Issue #500
A SECOND INFORMATION BROCHURE on the Synod on Synodality is now available at the parish churches of our Diocese. The new brochure provides fundamental information about the Synod, its goals and processes. This is the second of three brochures prepared to inform parishioners about the Synod on Synodality which is in the preparation stage now, and taking place in Vatican City this Fall, and the Fall of 2024.
ROB MCGOWAN, our Diocesan Consultant for Renovation and Construction projects, was selected for the distinct honour of Irish Person of the Year 2023! The honour is celebrated at today’s Annual Wearing of the Green luncheon. We add our congratulations, and we offer our sincere thanks to Rob for the good counsel he provides throughout the Diocese on a multitude of projects. Enjoy the day and “through the good St. Patrick, may your home and life be blessed with all the special favours that make you happiest”!
THE FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH, usually celebrated on March 19th, is celebrated on March 20th this year. March 19th falls on Sunday this year, which is the Fourth Sunday of Lent in the Liturgical Calendar (Ordo) and therefore takes precedence over the Feast. Sunday is also the tenth anniversary of the installation of Pope Francis (2013). May God continue to protect him and give him “the joy of proclaiming the Gospel”!
THE SPIRITUAL CARE TEAM at St. Joseph’s Health System, marks the Feast of St. Joseph each year by displaying a “reflective pause” throughout their health care institutions. This year they will also distribute wrist bands throughout the system to celebrate “living the legacy” of the Sisters of St. Joseph. “Perhaps the mark of greatness is not the accomplishing of great moments, great movements, great works … but facing life as it comes, being content with the daily, what we call the ‘ordinary’. Joseph was that kind of person – a saint!” Sister Madeleva Williams, CSJ, (1994).
FATHER ROBERT HETU, Pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Fergus, will be formally installed at a Mass at the Parish on Sunday. The installation ceremonies provide an opportunity for parishioners to understand the role and responsibilities of the Pastor and to join him in making the commitment to serve the Parish “with the help of God”! Thanks to Father Hetu for his service. Thanks to all the Priests who serve in the Diocese of Hamilton!
FATHER DENIS GRECCO, Rector of St. Peter’s Seminary, London, will welcome Bishop Wayne Lobsinger and me for the annual review of the seminarians who are studying there. Next Friday’s meeting will include a review of three of the seminarians who are petitioning to be ordained Priests in May. Pray for our seminarians and for their formators – and pray for vocations!
THE HALTON CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD celebrates its annual Awards of Excellence next Monday, March 27th. The impressive event honours students from every class who have demonstrated excellence in education and participation in the life of their schools. It is an event where parents can be justifiably proud and teachers grateful for the blessing of engaged and successful students! Well done indeed!
A CONVOCATION FOR PRIESTS takes place at Holy Family Parish Hall in Kitchener, next Tuesday, March 21st. Mr. Francis Doyle, Vice-Chancellor (Temporal Affairs) and Director of our Diocesan Stewardship Office, will share many ways living stewardship will help our parish communities confidently face today’s challenges and opportunities – while also helping parishioners become more intentional disciples of the Lord. Following the successful $38M One Heart One Soul campaign, and other important initiatives in the Diocese, Francis has important insights to share. See you there!
St. Patrick, pray for us.
Ex corde, +Douglas, OMI