Mary Magdalene announced to the disciples: I have seen the Lord; she told them that Jesus had said these things to her.
(John 20.11-18)
MESSAGES FROM THE BISHOP
Bishop’s Easter Message
Bishop Guy Desrochers’ Easter message is available on YouTube at Happy Easter 2023 – Message from Bishop Guy Desrochers, C.Ss.R. – YouTube or on our official Facebook page at Diocese of Pembroke | Facebook.
Message from the Bishop for Easter
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
At last the great feast of Easter has arrived! A feast of life, of springtime and renewal that brings supernatural joy to our hearts. Let us then cease our weeping, for the life that opens up to those who believe in Jesus and in his resurrection chases away all sadness, anxiety or morbid anguish when we contemplate the possibility of dying. (Read more…)
FROM THE DIOCESE
125th Anniversary of the Diocese of Pembroke
All are invited to a Mass of Thanksgiving on Thursday, May 4 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Columbkille Cathedral, Pembroke, to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Pembroke. The Most Reverend Guy Desrochers, CSsR will be the principal celebrant. A reception in the Cathedral Hall will follow the Mass to which all are invited.
125th Anniversary Choir
On May 4th, the diocese will celebrate its 125th anniversary with Mass at the Cathedral. Anyone interested in singing in the choir for that Mass is invited to attend the first practice on Thursday April 20th, at 7 p.m. at St. Columbkille Cathedral.
Healing Service with Eucharistic Adoration
At Most Holy Name of Jesus Church, 284 Trafalgar Rd., Pembroke, on Tuesday, May 9th from 7-8:15 p.m. Everyone welcome!
FROM THE CCCB
National Week for Family and Life 2023
OTTAWA – The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) warmly invites the Catholic faithful to celebrate together National Family and Life Week 2023 (NFLW), which will take place between 7 – 14 May 2023. The theme chosen for this year is Jesus’ words, “Love one another. Just as I have loved you, love one another” (John 13:34). (Read more…)
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
RCCDSB and RCDSB present “The 2023 Indigenous Speaker Series”
Next April Feature Speaker: Twin Flames on Wednesday, April 12th from 7-8:30 p.m.
Multi-Award-Winning chart-topping Canadian Indigenous Duo Twin Flames are a husband-wife band made up of Jaaji and, Chelsey June. Together they build bridges across cultures, continents, and styles, Twin Flames, provides a richness of personal history and musical experience. Their songs tell stories of courage and survival, written in English, Inuttitut, and French. Honouring their ancestor’s history and representing their Indigenous and settler backgrounds, they create sonic soundscapes using Indigenous Spirit flutes, traditional drums and western instruments, providing enticing musical arrangements, standout harmonies, and beautiful rhythmic patterns. The result is a warm, perfect blend of sounds. Twin Flames presentations are very educational and provide stories that align with most curricula. They also discuss what it is like being a professional musician and their journey in music and life.
To sign up for Twin Flames’ virtual presentation, please click here.
THE EVANGELIZATION TEAM
Blessed Catherine’s Starflowers
The Evangelization Team invites you to join the Blessed Catherine Starflowers prayer initiative and experience a deep unity between your heart and Jesus’ Heart. Under the patronage of Blessed Catherine of St Augustine, your daily life becomes a powerful act of love burning for the salvation of souls in our diocese. Over 300 people have already registered on the Diocesan Website, prayerfully interceding for the success of evangelization efforts: https://pembrokediocese.com/new-evangelization/blessed-catherines-starflowers/
Blessed Catherine offered her life and sickness for the salvation of souls in New France, making her a powerful force behind the missionary efforts of the time. Learn more about this saintly woman on the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and Catherine de Saint-Augustin Centre sites, or the Sacred History of Canada Site by Fr Jerome Lalemont. Join the initiative and let the Holy Spirit guide your daily prayers for the renewal and building of our Diocese.
The Essence of Evangelization
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
Loving God and our neighbours is at the heart of evangelization and of what it means to follow Jesus. But how can we make this love tangible in our daily lives? Here are some simple yet effective ways to live in God’s love and communicate it to those around us. Loving God and our neighbours is at the heart of evangelization and of what it means to follow Jesus. But how can we make this love tangible in our daily lives? Here are some simple yet effective ways to live in God’s love and communicate it to those around us. (Read more…)
A Man, a Dog, and the Ultimate Love
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
Once upon a time, there was a man who adopted a dog. The man loved the dog, but over time, the dog got grew old and he would sometimes bark and jump up on people. (Read more…)
LENT
CCCB Presents “Journey through Lent 2023“
On this Easter Sunday, Archbishop Dunn provides a reflection on the meaning of Jesus’ Resurrection.
“Journey through Lent” videos can be viewed here.
VOCATIONS
1st Thursday Holy Hours to Pray for Vocations
On May 4th, 8-9 p.m. at St. Alphonsus Parish, Chapeau – “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Mt. 9:37-38). 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. April’s Holy Hour will be at the Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Pembroke. 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
CCCB – The Call of the Catechist
Session 2 – Tuesday, April 11th from 1-2 p.m., the CCCB Office for Evangelization and Catechesis will offer a webinar series, The Call of the Catechist. This three-part series will explore the needs of the catechist today and will be of interest to those involved in evangelization and catechesis. Keynote speakers include Sherry Weddell (Catherine of Siena Institute), Sr. Janet Schaeffler, OP (Adrian Dominican Sisters), and Anne Walsh, D.Min. (Redemptorist Lay Missionary).
- Session 2 – April 11th – The Spirituality of the Catechist with Dr. Janet Schaeffler, OP
- Session 3 – April 18th – Theological Reflection & the Catechist with Anne Walsh
Please click here to access the online registration form.
For more information, please contact Mrs Marg Shea-Lawrence at m.shea-lawrence@cccb.ca.
Divine Mercy Sunday
The Office of Faith Formation and Leadership Development invites you to join us as we Celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday on April 16th from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, 284 Trafalgar Road, Pembroke. With Adoration, singing of Hymns and the Divine Mercy Chaplet as we pray for God’s Mercy upon the whole world. For more information please contact Deacon Adrien Chaput at 613 732-7933 ext. 206 or dcadrienchaput@pembrokediocese.com.
MARRIAGE, FAMILY, YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
Image of God Monthly Women’s Sessions
Next session – Wednesday, April 12th from 7-8 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Parish, Renfrew. Topic: Signs & Symbols: Our lives are dominated by signs and symbols – ignore them to your own peril. 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 discussion. The purpose is to grow in your spiritual health, your spousal relationship and parenting skills. No matter what age you are, you will surely find this very beneficial. Please enter through the small Parish Hall doors. For more information contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
Theology on Tap – PEMBROKE
Join us at J&E’s Bored N’ Saucy, 185 Pembroke St. East, Pembroke, on Wednesday April 26th from 7–8:30 p.m. Guest Speaker: Patrick Sullivan, Lay Evangelist. Topic: The Life and Role of a Catholic Missionary Explained. This is a new initiative of the Family Life and Youth Ministry Office and is geared for those age 19 – 49(ish). Different guest speakers will be invited each month to give a talk on a variety of different topics relating to the Catholic Faith. There will be time for questions, discussion and socializing. Each event will be posted on the Upcoming Events page on the Diocesan website (www.pembrokediocese.com) as soon as details are available. To receive an e-mail each month with date, speaker and location, please contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
Theology on Tap – BARRY’S BAY
Friday, April 21st at 7:30 p.m. LOCATION TO BE DETERMINED. Guest Speaker: John Paul Meenan. Topic: “From the Flaming Sword of Eden to the Many Mansions of the Father’s House: A Theological Discussion of Proper Notions of Exclusivity and Inclusivity.” This is a new initiative of the Family Life and Youth Ministry Office and is geared for those age 19 – 49(ish). Gatherings will take place monthly at the Balmoral Hotel. Different guest speakers will be invited each month to give a talk on a variety of different topics relating to the Catholic Faith. There will be time for questions, discussion and socializing. Each event will be posted on the Upcoming events page on the Diocesan website (www.pembrokediocese.com) as soon as details are available. For more information about the Barry’s Bay Theology on Tap contact Kenton Biffert at kentonbiffert@gmail.com.
PRO-LIFE
Upcoming Event – First Step Options Pregnancy Resource Centre
FSO Rhythms of Hope Concert and Dessert Fundraiser at the Pembroke Pentecostal Tabernacle on Saturday, April 29th at 2 p.m. For more information please call 613 635-7440.
Campaign Life Coalition – Stopping More Assisted Suicide
The Trudeau government is determined to make more and more Canadians “eligible” for their cost-saving euthanasia program (called MAiD or medical assistance in dying). First, it was the terminally ill. Then, it was the physically disabled. Now, the mentally ill – people struggling with depression, confusion, or anxiety – are next on their “hit list”.
Bill C-314, the “mental health protection act”, brought forward by Conservative MP Ed Fast, will help save troubled souls from suicide. It will help stop the radical expansion of Mr. Trudeau’s “MAiD Service” death cult. Help us get it passed: CONTACT YOUR MP!
PARISH EVENTS
Scripture 101
Our study of Scripture continues every Wednesday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Michael’s Church in Douglas in the sacristy (enter by the side door). Each evening consists of a video presentation featuring Fr. Sebastian Carnazzo, a Melkite (Byzantine) priest, followed by a facilitated group discussion. In these lectures, Father Sebastian brings out the richness and the profound relevance of the story of our salvation history. Please join us, even if you have missed some of the classes already! The video lectures are available for free online if you want to catch up on missed weeks (https://instituteofcatholicculture.org/courses/scripture-101). Bring along a bible, a pencil, and a highlighter, and prepare for a new encounter with the Lord.
New Life in the Spirit of Christ
Do you desire a deeper experience of the Holy Spirit and a vital rediscovery of the Sacraments in your life? Do you long for a personal relationship with Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit? Do you seek a greater outpouring of God’s healing and love? Do you yearn for a greater openness to prayer and Scripture? The Spirit of the Living God Prayer Group invites you to a “Life in the Spirit” Seminar. St. Lawrence O’Toole Parish Hall, Barry’s Bay. Seven Thursdays, April 13th to May 25th, 7-8:15 p.m. “With all my heart I hope that Renewal in the Spirit may be a true “gymnasium” in the church for prayer, asceticism, virtue and holiness.” (St John Paul II). Contact: Greg or Mary Doyle at 613 756-6643.
Celebration of Divine Mercy
At St. Patrick Parish, Mount St. Patrick, on Sunday April 16th, at 3:00 p.m. The celebration will include songs of praise, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, singing the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, veneration of the image of Divine Mercy, renewal of Baptismal promises, and solemn Benediction. The guest speaker will be Father Michael Lund. Light refreshments will follow. Everyone welcome! Please call Our Lady of Fatima Parish at 613 432-8525 for more information.
OTHER CATHOLIC EVENTS
Free Evangelization Webinar from Steubenville Conferences
“Evangelizing is in fact the grace and vocation proper to the Church, her deepest identity. She exists in order to evangelize.” These words of St. Paul VI are a clarion call to all Catholics to believe in and act upon the missionary mandate given to us by Jesus.
If you want to embrace this mission, yet feel unprepared or lacking in confidence, join us for a webinar on Monday, April 24, at 7:00 PM ET to be inspired, encouraged, and get practical skills to bring the truth and love of Jesus to your family, co-workers, and fellow parishioners.
Everyone is called to evangelize, and everyone can with the help of God’s grace!
To register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7588603182990287447
Spring and Summer Registrations at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College
Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College is pleased to announce that registration for its Spring and Summer Semester 2023 online courses is now open. The courses being offered for the Spring Semester (May-June) are: Tolkien, Special Topics in Theology: Canon Law, and Biomedical Ethics. The courses being offered for the Summer Semester (July-August) are: Creative Writing, Philosophy of Education, and Psychology. For more information please visit the College’s website at www.seatofwisdom.ca/spring-and-summer-online-courses/, or to sign up for courses please contact admissions@seatofwisdom.ca.
BY MY SIDE – Separated and Divorced Ministry for Women
This nonprofit ministry will assist separated and divorced Catholic women to reconnect and build on their faith. These sessions for women begin on Saturday, April 15, 2023 and are offered virtually over Zoom. All registrants will receive a private link to join prior to their first session. The sessions are 6 weeks in length and run from 9-11 a.m. Important: There are no classes being held on Victoria Day long weekend (May 20th). The program, led from a Catholic faith exploration perspective, is designed to help participants find reconciliation, peace and healing by taking positive steps in their daily spiritual life. For further information and registration, please visit our web site: www.bymyside.ca, or on Facebook at: facebook.com/bymysideott, or contact Mary-Jane Manley at 613 294-1308. We ask participants for a $40 payment to help cover resources and promotion.
At St. Patrick Parish, Mount St. Patrick, on Sunday April 16th, at 3:00 p.m. The celebration will include songs of praise, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, singing the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, veneration of the image of Divine Mercy, renewal of Baptismal promises, and solemn Benediction. The guest speaker will be Father Michael Lund. Light refreshments will follow. Everyone welcome! Please call Our Lady of Fatima Parish at 613 432-8525 for more information.
Spring CCRSO Conference – “Be Clothed With Power”
The Spring CCRSO Conference, “Be Clothed With Power”, will take place April 29th, 8 a.m to 9 p.m. at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Ottawa. Speakers are Bishop Scott McCaig CC and Dr. Ralph Martin. For more information or to register go to: www.CCRSO.net (Catholic Charismatic Renewal Services of Ontario).
Spring Pilgrimage to Medjugorje
With Father Albert MacPherson OSA, Augustinian Healing Ministry, May 10 to May 20, 2023. Price $2450.00 per pilgrim. Includes all taxes, two meals per day, double occupancy, 3-piece bathroom in each room. Five minutes from St. James Church. Services of a knowledgeable guide. Departure from Pearson International Airport, Toronto. Please contact the Tour Leader, Jack Duggan, for additional information at 613 756-2655 or email at medjugorje2023@bell.net.
OTHER
Galilee Centre presents “The Servant at the Supper”
Dinner & Show – April 14, 2023, 6- 9 p.m. at the Galilee Centre, 398 John St. N, Arnprior. Clothed in the simple costume of the servant girl who baked the bread and served the wine at the Last Supper, Eleanor Glenn describes the events taking place as she witnesses them at The Last Supper, the Crucifixion, The Resurrection, and Pentecost, ending with a timely message for Christians of this 21st century. Tickets $45 (reservations required). Call 613 623-4242 ext. 21 or visit https://www.galileecentre.com/the-servant-at-the-supper-play-dinner-event/.
Two Spring Concerts from the Pembroke Community Choir
The Pembroke Community Choiris excited to be back with “Sounds of the Sixties,” a concert of upbeat pop songs, golden oldies medleys, and meaningful gospel and folk songs. Our 60-voice choir guarantees you will leave with a spring in your step and a melody in your mind. Both concerts are at Calvin United Church in Pembroke. Saturday matinee, April 22nd at 1:30 p.m., and the regular Sunday concert on April 23rd at 7 p.m. Tickets $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Students 13 and under are free. Tickets are available from choir members; Fleurish in Petawawa; the Customer Care Centre in the Pembroke Mall; or at the door. Visit www.pembrokecommunitychoir.org for more information.
8th Annual Bluegrass Sunday
At the Knights of Columbus Hall, 170 Ellis Street, Pembroke, on Sunday, April 30th from 1:30-4:30 p.m. All proceeds go to Friends for Life International. Cost: $20.00 at the door only. For more information, contact Ron at 819 689-5440, or visit the website at www.friendsforlifeintl.ca.
Opening to Goodness Spring Retreat
From May 25-27 at the Galilee Centre, 398 John St. North, Arnprior. Facilitated by Contemplative Outreach of Eastern Ontario and West Quebec. This retreat is an invitation to deepen your experience of your true self in relation to Earth and the goodness of all beings. Cost: Single $310, Commuter $160. Register by calling 613 623-4242 ext. 21, or visit the website at https://www.galileecentre.com/opening-to-goodness-coeo-wq/.