Join us for the Opening Mass of the Jubilee Year on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Noon at St. Mary's Cathedral. This special celebration, led by Bishop McGrattan, marks the beginning of the Holy Year 2025, themed "Pilgrims of Hope." All are welcome! 

Join us as we celebrate with great joy the Ordination of Peter An to the Transitional Diaconate by the Most Reverend William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary. Please share this announcement widely with your parishioners to encourage attendance and support for Peter An on this blessed day. 

• When: Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024 at 5 pm, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Calgary
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Join us in supporting Mission Mexico Day on Dec 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and Mission Mexico Sunday on Dec 15 in the parishes. These special days remind us of our call to walk in solidarity with marginalized communities in southern Mexico, providing vital support for education, healthcare, and sustainable development. Let us come together to share hope and transform lives through our generosity.

• There will be a Second Collection on the Third Sunday of Advent (Dec. 14/15) for Mission Mexico. Direct link to donate online -https://www.catholicyyc.ca/donatemissionmexico.html 

Thank you for the prayers, support, and assistance you have offered for the funeral of our beloved Bishop Henry. The prayers for Bishop Henry were beautifully celebrated on Monday and Tuesday this week.

• Watch the recorded live-stream from the Funeral Mass.
• Worship aid for Prayers for Bishop Henry (Morning Prayer, Rosary, Divine Mercy and Evening Prayer, Vigil Prayer, and Funeral Mass) is available here. Download

Going to confession can be a profound spiritual experience if you prepare well. Here are some practical steps:  

1. Spiritual Preparation

• Prayer: Ask the Holy Spirit for help in recognizing your sins and fostering true contrition.  
• Examination of Conscience: Reflect on your life using the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, or other moral guides. You can also use an examination tailored for adults, youth, or children.  

2. Contrition

• Consider how your sins have affected your relationship with God, others, and yourself. True contrition comes from love for God (perfect contrition) or fear of His justice (imperfect contrition).  

3. Make a Firm Resolution to Change

• Decide on specific steps to avoid sin in the future. Think about what habits or circumstances you can change to live more faithfully.  

During Confession

Step 1: Greeting the Priest

• - Begin by saying:  
•   In the Name of the Father ... 
•   Then continue:  
•   It has been [time] since my last confession, and I fulfilled my penance.

Step 2: Confess Your Sins

• Clearly and honestly state your sins, without justifying or hiding anything. Focus on mortal sins but also include venial sins you want to confess.  

Step 3: Listen to the Priest

• The priest may offer advice or encouragement. Listen attentively, as his words can guide your spiritual growth.  

Step 4: Express Contrition

• After the priest speaks, express your sorrow by praying an act of contrition, such as:  
•    Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.

Step 5: Receive Absolution

• When the priest absolves you, respond with: Amen.

After Confession

• 1. Fulfill Your Penance: Complete the assigned penance as soon as possible to fully close the sacramental process.  
• 2. Live in Grace: Pray daily, avoid occasions of sin, and stay close to the sacraments to grow in your spiritual life.  

By following these steps, confession becomes not just an obligation but a meaningful encounter with God’s mercy.