Father, glorify your Son.
(John 17.1-11a)
BISHOP’S MESSAGE
Bishop’s Message for Pentecost 2025
Brothers and Sisters, Peace be with you!
Throughout the last seven weeks, this Easter greeting of the Risen Jesus has echoed in our hearts. These were the first words of Jesus when he appeared to his disciples after the Resurrection. Peace be with you! (Read more…)
FROM THE DIOCESE
85th Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. Ann in Cormac and Diocesan Celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope
85th Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. Ann in Cormac and Diocesan Celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope will take place on Sunday, July 27th, 2025. The Triduum of Preparation and Pilgrimage Sunday will be led by Bishop Michael Brehl, C.Ss.R., Bishop of the Diocese of Pembroke. The principal Pilgrimage Mass will be at 11:00am at the Shrine. A Mass of Healing with the Anointing of St. Ann’s oil will be celebrated at 2:00pm. The Sacraments of Confession is available throughout the day. Pilgrims have the opportunity of availing of the Jubilee Indulgence. On site: St. Ann’s religious articles and other religious articles, St. Ann’s Mass League memberships, food and refreshments vendors (Please bring your own seating.). Triduum Masses on Thursday, July 24th, Friday, July 25th and Saturday, July 26th at 7:00pm each evening. For more information: http://www.cormacpilgrimage.com or http://www.facebook.com/CormacStAnn. Welcome everyone!
Ecclesia
The Ecclesia Spring 2025 edition is now available in parishes. This edition is also available on the website: https://pembrokediocese.com/wp-content/uploads/Ecclesia-Spring-2025.pdf.
Pastoral Appointments
The Most Reverend Michael Brehl, C.Ss.R., announces the following pastoral appointments:
- Reverend Daniel Janulewicz, O.M.I., concludes his ministry in the Diocese of Pembroke, effective 31 August 2025 to assume a new assignment from his religious community. Bishop Brehl wishes to thank Father Daniel for his ministry in Round Lake and Wilno.
- Reverend Miroslaw Olszewski, O.M.I., is appointed as Pastor of St. Mary Parish, Wilno and St. Casimir Parish, Round Lake. This appointment is effective September 1, 2025.
Bishop Brehl confers the office of Pastor, effective June 1, 2025, on the following priest assigned as parish administrator in summer 2024 during the vacancy of the diocese:
- Reverend Michal Pajak, O.M.I.: Hedwig Parish, Barry’s Bay, Ontario.
29 May 2025
Prayers
For the repose of the soul of Lê Thị Thông, Grandmother of Reverend Peter Do, who passed away on Friday, May 30th. We express our condolences to Father Peter and the Do family and assure them of our prayerful remembrance at this time.
Pastoral Appointments
The Most Reverend Michael Brehl, C.Ss.R. announces the following pastoral appointments (Read more…)
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.
THE HOLY SEE
Pope’s Prayer Intention for June 2025
That the world might grow in compassion – Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and from his Heart, learn to have compassion on the world.
FROM THE CCCB
Father Paul Kavanagh Elected Archdiocese Administrator for the Archdiocese of Edmonton – Sunday, May 25, 2025
Subsequent to the installation of the Most Reverend Richard Smith as Archbishop of Vancouver this past 23 May 2025, the College of Consultors of the Archdiocese of Edmonton elected the Reverend Paul Kavanagh as Archdiocesan Administrator of Edmonton, as required by Canon Law (c. 421 §1). His term began immediately following his election. (Read more…)
JUBILEE 2025
St. Columbkille Cathedral is the designated place for the Jubilee pilgrimage
St. Columbkille Cathedral is the designated place for the Jubilee pilgrimage on Monday, June 9th, the Memorial of Mary Mother of the Church and the Feast of St Columbkille (Columba), our diocesan patron. The Most Reverend Michael Brehl, C.Ss.R. will celebrate Mass at 12:30pm at which time the Apostolic Blessing with Plenary Indulgence will be administered. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of Mass with the praying of the Rosary at 3:45pm and Sung Vespers and Benediction at 4:00pm. 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, June 4th.
Women’s Circles
Time to connect with other women, supporting one another on our healing journey. Bringing together culture and community. Next Drumming: June 5th – Next Talking Circle: June 12th. 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 Drumming: June 9th – Next Talking Circle: June 16th. 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 6-7:30pm. 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, June 18th.
Acudetox Acupuncture
Encouraging community wellness for behavioural health including addictions, mental health, emotional trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. 6 weekly sessions on Mondays from 9am-10am (except holidays), May 26th – June 30th, 2025. To register or for more information, please email info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com.
EVANGELIZATION
Visions, Prophecies, and Divine Messages: A Call for Discernment
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
In an age of digital media, there seems to be an increasing number of people claiming to receive messages from God. Social media platforms and video-sharing websites are filled with individuals who report visions, dreams, and prophecies, often warning of impending doom or drastic changes in the Church. While some of these messages may come from sincere individuals, it is essential to approach these messages and revelations with great discernment. (Read more…)
VOCATIONS
1st Thursday Holy Hours to Pray for Vocations
June 5th from 6:30-7:30pm at St. Anne Parish, Mattawa. 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 June 6th at 7:00pm. 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.
Spring Tea, Craft & Bake Sale
At Our Lady of the Angels Parish Hall, 8325 Opeongo Road, Brudenell (Killaloe), on Saturday, June 7th from 11am to 2pm.
Organ Recital for Pentecost
To mark the Solemnity of Pentecost, organist Nick Walters will present a special recital on Sunday, June 8th at 1:00pm at St. Columbkille Cathedral, Pembroke. The program will feature sacred works showcasing the Cathedral’s historic pipe organ. Admission is free; donations in support of the Cathedral Music Program are gratefully accepted. Everyone is welcome!
Workshop: “Share the Faith“
On Saturday, June 14th, 10am to 4pm in the St. Hedwig’s rectory basement meeting room, Barry’s Bay. Three sessions: The Power of Testimony, The Power of the Gospel, Spirit Led Faith Sharing. Open to men and women with a heart for evangelization. For information and to register email Terry Vanderheyden at: doctrv@gmail.com.
PRO-LIFE
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.
The “Big Giveaway” Event
Don’t miss this huge giveaway happening at the Pine Ridge Family Church, 27 Brumm Rd., Pembroke, on Saturday, June 7th from 8am-noon. Donated items will be received from June 1st to June 6th, 9am-5pm. Everything is available for free, with an opportunity to donate to First Step Options.
OTHER CATHOLIC EVENTS
2025 Annual Canadian Conference of Catholic Cursillo
The National Cursillo Conference is open to all lay people, priests, deacons and other religious members. This year’s theme: “Cursillo – A Response to the Modern World” from July 3rd to July 6th at Kings University College, at Western University Canada. Registration and payment in full required by June 7th. Register online at CCCC or email the Resource Centre at ccccresource2@gmail.com or call 250 307-6585.
EMPLOYMENT AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Job Opportunity at St. Joseph’s Community Food Bank – Pembroke
St. Joseph’s Community Food Bank is presently seeking to hire a part-time Purchasing Coordinator. This motivated team member is responsible for sourcing, purchasing food, and managing the Food Bank’s inventory. Requirements: ability to lift up to 40 lbs, valid driver’s licence, and own vehicle. Some online ordering. Info: 613 635-2770. Send resume and cover letter outlining qualifications and passion for the role to stjosephsfoodbank3@gmail.com.
OTHER
“Be Still and Know that I Am God” – Stillpoint House of Prayer
Join facilitator Clarissa Boyce, Chaplin, Spiritual Director, Artist and Potter on Saturday, June 28th from 9am to noon. Spend your morning in peaceful reflection. Cost: $40 per person including welcome coffee and baked goods. Contact Corrien at inquiries@stillpoint.ca or call 613 432-2791 to register or for more information.
Pilgrimage of Peace to Medjugorje
From September 30th to October 10th, 2025. Price: $3,125.00 (includes taxes, air fare, room & board, side trips and gratuities). Deadline to register: September 9th. To register or for more information, contact Jack Duggan at 613 756-2655, email blackfishbay@bell.net or Lois Losole at 613 318-4756, email lelosole@gmail.com.