Mr. Maj Wojcik of High River, Alberta passed away at his home on May 14th, 2026 at the age of 82 years.Obituary to follow.Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 23rd at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in High River.

Gerard (Gerry) Patrick McAuley, 77, of Vulcan County Alberta peacefully passed into eternity on May 13, 2026.

Gerry was born March 10, 1949, in Montreal the youngest child of loving parents. As a child he enjoyed playing football in the streets of Rosemount and St. Marie. Early on he developed an intense fondness of reading demonstrating an incredible memory for history, music and film. He spent many Saturday afternoons viewing movies at the local theatre when one dollar bought a double feature. From a very young age he played the role of peacemaker, on the playground and later as an adult. His easy manner and sense of humour often resulted in turning the heat down in a conflict. In Montreal he developed a lifelong passion for smoked meat sandwiches, steamie hotdogs and the only hockey team that mattered; The Montreal Canadiens.

After a couple of years in university studying journalism, he decided to make use of his strong vocal ability and love of music. In 1973 he moved to Stephenville Newfoundland and began his career as a radio announcer. There he married and started a family. In 1979 they moved to Fort McMurray Alberta where he worked as an operator at the Suncor Refinery. He especially enjoyed camping with his sons David and Ryan. A natural performer, he often told amusing stories of his time working with the interesting characters in the Oil and gas industry. After 23 years of frigid weather and night shifts he retired from Suncor in March 2003 and moved to Canmore Alberta. There he found his true calling as an actor, performing in many theatre productions with Pine Tree Players, Theatre Canmore and Morpheus Theatre. He often spoke of the great joy he received working with fellow actors, especially the friendship of many talented young people. He also was an active volunteer for many years with the Canmore Folk Festival and the Canmore Friends of the Library. He continued his love of music by attending musical festivals throughout Alberta. In 2020 he moved from Canmore with his friend and companion Melanie DesRoches and after a year in Nanton, they settled on a regenerative ranch in Vulcan County. Gerry adapted quickly from being a city boy to the rural life, especially operating the ride-on lawnmower and sitting in the sunshine with a glass of scotch, a cigar and the companionship of his beloved dogs Jack and Layla. He could, however, never be convinced to milk a goat. He enjoyed road trips to thrift shops and yard sales where he collected favourite movie DVDs, books and especially vinyl records, which he added to his impressive collection. Due to his powerful speaking voice, he was a favourite lector reader at his beloved church St. Andrew’s. He often joked that attendance at church was higher on the days he read. In winters he and Melanie enjoyed many wonderful trips to the warmer climates including Mexico, Europe, Florida and Hawaii.

He is predeceased by his father Bernard McAuley and his mother Emma McAuley née Shannon and survived by his friend and companion Melanie DesRoches, his ex-wife Geri Pretty, sons David McAuley (Olivia Olsen), Ryan McAuley (Patty Martin), Stepsons Jeremy DesRoches (Julie Tran DesRoches), Andrew DesRoches, grandchildren Gabriel and Miyla, extended grandchildren Sierra, Malyek, and Jaxon and brothers Steven McAuley (Myrna) and Brian(Paula) and their children Alanna, Sonja, Carrie and Kieran.

Gerry will be forever remembered as a loving, joyful and talented brother, father, grandfather and friend. May he rest in peace and may his soul be welcomed into the arms of God.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday May 20, 2026, 11 am St Andrew's Catholic Church 390 1 St S, Vulcan Alberta. Reception to follow in church hall. Internment at 1 pm Vulcan Cemetery.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord is one of the great feasts of the Church, yet it is sometimes overshadowed by Christmas, Easter, or Pentecost. At first glance, it may even seem strange to celebrate Jesus “leaving” His disciples. But the Ascension is not about absence — it is about mission, hope, and the promise that Christ remains with us forever.

Forty days after His Resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven before the eyes of His apostles. As St. Luke describes in the Acts of the Apostles, the disciples stood looking toward the sky until angels reminded them that Jesus would return again in glory. This moment marked the end of Christ’s visible earthly ministry, but also the beginning of the Church’s mission in the world.

Why is this feast significant today?

First, the Ascension reminds us that heaven is real. In a world focused almost entirely on success, possessions, entertainment, and temporary achievements, Christians are called to remember that our true homeland is with God. Jesus opened the gates of heaven not only for Himself, but for all humanity. His Ascension gives us hope that our lives have an eternal purpose.

Second, the Ascension challenges us not to remain standing still. The apostles could have remained gazing into the sky, paralyzed by fear or sadness. Instead, Jesus entrusted them with a mission: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” The feast invites every Christian to ask: How am I living my faith? Am I bringing Christ into my family, workplace, school, and community?

Third, the Ascension teaches us about trust. Jesus physically departed, yet He promised: “I am with you always.” Even when God may seem distant in times of suffering, confusion, or uncertainty, Christ continues to guide His Church through the Holy Spirit. The Ascension is not the story of Jesus abandoning humanity, but of Christ remaining present in a new and deeper way.

Do we still need this celebration today? Absolutely.

Modern society often encourages people to live only for the present moment. The Ascension lifts our eyes beyond daily worries and reminds us that human life is more than material success or personal comfort. It calls us to live with hope, courage, and responsibility. It reminds us that every baptized person has a mission to witness to the Gospel.

The feast also offers comfort. Jesus, who shared our human life, suffering, and death, now reigns in glory. Our humanity has entered heaven through Him. This means that our struggles, prayers, sacrifices, and acts of love are not meaningless. In Christ, they are transformed and given eternal value.

As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, may we not simply look toward the sky, but move forward with faith. Christ has ascended, but He has not left us alone. He sends us into the world with hope in our hearts and the promise that one day we too are called to share in His glory.

Obituary for Mrs. Justine Anderson - April 10, 1938 - February 13, 2026 It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of our mother Justine Anderson (Judy). She left us peacefully at home on February the 13th 2026 at the remarkable age of 87. Her life was a testament to resilience, love and joy and will be forever remembered for the warmth she brought to all who knew her. Born on April 10, 1938, in the town of Maklin, Saskatchewan. She was the beloved daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Stang. Her early years were filled with laughter and learning surrounded by her siblings Bert, Ron, Richard, Hilda, Elmer, Molly, Maryan, Louise, Willy and Betty all of whom predeceased her. She is survived by her siblings Eddie, Joe, Leona, Lorraine and Sharon. She carried the fond memories of her youth with her throughout her life, cherishing the bonds of family that were so deeply rooted in her heart.
In 1954 she met the love of her life, Bruce, while working at Canadian Bank of Commerce right out of high school. Their love was character-ized by mutual respect, unwavering support and a shared passion for life. Together, they moved through life's chapters with grace, eventual-ly settling in Bruce’s hometown of High River. There she became the co -owner of the Imperial Service garage, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and tenacity. Following the sale of the dealership, she worked for AGT, further demonstrating her adaptability and dedication. In 1981 She and Bruce embarked on a new adventure, opening Mama's Kitchen. A family run business that flourished under her guidance and with the help of her children she created a warm and inviting space that became a cornerstone of the community where smiles and stories were shared over lovingly prepared meals. Her life was enriched by her many interests including her love for trav-el, especially her cherished trips South. A lover of games, she was known for her infectious smile and competitive spirit in countless card games and rounds of golf. Music played a significant role in her life, and she was known for her ability to entertain, bringing laughter and joy to those around her. She is survived by her devoted children Rhonda, Karen (Norman) Ja-net, Janice (Walter) and Stanley (Darcy) who carry forth her legacy of love and kindness. Her memory will forever be cherished by her 22 grandchildren 38 great grandchildren and 1 great- great grandchild who adored their Grandma and will continue to be inspired by her enduring example of grace and generosity. She was predeceased by her loving husband Bruce, her beloved daugh-ter Debbie, granddaughter Sarah, grandson Jamie and her son in-law Ken, whose memories she held dear and who are now reunited with her in an eternal embrace of peace. We celebrate her life knowing she's at peace surrounded by her family she loves so dearly. Her legacy is one of compassion, joy and unyield-ing zest for life. Rest in peace dearest Mom, knowing you were cher-ished beyond measure. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Cana-da www.alzheimer.ca

SFDS Ministry Schedule - May 23 & 24, 2026

Thank you to all our parish volunteers for your dedication and service to our parish community!