In preparation for the great feast of Pentecost, let us ask for an outpouring of grace into our hearts, and implore the Holy Spirit to send the grace of renewal to all the parishes in the Diocese of Calgary. Novena to the Holy Spirit starts this Friday, May 10, 2024. Visit page
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Message to Catholic Families from the President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops on National Family and Life Week 13 to 19 May 2024
"We are very excited to host this gathering in our faith-filled parish, and we look forward to a wonderful event," shares one of our Parish Renewal Team members in SW Calgary, a sentiment shared by many throughout our Diocese.
We are witnessing an exciting phase of pastoral renewal, with many parishes actively engaging in the planning and execution of their renewal gatherings.
On April 13, St. James Parish in Calgary embarked on its renewal journey, which was quickly followed by four other parishes over the last weekend alone. The depth of discussions and the excitement for community renewal noted by the Parish Renewal Teams have been a wonderful encouragement, showcasing the strong desire for growth within our parishes.
Meanwhile, the Diocesan Leadership Renewal Team is preparing for the June release of the parish survey and a team-building initiative to further support our renewal journey. Stay tuned for more updates on these transformative efforts.
In the month of May, we celebrate Catholic Education Week in Alberta, the Yukon, and Northwest Territories. The theme for Catholic Education Week 2024, “Courage to Lead,” reminds us of our call and responsibility to live and uphold the teachings of our Catholic faith, even amidst the challenges of the world around us. Let us celebrate Catholic Education Week (May 14-19) this month with the provincial theme "Courage to Lead” (c.f. Micah 4:5). This Week also provides a special opportunity to thank each one of you for your extraordinary service to Catholic education. May God grant us the wisdom, courage, and strength to fulfill our sacred duty with courage and love, knowing that He walks alongside us every step of the way.
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The Fourth Sunday of Easter, or widely known as Good Shepherd Sunday is the World Day of Vocations. There will be a special collection for the work of vocations, in supporting the education and formation of seminarians and permanent diaconate program in our Diocese.
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As we approach Lent, Bishop McGrattan reminds us to take a step back, pause, and reflect on our use of social media. Using insights from the latest CCCB pastoral letter, "Let Your Speech Always be Gracious," and the Holy Father's Lenten message, the Bishop highlights the seven commitments we should make to witness to core Christian values and help build a healthy online environment that serves the common good.
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