On September 21, we celebrate the feast of St. Matthew, one of the twelve Apostles and the author of the first Gospel. The name "Matthew" is derived from the Hebrew form "Matthaios, "meaning "gift of God." According to tradition, Matthew remained in Palestine for some time after Christ's Ascension. He wrote the Gospel in Aramaic, not in Greek, specifically for the Jews to learn about Christ's teachings and to demonstrate Jesus Christ as the Messiah by referencing the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament. The time of its creation is uncertain, estimated to be between 50 and 60 AD. It is not known who translated the Gospel according to St. Matthew into Greek and when. According to Christian tradition, he was martyred in Ethiopia, and the circumstances of his death remain unknown. His relics have been in Salerno near Naples, Italy, since the 10th century.

St. Matthew is the patron saint of tax collectors, accountants, financial officials, and bankers.

The symbol of St. Matthew is a winged man, representing his transformation from a tax collector, one of the most despised figures in Jewish culture, to a disciple of Jesus, who looked at him with love and called him to follow. Through Christ, Matthew discovered his human dignity and his relationship with God. He provided detailed descriptions of Jewish customs and rituals in his Gospel, emphasizing the importance of humanity. The Gospel of Matthew begins with a thorough examination of the genealogy and birth of Jesus Christ, highlighting his vulnerability as a child and during his death on the cross.

Report for the months of April—August 2024.
The St. Francis de Sales Ministry has helped a total number of 6 people for the months of April to August 2024. We paid out a total of $6,157.50 for bills, rent, or mortgages, as well, we gave a total of $325.00 in fuel cards, and $300.00 in grocery cards. The total assistance we have given this period is $6,782.50

It is rewarding to be able to assist these peo- ple who are genuinely struggling. The help we give is so appreciated. We try to listen and give help as much as we can as quickly as possible. A huge Thank You to all those who have made a donation to this rewarding ministry

We're looking for enthusiastic boys who have already received their First Holy Communion to be part of the Altar Servers Ministry and girls who love to sing to join us in the Children's Choir.

As an altar server, you'll help out during Holy Mass and other church services, showing that the whole parish and all the faithful are involved in the liturgical services. It's not just the priest's job - everyone plays a part!

If you're interested in Altar Serving, we're having an orientation meeting on Saturday, September 21 at 9:30 a.m. It's a great opportunity to learn more and get involved.

For more details about altar servers, you can reach out to Fr. Mariusz Sztuk, SDS. 403.992.2313

There is not a meeting for the Children’s Choir at this time, but for information about joining the Children’s Choir, feel free to contact Nancy in the church office at 403-652-2203 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and she will forward your name to Annah.

I am looking forward to having you on board! Fr. Marius

Gracyn Sekura is all smiles as she receives the CWL Scholarship from Joanne Van Donzel and Susan Horn. Gracyn will begin her studies this Fall in Neuroscience.

Mr. John Dawson of High River, Alberta passed away peacefully at the Foothills Country Hospice on August 13, 2024 at the age of 80 years. John is survived by his sisters Fran Dudley and Ann Hall, and brother Norm Dawson.

John was born in Montreal, PQ. John was the second youngest of a large family, he had 4 brothers and 5 sisters growing up. John began his adult life as a Ski Instructor starting in Quebec and eventually bringing him to Kelowna, BC. Through the many friends made during this time, John had the opportunity to travel to different countries in Europe as well as Japan.

John spent his time in Kelowna working at Big White Ski Resort in the winter and Gallagher’s Canyon Golf Club in the summer. John became a Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant and moved to Salmon Arm where he worked at a long-term care facility. Once John retired, he continued to volunteer at the same facility for over 15 years.

John moved to High River, AB in 2020 to be closer to family living in the Foothills area. John loved playing Tennis and would regularly play with his family and friends he made.

John was a very dedicated Catholic and was an active member at St. Joseph’s in Salmon Arm and St. Francis de Sales in High River. His faith led John to do extensive travelling, making several trips to Medjugorje, often with his brother Fabian (Flip) and sister-in-law Noella.

John was a friend, a brother and an uncle. He had many nieces and nephews who he loved and he was loved by all of them as the incredi- bly fun and cool, Uncle Johnny.

John and his family would like to extend their gratitude to the amazing staff and volunteers at the Foothills Country Hospice for all of their care and support during his time there. Also, to the Alberta Health Services home care workers for their guidance and assistance.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, September 20th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in High River.