Pray then in this way
(Matthew 6.7-15)
FROM THE DIOCESE
Message from Bishop Brehl for Lent 2025
Bishop Brehl’s Lent message for 2025 can be viewed on our diocesan YouTube channel:
Message from Bishop Brehl for Lent 2025.
Prayer for Pope Francis
Loving God:
As Francis, our beloved pope, suffers from grave illnesses, we come before you in prayer.
We ask you to look with mercy on your servant Francis, who has served you devotedly and tirelessly as a Jesuit, a priest, an archbishop, a cardinal and as pope.
Most of all, he has served you as a faithful Christian sharing the love, mercy and compassion that your Son showed to all he encountered in this public ministry, especially those who were poor or in any way struggling.
During his papacy, Francis has striven to imitate your Son by reaching out to all who were feeling abandoned, ignored or neglected, making it his special task to care for those who were in any way sick.
As Francis himself now faces serious and complex illnesses, help the doctors, nurses and medical team who care for him, help him bear any pain with grace and help him to heal quickly.
Send your Holy Spirit, your own breath, into his weakened lungs to heal him, inspire him and raise him up again so that he may live out his vocation as the Vicar of Christ.
But if it is your will, loving God, to take him to yourself, let his passing into new life be painless and peaceful. We ask all this in your Holy Name.
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 2025 video series titled Journey Through Lent. Beginning on Ash Wednesday, 5 March 2025, 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. This series is designed for individuals, families, and communities, providing spiritual inspiration and guidance on how to prepare for the Easter season.
This year’s presenters are the Most Reverend Gary Franken, Bishop of St. Paul (in English), and the Most Reverend Michel Proulx, O.Praem., Bishop of Bathurst (in French). (Read more…)
Message from the Holy See to Mark the Celebration of Ramadan 2025
28 February 2025, Ottawa – To mark the month of Ramadan, which this year begins on Friday, 28 February or Saturday, 1 March—subject to the sighting of the moon—and shall end with the Eid Al-Fitr on 30/31 March, the Holy See’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue has recently published a message entitled “Christians and Muslims: What we hope to become together.” George Jacob Cardinal Koovakad and Msgr. Indunil Kodithuwakku (Prefect and Secretary of the Dicastery, respectively), express that this year’s Holy month of Ramadan (and Eid Al-Fitr) is unique inasmuch as it coincides with the Christian season of Lent. (Read more…)
LENT
The Way of the Cross
PRAYER – The Way of the Cross – Diocese of Pembroke
CCCB Journey Through Lent 2025 – 1st Sunday of Lent
On this First Sunday, Bishop Franken provides a reflection on the Lord’s temptation in the desert. Watch the YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_BWEYbM4tQ&t=15s.
Download Social Media Asset.
JUBILEE 2025
Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Jubilee Sites in the Diocese of Pembroke
Ste Anne Parish in Mattawa is the designated church for the Jubilee Indulgence on Tuesday, 25 March, 2025, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. Mass will be offered at 10:00 a.m. followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament all day, concluding with Benediction at 4:00 p.m. Confessions will be available from 11 a.m.-12 noon and from 3-4 p.m. Please see https://pembrokediocese.com/article/jubilee-2025-indulgence-en/ for more information about the graces of the Jubilee Indulgence.
Jubilee Rome 2025
Young Catholics from the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall are organizing a pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee in July 2025 (July 27 – August 6). This pilgrimage is primarily aimed at young adults (ages 18-40), though it is open to all who are interested. Email ottawayouthjubilee@gmail.com for full trip and registration details. Hurry – only 8 spots available!
Jubilee 2025 Calendar of Major Events
Jubilee 2025 – Diocese of Pembroke
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
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, March 12th.
Women’s Circles
Time to connect with other women, supporting one another on our healing journey. Bringing together culture and community. Next Drumming Circle: March 13th. 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. Confidential and trauma informed. Next Drumming Circle: March 17th. Visit the Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation website at www.mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com, call 613 281-7969, or email info@mashkiwiziimanidofoundation.com.
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), February 24th – March 31st, 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, March 26th.
EVANGELIZATION
Evangelization: Sharing the Joy, Peace, and Hope of Christ
By Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work
When we live our faith, it is essential to keep our eyes on the blessings we receive from our relationship with Jesus. These blessings not only enrich our own lives but also empower us to share the Good News with others. By reflecting on the transformative difference Jesus makes in our lives, we can inspire others to follow Him and enter into a relationship with Him. This is the heart of evangelization—sharing the joy, peace, purpose and other blessings that comes from knowing Christ personally. (Read more…)
FAITH FORMATION
IMPORTANT NOTICE – Call to Register: Adult Faith Lenten Retreat – “Mercy of Christ”
The Diocesan Office of Faith Formation Office and Leadership Development invites you to an Adult Faith Lenten Retreat on Saturday, April 5th at St. James the Less Parish, Eganville from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Registration at 9:30 a.m. Celebration of the Holy Mass with Bishop Brehl at 10:00 a.m. Cost: $15.00 per person (lunch and refreshments provided). This retreat is open to all the faithful. Guest speaker: Bishop Michael Brehl, C.Ss.R. To register or for more information, please contact Deacon Adrien Chaput at 613 732-7933 ext. 206 or email dcadrienchaput@pembrokediocese.com. Registration deadline: Thursday, April 3rd.
Save the date!
Mark your calendars for Divine Mercy Sunday with Bishop Brehl on April 27,2025. More information to follow as we approach this date. Stay tuned!
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 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!
Marriage Preparation Program
The Spring Diocesan Marriage Preparation Program is coming up on Saturday, March 29th and Saturday, April 12th at the Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish Annex, Pembroke. Deadline to register: March 24th. Register online at https://www.jotform.com/yvettebourque/marriageprep. E-transfers of $100/couple can be made to donnabiggs@pembrokediocese.com, or mail cheques to Diocese of Pembroke, 284 Trafalgar Road, Pembroke, ON K8A 5A8. For inquiries, please 7contact Yvette Bourque at yvettebourque@pembrokediocese.com or call 613 585-6301.
Separated and Divorced Ministry – VIRTUAL CLASSES (approved by the Archdiocese of Ottawa)
Classes begin March 29 2025, 2 hours/week for ladies this year, and runs for 6 weeks. This is a non-profit ministry. The cost is $40, which covers reimbursement of expenses only and no fees go to the facilitator. Any extra money goes directly to charity. All class details, dates, times and registration form can be found at www.bymyside.ca. Please share with anyone you know who may be interested. Mary Jane Manley, By My Side Program Facilitator. Email: mj@bymyside.ca. Cell: 613 294-1308.
PARISH EVENTS
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confession
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confession during the Wednesdays of Lent at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Pembroke, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. starting on Wednesday, 12 March. Come take time during his holy season for silence, contemplation and prayer, especially for world peace.
Lenten Mission at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Petawawa
Join us for a Lenten mission with Fr. Mark Cherry, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday April 7-9 at 7 p.m. each night. Theme: Let the King of Glory Enter. Free will offering only. All are welcome! For more information contact parish office at 613 687-4764.
OTHER CATHOLIC EVENTS
CCRSO Annual Spring Conference 2025
“Come. Throw Open the Doors of Your Heart. Hope Does not Disappoint.” The annual CCRSO (Catholic Charismatic Renewal Services of Ontario) conference, will be held at St. Theresa Parish, 100 Tenth St., Toronto on March 14th and 15th, with Bishop Scott McCaig and Michelle Moran (UK). Tickets: $20. For more information, or to register, visit https://www.ccrso.net/.
Lift Jesus Higher Rally
The annual Toronto Lift Jesus Higher Rally – “Power from On High” will be Saturday, March 29th, 2025 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Adult Rally $49 – Youth Rally $25. Information and registration: https://www.ljhr.ca/.
OTHER
Women’s Retreats Combermere
We warmly invite all women to a weekend women’s retreat….
“The Eucharist: Christ our Hope” – two retreats offered:
- March 14-16 at the Elim Lodge 696 Elim Lodge Road, Lakehurst, ON, led by Christina Milan and Fr. Brian Christie, Madonna House – Register Here.
- April 4-6 at the Graphite Bible Camp, 702 Graphite Road, Maynooth, ON, led by Christina Milan and Fr. David Linder, Madonna House – Register here.
For questions or more information please call Astrid (Elim Retreat) at 905 377-0688 or Kristan (Graphite Retreat) at 613 585-0579.
Spring 2025 Classes – Assumption University
Receive a graduate diploma in Catholic Studies (online) at one of Canada’s most historic universities! A completed bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a cumulative average of 70% required. Visit https://assumptionu.ca/ for a complete list of Spring 2025 classes. Deadline to apply for scholarships: March 21st. Register at registrar@assumptionu.ca. Deadline to apply: April 25th, 2025.
Dr. Keith Cassidy Annual Lecture
Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College invites you to this year’s Dr. Keith Cassidy Annual Lecture on Tuesday, March 25th at 7:30 p.m. in St. Hedwig’s Church Hall in Barry’s Bay. The event features an insightful discussion by translator Christopher Adam Zakrzewski of 𝑃𝑎𝑛 𝑇𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑢𝑠𝑧 by Adam Mickiewicz—a cornerstone of Polish literature that has yet to claim its rightful place in the Western canon. Admission is free and open to all. Polish treats will be served! The livestream link for those who would like to join virtually is: https://youtube.com/live/SX37G0Eecqs.
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.