Diocesan News - Roman Catholic Diocese of Kamloops
Transcription
Diocesan News - Roman Catholic Diocese of Kamloops
Vol 42, No. 2 - June 2016 Diocesan News News and Views of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kamloops Pope Francis Names New Bishop for Kamloops TABLE OF CONTENTS Bishop’s Journal..............4-5 Bishop’s Message..............6 Carmelite Corner.............12 Jubliee of Mercy..............13 Pope Francis Message.....16 Pope Francis has named the Archdiocese of Vancouver’s Vicar General, Father Joseph Phuong Nguyen, as the new Bishop of Kamloops. The Diocesan News Tel. 250-376-3351 Fax 250-376-3363 • info@rcdk.org • Father Nguyen will take over from Bishop David Monroe, who retires having reached the mandatory retirement age of 75. Bishop Monroe has served Kamloops since 2002 and, like his successor, is a former vicar general of the Archdiocese of Vancouver. Photo: Bishop Monroe and Bishop-elect Nguyen pictured with the Kamloops Diocesan coat of arms. Congratulations MONSIGNOR Diocesan News A publication of the Roman Catholic Church in the Diocese of Kamloops The Diocesan News is an associate member of Canadian Catholic News(CCN). JERRY DESMOND 50 TH ON Y OUR A NNIVE RSARY OF ORDINATION MANAGEMENT BOARD Most Reverend David Monroe, Bishop of Kamloops – publisher; Gary Cooper, Adele Huculak and Claude Julien – advisory members. EDITORIAL POLICY The Diocesan News seeks to increase the unity of the people of the diocese by providing current information about matters of Church teaching and policy, in addition to diocesan and parish news. News will be as up-to-date as possible, given the publication schedule, and generally will reflect relevant Church issues affecting this diocese. Diocesan and parish news will inform the people of the diocese about the activities of individuals or groups within the Church. The purpose of publishing this news is to celebrate activities that foster the life of the spirit within the diocese. As publisher of The Diocesan News, the bishop is responsible for its content. Any material submitted for publication is subject to revision following editorial review for suitability, style and accuracy. The decision to publish unsolicited material depends on its relevance to the overall mission of The Diocesan News and availability of space. In all cases, contributors are urged to be concise and to strive for the highest standards of accuracy and fairness. GUIDE TO WRITTEN LENGTH Monsignor with his siblings. (back row) Monsignor Jerry, Barry, Tim, Catherine, (front) John Most news can be told effectively in 300 words or less. Letters to the Editor should be as brief as possible. SEE PAGE 19 FOR ARTICLE PUBLICATION SCHEDULE Four times a year: Easter, June, October and Christmas. Delivery by Canada Post. Design and Printing by Waysideco.ca Diocesan News A publication of the Roman Catholic Church in the Diocese of Kamloops “The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus. When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus Christ.” St. John Vianney The Diocesan News c/o 635A Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC, V2B 3H5 Tel. 250-376-3351 Fax 250-376-3363 • info@rcdk.org • Canada Post Customer No. 0254232399 Publications Mail Agreement No. 40013998 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 2 Diocesan News Deadline October Issue 2016 Wednesday, Aug 31, 2016 – Deadline for contributions for Canada Post delivery by Friday, October 14, 2016. Delivery The mailing list depends on up-to-date parish lists. Please ensure that your parish has your current household mailing address. There are four issues annually: Easter, June, October, and Christmas. *Questions & Contributions* Please contact the Bishop’s Office Telephone: 250-376-3351 Email: info@rcdk.org Notice and Coming Events Jubilee Year of Mercy Summer Youth Camp at Gavin Lake Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, Dec 8, 2015 to November 20, 2016. Watch the Diocesan Website (www.rcdk.org) and the Coming Events to learn what the Diocese of Kamloops will be doing at the local level to celebrate this great Jubilee July 18 - 22. Join young people from around the diocese for a week of fun and fellowship. Fr. Paul Simms will be giving talks to all who attend. Sue Bechard is the Camp Director and Giselle Tremblay is the Saint Lady. For more information email info@sacredheartwl.ca 2nd Annual First Nations Social Gathering Friday July 8 & Saturday July 9 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Shrine in Cache Creek. For more information visit www.rcdk.org Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Celebrate with the Carmelite Sisters in Armstrong Sunday July 17. Mass at 2pm. More news in the Carmelite Corner FOR THE MOST CURRENT EVENTS LISTING, PLEASE REFER TO THE DIOCESAN WEBSITE AT www.rcdk.org Irenaeus Kamloops Vacation Bible School & Sports Camp – Cathletics and Birthday Bash July 4 – 8 and July 11 – 15 at St. Ann’s Academy. To register visit: www.sacredheartkamloops.org. Vacation Bible School - Vernon The Catholic parishes of St. James Church and Our Lady of the Valley will be hosting its annual Vacation Bible School for children ages 4-12 at St. James Parish Center July 11th-15th, 2016. The theme this year is “A Wilderness Adventure Through the Sacraments.” Contact Heidi Routley, VBS Director at rccv.cbs@gmail.com for further information. circa 125 – 202 | feast – June 28 This early Christian theologian passed on the apostolic tradition to a new generation as he helped evangelize France. Born in Asia Minor, possibly at Smyrna, Irenaeus was taught by St. Polycarp, a pupil of St. John the Apostle. Sent to Gaul as a missionary, he served as a priest under St. Pothinus of Lyons, a martyr whom he succeeded as bishop of the large market city on the Rhone. Irenaeus continued to spread the Gospel and opposed the gnostic heresy, writing a five-book treatise that is extant. During a 20-year episcopate, he spoke the language of Gaul instead of his native Greek, and worked hard to identify with his people. Little else is known about his life or death. A father’s blessing strengthens the houses of the children… Sirach 3:9 3 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 The Bishop’s Journal – February 8 to May 1, 2016 February 8 & 9 – Monday & Tuesday The priests of the diocese held their monthly gathering at the Immaculate Heart of Mary. February 12 – Thursday The parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Heffley Creek, began the celebration of their parish feast day with an evening Mass celebrated by Monsignor Jerry Desmond and then came together at the community hall to continue the celebration with a dinner. February 12 to 14 – Friday to Sunday After a successful ‘Together For Ever’ weekend several years ago, the organizers of the program for married couples held another successful weekend with 15 couples at Immaculate Heart of Mary Shrine. February 15-17 – Monday to Wednesday I had the opportunity to visit the Chilcotin country at Saint Jude’s parish, 100 Mile House on Monday and Tuesday for supper, the Mass and a talk on the year of Mercy and then on Tuesday, at Sacred Heart Parish, Williams Lake with a special visit at the school on Wednesday. February 22-26 – Monday to Friday This week was the annual AWCB (Assembly of Western Catholic Bishops) meeting in Victoria – a time for the bishops to meet with each other and to review the episcopal business for Western Canada. March 4 – Friday This afternoon I was at Sacred Heart Cathedral where the parish was having The Sacred Heart Cathedral Faith Formation class presented The Seven Last Words during Lent. The students offered a glimpse into Christ’s Passion and Death through reflection, prayer, and actions at the gym in St. Ann’s Academy, Kamloops. By Pamela Gurney. Photo by Brother Ferdinand the special day “24 Hours for the Lord” with adoration and Confessions, then I went to Holy Trinity - Ukrainian Parish for confessions and a special celebration, after which Father Pavlo Myts invited the priests to come to dinner with his family. Words of Jesus’ in drama, readings and song. March 12 – Saturday Today is a special occasion for the priests of the diocese to renew their priestly life and commitment as priests of the Diocese of Kamloops at the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral. The season for Confirmations is near and the Confirmation Rally for the young candidates was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish hall – a thank you to the organizers and members of the NET program. March 18 – Friday After a Friday Lenten supper at Saint Ann’s Academy gym some of the young people from the Sacred Heart Cathedral religion classes presented the ‘Seven Last March 20 – Palm Sunday I celebrated the Palm Sunday 8:30 and 11:30am Masses at the Cathedral. March 22 – Thursday March 24 to 27 – Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil and the Solemnity of the Resurrection of Jesus This week is always a special time at the Cathedral with the Holy Week ceremonies, the administration of the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation and the celebration of Easter. March 29 – Tuesday Father Tony Ackerman and I went to Saint Joseph’s Carmel in Armstrong for the election of the Prioress and two Counsellors. Mother Mary Ann of Jesus was re-elected as Superior and Sister Mary Victoria of the Sacred Heart and Sister Mary Therese of the Holy Family were elected as Councilors. April 2 – Saturday Bishop of New Westminster Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy - Most Reverend Ken Nowakowski concelebrates the Mass with Bishop David Monroe, with Deacon Paul Murphy of St. James Parish, Vernon. Photo by Edgar Ursua. Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 4 This evening I was invited by The Islamic Association to the special dinner at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish hall and to welcome some of the refugees who have arrived in Kamloops. It was my first opportunity to meet the family of five sponsored by Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish. April 3 – Second Sunday of Easter Divine Mercy Sunday This morning I celebrated the 8:30am Mass at the Cathedral and then at 3:00pm, after a time of hearing confessions, people of the diocese were present for the Mass celebrating ‘Divine Mercy’. April 10 – Third Sunday of Easter On the road again – up to St. George’s Parish, Barriere for the 9:00am Mass and the confirmation of four young people of the parish, and then to Saint James Parish, Clearwater to celebrate the 11:00am Mass – with the opportunity to see the parishes new ‘parish church sign’. April 11 – Monday This morning three members of the Servants of the Risen Christ (S.R.C.) came to the chancery. Father Patrick and Brother Joshua came from Immaculate Heart of Mary Shrine, Cache Creek, to introduce Father Samuel Garcia to us. Father Samuel is a member of the Servants of the Risen Christ community and has just arrived from the Philippines to help in our Diocese. April 14 – Thursday 75th Birthday – a number of phone calls – many cards- a birthday greeting at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School – and a dinner party with 200 parishioners (including three young violinists) at Saint Ann’s Academy prepared by Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish!!! April 22-24 – Friday to Sunday This time of year is Convention season and the Diocesan Catholic Women’s League (CWL) held their 69th Diocesan Convention this weekend at South Thompson Inn with Holy Family Parish CWL being the host this year. April 24 – Sunday At Saint John Vianney Parish six young adults received the Sacrament of Confirmation. opportunity to state opposition and ask questions. After this meeting, the priests of the Diocese of Kamloops came together at Immaculate Heart of Mary Shrine for our monthly meeting. On Thursday evening Monsignor Jerry Desmond invited the priests to go to supper with him and to celebrate the Mass in honour of the 50th anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood! April 26 – Tuesday April 29-May 1 – Friday to Sunday The day began with an early morning drive to celebrate the 8:30am Mass at Saint Joseph’s Parish in Armstrong and then attend the breakfast in honour of the 75th anniversary of the establishing of the parish’s Catholic Women’s League. In the evening I was invited by Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish CWL to come to the parish for the dinner in honour of Our Lady of Good Counsel, the patroness of the Catholic Women’s League. I began my drive to Richmond early (4:30am) on Friday to attend the 105 State Convention of the Knights of Columbus. I was able to be present at several business meetings and to concelebrate the Masses with the Bishop of New Westminster Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy - Most Reverend Ken Nowakowski, the Bishop of Prince George - Bishop Stephen Jensen, The Bishop of Victoria Bishop Gary Gordon, several priests, including the Pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish, Armstrong – Father Anthony Ackerman. The theme for this Father Samuel year is “Lord have Garcia mercy”. April 27 & 28 – Wednesday & Thursday On Wednesday afternoon forty or more people came to Sacred Heart Cathedral Hall to listen to Ms Cathy McLeod, MP speak on the upcoming voting on the legislation regarding Bill C-14 on the proposed legislation on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide, with an April 17 – Sunday I began the day with an early morning drive to Saint Joseph Carmel, Armstrong to celebrate the 7:30am Mass with Father Tony Ackerman and then to Saint Joseph’s Parish, Armstrong for 9:00 am Mass and 11:00 am Mass at Saint Ann’s Parish, Enderby where two candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Bishop Monroe and FR Fred Weisbeck meet with new Executive Director for the CCODP, Mr. David Leduc (centre). THE DIOCESE OF KAMLOOPS covers 120,000 square kilometres (46,332.26 square miles) in south central British Columbia. 5 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 first days of June for spiritual reflection in Rome beginning with the Sacrament of Reconciliation – the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door of Saint Peter’s – and the retreat given by Pope Francis in preparation for the celebration of the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on Friday, June 3. The Bishop’s Message A person is usually concerned when receiving an envelope with a return address indicating that the enclosed message is from a lawyer – and adding to this even more concern – from the “United States”. The envelope is opened with some fore thought - “Who did what?” or “What did I do?” There are two pages of quality letter stationary with legal letterhead, the first page properly addressed - “Dear Bishop….etc.” and not a lengthy body of type and the second was a notice. Then the subject matter - “Re: Parish Rosary Program” - and the body of the letter continues, encouraging the bishop to urge “parishioners to pray the rosary” and to ask “the pastors in their diocese to start The Parish Rosary Program in their parish.” The church begins the month of June with the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart and the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary to show us the unity of Jesus and Mary in their love and mercy. Wanting us to share in the wonder of the love and mercy expressed by the Heart of Jesus and the heart of Mary, Pope Paul VI in 1969 moved the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary so that they would be celebrated on a Friday and Saturday, showing the unity of their love. On other feasts in honour of Jesus we are drawn to the events in the life of Jesus – the birth - the passion and death – the resurrection - the ascension, but the celebration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus touches the reason of all the mysteries of Jesus. It is Jesus’ love for us which explains why - the Word of God became man – His passion and death – His resurrection –why He gave us the Holy Eucharist. This is the way God gives Himself entirely in His mercy and love for our salvation. On the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary we, the children of a loving Mother, This is not the usual kind of letter that one receives from a lawyer, but it did come in May and the message, encouraging the families of the diocese to pray the rosary, deserves to be mentioned not only to the priests of the Kamloops Diocese, but also to the people of the diocese who are under the care of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, our diocesan patroness. As the Immaculate Heart of Mary leads us to Jesus, so May, the month of Mary, leads us to June, the month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Heart full of love for us. The Holy Father, Pope Francis, in the spirit of the Jubilee Year invited priests to have three days of reflection and prayer as the ‘Jubilee for Priests’ in Rome. In this Jubilee Year of Mercy priests from many countries have spent the Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 6 are drawn to the heart of Mary in her love of God and her maternal love for Jesus and her compassionate love for all peoples. As the children of Mary and brothers and sisters in Christ, a simple letter can be a reminder of the gift we have in our faith and in the praying of the rosary, reflecting the love God has for us. A lawyer may not realize the full effect of his letter. May Jesus and Mary be with you.” TOGETHER FOREVER Feedback from the Together Forever Weekend Faith in Action sponsored another great weekend for married couples. 11 couples from around the diocese gathered at IHM Cache Creek for a “couples spiritual enrichment” on the weekend of Feb. 11 to 14. Three couples from the diocese with the assistance of Bishop Monroe, Msgr. Jerry Desmond and Jerry Biollio offered inspiring views on marriage. The weekend was hosted by Fr. Pat Cerdeno and the Brothers at the Shrine. Couples from recently married to some with marriages well past their 50 years, attended and took in the presentations and activities to help them look at their marriages with a refreshed view of one another. The weekend is presented in a manner that couples do not have to “share”, but are welcome to “share”, if they wish. Another weekend is planned for October and some couples have already inquired for a date to be set later. - by Bill Gowans • Bringing our awareness to this void of “oneness with God in our marriage” was a humbling admittance of what has been a longing for us. The gift, the power of the unity of marriage was not being recognized, nor was it being lived to its full potential. • The God-centered serving community of the weekend has helped us in receiving this gift of sight and in suggesting practical ways of nurturing, growing and harvesting the Godcentered marriage. • The “table for two” was a beautiful moment & came at the right time in the weekend with the suggestions for conversation. This wonderful experience has nestled itself comfortably into our album of loving memories. • The little quotation cards that were left in the seats each time were like the chocolates left on our pillows - a loving treat. • We thank you for making our weekend a fruitful experience with God and us together as ONE with a part of God’s Family who lives with a Christ-like-heart, for the greater glory of God. For more information please contact: Bil & Doreen Gowans - gowans44@gmail.com; Roger & Diane Nadeau - dianenadeau@telus.net or John & Claire Shephard jcshephard@telus.net Support Canada. Ethically. When you purchase products from the Knights of Columbus, the Knights invests your net premium dollars in Canadian government and corporate investments. And, as a Knights of Columbus policy holder, you get the added comfort of knowing that your premium dollars will never be spent on products and services that violate Catholic teaching. Contact me today to learn more: Blaine Anhel, FIC Cell: 250-804-8100 Office: 1-877-532-5632 blaine.anhel@kofc.org LIFE INSURANCE DISABILITY INSURANCE LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE RETIREMENT ANNUITIES Gen_CAN, Exp. 07/15/17 7 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 Holy Family hosts the 69th Diocesan Convention Reaffirmation Ceremony for the Diocesan Council during Sunday’s Mass RO We’re Here For You. M Rachel’s Vineyard If you or someone you know is experiencing an unplanned pregnancy or suffering the pain of a past abortion, TR I Four Levels of CWL Presidents: Barbara Dowding (National President), Evelyn Rigby (BC & Yukon President Elect),Sheila Doherty (Diocesan President) and Jeanette Melnychuk (OLPH President) The 69th Diocesan Convention was held at the South Thompson Inn from April 22 – 24, 2016. Hosted by Holy Family Parish, and chaired by Diocesan President Sheila Doherty, with over 100 CWL members in attendance. Barbara Dowding, National President, brought news on the Extra Ordinary Year of Mercy, the addition of palliative and hospice care, asking everyone to do one act of mercy and send it in, 12 hours of prayer for palliative on May 4 and the Catholic Women’s Leadership Foundation. Gerda Faber, RN, CDE and Barbara Koren, RD, CDE sang the “Diabetic Blues”. They gave insights into symptoms of diabetes and ways to reduce your chances of becoming diabetic. Wendy Marlow, Executive Director, Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home spoke on being a champion for your loved ones in palliative care. Half of the money from Friday night’s mass went to this wonderful facility. Fr. Andrew L’Heureux brought news of his first year, the Jubilee Year of Mercy and some tips for running effective meetings. Evelyn Rigby, BC & Yukon President – Elect, presented on the League in Action: “Why me Lord?” with tips on being a leader (building trust, admit to mistakes, humor/humility, respect for people, love service and enthusiasm for Jesus) Jennifer Wallace, CWL Member, explained the trials and tribulations of having a premature baby. She brought ideas on how we can help in our local NICU unit by supplying receiving blankets, angel sacks, preemie clothes, small mittens and socks, momaroo swings and IND TRI - ROM INDUSTRIES LTD. Preventative Maintenance Program • Heating • Air Conditioning • Refrigeration • Appliance Install & Repair Compassionate. Confidential. Phone or text 250-267-5081 rvkamloops@yahoo.ca Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 8 DENNIS ROMBOUGH (250) 554-8733 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE We Sell the Best and Service the Rest Holy Family hosts the 69th Diocesan Convention, cont’d. medela bottle warmers. Speakers were engaging, uplifting and insightful. Business sessions brought this year’s highlights from the Diocesan Chairpersons and CWL Parishes. There is lots of great work being done. Two resolutions to be taken to our members and government were discussed and passed….. 2016.01 Physicians’ and Institutions’ Right of Conscience and 2016.02 Legislate and Finance Access to Quality Hospice/Palliative Care for all Canadians. Dorothy Hruby, presented certificates for increase in council memberships (Chase 15%, Coldstream 8%, Sacred Heart 6% and St. Anne’s Enderby 6%) She presented a plaque to Vernon for the most new members (10) and to Our Lady of the Lake or the biggest increase per capita (21%). Rose Kalin, Education and Health Chairperson, presented a bursary to Emma Currie from St. John Vianney Council in Kamloops. “When you seek the truth, you seek God whether you know it or not” Edith Stein BC & Yukon CWL Resolutions Committee Provincial Government Visit 2016 Submitted by: BC & Yukon CWL Resolutions chairperson: Dianne Barker On May 3rd & 4th, the BC & Yukon CWL Resolutions committee had the honor and privilege of meeting with BC government members to present seven resolutions. With the permission of national president, Barbara Dowding, the resolutions committee expanded Resolution 2015.04 Invoke Section 33 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in the case of Carter v Canada and Resolution 2007.03 Hospice and Palliative Care: An Integral Component of the Canadian Health Care System, to include the very timely and crucial topic of rights of conscience of physicians and institutions Other resolutions presented were: Increased Early Intervention & Access to Children & Youth Mental Health Services, Enduring Power of Attorney, Updated Registration Process for Organ & Tissue Donation, Ban Plastic Microbeads in Personal Care Products and Banning the Use of Neonicotinoid Pesticides. The MLAs respect the work that has been done in the preparation of the resolutions and they ask pertinent questions and offer insightful comments. It was recommended by one MLA, because many products containing plastic microbeads are produced in the USA that, if we had a sister organizations in the USA, we encourage them to take action also. This gave us the opportunity to explain our membership in WUCWO. Several MLAs posed questions about Bill C-14 and the rights of conscience. Many heads nodded to the affirmative as we spoke of the need for access to palliative and hospice care for all British Columbians. In response to the resolution regarding youth mental health services, we were given a copies of the November 2014 Interim Report and January 2016 Final Report of the Child and Youth Mental Health in British Columbia Concrete Actions for Systemic Change. These reports are available on the BC Government website. We met separately with Environment Minister Mary Polak to discuss the 2 environmental resolutions. She was receptive to our recommendations that the BC government educate the public about the hazards of plastic microbeads and neonicotinoid pesticides until the federal government implements bans on them. She sought our assistance in drawing attention to the problem of organic matter being dumped into landfills. This food waste contributes to pollution, waste and greenhouse gasses. She directed us to the Ministry of the Environment’s August 2015 intention paper, Organic Matter Recycling Regulations. We indicated that this might be a good topic for a future CWL resolution. We spoke about members taking personal responsibility for our environment. Mexican Fast Food #1-825 LAVAL CRES. KAMLOOPS, B.C. V2C 5P2 Full Mexican Food Menu MASTER ROOFERS on the North Shore in Kamloops 250-554-2055 250-374-0154 Lansdowne Village – Downtown 450 Lansdowne Street SERVING THE INTERIOR FROM KAMLOOPS SINCE 1969 250-374-8282 Ask for our family discount on Sundays 9 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 Diocesan Youth Rally – Mercy in Motion Mercy In Motion Diocesan Youth Rally was held at Saint John Vianney Parish April 22-24, 2016. It was facilitated by Face to Face Ministries along with over a dozen volunteers from various cities within the Diocese of Kamloops. The weekend retreat was an opportunity for youth to encounter Christ and embrace the call to be saints. We were blessed to have about 70 youth between grades 7-12 attend from all over the diocese. The first night started with supper and games before leading into the topic of the night: “Who is Jesus?” The session included personal testimony, music, small groups, and an engaging talk before the night wrapped up with snacks and fellowship. There was so much excitement it was hard to sleep that night, but most of us were rested enough for our Saturday day-long event. After breakfast, the first topic of the morning was “Loved as I am.” We discussed where our worth comes from and God’s unconditional love for us. Our next session was the main focus of the retreat: Mercy In Motion. The talk focused on how the Holy Spirit builds, animates, and sanctifies us – CCC 747. This was followed by our final small groups of the event and followed by lunch. The majority of the rest of the afternoon session was focused on a more prayerful atmosphere, complete with a skit about God’s mercy, a talk on reconciliation, followed by the opportunity for reconciliation. God blessed us with a break from the rain and afterwards we were able to head outside for some much needed fresh air and exercise, complete with a game involving four different sports at the same time including soccer, ultimate Frisbee, football and dodgeball. Listening to a special message. Gathering in the church Father Paul taking in some of the activities – the cassock doesn’t slow him dow n. Time of praise and worship Diocesan Youth Retreat planners Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 10 Even youth from outside of our diocese were in attendance. Moving into the evening we had Mass followed by a special banquet. The youth had the opportunity to dress up for both the Mass and the banquet which turned out to be very special. We then moved into a time of adoration and praise which was followed by prayer ministry, where the youth were invited to be prayed with by their small group leaders. After a very full day, we had one last talk on becoming Saints and continuing our journeys towards heaven. At the end of this talk, the youth were given the opportunity to share about their experience during the weekend. We were blessed by their witness and honesty, and very pleased to hear from so many of them in a beautifully positive way. It’s safe to say that everyone had a wonderful weekend and were very blessed to grow as much as they did; even the volunteers and ministry team! Sunday morning we wrapped up the event with an opportunity to discuss what it means to be a Saint and to develop a plan we can make in order to help us on our way to heaven. We are very excited for how well the event went and are looking forward to our next Diocesan Youth Retreat! By Kyley Drach Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Members of Holy Family’s God Squad pose with “the Pope”. Till Lake 2015 headed by leaders at camp who try to enlighten us with personal experiences and bits of wisdom to help us. Each year the camp has a theme. This past year’s theme was Wash, Rinse and Repent. At camp we were divided up into teams to do our chores, compete in games and skits. My team this year was great! I got to know a bit about my team members and had lots of fun. In the afternoon there was free time to enjoy more outdoor activities, including the rope swing. On one hike this year we were asked by Fr. Andrew to find certain plants that are edible. Using a book he supplied we found quite a few that could be eaten. The games were pretty good this year too. There were some scavenger hunts, modified versions of tag and other invented ones too. The teams competed against one another for the most points, and whoever got the most at the end of camp won a cool prize. I especially enjoyed camp this year because there was lots of time for prayer and social time. Up until July 2015, youth have gathered annually at a place outside of Williams Lake called Till Lake to spend a few days there having fun. This is made possible by Sacred Heart Parish in Williams Lake, who hosts a summer youth camp for all youth in grades 7 to 12. I came for the second time to Till Lake because it offered me a break in my summer to relax, refocus, and spend time with Jesus. At Till Lake we spend a lot of time in prayer, like the Liturgy of the Hours, Rosary, Mass and Adoration. We also act out skits of the lives of Saints and stories from the Bible. Besides prayer we do some hiking, canoeing, outdoor games and small group talks. In our small group talks this year we talked with Fr. Derrick and Mr. Lee about the harms of gossip and how we can work to avoid it. The small group talks are 11 I would like to encourage all youth to come to Till Lake because it is an opportunity to get know Jesus better, meet other youth and have fun. I would also like to thank all the people who gave their time, talent and treasure to give us such a wonderful summer camp. Submitted by Jonah Toporchak In 2016, the summer youth camp will be hosted at Gavin Lake from July 18 – 22. Youth reenact the story of Jonah at Till Lake Camp. Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 ‘Carmelite Corner ‘ May 2016 Summer brings busy times and celebrations at the monastery! Please mark the following two dates on your calendars – everyone is welcome – please come - bring family and friends. Sunday - July 17, 2016 is celebration day for Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, begins with Mass at 2:00 p.m., at the Monastery, followed by a luncheon. Some sandwiches and drinks will be provided – however, if you wish to bring your favorite dish or dessert to share - that would be great – everyone enjoys a good potluck! Monday – August 15, 2016 is the 25th Anniversary of the Sisters arrival in Armstrong. On August 15, 1991, three Sisters travelled from St. Agatha, ON to begin the Carmelite order in our diocese. There will be Mass and reception to follow. Time of Mass will be forwarded to Parishes once confirmed. These two events provide the perfect opportunity to visit the Monastery. Take a road trip, spend some time in the Chapel, shop for special gifts from the Sisters selection of books, cards, pamphlets, scapulars, sewing articles, alpaca goods, etc., and (of course) their jams, jellies and juices. Mother Ann has provided me with the following answer to my question: What does ‘a day in the life’ of a Carmelite nun look like? ‘Our schedule varies from time to time, but here is the basic outline – in monastic language it is called the ‘horarium’. (Latin root word, ‘horar’ = hour/time) We have a full day! We use the Latin terms for the prayers of the Divine Office. Cloistered Contemplative Nuns have the obligation in the Church to pray the full 7 hours of the Divine Office which we find to be a joy and privilege, joining our hearts and voices with the whole Church, and thereby the whole day is sanctified by prayer.” 5:30 a.m. – rising 6:00 a.m. - the Angelus and mental prayer 7:00 a.m. – prayers /Latin terms: Lauds and Terce before Mass 7:30 a.m. – Mass followed by Thanksgiving Breakfast / dishes/ manual labour 11:40 a.m. – prayers/Latin terms: Sext and None 12:00 noon – the Angelus Lunch /dinner and dishes 1:00 p.m. – recreation, rest and spiritual reading 3:00 p.m. – manual labour 4:35 p.m. – Vespers 5:00 p.m. – Mental prayer 6:00 p.m. – the Angelus Supper and recreation 8:00 p.m. – prayers Latin terms: Compline and Matins Free time before retiring Yes a full day indeed! We are so blessed to have these many prayers offered up for the Church and for all of us. Watch for more information in a future submission when Mother Ann will explain the Sisters manual labour and recreation activities. It’s more than making jam! The Carmelite Nuns of Armstrong are deeply concerned about the problems and the difficulties of the people of God in the surrounding area and around the world. Everyone is invited to phone, write, email or visit the Monastery to request prayers for special intentions. Website www.carmelspall.org or mail to Carmel of St. Joseph Monastery, 4815 Salmon River Road, Armstrong, B.C. V0E 1B4 1-250-546-8801 The ‘Carmel of St. Joseph Guild’ has sent out their annual membership reminders….hopefully you have renewed your membership - without your support the Guild could not help the Sisters with their many needs. Guild membership is only $25.00 for active members and $75.00 for honorary members. If you would like more information about the Guild - contact us at the Salmon Arm address below or email the president, Mr. John Scott liznjohnscott@gmail.com, or T Mae Sinclair tmaesinclair@shaw.ca. Remember: the spiritual benefits received from the Sisters prayers, as members, are ‘priceless’. God Bless all you do, Mrs. Terry-Mae Sinclair Carmel of St. Joseph Guild Bag 9000, suite 186, 190B TCH N E Salmon Arm, B.C. V1E 1S3 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 12 Jubliee of Mercy A series of articles by Rev. Dale Normandeau Pastor of St. James Parish in Vernon The Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy: Devotion to the Divine Mercy In this third of four essays on the Year of Mercy, I’ll be exploring a devotion that is presently sweeping across the world, and the visionary who initiated and promoted it. The devotion is called Divine Mercy, and is based on the visions given by Christ to a Polish nun named Sr. Maria Faustina Kowalska. Sister Faustina was born Helena Kowalska on August 25th, 1905 in the village of Głogowieg, central Poland. She was born into a poor but devout Catholic family, the third of ten children. At 20, she joined the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy Congregation in Warsaw, and lived as a member of this order until her death on October 5th, 1938. Throughout her life, Sr. Faustina manifested a strong devotion to God’s mercy and promoted this devotion to everyone she encountered. She was also a mystic and visionary. The saintly life she demonstrated initiated, after her death, a study of her life, for the purpose of possible beatification and canonization in the future. Among the records that were studied concerning the life of Sr. Maria Faustina Kowalska, the most important were her diaries. From 1934 to 1938, Sr. Faustina kept a diary which was written as a personal journal and eventually filled six notebooks. In these notebooks one finds descriptions of her deep union with God, along with her many visions and revelations, particularly those associated with God’s mercy. In her diary, Sr. Faustina described an apparition she received on February 22nd, 1931, which became the origin of the Divine Mercy Icon: large rays, one red, the other pale…After a while, Jesus said to me, Paint an image according to the pattern you see, with the signature: Jesus, I trust in You. I desire that this image be venerated, first in your chapel, [then] throughout the world. (St. Marie Faustina Kowalska, Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul (Stockbridge, Massachusetts: Marians of the Immaculate Conception, 2002), 24.) The two different coloured rays, Sr. Faustina later described, represented the blood and water proceeding from Jesus’ side when he was pierced by a spear after his death on the cross (John 19:34). Jesus reminded Faustina that “These rays shield souls from the wrath of My Father. Happy is the one who will dwell in their shelter, for the just hand of God shall not lay hold of him.” (ibid, 139). Jesus then reminded Faustina of his desire “that the first Sunday after Easter be the Feast of Mercy”. (ibid) The painting of the original Divine Mercy Icon disappointed Sr. Faustina to the degree she broke down in tears because, despite the skill of the painter, he could not capture in his painting the beauty, compassion and mercy that she saw in the apparition she received. Despite this deficiency, this painting has become the model for Divine Mercy Icons to follow. Devotion to the Icon of Divine Mercy also includes praying the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. The origin of the Chaplet comes from an apparition Sr. Faustina received on September 13, 1935. In her vision, an angel, acting as a mediator of God’s divine wrath, was about to strike the earth. Faustina found herself directly before God, entreating Him to thwart the avenging angel by means of the following prayer: “Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ for our sins and those of the whole world; for the sake Let no soul fear “ to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet In the evening when I was in my cell, I saw the Lord Jesus clothed in a white garment. One hand [was] raised in the gesture of blessing…From beneath the garment…there were emanating two ” Cont. pg 14 13 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 Jubilee of Mercy, cont’d. of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us”. (ibid, 207) She records in her diary that the avenging angel was left helpless in response to this prayer. The following paragraph then described how the Chaplet’s other prayers are then to be recited on rosary beads. In September of 1936, Jesus, in a vision recorded by Faustina in her diary, reminded her again of the efficacious nature of the Divine Mercy Chaplet: Say unceasingly the chaplet that I have taught you. Whoever will recite it will receive great mercy at the hour of death…Even if there were a sinner most hardened, if he were to recite this chaplet only once, he would receive grace from my infinite mercy…I desire to grant un-imaginable graces to those souls who trust in my mercy. (ibid, 282) The greatest gift of grace and mercy, however, were related to Sr. Faustina on another occasion, again in September of 1936. Jesus reminded her that all who go to confession and receive holy communion on the Second Sunday of the Easter Season “shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which grace flow will be opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet”. (ibid, 286) The significance of the preceding promise was not lost on the author of the following quotation: According to this great promise, Jesus is offering all souls a chance for a new “baptism” each year, giving everyone an opportunity to “wipe the soul clean”. If a soul, taking advantage of this great gift in all sincerity and with proper contrition, was to die after receiving Holy Communion, on the Feast of Mercy and before committing another sin, they would go immediately to Heaven, without anytime in Purgatory—regardless of past life. There seems to be no other meaning to this promise of our Lord. This is the unbelievable and little understood love and mercy of God for sinners” (Handbook of Devotion to the Divine Mercy (Dublin, Ireland: Divine Mercy Publications), 22.) The promotion of Devotion to the Divine Mercy reached an impasse in 1959 when the Vatican prohibited its spread due to the receiving of inaccurate information. On April 15th 1978, however, the Vatican rescinded this earlier ban, largely because of Cardinal Karol Wojtyła, the Archbishop of Krakow. Six months later, Cardinal Karol Wojtyła would be elected Bishop of Rome by his fellow cardinals and take the name John Paul II. This was not the first time Pope John Paul II and the message of Divine Mercy would providentially cross paths. In 1965, He initiated the process that concluded with Sr. Faustina’s beatification in 1993. The Pope then followed Sr. Faustina’s beatification with her canonization in April 2000, the first saint to be canonized in the third millennium. The Pope also established Divine Mercy Sunday for the universal Church that same year. Perhaps as a nod to God’s inexplicable providence, Pope John Paul II died on Saturday, April 2nd, 2005, while the anticipated Mass of the Divine Mercy, the feast he established, was celebrated by his bed. He himself would be canonized on the Feast of Divine Mercy, April 27th, 2014. Pope St. John Paul II, promoter of the Divine Mercy, and St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, Secretary of Divine Mercy, Pray for us. The Church of the Immaculate Conception on Sugar Cane Reserve at Williams Lake is very honoured to receive this beautiful Divine Mercy portrait donated by Peggy Mikulasik in honour of her late husband, Stephen, who passed away in May 1995. The Mikulasik’s were long time resident/owners of the Onward/Mission Ranch on Sugar Cane Reserve and have been attending the Church of the Immaculate Conception since the early 80s. Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 14 Welcome to our Syrian refugee family! Welcome to Canada! Welcome to Kamloops! That is what volunteers from Kamloops Sacred Heart Cathedral and other Kamloops parishes wanted to shout with joy as we greeted our Syrian refugee family at Kamloops Airport on February 25, 2016. After 3 days of travel starting in Ankara, Turkey and an unexpected overnight stay in Toronto, they had finally reached their destination. Ali Omar, Delal Abdi and their children Danya (6 ½) Dijvar (4 ½) and Hicrin (1 ½) looked tired and uncertain, but also happy to be greeted by so many friendly faces. The ice was quickly broken by 3 helium balloons the children were happy to play with. It has now been 2 1/2 months since their arrival and they have settled into a routine of kindergarten for Danya, ESL lessons in their home and afternoon English classes for Ali at Kamloops Immigration Services (KIS). Ali is a conscientious and loving father and husband, concerned about getting employment once he learns English. Delal is a loving mother and wife, so attune to the needs of her family, a gracious host and good cook. The children are quiet and pleasant, like little ducklings staying close to mom and dad. What a lovely family we have been blessed to welcome into our community and into our lives. The committee working with the Omar family have been very busy meeting their needs. Visits to KIS, arranging interpreters, medical, dental and optometrist appointments, family outings, shopping for clothing and so much paperwork! Danya has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and medical trips to Vancouver will be required. Dijvar will be starting kindergarten in September and Hicrin will be speaking fluent English in no time. Thanks to the generosity of so many, the family have a comfortable 3 bedroom home, a fenced yard, a vegetable garden and all the basics of a comfortable Canadian household. - by Anita Sehn Development & Peace in the Kamloops Diocese Status Report November 2015 to April 2016 The focus of the Executive and other D&P leaders continued to be the expansion of the programs in the Diocese. This involved a good deal of mentoring activity in parishes with an inexperienced D&P team. Some notable successes occurred. As examples, a marked expansion of the program in the Cache Creek area took place. In the case of Merritt, the Share Lent collection was over $1600.00, doubling the response of previous years. We have work to do yet, but are encouraged by the response of the down-toearth and compassionate people living here in the Interior. Social justice ideas naturally resonate. Some other notable developments: • The Solidarity Pilgrimage became a youth event, with 3 different groups contributing alongside the Diocesan Council. Thanks go to St. Ann’s Academy (Kamloops), the God’s Squad (Holy Family, Kamloops), and the young people of St. James in Vernon. The youth leaders expressed satisfaction with the conversations and learnings among their youth that gave rise to the final designs. • A regular CCODP article now appears in the Diocesan News thanks to Laurie Desaulniers. • A new social justice group has formed at St. John Vianney, Kamloops. This group meets regularly and is establishing a link with D&P. Respectfully submitted, Peter Hart Chair, CCODP, Kamloops Diocese April 9, 2016 Ronald A. Tenisci, MBA, CA Mario Piva, BComm, CA Dennis Piva, BBA, CA 372-2551 tp@teniscipiva.com 15 950 Notre Dame . Dr www.smithchevolds.com Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 Pope Francis: Be witnesses of the Gospel every day Vatican City, May 8, 2016 / 07:22 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Francis commemorated the Feast of the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven by reminding the faithful of their duty to be witnesses of the Gospel every day of the week, in all areas of life – and not just on Sundays. “We must carry this witness every week: Christ is with us; Christ has gone up into Heaven, and is with us; Christ is alive!” the Pope said during his May 8 Regina Caeli address to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Citing the words of Jesus in the day’s Gospel taken from Luke, the pontiff explained how the Apostles were “witnesses” of Christ’s death, resurrection, and now Ascension; indeed, they returned to Jerusalem and joyfully testified about the risen Christ, in whose name they would preach conversion and “repentance, for the forgiveness of sins.” The Pope said this witness – “made not only with words but also with daily life” – should go beyond Church on Sunday. Rather, it should extend throughout the entire week in our “homes, offices, schools, in places of entertainment, in hospitals, in prisons, in homes for the elderly, in places crowded with immigrants, in the city’s peripheries.” Pope Francis centered his address on the Feast of the Ascension, which commemorates Jesus ascending into Heaven 40 days after his Resurrection from the dead. While this feast technically falls on a Thursday, many countries transfer the celebration to the following Sunday. “We contemplate the mystery of Jesus who left our earthly space in order to enter in the fullness of God’s glory, bringing with him our humanity,” the Pope said. The pontiff reflected on the reaction of the disciples, who had previously witnessed Jesus being rejected by Jerusalem, “Judas’ betrayal, Peter’s denial, the dispersal of the disciples and the violence of a power” which left them feeling threatened. “From that day, for the Apostles and for every disciple of Christ, it was possible to live in Jerusalem, and in every city of the world, even in those most troubled by injustice and violence,” he said. This is because every inhabitant of every city can turn their gaze upward “with hope.” “Jesus, God, is true man; with his human body he is in Heaven! And this is our hope, our anchor, and we are firm in this hope if we look to heaven.” “In this heaven lives that God who has revealed such closeness as to take the face of a man, Jesus of Nazereth,” the Pope continued. “And he remains always God-with-us” – that is, Emmanuel – “and he never leaves us alone!” “In the Ascension of Jesus, the Crucified and Risen One, there is the promise of our participation in the fullness of life with God.” Jesus assures the disciples that, in making this announcement and giving this testimony, we will be clothed in the Holy Spirit, the pontiff explained. “Here lies the secret of this mission: the presence among us of the Risen Lord, who with the gift of the Spirit continues to open our minds and our hearts, to proclaim his love and mercy even in the most resistant areas of our cities.” “The Holy Spirit is the real architect of the manifold testimony that the Church and every baptized make in the world.” For this reason, we should not neglect to gather together “in prayer to praise God and to invoke the gift of the Spirit.” After leading the crowds in the Regina Caeli prayer, Pope Francis extended his “cordial greetings” to all who work in communications, acknowledging this Sunday’s 50th World Day of Social Communications. “I hope that the way we communicate in the Church always has a clear evangelical style, a style which combines truth and mercy,” he said. The pontiff greeted the tens of thousands of people who took part in this year’s March for Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 16 HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS Life in Rome, many of whom had made their way to St. Peter’s Square at the end of the morning march. Pope Francis then went on to acknowledge Mother’s Day – celebrated this Sunday in many countries – and led the crowds in the Hail Mary for all mothers. “We remember with gratitude and affection all mothers – those who are today in [St. Peter’s] Square, our mothers, those who are among us and those who have gone to heaven – entrusting them to Mary, the mother of Jesus.” Fr Martin Peyton FIRST NATIONS NEWS OBITUARY Sister Mary Rita (Laura Kathleen Carey) Sr. Mary Rita (Laura Kathleen Carey) Born February 27, 1926 in Cork, Alberta, died March 24, 2016 at the Victoria Hospice, Victoria, BC. Laura Kathleen was the seventh of twelve children and at about age three her family moved to BC where she attended public school. Laura Kathleen graduated from high school in Lumby, BC. She entered the Sisters of St. Ann on August 10, 1944 and pronounced her vows on August 15, 1946 in Victoria, BC. A dedicated educator, Sr. Mary Rita taught in various Catholic elementary schools throughout British Columbia. Twenty-seven of her nearly 50 years of teaching were spent at St. James School in Vernon. For 8 of those years she also served as principal. The staff and children remember Sr. Mary Rita as the woman who loved children and who loved Jesus. While there, she also served the parish as a Eucharistic minister and teacher of Religious Education to children attending public schools. Upon returning to Victoria, Sister resided at St. Ann’s Residence continuing to serve as she drove Sisters to appointments, assisted with seamstress skills and provided a listening ear. Sr. Mary Rita had a special devotion to Christ present in the Eucharist and she spent many hours preparing the chapel for prayer and liturgy. When the Residence closed she moved to The Cridge, continuing to be a kind and gracious presence among the residents as she has always been with her SSA community. Sister Mary Rita is pre-deceased by: her parents Charles and Regina (Waters) Carey, brothers Tony Carey, Pat (Dorothy) Carey and Daniel (Violet) Carey; sisters Bertha (Peter) Dyck, Sr. Nora Carey, SSA, Margaret (Walter) Knight, brother in law Jim Brown. Sister Mary Rita is survived by: Sr. Irene Carey, SSA, Florence (Nellie) Brown, Sophie (Pat) Mulholland, Lola (Harold) Major, Rita (Bob) Fairhurst, and numerous nieces and nephews along with her religious community of the Sisters of St. Ann. The Sisters of St. Ann are very grateful for the compassionate care provided by the staff of the Victoria Hospice Society. Prayers will be held at 7:00 p.m. on April 5, 2016 at Sands Funeral Home, 1803 Quadra Street, Victoria, BC. The Mass of the Resurrection will take place at 10:30 a.m. on April 6, 2016 at Holy Cross Church, 4049 Gordon Head Road. Interment at Hatley Memorial Gardens. March 21st a group from Skeetchestn Indian Band set out at 6:45 am, stopping in Cache Creek to pick up Father Pat and Religious Brothers Josh, Ferdinand and Dominique, and traveling down the Canyon Hwy to the Abbey in Mission. We arrived just before noon and were warmly welcomed by one of the Benedictine Brothers, who directed us to the chapel to take part in noon vespers with the Benedictine Monks. It was a beautiful experience as they chant the prayers. We then moved over to the dining area where we enjoyed a delicious picnic lunch supplied by Father Pat and the Brothers. After lunch, we were given a tour of the Abbey, processed to Our Lady’s Grotto while reciting the rosary, and sat through a presentation of the history and explanation of the Benedictine Monks and the beautiful grounds where the Seminary and Chapel are located. It was 5:00 before we returned home but our spirits were enriched and a great day of fellowship. Diane Nadeau TOP IMAGE—Front row: Brother Ferdinand; Father Pat Cerdeno SRC; Brother Josh Back Row: Brother Dominique; Tristin Hewitt; Janet Deneault; Bil Gowans; Doreen Gowans; Roger Nadeau; Diane Nadeau; Stacey Hewitt. Photo credit: Bill Gowans BOTTOM IMAGE—Westminster Abbey at Mission, BC Photo credit: Bill Gowans The Knights of Columbus council #9508 at St. John Vianney Parish conducted the “Food for Families for Easter” drive during the five weeks of Lent and collected 673 Lbs. of food along with $140.00 in cash donations for the Kamloops Food Bank. Making the presentation are (L to R), Br. Brian MacKinnon- Grand Knight, John Wiens-Past Grad Knight and Wesley Graham of KFB. Thanks to all those who contributed to this worth while cause. 17 Past Grand Knight, John Weins of The Knights of Columbus Bishop Harrington Council 9508 makes a $1,000 donation to KIBHT Chairman Ted Kowalsky for hockey funds from their charity appeal. Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 Rachel’s Vineyard Healing Wounded Hearts Fr Derrick Cameron lyzed by fear that they did not allow the children to whom they gave birth to grow spiritually. As they opened up, they allowed a certain fragrance of healing to begin (bringing tears to our eyes). All this changed in one weekend: the Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat. These women became the most precious and beautiful flowers in the vineyard as compared to a flower garden. During the retreat, a beautiful analogy was given: sin (in this case: abortion) is like compost. Sometimes a person may bury their abortion under many layers of stuff in their lives. Like compost, the stuff at the bottom of the pile is stinky, steamy and rotting. God can use the ugliness of the compost for rich fertilizer for the vineyard. As Satan uses sin to destroy our relationship with God, God uses the same instrument to bring about a greater good. These women can use this ugliness, through the grace of God and transformative life, as a way to seek forgiveness and reconciliation with God, thus developing a deeper and more trusting relationship with God. Now these women will be powerful witnesses of God’s love and mercy to the world. This richness, like compost, yields more fruit in the vineyard when it is spread around. I encourage those who have been involved in an abortion (men and women), and those who know of someone who is suffering from an abortion, to learn more about this healing opportunity. January 28, 2014 It has been a privilege to be on retreat with women who have had an abortion. I have not cried so many tears in one weekend in a long time. It was an emotional roller coaster: tears of sorrow and tears of joy, and sometimes both at the same time - almost like eating a sugar-coated sour candy. Arriving as a “quasi” participant, I feared the women would not open up to be healed because they saw me as a priest who would be both judgmental and condemning. My first experience came the first night at dinner, when one of the women at the table could not make eye-contact with me during the meal. As time went on, however, the women who were apprehensive, nervous and wounded began to open up like blossoms. One by one, they told their stories - opening up on their own accord and in their own time. These guilt-filled, fear-laden women were being released from their chains; they were overtaken by freedom and joy. Some of them had multiple abortions, some had an abortion 30 years ago, some could not even say the word “abortion” and some could hardly even step inside a church for fear of hearing words of condemnation. Some were so para- 75th Anniversary of CWL in Armstrong St. Joseph’s C.W.L. in Armstrong is 75 years old!! April 26th—the Feast Day of Our Lady of Good Counsel was chosen to celebrate the occasion. In 1940, the National President, Almira McCabe, travelled from Ontario to Armstrong to charter the new council. Now, 75 years later, current National President, Barb Dowding, was our very special guest!! The 8:30 am Mass was concelebrated jointly with His Excellency, Bishop David Monroe, Rev. Dale Normandeau (pastor of St.James, Vernon), Rev. Tony Ackermann (St.Joseph’s pastor) and Seminarian (soon-to-be Deacon) Chukwudi Jieme from Nigeria. 8 Past Presidents were acknowledged with a Pictured in the photo of past presidents are: (l-r) front row: “Fr. Tony Ackerman, yellow rose & appreciation scroll. Bea Hoyseth, Helen Sidney, Alma Houchen, Blanche Louttit, Fr.Dale Normandeau back Following the Mass the K of C served row: Bishop David Monroe, Ria Wanner, Nora Fulop, Jessie Prost & National Presidenta delicious breakfast of “wife savers” Barb Dowding. Missing from the group is Merrill Hibbert. Photo by Elizabeth Kalin muffins & fruit. Dave Jordan led the celebration with a toast to the 75th anniversary in honor of his late wife, Lorrilee (a beloved past president & member of the Provincial CWL). Barb Dowding gave a short talk on the need for mercy in medical care. Then followed a presentation by two speakers from the North Okanagan Hospice Society & on palliative care. the CWL presented Hospice House with a donation of $500. A donation jar yielded another $257. A tour of Hospice House in Vernon was offered to guests—who came from neighboring parishes in Vernon, Kamloops, Salmon Arm & the community of Armstrong. Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 18 Monsignor Jerry celebrates 50 years of the priesthood. April 28, 1966, Deacon Jeremiah Francis Desmond was ordained to the priesthood at Our Lady of Perpetual Help church in Kamloops. After 50 years and thousands of Holy Sacrifices of the Mass offered, Monsignor Jerry Desmond is still faithfully serving God’s people. He is a home grown priest. Born in North Kamloops to Irish immigrants, he was educated in public school and at St. Ann’s Academy, and later attended St. Joseph’s seminary in Edmonton. Monsignor Desmond served in numerous parishes throughout the diocese making memories in each place. Many readers are sure to know the facts of where he served the longest and different roles he had in the diocese. A major role was as Diocesan Administrator when the sede of the diocese was vacant before Bishop Monroe came to town in 2002. Some might even remember his short stint with the Flying Fathers hockey team. Others may have even been his passenger in his Cessna 210. There are those who know he has shaken the hand of a saint on more than one occasion. All these fun facts are great examples of how he has been involved in many aspects of parish and diocesan life. I can imagine it hasn’t always been fun. Ups and downs are part of each pilgrim’s earthly journey. Monsignor’s life has been an example. He has counselled many people. He has comforted the sick and suffering. He has been a spiritual father and guide to the bewildered. He has comforted the lonely and given food to the hungry. It still gives him delight to encounter a contrite heart in the sacrament of reconciliation. To the rest of you he is Monsignor Jerry but to Tim, Barry, John and Catherine he is brother and to numerous nieces and nephews, first and second generation he is Uncle. Family is important to him. He witnessed the marriage of his sister, and eventually those of his nieces. He has baptized most of the babies in both generations. He gave me and my older sister our First Holy Communion. He has taken holidays with his siblings and spoiled his nieces and nephews. God has known from the beginning of time how Jeremiah Francis would be blessed and how his life would bless many. What a gift it has been to have a priest in our family. As I end this article I realize this may sound like a eulogy. Thanks Uncle Jerry for supporting us and loving us. Deo gratias! Submitted by Adele Huculak 19 Diocesan News Catholic Diocese of Kamloops - June 2016 PM 40013998 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: The Diocesan News c/o 635A Tranquille Road, Kamloops, BC, V2B 3H5
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