Lyle George Needham, passed away on January 25, 2026, in High River, Alberta. Born on July 20, 1930, in Melfort, Saskatchewan.

He is survived by his loving wife of 71.5 years, Doreen, and their eight children: Karen (Bill), Bill (Judy), Bob (Lori), MaryLou (Jim), Patti (Brad), Dennis (Maria), Tom (Coleen), and Elizabeth (Mark). Lyle was a cherished grandfather to 37 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild, 2 sisters, Beryl (Guy), Shirley and one brother AJ (Joyce). He leaves behind a legacy of love and family values that will be treasured by all who knew him. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Lyle was predeceased by his parents George and Edna Needham and his sister Phyllis.

Many thanks to Fr. Mariusz, Drs. Adam and Nancy Vyse, and to the staff and friends at Medicine Tree Manor.

Lyle dedicated over four decades of his professional life as a banker at the Royal Bank of Canada and at Stampede Park, where he was respected for his diligence and integrity.

A prayer service will be held on Tuesday February 3 at 7:00PM at Snodgrass Funeral Home High River.

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 4 at 11:00AM at St Francis De Sales Catholic Church in High River.

Parish Schedule   1-7 February

Sunday, February 1

9:00 – 10:00 AM – Mass (Vulcan)
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Mass
4:00 – 5:00 PM – Confessions
5:00 – 6:00 PM – Mass

Monday, February 2 - The Presentation of The Lord (F)

8:00 – 9:00 AM – Confession
9:00 – 9:45 AM – Mass
9:45 - 11:00 AM - Valentine Committee Meeting
7:00 - 8:30 PM - Pro Life Meeting

Tuesday, February 3 - St. Blaise, Bishop, Martyr (M)

6:00 – 7:00 PM – Confessions
7:00 – 7:45 PM – Mass

Wednesday, February 4

11:00 - 12:00 AM - Funeral Mass of Lyle Needham
5:00 – 6:00 PM – Confessions
6:00 – 6:30 PM – Mass
6:45 - 7:45 PM - Financial Council Meeting
6:45 - 8:00 PM - CWL Executive Meeting

Thursday, February 5

8:00 – 9:15 AM – Confessions
9:15 – 10:00 AM – Mass (Grade 10)
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM – Adoration & Benediction
7:00 – 8:30 PM – RCIA

Friday, February 6 -St. Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs (M) 

8:00 - 8:30 AM - Mass at HS School
8:45 – 9:15 AM – Confession
8:45 – 9:15 AM – Rosary
9:15 – 10:00 AM – Mass
9:00 – 11:30 AM – TOPS Group (East Hall)
2:00 - 2:30 PM - Mass at NDC School

Saturday, February 7

8:00 – 9:00 AM – Confessions
9:00 – 9:30 AM – Daily Mass
4:00 – 5:00 PM – Confessions
5:00 - 6:00 PM - Vigil Mass
 

Next Tuesday, February 3, we will celebrate the Feast of St. Blaise, the beloved bishop and martyr, known for his powerful intercession in protecting the sick, especially those with ailments of the throat.

The tradition of the Blessing of the Throats dates back to the 4th century. According to Church history, St. Blaise once miraculously saved a young boy who was choking on a fishbone. In gratitude, the Church began asking for his intercession for all who suffer from illnesses of the throat and respiratory problems. Today, this blessing continues as a sign of God’s protection and care for our health.

During Mass, we will offer the Blessing of the Throats. St. Blaise reminds us of God’s care for our well-being, and this blessing is a simple yet powerful way to ask for his protection over our voices, our ability to speak, and our daily lives.

All parishioners are warmly invited to join us for Mass on Tuesday, and to receive this special blessing. Whether young or old, it’s an opportunity to experience the prayers and protection of St. Blaise.

Saint of Courage: St. Agatha, Virgin and Martyr

Dear Parishioners,

This month, we honor St. Agatha, a shining example of courage and faith in the face of suffering. St. Agatha was a young Christian woman from Sicily, living in the 3rd century. Known for her deep devotion to God, she consecrated her life to Christ and chose to remain a virgin, dedicating herself fully to Him.

Unfortunately, during a time of persecution against Christians, Agatha’s faith brought her into conflict with powerful authorities. She was arrested for refusing to renounce her faith and resist advances from a Roman official. Despite facing horrific torture, she remained steadfast, placing her trust in God rather than succumbing to fear or threats. Tradition tells us that she endured her suffering with unwavering faith, offering her pain as a witness to God’s love.

St. Agatha’s courage has made her a patron saint of breast cancer patients, nurses, and those suffering from abuse, reminding us that even in our own trials, God’s grace can sustain us. Her feast day, February 5, invites us to reflect on the power of faith, purity, and perseverance.

As we remember St. Agatha, let us be inspired by her bravery and her devotion. May her example encourage us to stand firm in our beliefs, offer compassion to those in need, and trust in God through all difficulties.

“Strengthened by the courage of saints like Agatha, we can face life’s trials with faith and hope, knowing that God’s love never fails.”

World Day for Consecrated Life – February 2

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas)

On February 2, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas, when Mary and Joseph brought the child Jesus to the Temple. There, Simeon recognized Him as a “light for revelation to the nations” (Luke 2:32). The blessing of candles on this day reminds us that Christ is the Light of the World.

This day is also observed as the World Day for Consecrated Life, instituted by Pope John Paul II in 1997:

It is a time to give thanks for the priests, brothers, sisters, and consecrated men and women who faithfully serve Christ in our parishes, schools, hospitals, missions, and in prayerful hidden works. Here at St. Francis de Sales Parish, we are blessed to have a member of the Salvatorian community whose witness inspires all of us in faith and service.

Practical ways we can celebrate and honor consecrated life in our parish:

• Attend Mass and join in prayer for consecrated men and women.
• Thank them personally for their dedication and support in parish life.
• Encourage vocations by praying for young people to hear and answer God’s call.
• Support their work through volunteering, donations, or participating in parish ministries they lead.

May this Feast of the Presentation and the World Day for Consecrated Life renew our hearts to be a light for Christ in our families, communities, and parish.

SFDS Ministry Schedule - January 24 & 25, 2026