Thursday, September 30, 2021

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

The Government of Canada has declared September 30 a day of Truth and Reconciliation with our indigenous sisters and brothers.


Participate:


1- Join a West Island parish livestream this evening, a Mass in solidarity with our fellow citizens from 7-8 pm, for adoration, music, readings and prayers with the participation of some indigenous parishioners.


2- Truth and reconciliation: A reflection by Connor Sarazin


What is the meaning behind Truth and Reconciliation? It is all about discovering and revealing governments’ past wrongdoings. With the truth revealed, repairing and establishing a respectful relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada can move forward.


Many people say that it wasn’t them, their children or their parents who were responsible for the Residential Schools so why are they being made to feel guilty about it? I believe the point is being completely missed....(Read Connor's thoughts and check out the further resources.)


3- See this week’s Canadian Bishops’ “Statement of Apology by the Catholic Bishops of Canada to the Indigenous Peoples

4- The bishops are also pledging $30 million for healing and reconciliation initiatives.

5- This evening: Blessing of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Statue

Archbishop Christian Lépine will bless a new statue of St. Kateri Tekakwitha to be erected in Mary Queen of the World Cathedral. The community is invited to pray to St. Kateri for truth and reconciliation this evening at 7:30 p.m. You may also follow the celebration live online.

6- Check out this beautiful and moving video, “Enduring Faith: The Story of Native American Catholicism,” by the Knights of Columbus.

7- Our parish wardens have agreed to offer our space toward Healing and Reconciliation. The first event will be November 3 -- look for details in October on how to join.


Monday, September 27, 2021

Soul Health L


What's with the L? ... Roman numeral for 50

This is the 50th parish email. Soul Health began during the pandemic as a means of reaching out to parishioners. Do encourage others to sign up!


SINGING AT MASS


Diocesan Guideline now permits Congregational singing while masked!

Join in singing the parts of the mass with Paul and Angela -- let's join the angel's choirs and be heard in heaven.

"She who sings once, prays twice" -- St. Augustine

Sung weeknight mass! That's right -- Wednesday 7pm at St. Willibrord's rectory chapel, with our impressive cantor Professor Brian.

This week, the splendid music for the Feast of the Archangels!


We've hired a full-time PASTORAL ASSOCIATE!



We are pleased to announce that jointly with St. Willibrord's Parish the hiring of Angela Olaguera (our Sunday cantor) as our new Pastoral Associate. Angela is a young Mom and devoted Catholic. She will be responsible for Adult and Family Formation Education, as well as communication. Please pray for Angela as she begins her new ministry.


Speaking of which....


FAMILY FAITH FORMATION & SYCAMORE PROGRAM
start up again this week online

Sycamore Program will resume on Tuesday evening at 7:30pm. All are welcome to join.

Family Faith Formation for Sacramental preparation will resume on Saturday at 10am

For more information please or to sign up contact the office or speak to Fr. Robert.

Diocesan events and information are available the Grapevine newsletter

May your Autumn be Blessed in Christ,


Father Robert+