This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah.
(Luke 11.29-32)
FROM THE DIOCESE
Phone and Computer Disruptions
Please note that there will be phone and computer disruptions at the Chancery Office on Thursday, February 22nd as well as Friday, February 23rd. The Diocese of Pembroke staff thanks you for your patience.
Mass of Chrism
The Mass of Chrism will be celebrated during Holy Week on Tuesday, March 26 at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Columbkille, Pembroke. The Most Reverend Brendan O’Brien, Archbishop Emeritus of Kingston will be the principal celebrant. A reception will follow in the Cathedral Hall. All are welcome.
Healing Service with Eucharistic Adoration
At Our Lady of Mercy Parish, 196 Bridge Street West, Bancroft, on Wednesday, February 21st from 7-8:15 p.m. Guest speaker: Father Réal Ouellette. All are welcome!
Prayer for the Future Bishop of our Diocese
Heavenly Father, we ask in the name of your Son, that you bless our future bishop. Provide him with the gifts he will need to carry on the ministry of Jesus in our diocese. Grant him the heart of your Son, the heart of the Good Shepherd. Bestow upon him the zeal of St. Paul in preaching the Good News; the humility of St. John Vianney in ministering the sacraments; the compassion of St. Vincent-de-Paul in serving those most in need; the wisdom of St. Augustine in teaching the doctrine of our Church; and the missionary fervour of St. Columbkille, our patron. Through Christ our Lord. Amen
FROM THE CCCB
Journey Through Lent Video Series: Weekly Reflections for the Lenten Season
The Office for Evangelization and Catechesis, in collaboration with the National Liturgy Office and the Office national de liturgie, launches the 2024 video series titled Journey Through Lent. Beginning on Ash Wednesday, 14 February 2024, and for each Sunday in Lent, up to and including Palm Sunday, a video will be uploaded to the CCCB website featuring pastoral reflections based on the Readings for the Sunday Eucharistic Celebration. Geared to individuals, families, and communities, this series is meant to offer spiritual inspiration and guidance on how to prepare well for the Easter season. (Read more…)
SYNOD
News of the Synod
The Synod on Synodality, initiated by Pope Francis in 2021, continues its path towards the universal assembly in October 2024. As part of this process, the Synod Secretariat at the Vatican has now invited all local Churches to select two or three themes from the synthesis report that are particularly relevant to their local situation. Continue reading: https://pembrokediocese.com/synod/.
LENT
CCCB – Journey Through Lent 2024
On this First Sunday of Lent, Bishop Hero provides a reflection on God’s promise to Noah and Jesus’ invitation to enter into a new covenant. Watch video here.
Mary’s Way of the Cross
Celebrate via Zoom every Friday during Lent with “Mary’s Way of the Cross.” Hymns start at 6:50 p.m. – Mary’s Way of the Cross at 7 p.m. Next date: February 23rd.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88358882382?pwd=NEFFSmRTZVk1dkRLNFIwdXpqVWNQZz09
Meeting ID: 883 5888 2382
Passcode: 377792
Biblical Walk-through Christ’s Passion
Join in a “Pilgrimage that reveals Christ’s amazing love for us” at St. Francis Xavier Main Parish Hall in Renfrew. Each one-hour session takes place on Thursday evenings at 7:00 p.m. – February 22 & 29, March 7 & 14. Using Ascension Press’ 30-minute videos and discussions we will deepen our faith this Lent and Easter, deepen our understanding of the Passion of Christ, follow the events of the Passion and Death of Jesus, and learn how to apply the Passion of Christ to our own lives.
A Complete Guide to Catholic Lent 2024
Check out the Dynamic Catholic website to learn all about Lent here.
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
Rights of Indigenous Peoples
The United Nations, its bodies, including the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and Specialized agencies, including at the country level, and States shall promote respect for and full application of the provisions of this Declaration and follow up the effectiveness of this Declaration.
Article 42 – United Nations declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Diocesan Action Circle Survey
To better help us serve the needs of parishioners, the Diocesan Action Circle has prepared a short anonymous survey. The answers to the survey questions will direct the work around Reconciliation with Indigenous People in the Diocese. To access the survey, please check the website: https://pembrokediocese.com/article/diocesan-action-circle-survey-2023/, or click the following link: https://forms.gle/LRfMwNTBEmgKQV7w5.Thank you for your participation.
THE EVANGELIZATION TEAM
The Growth of Saint Benedict Parish (Fr. James Mallon)
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
James Mallon, a Canadian Catholic, served as the pastor of Saint Benedict Parish within the Archdiocese of Halifax, Canada. Thanks to his leadership, the parish underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving from an aging and declining community into a vibrant and flourishing one. Under his guidance, the once dwindling congregation experienced a revitalization, drawing in numerous individuals in search of spiritual fulfillment. His unwavering commitment and vision not only breathed new life into the parish but also created a welcoming space that resonated with those seeking a connection with God. (Read more…)
Alpha for Parents
Feel free to join at any time. Register for an Alpha for Parents session here: https://rccdsb.ca/alpha-sessions/. Embark on a meaningful journey to explore the Christian faith, presented by the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board in collaboration with the Diocesan Evangelization Team. These sessions are open to parents from all backgrounds, providing an opportunity to delve into the foundations of the Christian faith. Connect, learn, and deepen your understanding of the Catholic faith in a friendly and welcoming environment.
VOCATIONS
1st Thursday Holy Hours to Pray for Vocations
March 7th, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Hedwig Parish, Barry’s Bay. 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.
MARRIAGE, FAMILY, YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
Marriage Preparation Program
The Winter Diocesan Marriage Preparation Program is coming up on Saturday, March 2nd and Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Parish, Renfrew. Deadline to register is February 22nd. Registration fee is $100 per couple. Registration available online at https://www.jotform.com/yvettebourque/marriageprep, or a form can be obtained from any parish and mailed in. Inquiries can be directed to Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
NEW! Diocesan Youth Night
The Diocese of Pembroke’s Office of Family Life and Youth Ministry is starting a new event for youth in grade 7 to 12 at St. James the Less Parish, Eganville. The upcoming dates are Fridays April 12th, and June 7th from 7 – 9 p.m. The events will offer fun games (outdoor whenever possible), social time to build friendships, Eucharistic adoration, music, confession, and talks from a team of clergy and others to encourage spiritual growth and personal reflection. Please bring indoor shoes! The waiver form and information can be found on the front page of the diocesan website, www.pembrokediocese.com. A dedicated room will be available for parents who wish to stay for the duration of the event. Any questions? Contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com. All are invited and welcome!
Theology on Tap (19-49ish) – Pembroke
Join us for Theology on Tap Thursday February 22nd (Feast of the Chair of St. Peter), 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Nelson St. Pub, 207 Nelson Street, Pembroke. Guest speaker: Fr. Scott Murray. Topic: “St. Peter – A history of the Papacy.” Consider inviting someone who doesn’t attend or rarely attends church. Questions? Contact Yvette at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
Image of God Monthly Men & Women Sessions at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Petawawa
Next session: Wednesday, March 20th, from 7-8:30 p.m. in the parish centre. Topic: “A Powerful Culture: Your family is unique – it is time to own that” Speaker Patrick Sullivan, Lay Evangelist. Upcoming dates are April 10th.and May 8th. Questions? Contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com.
Northern Ontario Youth Conference – St. Joseph-Scollard Hall North Bay
February 24th. Theme for 2024: “Where are you going?” This event is for ages 13-19 and includes a day full of prayer, music, workshops, games, Catholic vendors and presentations from Keynote Speaker, David Patterson. David has led the way in youth ministry, high school chaplaincy and most recently through social media by founding “Yes Catholic.” Conference runs from 10 a.m to 8 p.m. Cost is $25.00 and includes lunch and dinner. For more information or to register visit www.northerncatholic.ca.
PRO-LIFE
First Step Options Annual General Meeting
FSO Annual General Meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on Monday, February 26th at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Pembroke. For more information, please call 613 635-7440 or email fsocentre@gmail.com.
DEVELOPMENT & PEACE
Development & Peace – Stand for the Land
In solidarity with the defenders of Guapinol and the San Pedro sector in Honduras, Development and Peace are seeking to collect 32,000 signatures on a letter to the Honduran ambassador to Canada by February 25, 2024. A Development and Peace-Caritas Canada delegation will meet the ambassador and hand her the letter during the spring of 2024.
Act now! Sign the letter digitally at this link: https://devp.org/en/campaign/stand-for-the-land/act/.
Development & Peace—Caritas Canada Share Lent Workshop
Development and Peace—Caritas Canada invites you to sow justice and reap dignity by participating in our formation session for the Reaping our Rights Campaign!
Join us to learn about Share Lent 2024. This workshop will cover the Share Lent Campaign and offer all you will need to mobilize the campaign in your parish, school, or community in support of D&P’s work. on Thursday, February 29th at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall, 280 Lourdesview Drive, Pembroke. This is a hybrid event, also accessible via Zoom. Please contact Deacon Adrien Chaput to receive Zoom link or to confirm attendance in person at dcadrienchaput@pembrokediocese.com or at 613 732-7933 ext. 206.
OTHER CATHOLIC EVENTS
Lift Jesus Higher Rally 2024 – “Take Heart: By His Wounds We Are Healed“
Compelling speakers, Mass with Bishop Leo, adoration, praise and worship music, prayer ministry and more. Both Adult ($30) and Youth ($15) tracks, Saturday, March 2nd, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For tickets or more information: www.LJHR.ca
Women’s Retreat at Graphite Bible Camp
“Arise, my love… and come away. (Song 2:10)” from April 5-7th, led by Fr. Kieran Kilcommons, Victoria Fausto and Mary McGoff of Madonna House. Cost $225. For more info email womensretreatcombermere@gmail.com or call Kristan 613 585-0579. Deadline to register: March 22nd.
By My Side 2024 Virtual Zoom Program for Separated and Divorced Catholic Women
Classes begin April 6, 2024, 2 hours/ week for ladies and run for 6 weeks. The cost is $40 which covers reimbursement of expenses only. For all class details, dates, times, and registration form, go to www.bymyside.ca .
OTHER
World Day of Prayer – Bancroft
Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Bancroft is proud host the global ecumenical movement led by Christian women, the 2024 World Day of Prayer on Friday March 1st at 1 p.m. Everyone is invited to participate in joining together in prayer and action for peace and Justice. The Theme and service written by the WDP committee of Palestine is “I Beg of You…Bear With One another in Love” Ephesians 4:1-3. For more information, please contact Sharon Penlington at 519 748-1711.
World Day of Prayer
World Day of Prayer is an ecumenical prayer service observed annually on the First Friday in March. The service this year is on Friday, March 1st at 2:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church on the corner of Miller St. and Murray St., Pembroke. This ecumenical service is open to all.
Pilgrimage to Medjugorje
From May 11 to May 22, 2024. Price – $2795.00 (includes taxes, side trips and gratuities). Departure from Pearson International Airport Toronto, LOT airlines economy class flight to Dubrovnik, Croatia. For more information contact Jack Duggan at 613 756-2655 or email blackfishbay@bell.net.