me in order to help him care for my call to the Catholic priesthood is a result you! that this amounted to a his flock and bring souls home. Questions about Vocations? Contact Myron Rogal at the diocesan Vocation Office (306) 659-5841 or toll free: 1-877-661-5005 Ext. 841 Fr. Jean-Marc Mireau is Director of Vocations: (306) 258-4888 and Fr. Gerard Cooper is Director of Seminarians: (306) 463-2306 Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 15 World Day of Prayer for Vocations: April 21, 2013 Mireau’s vocation journey grounded in Christ’s love BY SR. A PRIL MIREAU , PM congregations throughout the year, I realized bit by bit that I I like to think of my journey in life as a love story. I often really felt at home with the Sisters of the Presentation and say to those who know me well: “I’m the most spoiled girl in asked to enter their loving community. the whole world!” That is, spoiled by the Lord – he has been In September 2011, I moved to the formation house in the wooing me since birth. small town of Bellevue, SK. During my postulancy, the first Born April 7, 1988 in Saskatoon, I grew up as the oldest of six-month period of my formation, I deepened my knowledge seven children in a faithful, loving family. Though they were of the spirit and mission of the Sisters of the Presentation of not perfect, my parents, relatives and friends showered us Mary and discerned with the community if we felt that God children with love and exemplified for us the virtues of Christ. was indeed calling me to this specific community. Because of my parents’ faithfulness to the sacraments, Sensing a continued peace and recognizing many little especially daily Mass and regular confession, I was able to signs that suggested that indeed this was the community for discover a love for Christ in the Eucharist. me, I took the next step in becoming a novice. This love was nourished through religious education and The first year of my novitiate was an intense year of prayer fellowship received at the parish and diocesan level, as well as and study focused on deepening my relationship with Christ my involvement in different ministries such as FacetoFace, and learning our Rule of Life, which describes our particular Catholic Christian Outreach, Rock the Mount and Pure call and way of life as Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. Witness Ministries, to name a few. In this atmosphere I During this year, I deepened my understanding of the vows developed openness to all vocations and a desire to conform of chastity, poverty, and obedience, and contemplated Mary as my will to that of my Father in Heaven. I had experienced first she was presented in the Temple as a young child. This hand the love and faithfulness of the Lord and therefore I was mystery of Mary’s life is an icon of our spirituality as Sisters able to trust Him with my life. of the Presentation. We are called like Mary to be consecrated After high school, I moved to Edmonton to complete a to God in the Temple of His Church and then to be four-year bilingual Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During overshadowed by the Spirit, becoming living temples of His these years, my openness to religious life developed into a loving presence in the world. keen interest and gradually into an ardent desire. Having recently completed this time of preparation, I am By the time I finished my degree, I could no longer ignore presently beginning my second year as a novice with a this longing and sought a place where I could engage in further missionary experience in Regina, SK. discernment with a community, while spreading my wings as During this time, I will be attempting to integrate my a nurse. ministry as a nurse into my life as a religious, learning to be in The Sisters of the Presentation Discernment House in the world without being of the world, and carrying the Saskatoon was where I was able to accomplish this, presence of Christ within me to all those I meet. surrounded once more by a loving community who So far, following the Lord’s call has led me into an ever- Sr. April Mireau became a novice with the Sisters of the encouraged me along my journey in nursing and in vocational deepening relationship with Christ and has challenged me to Presentation of Mary in March 2012 . - Submitted photos discernment. As I looked around and visited different religious love as he first loved me. Call of monastic life leads Predy to St. Peter’s Abbey BY BR. S TEPHEN PREDY , OSB rite of the Church. I learned a great to whom it is given” ’ (Matthew into my life. He was always there, Born to Betty Zatylny and deal about my roots and heritage 19:10-11). After reading this, I he forgave all my failings and he Patrick Predy on June 23, 1993 in through this program. During my knew that God had called me to be dried all my tears. I never did a Winnipeg, I was baptized Linden childhood I also had the experience celibate. single thing to deserve all these Steve Predy at Notre Dame of “grassroots” ecumenism, as I My discernment took a new blessings. In fact I deserve the Catholic Church in Selkirk, attended The Quest at Christopher turn. I was struck by another act of opposite. But God is kind and he Manitoba. Lake, an evangelical Baptist Bible providence when I heard a monk wills that sinners repent and return When I turned three we moved camp, every summer for nearly a from St. Peter’s Abbey give a to him. During this Lenten and to Saskatoon and began attending decade. I treasure the friendships lecture to my Christian ethics Easter season, when we call to Sunday Mass at Holy Spirit Parish. that I formed, and the growth that I class. My spirit burned within me mind the passion, death and I count myself extremely blessed made there. as I heard him speak of his life as a resurrection of Christ Jesus, I pray for the upbringing that I received It was while attending Holy Benedictine monk and priest. that we would all confess our sins as a child. My mother’s “down to Cross High School that I truly After completing high school, to him and return to him. earth” spirituality and love of grew as a Catholic. My I applied for the two-week “Live- Together let us live the words Christ shaped me into the man I am experiences there lead me to where In” experience at St. Peter’s Abbey of St. Benedict, that we should today. I am today: in a Benedictine in Muenster, SK. During that time “prefer nothing whatever to Christ. Both my older brother Logan monastery discerning my vocation. I got to live, work and pray with And may He bring us all together and I went through the Ukrainian At Holy Cross I gained a love the monks. Those weeks confirmed to life everlasting!” (Rule of St. Brother Stephen bilingual program (now Bishop for Mass and the sacrament of my feelings about the religious Benedict, Chapter 72). (Linden) Predy, OSB Filevich Ukrainian Bilingual reconciliation, like I never had life. School) in Saskatoon, where we before. It was during my year in I spent a year studying at the were taught about the Byzantine Grade 10 that I came to one of University of Saskatchewan, those “crossroads” in my life. I felt however, honouring the request of that I had two options, my mother. I spent that year corresponding with my two loves: learning about religion, music and Jesus Christ. The first philosophy, and other fascinating path that I discerned was a career subjects. I met very good people at as a professional musician. I had the university and had some very been playing the tuba in band class good experiences. During that year and had taken private lessons since I was very blessed to attend Holy elementary school. All of my Mass at St. Thomas More (STM) teachers agreed that I had great College Chapel. I found the STM potential. Personally, I felt that community to be very welcoming music was my passion but it did and I thank them for their kindness not define me. Then my thoughts to me. turned to religious life. I knew next After completing my first year to nothing about this life, but I at university I applied for the could not get this thought out of candidacy at St. Peter’s Abbey and my head: “what about being a was accepted. For the past several Seminarians at CCO Rise Up monk?” months I have lived with the Diocesan seminarians Greg Smith-Windsor (left) and Cody This thought stayed with me monks, worked, prayed with them Redekop were on hand to answer questions at a Vocations for the next few months. Then I and taken classes on scripture from display during Rise up, the Catholic Christian Outreach event Studying in Rome read the nineteenth chapter of St. my vocations director. Having held between Christmas and New Year’s in Saskatoon. Smith- Brother Cosmas Epifano, Matthew’s Gospel, where after completed my candidacy, I entered Windsor is presently serving a pastoral internship year at St. originally of Sydney, NS, is a hearing Jesus’ teaching about the Novitiate March 21, 2013, Patrick parish in Saskatoon, and has also organized a casual junior monk of the Benedict- divorce, the disciples say: ‘ “If when I was invested in the “Mocha to Melchizedeck” coffee chat Tuesday afternoons to ine community of St. Peter’s such is the case of a man with his monastic habit and given my new talk to anyone with questions about the seminary. For more Abbey, Muenster, SK. He is wife, it is better not to marry.” But religious name: Brother Stephen. information contact the diocesan Vocations Office at (306) 659- presently studying theology he said to them, “Not everyone can It never ceases to amaze me 5841 or e-mail: [email protected] in Rome. accept this teaching, but only those how much grace God has poured - Photo by K. Yaworski 16 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Discernment and Vocations Women blessed by live-in experience of community at Discernment House BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI Seven months later Ava Discernment House in Saska- Menezes has no regrets. toon welcomes young women who “I have truly treasured my wish to share a live-in community experience at the Discernment experience with the Sisters of the House,” she said. Presentation of Mary, as a way to “The abundant support for my grow in self-knowledge and faith in this strong community deepen their relationship with setting was just what I needed to God. build my personal relationship with Located in a beautiful neigh- Jesus.” bourhood near the University of “There have been many days Saskatchewan, Discernment when I come back from a House offers a faith-based frustrating day of school and was community grounded in prayer, greeted with the presence of God where young women live in a in the fun and loving environment family spirit with each other and we have created within this the sisters. house.” Ava Menezes, a second-year Spiritual direction has enriched student at the U of S working her faith journey, Menezes added. towards a Bachelor of Science “The weekly spiritual Young women living at Discernment House share life, faith and friendship with Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. - Photos submitted by Sisters of Presentation of Mary degree in microbiology and accompaniment sessions with one immunology, says she was at odds of the sisters has mediated a then this past year I felt was the about where to live this year. “But personal discovery in my faith life right time to come. It was the God made it apparent to me that and it has provided me with tools perfect environment for He had a place in mind,” she said. to take with me in the years to discerning where my next steps Starting her studies at St. come as I continue my spiritual are to be taken since the end of my Peter’s College in Muenster last journey.” schooling is fast approaching,” year, Menezes became friends She says she would encourage she said of this year’s live-in with another young woman whose women considering the live-in experience. cousin was staying at Discernment program to listen to their hearts. “Living here has made an House. “I contacted the cousin and “It is essential that you have a will environment easy for God to listened to what she had to say to grow in your faith and are really reach me and show me about her experience. My heart willing to give some time each day different things about myself so I was lit aflame - I could feel God to this community,” Menezes said. have some direction for those next drawing me to this place,” she “You also need to have good time steps,” Koch said, adding that it described. management skills to prioritize has been a blessing and a joy to “The day I came to the house your time so that you are able to journey with others at to receive an application and talk give focus to your academic, Discernment House. with the sisters was the day I had spiritual, and community life.” Jacquelyn Gibbs, a second- to notify the University of Third-year nursing student year student in the College of Saskatchewan if I was going to Courtney Koch heard about Pharmacy and Nutrition at the little bits of my character that Discernment House has started accept or decline my offer for a Discernment House through word University of Saskatchewan said: had been weighing me down,” taking applications for room in residence without of mouth before attending one of “Living at Discernment House has Gibbs said. the fall live-in community financial penalty. That day I took a the regularly-offered discernment been a blessing to my life!” “I will never regret my experience. To learn more about leap of faith, placed my trust in weekends which are also held “I have met many wonderful decision to live at Discernment this opportunity for young God, and said ‘no’ to residence there. friends who really love me for House and I know that living and women, contact Discernment and ‘yes’ to the Discernment “I’ve had a desire to live here me. My prayer life has grown being a part of Discernment House at (306) 244-0726 or House.” since I first heard about it and and I’ve been able to work on House has changed me.” e-mail: [email protected]

World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life marked BY SR. E VELYN NEDELEC , PM Those involved in consecrated life and those who want to support them in prayer were invited to an evening gathering Feb. 8 in Saskatoon as a way to mark the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life. Held at St. Paul Co-Cathedral, the evening was a time for young adults and those in consecrated life to “meet and greet” one another, before joining together in prayer, praise and worship and Eucharistic Adoration. The gathering was a sign of support and solidarity for each other in living and proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel. Vocations promotion Participants prayed that others will hear the call to and the office of consecrated life and will Marriage and Family respond generously. The World Day of Prayer Life are ministries for Consecrated Life was supported by the established by Pope John Paul II in 1997, set for Feb. 2, the feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Pope John Paul Weekend retreats offered at Discernment House called for consecrated life to Twenty-one young adults took time to reflect on their life experiences and prayerfully explore the be promoted throughout the meaning and direction of their lives at a personal history discernment weekend held Jan 11-13 at universal Church and asked Discernment House in Saskatoon. “Great hospitality, good food, most enjoyable,” said one for all to reflect on the role of consecrated religious in the Christian participant, while another reported: “I was gifted with clarity and insight.” The retreat was “a great community. opportunity to step back from the busyness of life and look at where God has brought me,” said There are several ways to live out the consecrated life, including as a participant, while another described the retreat as “a refreshing time of both renewal and religious sisters, nuns, brothers, religious priests, and monks who recognition of where I am right now in my life.” The live-in weekend retreats are regularly held at consecrate their lives through their profession of the evangelical vows Discernment House on university Drive in Saskatoon, with the next one planned for April 26-28 and live as part of a community; as well as single lay people who choose to explore Christian vocations and lifestyles. To register (before the deadline of April 23) or for to be consecrated virgins and make private vows to the local bishop as more information contact: [email protected] or call (306) 244-0726. they live out their vocation in various walks of life. Secular institutes - Photo submitted by Sisters of Presentation of Mary are another form of living the consecrated life as single people. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 17 World Day of Prayer for Vocations, April 21, 2013 Five men begin a new stage in their monastic journey with Benedictines BY FR. P AUL PAPROSKI , OSB Five men recently responded with generous hearts, letting God’s word become enfleshed in their lives through the monastic way of life, Abbot Peter Novecosky, OSB said March 21 at a Mass celebrating the feast day of St. Benedict and the Rite of Initiation into Monastic Life. “Like Peter in today’s gospel, they’ve heard the invitation to leave all things to follow Jesus and the payoff will be hundredfold blessings and to inherit eternal life,” the Benedictine abbot said of the candidates being invested as novices. First entering St. Peter’s Abbey as candidates in September 2012, the men now mark a new stage in their monastic journey. At the ceremony, the candidates publically requested that they be allowed to enter the novitiate. A community Five men were invested as novices, March 21, at St. Peter’s Abbey in Muenster, SK. They include: (l-r) , Brother member responded on the candidate’s behalf with his Andreas Hofer of New Zealand; Brother Damian (Christopher) Weber of Hanover, ON; Brother Stephen (Linden) acceptance and recommendation. Predy of Saskatoon; Brother Dominic Leo of Vancouver; and Brother Benedict (Peter) van Ginkel, of Winnipeg. The community then gave its approval. The novices - Photo by Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB were given their monastic names and donned Benedictine habits. “I want to study, pray, discern and hopefully give myself scripture reading. There is time for listening, reading, Three of the novices, Linden Predy, 19, of Saskatoon; entirely to Jesus without holding anything back so that he meditating and reflecting on events at the abbey. Christopher Weber, 36, of Hanover, ON; and Peter van can conform me to himself. It means giving glory to God in “Though I knew that this was an important step in my Ginkel, 50, of Winnipeg adopted religious names of saints. every aspect of my life and offering him all my time and monastic journey, there weren’t any nerves involved before Predy will now be known as Brother Stephen; Weber will be efforts to balancing my work and prayer. It means following the event, as I did not comprehend the enormity of the called Brother Damian; and van Ginkel is Brother Benedict. St. Benedict’s example in his obedience, simplicity and investiture that was soon going to take place,” Leo remarked The other novices are Brother Andreas Hofer, 29, of single-hearted following of Christ,” he said. when reflecting on his new role as a novice. New Zealand, and Brother Dominic Leo, 42, of Vancouver. It is hard to believe that the six months of candidacy The ceremony at the Mass opened him to sensing the Hofer, originally from Austria, came from New Zealand have come to a close and another phase of monastic life has awe and wonder of the new phase of monastic life. The rite where he was self-employed in residential, commercial and begun, Weber said. The next phase of the monastic journey of initiation gave him the feeling that he was one more step industrial construction, as well as carpentry, joinery and will be helpful in learning what it means to live as a faithful closer to Jesus and with the members of the monastic cabinet making. His skills in carpentry have been noticeable monk of St. Peter’s Abbey. community, Leo said. around the abbey where he has helped in repair and Weber said his aspirations for the novitiate year will be “The habit signifies my dedication to Jesus, and construction. Hofer noted that he feels a special connection to do God’s will through prayer, and continuing to learn how brotherhood with the members of my monastic community. to Jesus who was a carpenter before beginning his ministry. everything depends on God. Even though at the moment, the habit will be for some time “This life means walking in the footsteps of Jesus and “The Benedictine way is God’s gift to me, to be accepted a bit trying in taking on and off, and even treacherous at that makes it easier for me to understand him, because Jesus with the utmost gratitude. It is the path given and chosen by times when climbing the stairs. The habit gives you a sense was about my age when he started his official ministry and God for me. This path will be the means for me to obtain our of privilege and of confidence that you belong to Jesus he was also a fit and healthy carpenter by trade. It might also Lord’s gift of eternal Life,” he remarked. because the habit points to him. Your habit also signifies that mean in other words to be ‘weak’ in the hands of God, but “Wearing a habit is helping me to understand my role in you are a public witness to the world, and of the Gospel confident and trusting that he will help me to take away my a more meaningful way as a member of St. Peter’s Abbey,” values of the church,” he remarked. bad habits and my ego and become a better version of van Ginkel said. (He joked that his habit makes him look “I am keenly looking forward to this year, which will be myself.” taller.) Van Ginkel is looking forward to his next year of much more intense than the candidacy. Not knowing what to The youngest novice, Predy, said it is an honour to be study, spiritual reading and scripture. expect in this new experience makes it much more accepted into the monastic community. His model, Jesus, The classes during the candidacy made him realize how interesting. By the grace of God and Our Lady’s walked with a meek and humble heart and he wants to learn there is so much to learn. The routine of monastic life, van intercession, I am sure that this period of study, prayer, how to let go of vanity, pride and all worldly passions to Ginkel added, is helpful in teaching about the importance of spiritual growth and discernment will be much more follow Christ. structure and the beauty of Gregorian chant, psalmody and fulfilling and filled with joy.” 11th Annual Marriage Appreciation Banquet Speakers reflect on God’s every-day presence in marriage BY BLAKE SITTLER in Nigeria early in their marriage, The Darbellays spoke of the The Roman Catholic Diocese of teaching in an area known as Biafra. changes they have seen in the Saskatoon’s Marriage Task Force During their time in Africa, there world and in their church since held its eleventh annual Marriage was no radio, TV or telephones that they married. They noted that Appreciation Banquet March 9 at they could access. This was a change, even positive change, is Holy Spirit Parish in Saskatoon. source of culture shock for the stressful because it moves people This banquet is a gift from the couple. into the unknown. bishop of the diocese to all couples “The culture shock of coming “When we said, ‘I do’, we were who help with marriage preparation home to Canada was more difficult committing ourselves to a lot of and enrichment throughout the year. though,” Doug said. “There was unknown,” said Doug. Bernard and Sandy Normand, a poverty (there), but the children The Darbellays also spoke of couple who have been involved in were well-adjusted, respectful, marriage as a part of God’s plan of marriage ministry for many years in happy.” redemption. the diocese, hosted this year’s Doug and Donna also spent time “For each other, we had to banquet. The evening began with in Annandale, Virginia, just outside become more understanding, seek celebration of the Eucharist by Rev. Washington, DC. They noticed that forgiveness and acceptance and to Ken Beck. even though they were living in one face truths about ourselves that we The keynote address at the of the richest nations in the world – were unable to face alone,” said banquet was presented by Doug and Doug and Donna Darbellay especially compared to where they Donna. Donna Darbellay speaking on - Photo by Blake Sittler were in Africa – that the children “Marriage is not just a human “Marriage and the Year of Faith .” described how Jesus moved them are skirmishes, fire fights, truces, had more problems. institution, it is a part of God’s plan Donna is a professor of psychology beyond this point, so he could get to cold war periods and even battles. “In contrast…the children in DC for our salvation and the salvation at the University of Saskatchewan the cross. The Darbellays reflected though were anxious, disrespectful, of all.” and Doug is a retired teacher. They “In marriage, there is a that, in the end, what both sides are insecure, unhappy, angry, and The evening ended with a dance have eight children. honeymoon, there is suffering, and fighting for is peace. violent,” Donna described. and words of thanks to all the The Darbellays began reflecting there is resurrection, too,” Doug They shared stories from their “This highlighted for us that various marriage ministries on the readings about the said. life and made connections between there is no more important in the undertaken in the diocese. transfiguration of Jesus, describing Doug shared a line from G.K. their experiences with where God world than parenting,” Donna said. Retrouvaille, a ministry for couples this as a “honeymoon scene” for the Chesterton who compared marriage was present day-to-day. “Done right for one generation, it whose marriages are going through disciples who were there. They then to war. He elaborated to say there The Darbellays spent some time could change the world.” difficult times, was highlighted. 18 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • News and Events Sacred Heart parish hosts variety of events in Denzil BY JOAN KUCHAPSKI Sacred Heart parish at Denzil has had a busy few weeks. The parish Catholic Women’s League recently organized and held a service for the World Day of Prayer. About 25 people joined in praying with and for the women of France whose theme was “ I was a stranger and you welcomed me .” Twelve children from Sacred Heart parish in Denzil and St. Mary’s parish in Macklin are World Day of Prayer display. preparing for the sacraments of - Photo by Joan Kuchapski Bishop Donald Bolen led a celebration dedicating and blessing the newly-renamed library. communion and confirmation. Cost is $30 (includes lunch) but Together they will celebrate these space is limited. Register by calling initiation sacraments at Sacred Michelle Sieben at 306-358-2057 or Diocesan resource centre renamed Heart parish on Sunday, June 9. e-mail [email protected] An icon of Our Lady of “Our losses are many and Guadalupe has been travelling to the varied. They range from the loss of as the Msgr. Michael J. Koch Library Knights of Columbus councils a significant other owing to death, a BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI throughout the province and it loss of a child, loss of self-esteem, Msgr. Michael Koch’s passion arrived in Denzil on March 14 loss of physical ability, loss of a job, where a prayer service was held to to the breakdown of a marriage. for faith formation and evang- honour Our Lady. “Losses can lead to debilitating elization was recalled during a About two dozen people grief and painful emotions. Art is a dedication ceremony for the participated in a recent Lenten powerful healing agent that can help diocesan resource library, as it was Hunger Supper at the parish, eating transform the pain of loss and grief renamed in his honour during a only beans and rice. Those in into renewed life and growth. ceremony March 10 at the attendance thanked the Lord for “This retreat will use scripture, Catholic Pastoral Centre in what they have and were reminded creative expression, story, music, Saskatoon. that many people throughout the reflection and sharing to help Msgr. Koch, who died in 2012 world have little to eat. participants voice their grief and after a battle with ALS (Lou Afterward, some of the children loss and transform it into new life,” Gehrig’s Disease), will be who are preparing for the said Sieben remembered every time someone sacraments led and participated in Facilitator of this workshop will walks into the Msgr. Michael J. the Stations of the Cross. be Gisele Bauche, who holds a B. Koch library, said Bishop Don All are welcome to join Sacred Ed. from McGill along with a Bolen. Heart parish for an upcoming day Bachelor of Theology from St. Paul “We will remember what he away retreat entitled: “ Healing a University. She teaches and stood for, his deep passion and Wounded Heart: Grief, Loss and facilitates workshops and retreats in desire for knowledge, for the Transformation ” to be held from the areas of scripture, spirituality, knowledge of God, for growing in Dennis Koch ( right ), brother of Msgr. Michael J. Koch, unveils 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April prayer, art and wellness across wisdom and understanding – a new sign at the entrance of the renamed diocesan library. 27. western Canada. things that this library is meant to - Photos by K. Yaworski foster,” said Bolen during a prayer service held to bless and rename materials have been donated to the enthusiasm and perseverance,” the diocesan facility. diocesan library, along with a Bolen said. Msgr. Koch’s service in the bequest from the Koch family. During the celebration attend- diocese included a strong “We recall his life’s journey, a ed by parishioners, colleagues and commitment to evangelization and journey of faith in action, made family members of Msgr. Koch, the implementation of the evident in his ardent and all- his brother Dennis unveiled a new catechumenate, in particular, the encompassing vision of Church, sign at the entrance of the library, Rite of Christian Initiation of his deep commitment to located at the Catholic Pastoral Adults (RCIA). Many of his evangelization through the Centre on the second floor of the books, art and other resource initiation process, and his diocesan Cathedral of the Holy Family. Alexandria and Rebecca Koch also spoke briefly about their “Uncle Father Mike,” recalling how much he loved “his new and beautiful cathedral.” The Msgr. Michael J. Koch Library includes books, periodi- cals, video and audio materials focused on faith formation, Fr. Stephen Ripplinger at Holy Redeemer parish in Elbow. education and resources. - Photo courtesy of Helen Kretsch The library is open from Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 4:30 Father Steve Ripplinger p.m. The library catalogue can be searched online by clicking on a marks 60th anniversary box on the home page of the BY HELEN KRETSCH Davidson Pastoral Region by diocese of Saskatoon website at: Father Stephen Ripplinger regularly celebrating the Sunday www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com will celebrate 60 years as a priest Eucharist at Holy Redeemer or for more information contact this year. He was ordained on Parish in Elbow. librarian Norlayne Scott-Gaare at May 30, 1953. A community celebration of (306) 659-5853. A priest of the archdiocese of Fr. Ripplinger’s 60th anniversary Regina, Fr. Ripplinger has spent will be held Sunday, June 2 , with Msgr. Michael J. several years of his retirement Mass at 10 a.m., followed by helping out the diocese of lunch at the civic centre hall, Koch Library Saskatoon. where there is more room to visit. is supported by the Since his retirement in 1996, The Davidson Pastoral Region when he moved to his cabin at the “extends hearty congratulations resort village of Mistusinne and good wishes to Fr. Ripplinger, (several kilometres south of and asks God’s blessings for his Mona Goodman reads to children at the first story time held in Elbow, SK.) he has provided continued good health and future the children’s corner at the diocesan library Dec. 11. relief to various pastors of the ministry.” Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • • April 2013 • 19 Pastoral reflections Loss of gentle companions deepens trust in the care of our loving God BY FATHER KEVIN MCGEE , P ASTOR a veterinarian who came to my rectory – completed what old ST PATRICK , S T. M ICHAEL , S T. P ETER THE APOSTLE age had begun. Their bodies, once the willing servants of playful gestures and exuberant antics had become a collection Recently I made a decision dreaded by every pet owner: to of measured, arthritic movements and mounting disabilities. put to sleep my two canine companions of over 13 years – When they died, my tears fell upon their small, quiet Bosco and Molly. bodies. Their large, soft eyes that once gazed upon me with These precious pugs entered my life within a few months alert attention and devotion were now forever closed. of each other and through the years have gifted and guided me There is pain in the parting. Dare I hope to see them again? by their gentle, clownish and loving presence. The younger version of myself may have answered (as The sorrow I feel at losing them is beyond words. perhaps I said in similar words to the man in the sacristy), “If The fact that I welcomed them into my life to begin with your happiness in heaven depends on them being there then, was a surprise to those who know me. I was not always a ‘dog yes, you will see them again.” person.’ There was a time when I was a stranger to the Today, I would say that this ‘wait and see’ response does profound influence a pet can have in one’s life. not fully honour the enduring quality of love that is found My previous lack of sensitivity to this unique relationship even in the love we have for our pets. Jesus reminds us that is reflected in the following story: even the fallen sparrow is not forgotten by our heavenly A few months after I was ordained a priest, an elderly man Father ( Matthew 10:29 ). met me in the sacristy after Mass. Tears flowed down his face The love we have for our pets is a way of participating in and in great sobs he told me that he had just put his beloved the sacred truth that all creation finds its source in Christ in dog of many years to sleep. He asked me if he would see his whom all things exist ( cf. Colossians 1:16 ). dog again. Can we not dare to hope then, that in the new heaven and I don’t recall what I told him. I hope it was sensitive and the new earth we shall be reunited with these furry friends caring. Inwardly, however, I wondered if his grief was God has given us as companions and compasses in this life? excessive. It was, after all, just a dog. If the psalmist is right, and even the (fallen) sparrow finds Today I am that man. a home in God’s dwelling place ( Psalm 84 ), then there is also I held my precious pugs together on my lap as a medical a place for my pugs; and through the final door I may find Father Kevin McGee of the diocese of Saskatoon, with long- procedure – administered with great care and compassion by them faithful as always, to welcome me home. time canine companions Bosco and Molly. - Submitted photo Father Lacasse – “human being” – reflects on 60 years as a priest BY SUSAN LOWDNES Lacasse said that in his 60 have quite a bit of influence in get on the tractor and work the (Previously published in years as a priest, he has their community, connecting land, up and down the hills The Wadena News) watched families move away the younger generation to the northeast of Perigord, because Fr. Jean-Marie Lacasse, from the church and a God- land and nature. Now it is less. it would clear his mind. OMI, recently celebrated 60 centered home. The big concern, he explained, “When I have too many things years of priesthood, a feat of “When I was brought up, is the distance created on my mind, I would go on the significance in the Catholic every evening you had the between people and God. quarter that dad bought for me community. He was recently night prayer. Today, we don’t “We think we are so smart, (because, belonging to an recognized for his years of have what we had even thirty that we can do so many things, order, I cannot own land) and service by his own parish at years ago. Where do you have with inventions, especially in release my frustrations. It Perigord, and the diocese of a nightly prayer together?” the last 50-60 years, so that we worked for me,” he said, Saskatoon. Lacasse asked. “In what forget who is the master of admitting he is human too. Jean-Marie Lacasse was home? Not too many.” everything,” Lacasse observ- “By being a priest,” born in 1926 at Clarence His early years in native ed. Not so much frustrated Lacasse continued, “you Creek, Ontario, up river from ministry were unique among with this new reality as receive some special help, by the city of , into a many priests in this province, saddened, Father said he had ordination, the sacrament of family of two sisters and two so much so that he was pity for people that don’t go a the holy orders, it is like a brothers. His immediate recognized by the Regina step further in their sacrament of marriage. You maternal lineage includes four archdiocese last year, at the relationship with God. receive special help to get a nuns and one priest. Fr. Jean-Marie Lacasse was honoured by parishioners at a of Saint Kateri “My job is helping others message out to people and to 60th anniversary celebration last year in Perigord. At 14 years of age, he - Photo by Tim Yaworski Tekakwitha, for the great part to be aware of the presence of bring out the role of God in attended Sacred Heart College he played in ministering to God, because we spend years our daily life.” in Ottawa where he began his first posting in 1954 at Little In the summer of 1955, he First Nations people. and years not even thinking The sunset over the studies for the priesthood Grand Rapids northeast of attended school in Winnipeg Lacasse described his (about our relationship),” he Perigord hills is a sight that before proceeding to Ottawa Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba, as to get an industrial arts ministry to the First Nations as explained. “How many of us Father Lacasse has witnessed University where he studied a six month guardianship to an teaching certificate and then one that recognized their close think to be thankful to God if for more than 40 years, and philosophy, obtaining a older priest already located in moved to , SK. relationship to the land and you have good health? Bonne when asked to contemplate Bachelor of Arts. He later the mission. Surrounded by teaching the industrial arts nature, quite different from his Sant é? To thank God for all what lies beyond the deep went on to Lebret, SK. to the Little Grand Rapids First program at the college of ministry to ‘white people’. that is good in our life?” orange and red clouds of a continue his schooling at Nation, the community Gravelbourg for seven years. “There is a power that “And at night when you summer’s evening, he Sacred Heart Seminary. boasted one Hudson’s Bay His first parish was in the looks after everything in say goodnight, you ask your responds with more stories Ordained as a priest in store and a Catholic and Gravelbourg diocese, and nature. That power is God. guardian angel to look after and then says: “I believe in 1952, Lacasse describes his Anglican mission. each Sunday he also looked The native people survived for you all night,” he said, God as a life giver who after two little missions, one at thousands of years before we describing how every person permits me to make a Mossbank, just south of Old whites came into this country. has their own guardian angel pilgrimage here on earth doing Wives Lake, and the other They adapted to the land and that looks after them. good, helping others to do down the road at Mazenod. the environment around them. A jack-of-all-trades, good.” And when he goes His next residence was They survived. Look at the Lacasse was called on many to heaven one day, he believes Lestock where he was the Eskimo and the conditions times to weld a broken piece he will meet his father and priest at the Muskowekwan, that they have survived in,” he of machinery, fix a pump on a mother, his first grade teacher, Poorman, Fishing Lake and pointed out, stressing that furnace, get a motor running. his professors at college, all Gordon Indian Reserves. human beings cannot survive “Once I went out to a the people that have helped Muskowekwan and Fish- without respecting the power farmer’s field where he was so him here on earth. ing Lake each had a church, of nature around them. upset with his tractor that he He asks the community but the others did not, so Preparing Mass for his was hitting it with his hammer. just to accept him as he is. “I Lacasse would say Mass in native ministry always I said to him, ‘You sure did a make errors and mistakes. I homes or at the school. included examples from good job on that,’” Lacasse have some abilities. But I am a Anniversaries recognized In 1970 the bishop asked nature, he added. recalled, laughing. human being.” It was a senti- At the banquet before the diocesan Chrism Mass March Lacasse to go to Perigord For example, Lacasse “The younger kids were ment Father Lacasse repeated 25, Bishop Don Bolen ( centre ) presented Father Ron because ‘they wanted to have explained, looking out the there and they took the story over and over as he discussed Beechinor ( left ) and Father Lawrence DeMong, OSB, with someone who knew the common room window of home to their mother. his 60 years as a priest: “but I papal blessings marking the 50th anniversary of their French language’. Rose Valley Manor where he Swearing means that you am a human being.” ordinations in 1963. Other priests celebrating milestone At Perigord, he looked now makes his home: “You cannot control your “It is the Lord who goes anniversaries in 2013 include Fr. Ralph Kleiter (50 years); Fr. Joseph Ackerman, OSB, Fr. Bernard de Margerie, Fr. after Nut Lake (now called look at the buds (on the trees), computer,” he said, pointing to before you. He will be with Syl Lewans, OMI, and Fr. Albert ulrich, OMI (all celebrating Yellow Quill) and Kinistin they will be getting bigger as his head, thoroughly enjoying you; he will not fail you or 55 years); as well as Fr. Al Pich (60 years) and Fr. Leo reserves, as well as the we get closer to spring. Native his own understanding of forsake you. Do not fear or be Engel, OMI, and Fr. Valentine Fix, OMI, who are celebrating communities of High Tor and people would relate to that. I computers. “It is good to have dismayed” says Deuteronomy 75 years of priesthood. Bishop Bolen also announced that Nobleville. would use these examples emotions but it is also good to 31:8. It is an appropriate Bishop Emeritus Gerald Wiesner, OMI, of Prince George Describing his ministry as when preaching to them.” have control,” he added. message for Father Lacasse, a (who has retired and moved to Saskatoon) is celebrating ‘a tool of our Lord and maybe He noted that the older To settle his own servant of the Lord for 60 his 50th anniversary of ordination this year. - Photo by K. Yaworski not too good a tool, either,” people on the reserves used to frustrations, Lacasse would years: a human being. 20 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 •

Lent 2013 :

BY SR. MrARaIE -N OzELLE iROlNDiOT a, SMS n church focuses on youth How many times have we heard comments being made about youth being the future of our society? And yet one wonders: where do young people really stand in relation to society? Also, where do they stand in relation to the Church? Are they really the future of our church community? Do they feel well-integrated? Are they themselves hopeful about the future? Do they believe in the importance of their presence and personal contributions? These questions, and likely many others, come to mind as we meet these adolescents on our faith journey and listen to them sharing their stories, hopes and dreams. Here in Brazil, the year 2013 is providing us with ample opportunities to focus on youth. It started on January 27 with a tragedy that occurred in Santa Maria, a city in the southern part of the country, where some 250 young people lost their lives in a nightclub fire. The national television news clearly communicated how terribly devastated those families were as they mourned the loss of a loved one – and in some cases, of several loved ones. A feeling of deep sadness was felt throughout the country. The president of Brazil, Dilma Rousseff, spoke in such a compassionate way about the incredible loss, commenting on the potential those young Sr. Marie-Noelle and Sr. Jeannine Rondot facilitate encounters with young people. people had to make a difference for their country, but now: non-practicing Catholics from throughout our city to share importance of their presence at the heart of our Church so they are all gone. ideas on the Lenten theme promoted this year by the that each one may come to know and believe that she or he This most upsetting event provoked many reactions. Brazilian bishops: “Fraternity and Youth.” has a place there, and a very specific mission? We grieve the loss of a loved one because we deeply The general feeling of many adults participating in Several options were proposed and a number of treasure the person, and more often than not, that loss those gatherings was: “So many of our young people have decisions were made. One of these options gave birth to the opens our eyes to the intensity of the gift we treasured. been baptized, received their first Eucharist, been initiation of a new group in our parish, called: “Eucharistic Such was the case, I would imagine, with the tragedy in confirmed, but what happened to them after? Where are Youth Movement,” an international church movement for Santa Maria when all these young people left home that they?” the Christian formation of young people. The main night, but never returned. This reality led us into deeper reflection as a group – a objective is to prepare young people to live as Christian Lent 2013 was another opportunity to reflect and focus reflection which was focused on the following questions: adults, committed to the mission that has been entrusted to on youth. Weekly, and sometimes two or three times per • How can we show young people how much they them. week, Sr. Jeannine and I – along with all the other pastoral matter to us and to the church community? We and other lay leaders are now meeting on a regular leaders of our parish community – met with practicing and • How can we help young people to discover the basis with this group, which is relatively small. We hope and very much believe that more will join us as time goes on. Each time we gather, we discuss specific themes, reflect on the Word of God, pray together, and share experiences. We try to determine concrete ways for these young people to become involved in the community and to lead more meaningful lives. Last, but not least, we have lots of fun, for this is a highly energetic group. All this is done with the hope that, through this experience, each participant will grow as a person and, of course, in a relationship with God. It is hoped that the youth will make a connection between life and faith as they learn to share the light of the gospel. Pope John Paul II, speaking on the relationship of the Church with youth, once said: “As Jesus walked with the disciples of Emmaus, so the Church must become today the travelling companion of young people.” As this year 2013 continues to unfold, the Brazilian and world population will soon be given another wonderful opportunity to celebrate the gifts of youth and mission, when an estimated two million young people will gather in Rio de Janeiro in July for World Youth Day. During World Youth Day all will be strongly encouraged to take to heart the words of Jesus: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” May the themes of this year’s Lenten program Farm of Hope success “Fraternity and Youth,” of World Youth Day and – as difficult as it may be – of the tragedy of the fire at Santa Sr. Claire Novecosky, OSu, presents a diploma to one of the men who completed his year of Maria, all become occasions for us to reflect more deeply recuperation at the Farm of Hope, a rehab facility for those who struggle with addictions. During on the presence and importance of young people in our her weekly visits to the Farm of Hope, Novecosky does “down to earth” evangelization, helping the lives. It is our hope that the Church will be a place where men to understand their Christian faith and how to live it. “Recuperation is mainly learning to live they truly feel welcome to share their energy, vitality and the Word of God, which, summed up, is learning how to love: oneself, others and God,” she says. hopeful vision. Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 21 Brazil Bulletin Pastoral da Criança provides outreach to poor families BY SR. L OUISE HINZ , OSU foods and encourage the mothers to The national program of the provide healthy alternatives to various Church’s outreach to children and sweetened cereals and soft drinks. families – Pastoral da Criança – was On the day itself, the leaders arrive founded by the late Dr. Zilda Arns at the early to set up the space and to divide request of the bishops of Brazil in 1983 the tasks. First there is the welcome of to reduce the high mortality rate of the families, with some type of spiritual children in Brazil. and educational component. The program continues to be active While one leader calls and weighs in all of Brazil and in many other each child, other leaders record their countries of South America, Africa and weights and other relevant data. At the Asia. It differs from the various same time, the children are placed into governmental programs for the poor in groups where they play with toys and that the work is carried out by trained with one another. volunteers. After all of the children under the In each of the communities where the age of six years have been weighed, they Pastoral da Criança (ministry to go to a station where they wash their children) functions, once a month there hands before going to lunch. is a gathering of all families involved. In each step of the process, the Like all good projects, this monthly children are made to feel welcome and event requires preparation by the important, and it is hoped that the leaders. mothers will be more confident when During the week before the they return home. gathering, each leader visits her 6 -12 We leaders later gather to pool the families in their homes and discusses data gained in the visiting and weighing, with them their living conditions, which is collected and sent to the especially with regard to health, national office each month. education, and stages of infant growth. We also evaluate the visits and the Each month, some of the leaders celebration and do any necessary volunteer to prepare a nutritious lunch planning for the following month, which we try to vary: soup made with conscious of the final words of the donated beef bones, vegetables and with founder of the ministry, Dr. Zilda Arns, at times a generous portion of beef; or a in the lecture she gave before her hot-dog type of sandwich with fruit untimely death in Haiti three years ago: juice; or a favorite offering of various “We ought to look after our children as a Echoing the call of our new Pope Francis, a “poor Church” continues to types of fruit. This latter item is an sacred gift, promoting and respecting their work with, and for, the poor. attempt to have the children try new rights and protecting them.”

Celebrating milestone anniversaries of Canadian missionaries in Brazil BY SR. C LAIRE NOVECOSKY , OSU We came and were warmly out their mission in the diverse This year we are celebrating welcomed and received by the parishes in which they reside. 50 years since Vatican II, the Brazilians here in the northeast, a So we are grateful: grateful to great Church event responsible poverty-stricken area in this vast God who inspired Pope John for the sending of missionaries country. It was a mutual “love at XXIII to call the Vatican Council from the Saskatoon diocese and first sight” and this love has in which he invited Catholics to St. Peter’s abbacy to Brazil. continued to the present day. send missionaries to Latin This year, Sr. Louise Hinz, We had arrived at a time when America; grateful to the OSU, has completed 25 years in Vatican II was being implanted in archbishop of Maceió, Dom the Brazil mission, and I have church life: through liturgical, Adelmo Machado, who hounded now been here 40 years. biblical and catechetical renewal, Bishop Klein and Abbot Recently, the original parish of the building up of Basic Christian Weber, OSB, to send some of São José (St. Joseph) in the city Communities, the formation of their personnel to Maceió; of Maceió decided to celebrate pastoral agents and the formation grateful to our Ursuline these significant anniversaries. of the laity through courses, community for their continuous Old friends, community study days, reflection and fun interest and support; grateful to leaders and pastoral agents from days. The parish assemblies and all the people of the Saskatoon the early years were invited to youth encounters animated and diocese who over the years have participate in a celebration of sparked a lively interest in the maintained our stay here; and, thanksgiving, followed by a participants to engage in active last of all, grateful to the many, festive luncheon and program participation in all levels of many friends and parishioners of recalling the Ursulines of Bruno parish life. St. Joseph and St. Peter the who have served over these many One presentation in the Fisherman parishes for all the years in what is now the celebration program featured a kindnesses, cooperation and love Saskatoon diocesan mission. group of the original Semen- shown to us all these years. Looking back at these 40 tinhas (seedlings), the name After a break-in and years, which certainly were not chosen for the 40-plus catechists attempted robbery in our present 40 years in the desert (although at that time. They sang their home before Christmas, one of certain moments and events were theme song, which delighted all our dear ladies said, “You have “desert experiences”), I can only present. It is good to know that God who protected you, you have say that these years were life- the fruits of these “seedlings” are angels who watched over you and giving, enriching, and filled with still being harvested today, as a you have us to be with you.” Canadian missionaries, Sr. Louise Hinz ( left ) and Sr. Claire much for which to be grateful. number of them continue to carry Amen. Alleluia! Novecosky, celebrate 25 and 40 years of service in Brazil. 22 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • Mission and Outreach Humboldt and area residents support the Kenya Orphanage Mission: “Jesus Leads Us” BY MICHELLE PETERS and many others, the mission has raised over “Kenya Orphanage Mission: Jesus Leads $90,000. This year, both St. Dominic and St. Us” is a mission that began in 2006 after Augustine Catholic elementary schools in Jaclyn (Bjarnason) Sandmaier and Michelle Humboldt have agreed to focus on raising (Possberg) Peters travelled to Kenya to money for the mission. discern their vocation. While there, they Recently, Chelsea Pratchler of Humboldt stayed with the Handmaids of the Holy Child and Ana Perrault of Prince Albert returned Jesus (HHCJ). from a three-month missionary trip to visit the They also discovered the dream of Sr. school’s progress. The young Saskatchewan Augustina Ngwu (1963-2011), to build a women got to experience a simple life with boarding school/orphanage in the city of the HHCJ sisters, teaching catechism in the Eldoret. Since then, a vacant piece of land school, leading praise and worship, and now holds Ancilla Boarding/Day Academy, playing with the orphans who boarded at which opened in 2009. Ancilla. They will be sharing their In 2011, “Kenya Orphanage Mission: testimonies this spring. Jesus Leads Us” became ‘official’ through There will be a fundraising banquet for International Christian Mission Services, the orphanage at 6 p.m. May 24 at St. enabling the organization to issue taxable Augustine hall in Humboldt. Tickets: Chelsea Pratchler of Humboldt ( back, left ) and Ana Perrault of Prince Albert recently receipts. [email protected] (Adults $20; returned from a three-month missionary trip to Kenya to visit the school’s progress. With much support from St. Scholastica children 6-12 years $6; 5 and under free). For - Photo submitted by Michelle Peters Parish at Burr, SK., from Humboldt residents, more info see: www.jesusleadsus.com Local entrepreneur envisions sustainable projects for Tombura BY KIPLY LUKAN YAWORSKI partnership with a religious order of sisters in Moving forward with a sustainable, the community – the Sisters of Our Lady grassroots development model, the Yubu Queen of Peace – who will assist with staffing Development Agency (YDA) is making a a YDA-established medical clinic. In difference in the lives of those living in exchange, YDA will assist the order with costs Tombura, South Sudan, says Saskatoon of recruiting and training newcomers to the businessman Ron Schira. order. Schira is involved in the Saskatoon Opening in July 2012, the Yubu Health “support branch” of YDA – a role he came to Clinic treats some 600 patients a month, through a commitment to the gospel, to covering over 70 per cent of its operating costs practical and sustainable business practices through small fees for and lab and a huge desire to improve life in Africa. service, he explained. During his recent visit to In 2006, he established a staff charity for the community, Schira said he was moved by his company, which runs a number of Subway “spending days there watching lives being restaurants in Saskatoon, matching any saved and suffering being erased.” donation staff made. He had two reasons for Other YDA initiatives include an the initiative: to help those in need at home and agricultural program, as well as a around the world and to encourage a spirit of woodworking program, providing training and philanthropy in the young workers. producing saleable items like tables, chairs and “We decided to sponsor a few children in beds. In addition, 20 women graduated from a the third world, donate annually to The Bridge Ron Schira ( front, right ) and members of the Tombura community in South Sudan. recent sewing program. - Photo submitted by YDA on 20th in Saskatoon and we hoped we could The vision of the Tombura community for support digging some wells in Africa.” After a assistance in creating long-term self-sustaining community has to carry on without us,” he the future includes such goals as a new, number of frustrations in trying to find an projects. says of the YDA philosophy. expanded medical clinic, a vocational training organization digging wells that they could Sustainability is YDA’s measuring stick for Schira has committed himself to help YDA centre and an expansion of the Tombura support, Schira connected with a non-Catholic every project, says Schira. “If you give a man until 2020, with a view to all the development Orphanage. The local Catholic Church is also Christian initiative called “Encounter Uganda” a fish he will eat for a day. If you teach a man projects being operated locally and completely in great need of repair, said Schira. “Our goal (EU). He became involved with EU, travelling to fish, the lake will run out of fish,” he self-sustaining by that time. “The community is to raise funds for materials and have the to Uganda in 2007-08 and learning a lot about asserted. “Unless someone takes the also wants to move forward as individuals, local people contribute the labour.” aid and development. responsibility for re-stocking the lake and families and communities with the pride and For more info about the YDA, which is a Then through his sister Emilie, Schira met making sure its environment is protected, one dignity of knowing they can own their future,” registered charity, able to issue tax receipts – Luka Beru Francis in Saskatoon, who along day the good fishing will end.” he said. including details about upcoming fundraising with Michael Tomburo of Nairobi, had started If a program or project stops when outside On a recent visit to Tombura, Schira events April 28 and 29 in Saskatoon – see the an organization called the Yubu Development funding stops, it is not helpful in the long run, connected with local officials, including King website at: www.ydahelps.org or contact Agency to help the community of Tombura in he said. “There has to be a time when the Mboribamu and Catholic Bishop Eduardo Ron Schira at: [email protected] or Luka the South Sudan. Francis asked Schira for his funding from us stops and the Tombura Hiibora Kussala. Schira has also forged a Francis at [email protected] New VICS director continues “the dance” BY JOYCE DE GOOIJER , My history with VICS started Tanzania? Well, that unfolded in a VICS D IRECTOR 25 years ago when my husband way I never expected, teaching 13- John and I experienced our first year-old to 56-year-old students “The only way to make sense two-year volunteer posting. We’ve with physical disabilities to read out of change is to plunge into it, been out three times now – serving and write their national language – move with it, and join the dance.” in Kenya, East Africa; Kiribati, Swahili. - Alan Wilson Watts Central Pacific and Tanzania, East And now as director, I plunge That certainly describes how Africa. in, move with and am part of the I’m feeling as the new director of VICS matches requests from VICS dance in a new way; Volunteer International Christian developing countries with the continuing to respect the program Service (VICS). professional and technical skills of and its philosophies within the VICS, a lay volunteer mission Canadian volunteers. Twenty years context of change and moving organization, was started by the of teaching and principal forward. What an exciting place to Canadian Spiritan priests 42 years experiences in rural Saskatchewan be! ago. Through their discernment, (most recently in the Watson and For more information about they have chosen to continue their Drake areas) served me well for my VICS, including postings seeking support and involvement in the experiences overseas. qualified volunteers around the program with one major change: Working alongside people in world, see the website online at: handing the directorship over to a developing countries often leads to www.volunteerinternational.ca lay person - me! unexpected experiences. In Kenya, For more information about this My name is Joyce de Gooijer I taught math and English to high and other mission experiences and though I plunged into the school students. Expecting to once contact the Diocesan Mission position in early January of this again teach in Kiribati, I became the Office by calling (306) 653-4945, year, in many ways I joined the principal at St. Joseph’s College, a or e-mail DMO chairperson Mary Joyce De Gooijer ( left ), the recently appointed director of VICS, VICS dance a long time ago. 400-student boarding school. And Jacobi at: [email protected] with a student who is suffering from cancer. - Photo submitted by VICS Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 • 23 Announcements & Upcoming Events Lands and Seas of Jesus, St. Peter and St. The Provincial Catholic Women’s League Paul - Contact Fr. Ralph Kleiter immediately if convention will be held June 3 and June 4 at you are interested in this pilgrim journey to the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon. It Biblical lands happening Oct. 14 - Nov. 9 or Oct. will feature a special workshop for all parish 25 - Nov. 9 , with special guest facilitator Gisele CWL spiritual advisors. Guest speakers are Bauche. Contact: [email protected] or (306) 244- National CWL Spiritual Advisor Archbishop 3747 or see: www.pilgrimjourneys.ca Martin Currie of St. John’s, NL; and author Leah Perrault. Theme of the convention is: “ We have Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association conven- seen the Lord. Go tell everyone. ” All CWL will be held tion “A Measure of Justice” April members are invited to attend: contact your in Melfort. Speakers include: singer and 26-27 parish CWL council for more information. songwriter Mark Mallett; Wilma Wheeler of Nipawin; Dr. Chris Kahlenborn; Dr. Theresa Night Fever – an evening outreach of prayer in Burke, founder of Rachel's Vineyard; and Dawn which volunteers invite passersby into a church Eden, author of Thrill of the Chaste. To register to light a candle and pray – will be held again for the Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association this summer in Saskatoon. Dates and places for convention, call (306) 752-9421 or email Night Fever 2013 include St. Paul Co-Cathedral [email protected] at Spadina Crescent and 22nd St. on June 21 (during the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival); again An annual Pastoral Care Appreciation Evening was held in Saskatoon Feb. 11 for An Engaged Encounter Weekend gives at St. Paul Co-Cathedral on July 19 (during those providing out-reach to the sick, the elderly and the isolated in a variety of couples who are planning marriage the Taste of Saskatchewan); and then at St. Joseph settings. The evening included entertainment by the group “Young at Heart,” opportunity to dialogue honestly and intensively Parish at Broadway Ave. and 8th St. on Aug. 9 prayer, and refreshments - Photo by K. Yaworski about their future lives together: May 3-5, 2013 (during the Fringe Festival). Watch for more at the picturesque setting of St. Peter's Abbey in details about Night Fever from “ymosaskatoon” Muenster. Cost is $340. Registration or on Twitter and Facebook or contact Colm Leyne information: www.ceewest.com or contact: at the Catholic Pastoral Centre at (306) 659- Queen’s House upcoming retreats Heather and Craig Stomp at (306) 682-3326. 5843 or [email protected] 601 Taylor Street W, Saskatoon (306) 242-1916 [email protected] Campaign Life Coalition Saskatchewan Prairie Centre for Ecumenism - Summer May 1 and June 5 - July 1-5 - “ Growing in Faith in Annual General Meeting and Banquet will be Ecumenical Institute will be held June 10-13 in “Journeying with Scripture, the the Year of Faith: silent held May 4 . The AGM is at 4 p.m., a banquet Saskatoon: see the article on Page 11 or check Book of Revelation” with Fr. preached retrea” with Fr. with speaker at 6 p.m. at Holy Spirit parish hall, out the website: www.pcecumenism.ca Paul Fachet, OMI, 10 a.m. to Joseph Schner, SJ. (Live-in 114 Kingsmere Place, Saskatoon. Tickets: $25 noon ($15 session). $450 / Commuters $300). CHAS Convention - Marking its 70th each, contact Denise Hounjet-Roth at (306) 249- - “ Scriptural Themes for - “ The Earth is the anniversary, the Catholic Health Association of May 2 July 5-7 2764 or e-mail [email protected] Seniors and Friends: Parables ” Lord’s: Opening the dynamics Saskatchewan will hold its annual convention with Vern Ratzlaff 1:30 to 3 p.m. of scripture and ecology ” with Oct. 27-29 at the Sheraton Inn, Saskatoon. The Grants available - The James P. Mahoney ($10 session if you can pay). Sr. Dianne Bergant, CSA (Live- theme is “ Gamechangers: how people of faith Institute of the Family provides grants to in $270 / Commuters $210). change the landscape of healthcare .” May 6, 13, 27 & June 3, 10, 17, registered charities with initiatives and programs - “ Centering praye r” with Fr. - “ Sacred Journey: Speakers include John L. Allen, senior 24 July 6 intended to strengthen and support the family in Paul Fachet, OMI, at 8 p.m. Stages of Faith ” with Sr. rural and urban communities within the correspondent for the National Catholic May 8 - “ A Day Away” with Fr. Teresita Kambeitz, OSU, 9 a.m. Reporter; and Bill Brinkman, former vice geographic area of the Roman Catholic Diocese Paul Fachet, OMI, and Jacques to 4 p.m. ($95, includes lunch). president of mission initiatives with Ascension of Saskatoon. All grant applications are Leblanc 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 8-11 - “ Stunning implica- Health in the United States. For more reviewed for their impact on families (activities ($25 includes lunch). tions of the incarnation ” with Fr. information contact CHAS at: (306) 655-5330 or involving couples, parents, children or youth or May 13-18 - “ 6-day Iconogra- Ron Rolheiser, OMI. (Live-in [email protected] or see the website: the family as a whole). The Mahoney Institute phy Byzantine Writing Course ” $390 / Commuters $325). does not fund infrastructure, such as playground www.chassk.ca with Fr. Nazari Polataiko, 9 Linda Labelle is the new July 11-14 - “ I Saw A New equipment and building projects. Apply online Miscarriage awareness - Women, couples, a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Live-in $875 program coordinator at Heaven and a New Earth: the before 4 p.m. May 15. Contact the James P. families suffer when a baby dies by miscarriage. / Commuters $790). Queen’s House. Book of Revelation ” retreat with Mahoney Institute of the Family (306) 665-1766; Often those suffering feel isolated because few May 14 & June 11 - “ Taizé - Photo by Arch McKay Fr. Paul Fachet, OMI. (Live-in at: www.saskatooncommunityfoundation.ca know about the loss or don’t know how to Prayer for Christian Unity ’” 8 $300 / Commuters $280). respond. To find out more, visit our website: p.m. to 9 p.m. (donation). - “ The Monastic Way: - “Ignatian Silent “Conversations in Indigenous Intercultural June 15 July 14-22 www.saskatoonrcdiocese.com/miscarriage - “ CWL Twilight Benedictine spirituality for Directed Retreat ” with Fr. Ministry ” May 13-17 , a course offered by May 16 Evening ” with Brendan Bitz today ” with Sr. Mary Coswin, George Morris, SJ. ($975). Saskatoon Theological Union at the U of S. The Catholic author and broadcaster Micheal 7:30 p.m . OSB, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ($95, July 14-22 - “ 8-day Intensive course is open for graduate credit to those who Coren is coming to Saskatoon Nov. 17 and to - “ Christianity Rooted in includes lunch). Centering Prayer Retreat ” with have an MDiv or Master of Theological Studies Humboldt . A person of faith, he May 25 Nov. 18 Cosmic and Earth Awareness: “Six-Day Silent Fr. Kevin McGee and Marge or equivalent, or audit to those who have any fearlessly delves into subject areas where few June 16-21 - As Followers of Jesus ” with Directed Retreat ” with Queen’s Copeland. (Live-in: $800). prior theological degree. It will introduce care to venture. Watch for details. Maureen Wild, SC, 9 a.m. to 4 House spiritual direction staff - “The Journey with students to contemporary First Nations, Inuit July 15-19 SERENA - Couple-to-couple instruction in the p.m. ($95, includes lunch). ($600). and to the Divine’” with Emily and Metis contexts of ministry and mission. For sympto-thermal method of Natural Family - “ Women in Ministry Cherneski. (Live-in: $650 / more information visit www.circle-m.ca June 9-12 Planning (to achieve or postpone a pregnancy) Retreat: Finding our voice in NOTE: Spiritual Direction by Commuters $590). Western Canadian Catholic Stewardship is available. This family planning method is leadership’” with Rev. Catherine trained and experienced staff is Conference –“Our Call to Holiness: Using Our highly effective, natural, inexpensive and free of Harper, Rev. Amanda Currie, available on request. Contact To register for a retreat at Gifts to do God’s Work ” – will be held in Prince health risks. Contact: SERENA Saskatchewan, Marie-Louise Ternier-Gommers coordinator, Sr. Adeline Behm Queen’s House in Saskatoon, Albert May 31 to June 2 . See: www.wccsc.ca (306) 934-8223; 1-800-667-1637 or see the and Anne Zimmerman. (Live-in FDLP: (306) 242-1916, Ext. 234 call (306) 242-1916 or e-mail: or: www.pastewardship.com website for more information: www.serena.ca $225 / Commuters $150). or [email protected] [email protected] St. Therese Institute in Bruno: Upcoming workshops, programs and faith enrichment To register or for more information about upcoming events at • April 28 - May 2 : “Into the Heart – Journey Through the • Aug. 2 - 11: “triumph: Results God Gives” is a gentle yet St. Therese Institute of Faith and Mission, located at 650 Theology of the Body” with Christopher West. What is it that powerful inner healing and spiritual growth experience for Ursuline Ave., Bruno, SK. phone: (306) 369-255 or visit the we are truly searching for? During this Year of Faith, discover the anyone wanting to cast off that ‘extra baggage’ that we all tend website at: www.StTherese.ca life-changing truth stamped into each one of us and reflected in to carry in our lives. Whether you feel stuck in a rut, need a our body and our human sexuality. Group rates are available. recharge, or want to move your faith-life further along, come and Register/Info at: www.St.-T.ca/tob2013 or (306) 369-2555. attend this nine-day experience. Additional 2013 dates for • May 5 - 10: “Apologetics and Ecumenism in the New “triumph ” will include: Oct 18 - 27 ; as well as Nov. 8 - 17 for Evangelization ” with Jim Anderson & Dr. Robert Stackpole. young adults. Find out more at www.St-T.ca/triumph • May 12 - 17: “You Shall Be My Witnesses - A Theology • Aug. 18 : Bruno Cherry Sunday will be hosted by St. of Evangelization ” with Fr. Scott McCaig, CC, of Ottawa. Therese, featuring food, entertainment, speakers and “Cherry U- • May 25 : Commissioning of the Class of 2013 - Mass and Pick” on the grounds! Come on out to Bruno, SK, 90 kilometres ceremony with Bishop Donald Bolen; banquet and program to east of Saskatoon, and enjoy a day of honest-to-goodness follow. Please RSVP by May 20 to order banquet tickets ($20). small-town fun. Find out more at www.CherryFestival.ca Knights hold spiritual retreat in Prince Albert BY GILLES DOIRON , S TATE DEPUTY , K NIGHTS OF COLUMBUS icon of “Our Lady of Guadalupe” was taken across Northern A Knights of Columbus provincial spiritual retreat took Saskatchewan in December 2012, revealing how much the place March 15-16 at St Joseph Church in Prince Albert. Aboriginal people have a devotion to Our Lady. Under the title “ Living our Christian Faith in Our Times ”, Deacon Terry Murphy served as MC for the day. The weekend started with Mass celebrated by Bishop Albert Thévenot of Prince Albert, who in his homily introduced the theme. This was followed by a reception. Saturday started with Lieutenant-Governor Graydon Nicholas of New Brunswick providing insight as to what it was like to grow up as a young First Nations boy in the late 50s and early 60s, explaining all the challenges that it brought, and his decision to resist bullying and succeed. State chaplain Bishop Bryan Bayda of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon explained various elements contained in the image of our Lady of Guadalupe. Bishop Michael Hawkins of the Anglican Diocese of Prince Albert also spoke. Fr. Travis Myrheim, Pastor of St. Abortion trauma Michael Parish in Prince Albert, SK, demonstrated using A billboard highlighting the post-abortion “Silent No More technology in the Church, in particular his use of social media Awareness Campaign” was set up in the fall along to attempt to guide young people back to the Church. Highway 11 at Maymont, with the yearly rent covered by Deacon Terry Murphy described a project in which an Weyburn Pro-Life Association. - Photo by Anita Sonntag 24 • Diocese of Saskatoon Newsletter • April 2013 •

BSY KIPeLY LrUKAvN YAWaORSnKI ts for Christ strive to serve others Some 35 members of a Saskatoon parish youth group met with Bishop Don Bolen at the Cathedral of the Holy Family March 3, describing their commitment to service, as well as praying and singing together, presenting a donation to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, and sharing ice cream sundaes. A youth group for Grades 3 to 8 based at St. Augustine parish in Saskatoon, “ Servants for Christ ” grew out of a program for younger children established at the parish several years ago, explained parishioner, teacher and group founder Janine Baier. The popular “ Kids for Christ ” program held after Mass one Sunday a month helps younger children (preschool to Grade 3) learn about their faith, hear Bible stories, sing and have fun with friends at church. Designed and launched at St. Augustine parish about five years ago, Kids for Christ is now also Youth from St. Augustine parish in Saskatoon described their “ Servants for being offered by St. Anne’s parish Christ ” program to Fr. Don Hamel and Bishop Don Bolen at a recent Sunday in Saskatoon. afternoon event held at the diocesan cathedral. - Photo by Tim Yaworski As children grew too old for Kids for Christ , many have returned as helpers, Baier “Teens for Christ” group might be pastor Rev. Don Hamel and a Making scarves for those in education of seminarians, hospital described. “So then we thought, established. number of parents gathered at the need, volunteering at Saskatoon chaplaincy, justice and peace, well, we need another group for the Wearing their blue T-shirts (the cathedral. “We don’t just get them Friendship Inn, preparing the youth ministry, and outreach to kids who have graduated, and that’s younger Kids for Christ group have together to play games and play parish rectory yard for winter, and those in need and to those in when we started Servants for red shirts), the members of basketball ... and the kids have said holding bake sales to raise funds hospital. Christ .” Servants for Christ do not just get the most fun is when they actually for different causes were among Bolen commended the group’s Baier added that with some 50 together for fun: the group’s get to do projects and help other this year’s undertakings. focus on service, saying that when youth involved in Servants for mission is to put faith into action, people.” “For our service project in he saw the “S 4 Christ” message on Christ and another 64 children in Baier explained. Even when there are no treats or December, we had a bake sale at their shirts he thought it could also Kids for Christ at St. Augustine “Service projects are the main rewards, Servants for Christ church,” explained one young stand for “Superstars for Christ.” parish this year, the hope is that focus of the group,” she said during members choose to help, as a way member of Servants for Christ . He urged them to keep living their eventually as these children grow a brief program presented to the to show their love of God to the “Everyone brought cookies, faith and so become “T - teens older, they will stay involved, and a bishop, as well as to St. Augustine world, she described. brownies, cupcakes and many other tremendous for Christ, A - delicious things. We sold them after awesome adults for Christ and then both Masses. All together we made back to S - superstar seniors for $100 for pro-life and $500 for the Christ.” Liturgie de la Parole Bishop’s Annual Appeal.” After a closing prayer led by The bishop expressed his other members of the youth group, Carmen Bussière, catéchète dirige une Liturgie de la Parole, appreciation for the donation, the Servants for Christ continued to dimanche matin dans la describing some of the ministries give witness when it came to paroisse des Sts-Martyrs- supported by the BAA, such as sharing ice cream sundaes, Canadiens. (Catechist Carmen catechetics, faith formation, choosing to serve their guests first. Bussière leads a Sunday morning Children’s Liturgy of the Word at Saints-Martyrs-Canadiens Francophone parish in Saska- toon. ) - Photo by Tim Yaworski

Wadena Deanery Celebration Bishop Don Bolen presided over a Deanery Mass held in the Wadena Legion Hall Sunday, Nov. 4, with Fr. Fred Caylan from Wadena and Fr. George Chatholil from Wynyard. The Wadena Deanery includes parishes in Archerwill, Nobleville, Perigord, Kelvington, Lintlaw, Wadena, Fosston, Rose Valley, St. Front, Foam Lake, Wishart and Wynyard. Parish communities were consulted ahead of time about the feasibility of holding a joint deanery Mass. The idea received 100 per cent support, and even though the weather did not cooperate and the roads were icy, 220 people from all across Holy Week celebration the deanery attended. Following the 10 a.m. Mass, a question Children in the Grades 6-8 youth group at the Cathedral of the and answer period was held with the bishop, before a Holy Family in Saskatoon wash the feet of the Grades 3-5 group pancake and sausage lunch prepared by the Knights of at a youth event which took place during Holy Week. Columbus. - Photos by Wendy Burghardt - Photo by Anthony Olusola