The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist: A Celebration for Our Times

Each year on June 24, the Church celebrates the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, one of the few saints whose birth is commemorated in the liturgical calendar. Most saints are remembered on the day of their death—the day of their birth into eternal life. John the Baptist, however, is so important in God's plan of salvation that the Church celebrates both his birth and his martyrdom.

Why is John the Baptist given such a place of honor?

The answer lies in his unique mission. John was chosen by God before his birth to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. The angel Gabriel announced John's birth to his father, Zechariah, declaring that he would be "great before the Lord" and would turn many hearts back to God (Luke 1:15-17). Even before he was born, John recognized the presence of Christ, leaping in his mother's womb when Mary visited Elizabeth.

John's entire life pointed toward Jesus. He did not seek fame, power, or recognition for himself. Instead, he proclaimed a simple but powerful message: "Prepare the way of the Lord." He called people to repentance, urged them to change their lives, and directed them toward the One who was to come. When Jesus appeared, John humbly declared, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).

Traditions Associated with the Feast

The feast of Saint John the Baptist has long been associated with midsummer celebrations. In many European countries, people traditionally gathered around bonfires on the eve of June 24. The fire symbolized the light of Christ that John came to announce. These "St. John's Fires" became a joyful expression of faith, community, and gratitude for God's blessings.

In Canada, Saint John the Baptist holds a special place, particularly in Quebec. Since the early days of New France, he has been honored as the patron saint of French Canadians. June 24, known as Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, is a public holiday in Quebec and is celebrated with Masses, family gatherings, concerts, cultural events, and community festivities. While many celebrations today emphasize cultural heritage, their roots lie in the Christian recognition of John the Baptist as the forerunner of Christ.

For Catholics across Canada, the feast offers an opportunity to reflect on our Christian identity and mission. Just as John prepared the way for the Lord, we too are called to prepare the way for Christ in our families, workplaces, schools, and communities.

Why This Feast Matters Today

We live in a world filled with noise, distractions, and countless voices competing for our attention. Like the people of John's time, we can easily lose sight of what truly matters. Saint John the Baptist reminds us of the importance of preparing our hearts for Christ. His call to repentance is not outdated; it is as necessary today as it was two thousand years ago.

John also teaches us the virtue of humility. In a culture that often encourages self-promotion and personal recognition, John shows us a different path. True greatness is found not in drawing attention to ourselves but in leading others to Christ. His life challenges us to ask: Do our words and actions point people toward Jesus?

Furthermore, John's courage is an example for all Christians. He spoke the truth even when it was unpopular and ultimately gave his life for it. In an age when many are tempted to compromise their faith for comfort or acceptance, Saint John the Baptist reminds us that faithfulness sometimes requires sacrifice.

There is also a beautiful symbolism in the timing of his feast. The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist occurs shortly after the summer solstice, when the days begin to grow shorter. Six months later, we celebrate Christmas, when the days begin to grow longer. The Church Fathers saw in this a reflection of John's words about Jesus: "He must increase, but I must decrease." Even nature seems to echo John's mission of pointing away from himself and toward Christ.

The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist is therefore much more than a remembrance of an event long ago. It is a call to renewal. Through prayer, repentance, humility, and faithful witness, we can help others encounter the Lord.

As we celebrate this great feast, let us ask Saint John the Baptist to intercede for us, that we may have his humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to Christ. May we, too, become voices that prepare the way of the Lord in our world today.

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES PARISH
Parish Schedule – June 14–20, 2026

Sunday, June 14

• 9:00–10:00 AM – Mass (Vulcan)
• 11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Mass (High River)
• 1:00–4:00 PM – Couples for Christ
• 4:00–5:00 PM – Confessions
• 5:00–6:00 PM – Mass

Monday, June 15

• 8:00–9:00 AM – Confessions
• 9:00–9:45 AM – Mass
• 5:00–9:00 PM – CWL Wind-Up

Tuesday, June 16

• 10:00 AM–3:00 PM – Fr. Mariusz at Bishop's Council Meeting (Pastoral Centre)
• 6:00–7:00 PM – Confessions
• 7:00–7:30 PM – Mass

Wednesday, June 17

• 3:15–3:45 PM – Mass at Seasons High River
• 4:00–4:30 PM – Liturgy at High River Hospital
• 5:00–6:00 PM – Confessions
• 6:00–6:30 PM – Mass

Thursday, June 18

• 8:00–9:15 AM – Confessions
• 9:15–10:00 AM – Mass
• 10:00 AM–9:00 PM – Adoration and Benediction
• 12:30–3:00 PM – Fr. Mariusz at Deanery Meeting in Okotoks

Friday, June 19 – St. Romuald

• 8:45–9:15 AM – Confessions
• 8:45–9:15 AM – Rosary
• 9:00–11:30 AM – TOPS Group Meeting
• 9:15–10:00 AM – Mass (Grade 2)

Saturday, June 20

• 8:00–9:00 AM – Confessions
• 8:30–9:00 AM – Rosary
• 9:00–9:30 AM – Daily Mass
• 4:00–5:00 PM – Confessions
• 5:00–6:00 PM – Mass
• 6:00–9:00 PM – Knights of Columbus COR Meeting

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES PARISH
Ministry Schedule – June 20 & 21, 2026

Thank you to all who generously serve in the ministries of our parish. Your dedication and commitment help make our liturgies prayerful, welcoming, and vibrant.

Why Do We Have Holy Water at the Entrance of the Church?

Have you ever wondered why there is holy water at the entrance of our church and why Catholics dip their fingers into it before entering?

This beautiful tradition has deep roots in both Scripture and the history of the Church.

In the Old Testament, water was often used for purification before entering a sacred place. God instructed the priests of Israel to wash before approaching the sanctuary. These rituals prepared God's people to come into His presence with reverence and devotion.

For Christians, water took on an even deeper meaning through the Sacrament of Baptism. Through the waters of Baptism, we become children of God and members of Christ's Church. From the earliest centuries, Christians recognized blessed water as a sign of God's blessing and protection. Over time, the Church began placing holy water near church entrances so that the faithful could recall their Baptism as they entered for worship. By the Middle Ages, holy water fonts had become a common feature in Catholic churches throughout the world.

When we enter the church and dip our fingers into the holy water, we should make the Sign of the Cross slowly and reverently: "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

This simple gesture is much more than a habit. It reminds us of three important truths:

First, it reminds us of our Baptism. We remember that we belong to Christ and have been welcomed into God's family.

Second, it is a prayer for purification. As we enter the house of God, we ask Him to cleanse our hearts and prepare us to worship Him worthily.

Third, it reminds us that we are entering a sacred place. Just as we prepare ourselves before visiting someone important, we prepare ourselves spiritually before coming into the presence of the Lord.

Many Catholics also bless themselves with holy water when leaving the church. In doing so, we remember that our faith does not remain inside the church building. We are sent forth to live as disciples of Christ in our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities.

The next time you enter the church, take a moment to pause. Dip your fingers into the holy water, make the Sign of the Cross with devotion, and thank God for the gift of your Baptism. This small gesture connects us with centuries of Catholic tradition and reminds us who we are: beloved sons and daughters of God.

Fr.Marius Sztuk, SDS

Dear Parishioners of St. Francis de Sales,

Grace and peace to you.

Over the past several years, our parish family has continued to grow and thrive. We are blessed with strong Mass attendance, vibrant parish activities, and a community that is deeply committed to the mission of Christ and His Church. With this growth comes the need to prepare for the future and ensure that our parish facilities continue to serve the needs of our community for many years to come.

As part of the Diocese of Calgary's Multiplying Hope Campaign, our parish has been exploring projects that will strengthen our parish infrastructure and support our mission. After careful consultation with the Parish Pastoral Council, Finance Council, the Diocese, and the Town of High River, we have identified two important projects that will help secure the future of our parish.

While our original Multiplying Hope proposal included both a parking lot expansion and the construction of a new rectory, after careful consideration we have decided to proceed in phases. We will begin with the parking lot project and, once it is completed and fully paid for, we will turn our attention to building a new rectory closer to the church.

Phase One: Parking Lot Expansion and Renewal

Our immediate focus is the expansion and renewal of the church parking lot.

Anyone who attends our Sunday Masses, parish picnics, major celebrations, or funerals knows that parking has become increasingly limited. During many parish events, our parking lot reaches capacity, forcing parishioners and visitors to seek parking elsewhere.

In addition, the existing paved parking lot has reached the point where significant repairs will soon be required. Rather than addressing these issues separately, your Finance Council determined that it would be prudent and more cost-effective to complete the expansion and resurfacing as one comprehensive project.

The proposed project includes:

• Expanding the parking lot into the former rectory green space.
• Removal of five mature trees and redevelopment of the surrounding landscaped area.
• Regrading the property to ensure proper stormwater drainage.
• Construction of approximately 840 square metres of new asphalt parking area.
• Resurfacing approximately 850 square metres of the existing parking lot.
• Installation of new curbs, parking stall markings, and related improvements.

Extensive discussions have taken place with the Town of High River regarding planning requirements, drainage considerations, tree removal, landscaping, and parking design. Professional surveys and engineering work are currently underway to ensure that all municipal requirements are met.

Current estimates place the total project cost between $130,000 and $150,000.

This project will improve accessibility, increase parking capacity, enhance safety, and provide a more welcoming experience for parishioners and visitors alike.

Before any construction can begin, we must complete the necessary municipal approvals and fulfill the Diocese's requirements regarding fundraising and project approval. In the coming months, parishioners will hear more about our fundraising efforts and how everyone can participate in this important initiative. If our fundraising campaign is successful and we are able to satisfy diocesan policies and requirements, it is our hope to begin the parking lot project later this year.

Every gift, regardless of size, will help us move one step closer to making this project a reality. We ask for your prayers, support, and patience as we work through the final planning, approval, and fundraising stages.

Phase Two: Building a New Rectory

Once the parking lot project has been completed and finalized, we will begin work on the second phase of our vision: building a new rectory adjacent to the church.

Many parishioners will remember that before the 2013 flood, the rectory stood next to the church. Having the priest living on the parish property greatly supports the daily life of the parish. It allows for greater availability for pastoral care, easier access during emergencies, and a stronger connection between the priest and parish community.

Our goal is to construct a modest rectory that will provide living space for the pastor and occasional visiting clergy. Bringing the rectory back to the church property will strengthen parish life and help support ministry for many years to come.

The current residence occupied by the pastor could then potentially be used as a rental property, creating an additional source of income to help support parish operations and future needs.

While this second phase remains part of our long-term plan, our first priority is to successfully complete the parking lot project. Once that work is finished, we will evaluate the next steps, costs, and fundraising requirements for the rectory project.

How Does Multiplying Hope Help?

Through the Diocese of Calgary's Multiplying Hope Campaign, funds raised by our parish may qualify for diocesan matching support. This provides us with a unique opportunity to accomplish significant improvements while maximizing every dollar donated by parishioners.

Your generosity will help ensure that our parish remains welcoming, accessible, and prepared to serve future generations.

Looking Ahead

These projects are about much more than buildings, asphalt, or parking spaces. They are about strengthening the mission of St. Francis de Sales Parish. They are about creating a welcoming environment for worship, building a stronger parish community, and ensuring that our parish remains a vibrant home of faith for years to come.

As plans continue to develop, we will keep everyone informed regarding timelines, costs, fundraising goals, and opportunities to participate.

Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and commitment to St. Francis de Sales Parish. Together, through faith and hope, we can build a stronger future for our parish community.

May God bless you and your families.

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Mariusz Sztuk, SDS
Parish Priest

Parish Finance Council
Parish Pastoral Council
St. Francis de Sales Parish