The seed grew and became a tree.
(Luke 13.18-21)
FROM THE DIOCESE
Prayers
For the repose of the soul of Mr. Gerard Bennedict Burchat, father of Reverend Anthony Burchat and brother of Reverend John Burchat, who passed away peacefully on Friday, October 27th at the age of 64. Let us pray for the consolation of the entire Burchat Family.
Diocesan Administrator
Subsequent to the installation of the Most Reverend Guy Desrochers, C.Ss.R. as Archbishop of Moncton this past October 18, 2023, the College of Consultors of the Diocese of Pembroke on October 19, 2023 elected Reverend George Ryan Holly as Diocesan Administrator of Pembroke, as required by Canon Law (c. 421 §1).
Pastoral Appointments
The Most Reverend Guy Desrochers, C.Ss.R., announces the following pastoral assignments:
- Reverend Kenneth O’Brien concludes his pastorship of St. James, Eganville, Our Lady of Nativity, Pikwàkanagàn, and St. Ann’s, Cormac and retires from parish ministry, effective November 7, 2023. We express gratitude to Father O’Brien for his years of service in parish ministry, and we assure him of our prayers as he prepares to celebrate his golden jubilee of ordination in May 2024.
- Reverend Réal Ouellette is assigned temporarily as administrator of St. James, Eganville, Our Lady of Nativity, Pikwàkanagàn, and St. Ann’s, Cormac, effective November 7, 2023 until the appointment of a new pastor.
Healing Service with Eucharistic Adoration
At St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 367 Martineau Avenue, Otter Lake, QC on Wednesday, November 8th from 7-8:15 p.m. Guest speaker: Father Réal Ouellette. All are welcome!
THE SYNOD
News of the Synod (2023-10-27)
The XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops recently concluded, and in a letter addressed to the People of God. (https://www.synod.va/content/dam/synod/news/2023-10-25_letter_to_the_people_of_god/ENG_2023.10.25-Lettera-al-Popolo-di-Dio.docx)
The assembly emphasized the importance of pastoral and missionary conversion, emphasizing that its role is to proclaim the Gospel and serve God’s love for the world. The centrality of love, especially Trinitarian and Eucharistic love, was highlighted. The Church hopes to encourage missionary communion and synodality among its members, emphasizing the need for genuine involvement from all.
To achieve this, the documents say, the Church should listen to all voices, especially the marginalized and victims of abuse within its ranks. It should also engage with laypeople and families. The prophetic voice of consecrated life and those seeking truth should not be ignored. (Read more…)
FROM THE CCCB
Episcopal appointment for the Diocese of Bathurst – Saturday, October 28 2023
28 October 2023, Ottawa – His Holiness Pope Francis named Father Michel Proulx, O. Praem., Bishop of Bathurst. At the time of his appointment, Father Proulx had been Prior of the Premonstratensian Monastery of St-Constant (Quebec) since 2008. (Read more…)
Newsletter “Encounter” (Fall 2023)
The Office for Evangelization and Catechesis (English Sector) has released latest issue of its digital newsletter “Encounter”! The goal of the newsletter is to provide dioceses/eparchies and parishes with resources to support faith formation and to promote evangelization.
The Fall 2023 Issue features information about a webinar series, “The Four Constitutions of Vatican II”, which will be offered 7, 14, 21 and 28 November 2023. Simultaneous interpretation will be available for these sessions.
Subscribe here for the newsletter! This issue and past issues can be found on the CCCB website here.
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
Rights of Indigenous Peoples
- Indigenous peoples have the right to the conservation and protection of the environment and the productive capacity of their lands or territories and resources. States shall establish and implement assistance programmes for indigenous peoples for such conservation and protection, without discrimination.
- States shall take effective measures to ensure that no storage or disposal of hazardous materials shall take place in the lands or territories of indigenous peoples without their free, prior and informed consent.
- States shall also take effective measures to ensure, as needed, that programmes for monitoring, maintaining and restoring the health of indigenous peoples, as developed and implemented by the peoples affected by such materials, are duly implemented.
Article 29– United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
THE EVANGELIZATION TEAM
Why Starflowers?
“As I get more disabled, I find myself spending more time in prayer.” These words, spoken by a close friend, are true for many who suffer (physically, spiritually and/or emotionally). Perhaps they are true for you.
Across the diocese, well over 300 Starflower members offer their prayers and their sufferings for the rest of us, trusting we will grow in our love of Christ and successfully bring Him, deep within our own hearts, to the hearts of others.
If you would like to be part of the Starflowers Prayer Initiative and receive the booklet of prayers and a medal of Blessed Catherine of St Augustine, just ask your parish priest or parish secretary for the Starflowers Contact person in your area, or contact us, Greg and Mary Doyle at 613 756-6643.
THE HOLY SEE
Pope’s Prayer Intention for November 2023
For the Pope – We pray for the Holy Father; as he fulfils his mission, may he continue to accompany the flock entrusted to him with the help of the Holy Spirit.
VOCATIONS
1st Thursday Holy Hours to Pray for Vocations
On November 2nd, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Petawawa. The Holy Hour will consist of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Sacred Music, a reflection by Fr. Murray, a Rosary for vocations, and time for silent prayer. These Holy Hours are open to everyone, not just those considering a priestly vocation. For more information and details please visit Pembroke Vocations.
FAITH FORMATION
FINAL NOTICE! Important Gathering Call to Register
A Faith Formation Day, “I want More: Going Deeper in Faith” is open to all, and will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at the Most Holy Name of Jesus ANNEX, 284 Trafalgar Road, Pembroke, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Guest speakers: Pierre- Alain Giffard, Father Michael Smith, and Greg and Mary Doyle. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Please inform us if you have any food allergies. There is no registration fee, but registration is necessary. To register, or for more information, please contact Deacon Adrien Chaput at 613 732-7933 ext. 206 or dcadrienchaput@pembrokediocese.com by November 2, 2023.
MARRIAGE, FAMILY, YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
IMAGE OF GOD monthly MEN & WOMEN Sessions
IMAGE OF GOD monthly MEN & WOMEN Sessions continue Wednesday, November 8th from 7-8:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in the parish hall and run monthly until June. Topic: “The best decision you will ever make. God promised you this, it’s time to claim it for your family.” This event is being hosted by the Family Life and Youth Ministry Office, with guest speaker Patrick Sullivan, Lay Evangelist, and is open to all. Each evening has a different topic and will include time for separate discussion for men and women. The purpose is to grow in your own spiritual life, your spousal relationship, and your relationship with your children. Upcoming date: December 13th. For more information contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
Theology on Tap – PEMBROKE
Join us for Theology on Tap on Thursday November 30th, 7-8:30 p.m. at Nelson St. Pub, 207 Nelson Street, Pembroke. Guest speaker: Fr. Real Ouellette. Topic:” Healing wounds through the “Unbound” ministry. “(Talk will begin at approx. 7:10 p.m.). Consider inviting someone who doesn’t attend or rarely attends church. Questions? Contact Yvette at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
Theology on Tap – BARRY’S BAY
The monthly talks will be on hold until there is a suitable location found to hold Theology on Tap in the Barry’ Bay area.
Ignite Canada is offering NETWORK WORKSHOPS for those working with youth, young adults, and family ministry
Throughout the year, we will be hosting online 2-hour workshops on a variety of topics pertaining to ministry with youth, young adults and family and ministry. These workshops provide information, skills, and practical elements to enhance the work of staff and volunteers in these ministries. These workshops take place on Thursday evenings (roughly every second week) from 7-9 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Zoom. Pre-registration is required. Simultaneous closed-captioned translation for French and Spanish is available for participants, as well as all major language groups. Registration is completed with payment of $15/workshop. The following schedule of workshops include:
TO REGISTER FOR A WORKSHOP, PLEASE CLICK HERE
Know any teenagers? Send them to Youth Alpha!
There will be a youth group for grade 7-12 students each Sunday starting Sunday November 5th, 6:30-8 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall. This Youth Alpha program will provide a space to ask and explore some of life’s biggest questions. Please visit the following website for more info and to register. There is no cost, and it is open to all. Visit the website: https://jwmccluskey.wixsite.com/our-lady-of-lourdes. Email Jessica McCluskey at jwmccluskey@nrtco.net with any questions.
PRO-LIFE
CCBR’s Florida Abortion Awareness Project
What could be better than a mid-winter trip to Florida? How about a mid-winter trip to Florida to change minds and save lives from abortion? Join CCBR for this life-saving, life-changing outreach tour across Florida campuses. Here you will learn effective pro-life strategy and apologetics that will equip you to reach our culture. You will also do pro-life outreach at university campuses, putting your skills to use to make a difference. All while enjoying the warm sun! Join CCBR from February 16-23 (Reading Week) or February 23–March 1. For more information go to endthekilling.ca/florida or email (csibiga@endthekilling.ca) Application Deadline is November 17th. Accommodations, meals, and transportation are provided in Florida.
PARISH EVENTS
Recollection for Women
Recollections are like mini retreats that help you take a break from your busy schedule to think and pray about your life, your relationship with God and gain a fresh outlook. Join us at Our Lady of Lourdes parish in Pembroke on November 23rd from 11 a.m to 1 p.m. Bring a lunch if you wish to stay and socialize.
This spiritual activity, inspired by the writings of St. Josemaria Escriva, is entrusted to Opus Dei, a personal Prelature of the Roman Catholic Church. For more information on the Prelature of Opus Dei go to www.opusdei.org.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Nadia Bagshaw at nadia.bagshaw@sympatico.ca or 613 584-9388.
OTHER CATHOLIC EVENTS
Mary’s Way of the Cross
With special co-host Archbishop Guy Desrochers, C.Ss.R., Archdiocese of Moncton on Friday, November 3rd. Hymns 6:50 p.m. – Way of the Cross 7 p.m.
Zoom invite:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85242385627?pwd=ZEFMRmp5bVp2UUlBTC9rUXpFd0JLZz09
Meeting ID: 852 4238 5627
Passcode: 221013
OTHER
The Grind Pembroke Presents… Living Hope Worship Night
Join us at the Pembroke Pentecostal Tabernacle, featuring Pastor Paul Perry and guest speaker Steve Prendergast, on Saturday, November 4th at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $10 – Kids 10 and under: Free! For tickets, or for further information, please contact The Grind Pembroke at 613.732.9423 or email thegrindpembroke@gmail.com
A Fall Festival of Music
Please join us at Zion Lutheran Church 454 Miller Street, Pembroke, for organ, piano & flute music on Sunday, November 5th at 2:30 p.m. Admission by freewill offering at the door. Proceeds going to Camp Lutherlyn, St. Joseph’s Food Bank, and the Zion Organ Fund. For more information, please contact Blaine at 343 369-8700.
Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church – Hot Turkey Supper
Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church Is hosting its annual Hot Turkey Supper – Take out Only on Sunday November 5th starting at 3:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. Corner of Airport Road and Doran Road, Petawawa. Supper comes with potatoes, carrots, turkey, dressing, gravy, cranberries, coleslaw, and homemade pies for dessert. Cost: freewill offering. The church is wheelchair accessible. For more information, please call 613 687-6971.
The Grind Presents… CNOY2024 Kick-Off Spaghetti Dinner
Please join us on Thursday, November 23rd at 6 p.m. for a spaghetti dinner at Zion Lutheran Church, 454 Miller Street, Pembroke. Tickets: $12 – Youth 10 & under: $5. All proceeds support The Grind and our Coldest Night of the Year 2024 Fundraising Event. Tickets available at The Grind, 273 Victoria St., Pembroke, and must be purchased in advance. Please call 613 732-7423 or visit the website at www.thegrindpembroke.ca for more information.