No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.
(John 3.7b-15)
FROM THE DIOCESE
Message from Bishop Brehl on the tragedy in Vancouver
I am so sorry to hear the reports about the senseless tragedy in Vancouver. (Read more…)
Message from Bishop Brehl, upon the death of Pope Francis
April 21, 2025
Easter Monday
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
It was with deep grief that we received the news this morning that the Holy Father, Pope Francis, died today in Rome. In communion with the Catholic faithful across the Diocese, and with Catholics and people of good will across the world, we entrust Pope Francis into the mercy and love of God whom he served so faithfully for many years. I ask all of you to pray with me for our Holy Father, especially in these days of mourning.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”
Bishop’s Easter Message 2025
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Christ is Risen! Alleluia! He is Risen indeed! Alleluia!
After walking with Jesus through the Forty Days of Lent, we accompanied him to Jerusalem where we shared once again in his Last Supper. We prayed with Jesus in his Agony in the Garden of Olives. We followed him to Calvary where we stood with Mary, his mother, beneath the Cross. We watched and prayed in silence as he was laid in the tomb. (Read more…)
(YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/5eBX9h7MU5g)
Prayers
For the repose of the soul of Rev. Rolland Lafleur, a priest from the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall, who passed away at the age of 84. Fr. Lafleur was ordained in the Diocese of Pembroke on June 24, 1978.
Walk The Opeongo Line, July 24-27, 2025
Join pilgrims from across the diocese and beyond for a 4-day journey from Our Lady of Fatima, Renfrew to St. Ann’s Shrine, Cormac. It’s an experience that merits many blessings and wonderful memories. For more information and to register, visit: walktheopeongoline.org. The deadline for registration is Sunday, June 29th. Click for a PDF of the poster.
FROM THE CCCB
Statement by the Most Rev. William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary, and President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops on the Lapu-Lapu Filipino Festival
28 April 2025, Ottawa – As President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, I join all Canadians in offering my deepest, heartfelt sympathies to the victims, families, and all those impacted by the violence that occurred at the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver this past weekend, during one of the most joyful and special gatherings of the Filipino community.
I invite all of the Catholic faithful in Canada to remember in prayer those who lost their lives and the injured, as well as the people who witnessed this senseless violence as it unfolded and those in mourning. At this agonizing time, let us also communicate our support and solidarity with the Filipino-Canadian community.
May the Risen Christ, who triumphed over death, be the hope of those who call out to him.
National Family and Life Week 2025
8 April 2025, Ottawa – The Catholic faithful across Canada are invited and warmly encouraged to celebrate National Family and Life Week 2025 (NFLW) from Sunday, 11 May, 2025, to Sunday, 18 May, 2025. This annual event is an initiative of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, in collaboration with its Standing Committee for Family and Life, and the corresponding Office. (Read more…)
EASTER
Message for Easter 2025 by Bishop William T. McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary and President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, I extend to you the ancient Orthodox Easter greeting: “Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!” (Read more…)
The video message may be accessed by clicking the following link.
JUBILEE 2025
Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Renfrew
Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Renfrew, is the designated church for the Jubilee Indulgence on Tuesday 13 May 2025, the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima. Confessions and adoration will take place from 5 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. The Rosary will be recited at 6:15 p.m. and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at 6:45 p.m. Mass will be celebrated at 7 p.m. For more information on the graces of the Jubilee Indulgence, please visit https://pembrokediocese.com/article/jubilee-2025-indulgence-en/ .
Our Lady of Combermere (Madonna House), Combermere
Our Lady of Combermere (Madonna House), Combermere is the designated place of pilgrimage for the Jubilee Indulgence on Saturday 31 May 2025, the Feast of the Visitation of Our Lady. Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of the Woods Chapel, followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament until Benediction at 2:50 p.m. Confessions will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day will end with the praying of the Rosary at the statue of Our Lady of Combermere at 3 p.m., followed by tea. For more information on the graces of the Jubilee Indulgence, please visit https://pembrokediocese.com/article/jubilee-2025-indulgence-en/ .
Jubilee 2025 Calendar of Major Events
Jubilee 2025 – Diocese of Pembroke
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
Wisdom to Wellness
This program is designed to immerse participants into Indigenous cultural teachings and protocols. Through a series of enlightening sessions, individuals will engage with a variety of teachings deeply rooted in Indigenous wisdom and traditions. The program focuses on fostering a profound understanding of cultural values, reciprocity to the land, and the significance of Indigenous protocols in various ceremonies and gatherings. These teachings will be integrated into other programs held at Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation. Email us at info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com or visit the website at www.mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com for more information. Next date: Wednesday, April 30th.
Women’s Circles
Time to connect with other women, supporting one another on our healing journey. Bringing together culture and community. Next Talking Circle: May 1st. Visit the Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation website at www.mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com, call 613 281-7969, or email at info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com.
Men’s Circles
Time to connect with other men, supporting one another on our healing journey. Bringing together culture and community. Next Talking Circle: May 5th. Visit the Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation website at www.mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com, call 613 281-7969, or email info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com.
Community Drumming
Immerse yourself in the heartbeat of the hand drum as we come together in community to learn and sing once a month, on Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Bring you personal drum. Limited supply available for those who do not have one. Visit the Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation website at www.mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com or email info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com for more information. Next date: Wednesday, May 14th.
EVANGELIZATION
A Virtuous Circle of Evangelization
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
We present in this text an intentional approach to sharing the Christian faith and inviting people to know Jesus and join the Church community. It consists of five key steps, each playing an essential role in the process of evangelization. (Read more…)
MARRIAGE, FAMILY, YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
“POP Theology”– PEMBROKE
NEXT event: Wednesday April 30th at 7 p.m. at St-Jean Baptiste Parish Hall, Pembroke. Guest speaker: Patrick Sullivan, Lay Evangelist. Topic: How to Read the bible like an Ancient Catholic. (Talk will begin at approx. 7:10 p.m.) This event is geared for those age 19 – 49(ish). There will be time for questions, discussion, and socializing. Please contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com to be added to a group e-mail list. All are welcome!
Carlo’s Crew Youth Night (A diocesan event)
This is a free event for youth grade 7 to 12 and ALL are welcome. The upcoming date is Friday May 2nd from 7 – 9 p.m. at St. James the Less parish, Eganville. There will be games, social time, Eucharistic adoration, music, confession, and talks from a team of clergy and others. The four evenings will focus on Virtues and Vices. The waiver form must be signed either online here or hard copies will be available at the event. One waiver will cover all 4 nights. Questions? Contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com. Come join us and bring a friend!
VOCATIONS
1st Thursday Holy Hours to Pray for Vocations
May 1st from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Ann Parish, Cormac. 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.
PARISH EVENTS
Prayers for healing (bilingual celebration)
At St-Pierre Church, Fort-Coulonge, on May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. All welcome, whatever your religious background! Format: songs of praise, brief meditation on the Word of God, procession with the Blessed Sacrament inside the church for healing, followed by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. There will be two or three people to pray with you individually for healing, if you wish.
Life in the Spirit Seminar
A Life in the Spirit Seminar will be held at St Lawrence O’Toole parish hall, Barry’s Bay, Thursday evenings, from May 15th to June 26th. All are welcome! Details to follow. For more information or to register, call or text Greg or Mary Doyle at 613 756-6643.
PRO-LIFE
March for Life
Renfrew County Right to Life is co-sponsoring a bus to the National March For Life which takes place on Parliament Hill on Thursday May 8th. The coach will leave the Pembroke Metro at 7:45 a.m., with stops at the Cobden Pentecostal Church and the Renfrew Visitors’ Centre. Payment by donation. To reserve seats, please email RCRTlife@gmail.com with names of all riders. For more information: facebook.com/RCRTL .
First Step Options 2025 Virtual Baby Bottle Fundraising Campaign
Fill our virtual bottle…change a life! From Mother’s Day (May 11th) to Father’s Day (June 15th). For inquiries or information on how to donate, please contact FSO at firststepoptions@gmail.com or call 613 635-7440.
OTHER CATHOLIC EVENTS
Catholic Education Week 2025
Catholic Education Week begins on Sunday, May 4th. The Catholic schools in our diocese will engage in a series of events to celebrate the ongoing gift of publicly funded Catholic education. This year’s Catholic Education Week theme is, “Pilgrims of Hope.” You are invited to learn about the various celebrations that are happening in your children’s school, and are welcome to attend, if possible.
Pilgrimage to Quebec’s Major Shrines
Fr. Réal Ouellette is organizing a bilingual pilgrimage to Quebec’s Major Shrines, this coming May 26-28 (2025). The coach bus will be leaving from Pembroke and making stops in Renfrew and Arnprior. We need a minimum of 40 pilgrims (maximum of 50 pilgrims). More information available on St-Jean-Baptiste website: https://sites.google.com/view/sjbpembroke.
EMPLOYMENT AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Frassati Academy – Principal and Teaching Positions
Frassati Academy is an independent, classically-inspired Catholic elementary school located within the Campbell Centre at St. Agnes church of Good Shepherd Parish in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Opening its doors in September 2025, the Academy is dedicated to providing a Christ-centered education that nurtures the development of the whole person — body, mind and soul. Its mission is to form hearts and minds through an academically excellent curriculum that is rooted in the Church’s rich spiritual and intellectual heritage. Children will be encouraged in their pursuit of charity, virtue and faith, all for the greater glory of God. Frassati Academy is a community initiative which respects and upholds the role of parents as primary educators of their children. Parents are thus encouraged to have an active role and presence in the school. For a list of positions available and more information please visit the website at Jobs.
Career Opportunities at Catholic Christian Outreach
CCO currently has positions available. Check out the website at Careers – CCO | Catholic Christian Outreach for more information.
Board Director for the Galilee Centre
The Galilee Centre in Arnprior is urgently looking to recruit a volunteer Director for its Board. Ideally, you would be a mid-career professional with a set of skills that would enhance our governance capability. You are a practicing Catholic with an orientation towards helping the most socially marginalized. Our Board seeks to achieve increased gender parity and welcomes applications from the Indigenous, newcomer and ability-constrained communities. The role can be accomplished in a “hybrid” fashion, with some onsite participation and/or virtually. For more information, or to see the job poster and apply, please visit Galilee Centre’s website at https://www.galileecentre.com/, and follow the links.
OTHER
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board Walking Pilgrimage
Join RCCDSB to walk reflect, pray, and connect with the community on Saturday, May 10th, meeting at St. Michael’s Parish, Douglas at 9:30am, walking 15.2km to St. James the Less Parish, Eganville. Visit RCCDSB Walking Pilgrimage – May 10th, 2025 | Renfrew County Catholic District School Board for more information. All are welcome!
Pilgrimage of Peace to Medjugorje
Departure from Pearson International Airport from May 7th to May 18th. Price: $3,150.00 (includes all taxes, air fares, room & board, side trips and gratuities). Non-refundable deposit of $400.00 required on booking. To register, or for more information contact Jack or Patricia Duggan at 613 756-2655, or email blackfishbay@bell.net or dugganpatricia@bell.net.
Stillpoint House of Prayer presents “Getting to Know the Holy Spirit”
Join facilitator Clarissa Boyce, Chaplin, Spiritual Director, Artist and Potter for an information morning discussion on Saturday, May 10th from 9am to noon. Cost: $40 including coffee and baked goods. Contact Corrien at inquiries@stillpoint.ca or call 613 432-2791 to register or for more information.
2025-26 Discipleship Formation Program (DFP)-St. Malo, MB – Applications being accepted
Young Adults! It’s time to apply! Take a year off to dive deeper into your relationship with God and Catholic faith. The DFP is an 8-month live-in program for post high school students 18 yrs or older, at the Catholic School of Evangelization in St. Malo Manitoba. This is an opportunity to live in community, develop your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, study the Catholic faith with the head and heart, and to grow in missionary zeal through evangelization and ministry. Experience the challenge and satisfaction of helping children and teens in Manitoba Catholic schools encounter the love of God. Get ready for a memorable year as you build friendships with other young adults from various places in Canada. Is God calling you? Tuition is $7,500. Apply today at https://www.catholicway.net/dfp.For more information please contact Louis or Mary at richards@catholicway.net. Join us on June 24th for a virtual information session…link found at https://www.catholicway.net/dfp. Application deadline: July 15th.