Jesus looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people.
(Mark 6.34-44)
FROM THE DIOCESE
Bishop’s Christmas and New Year Messages
Bishop Brehl’s Christmas and New Year messages are now available on our diocesan YouTube channel:
New Year 2025 Message from Bishop Michael Brehl, C.Ss.R.: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzL95he83Rg&t=26s.
Bishop Michael Brehl’s Christmas 2024 Message: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKCdDEvp8DY.
Prayers
In the charity of your prayers, please pray for the repose of the soul of Reverend Steven F. Ballard, Priest of the Diocese of Pembroke, who died in the early hours of December 23rd at Hospice Renfrew. Father Ballard was 61 years old and in his 35th year of priesthood.
FROM THE CCCB
Episcopal Resignation and Appointment for the Archdiocese of Winnipeg
OTTAWA, 30 December 2024 – His Holiness Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of the Most Reverend Richard Gagnon as Archbishop of Winnipeg, and appointed the Most Reverend Murray Chatlain, currently Archbishop of Keewatin-Le Pas, as his successor. (Read more…)
THE HOLY SEE
Pope’s Prayer Intention for January 2025
For the right to an education – Let us pray for migrants, refugees and those affected by war, that their right to an education, which is necessary to build a better world, might always be respected.
JUBILEE 2025
Jubilee 2025 Calendar of Major Events
Jubilee 2025 – Diocese of Pembroke
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
Acudetox Acupuncture
Encouraging community wellness for behavioural health including addictions, mental health, emotional trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. 6 weekly sessions on Mondays from 9-10 a.m. (except holidays), January 6th – February 10th, 2025. To register or for more information, please email info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com.
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, January 8th.
Women’s Circles
Time to connect with other women, supporting one another on our healing journey. Bringing together culture and community. Next Talking Circle: January 9th – Next Drumming: January 16th. Visit the Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation website at www.mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com, call 613 281-7969, or email at info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com.
Virtual Talking Circle
Friday mornings at 10 a.m. (exceptions for holidays). For more information call the Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation at 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, January 15th.
EVANGELIZATION
If no one speaks, no one will know
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
It is often said that “modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, or if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are also witnesses” (Saint Paul VI). This poses a fundamental question for Christians: are good works alone sufficient to fully bear witness to the faith? (Read more…)
MARRIAGE, FAMILY, YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
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 dates are Fridays January 17th, March 21st and 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!
Northern Ontario Catholic Leadership Conference
Northern Ontario Catholic Leadership Conference hosted by the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie is taking place on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at St. Joseph-Scollard Hall in North Bay. This event is open to all young people aged 13-19 who will gather for a day of prayer led by International Catholic Speaker, Singer, Comedian and Social Media Icon Paul J. Kim. The day will also include time for socializing, recreation, personal reflection, prayer and reconciliation. This year’s theme is “AWAKEN – Live for More” giving young people the chance to reflect on making Christ-centered choices in their life within the challenges of today’s world. Registration is now open – and there is an early registration discount until January 17, 2025. See all the details at our website: www.northerncatholic.ca.
PARISH EVENTS
Bible Study on the Gospel According to Saint John
This study group will use the book The Gospel of John: A Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture by Fr. Francis Martin, on Wednesdays, starting January 22nd 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. in the St. Lawrence O’Toole Hall. A typical evening begins with opening prayer, a hymn, and a conversation about the current chapter we’re reading with regular attention to the Old Testament and Catechism. We close each week with intercessory prayer. These evenings are led by John Morris. Books for this study have been ordered and are $30 each. Please contact St. Lawrence O’Toole office to reserve yours at 613 756-2037.
VOCATIONS
1st Thursday Holy Hours to Pray for Vocations
February 6th from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Paroisse St-Pierre, Fort-Coulonge, QC. 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.
OTHER
Are you looking for that special gift this Season?
Look no further! You won’t need to exchange because of wrong colour or size! Join us for the Christian Unity Event “Funny in a GOoD Way,” an evening of laughter and praise at the Pembroke Pentecostal Tabernacle on January 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Cost: $25 each. All proceeds go towards the St. Vincent de Paul St. Columbkille Conference. Featuring live Gate 47, comedian Joey I.L.O., and last but not least, the great skit by the Pembroke and Area Clergy Association! Contact Deacon Adrien Chaput to get your ticket or special ticket packages today at 613 732-7933 ext. 206 or email at dcadrienchaput@pembrokediocese.com. Let’s make someone’s Christmas special while helping others right here in our community!