Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-4:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. Psalm 118 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Apr. 22 – No mass Tues., Apr. 23 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Apr. 23 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Gena Watthan by Glen & Theresa Rodrigue Wed., Apr. 24 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Louis & Katie Hart by Glen & Theresa Rodrigue Thurs., Apr. 25 – 8:30 – 9:30 am Adoration before mass Thurs., Apr. 25 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Joni Dombowsky by Glen & Theresa Rodrigue Fri., Apr. 26 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Nathan by Glen & Theresa Rodrigue Sat. Apr. 27 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - People of God Sun., Apr. 28 – 10:00 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - People of God Sun., Apr. 28 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile Waterhen) - People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Apr. 14: Meadow Lake $1004.10 Green Lake $452.20 Children’s Collection $6.00 March CAFT $2030.00 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for April – for the role of women – We pray that the dignity and immense value of women be recognized in every culture, and for the end of discrimination that they experience in different parts of the world. Parish Pictorial Directories – We were sent 15 extra directories. If anyone would like to purchase any of these directories please call the office. We are selling them for $10 each. Registration for RCIA Classes – Anyone who wishes to register for RCIA in preparation for joining the Church Easter 2025 is asked to contact the office during the month of April. Classes will begin in the first week of May and will be held twice a month – dates and times to be announced before classes commence. Parish Potluck – We are having a parish potluck after mass on Sunday, April 28 in the hall. Please bring your favorite dish to share. Everyone welcome. Our Lady of Peace Graduation Scholarship – We are hoping to present scholarships to graduates who want to pursue educational opportunities. We are asking for donations from parishioners to help fund the Scholarship. If you wish to donate to this Scholarship please indicate on your envelope or cheque “Scholarship Fund”. Thank you in advance for your support. Scripture Insights – Fourth Sunday of Easter Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 182. The Gospel for today is a portion of the longer and very familiar discourse on the Good Shepherd. Most people reading this passage have had no experience with tending sheep, but it is important to keep in mind that this discourse is about relationship. The Jewish community would have been familiar with the images of the shepherd and the hired hand. The hired hand to whom Jesus refers is an individual (or individuals) who had no relationship with the sheep he is paid to tend. The shepherd, on the other hand, is the one who knows and tends to the sheep with tender care. When Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd,” he is not only identifying himself as the one with whom he and his sheep have a mutual relationship, but also saying that he and the Father have a mutual relationship. While using the familiar shepherd imagery of the Old Testament, Jesus expands the image of shepherd to include “other sheep that do not belong to this fold.” Jeus will lay down his life for many, not for an elite few.
· Think about the “wolves” in our world today. Poverty, illness, inconvenience, racism, sexism, evil: what is our response when these woes come our way? Do we run? Do we look the other way while people suffer? How can we brace for these known and unknown dangers that threaten to separate and destroy our communities?
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Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-3:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 Give thanks to the Lord for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever. Psalm 118 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Apr. 8 – No mass Tues., Apr. 9 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Apr. 9 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) -+Brian & Margaret Martell Wed., Apr. 10 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook)-+Juliette Martell Thurs., Apr. 11 – 8:30 – 9:30 am Adoration before mass Thurs., Apr. 11 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - +Velma Martell (Bear) Fri., Apr. 12 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Bruno & Judille Martell Sat. Apr. 13 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - People of God Sun., Apr. 14 – 10:00 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - People of God Sun., Apr. 14 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile Waterhen) - People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Mar. 31: Meadow Lake $1680.10 Green Lake $21.90 Children’s Collection $5.60 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for April – for the role of women – We pray that the dignity and immense value of women be recognized in every culture, and for the end of discrimination that they experience in different parts of the world. Thank You – Special thanks to everyone who donated food for the 40 Cans for Lent project. The donations were taken to the Door of Hope on Tuesday, April 2. Save the Date – Bishop Stephen will be here Saturday, April 20 to celebrate First Communion and Confirmation at 7:00 pm at Our Lady of Peace. Divine Mercy Sunday - Divine Mercy Sunday focuses on the gift of mercy and love given through Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. As Pope John Paul II stated, “Divine Mercy reaches human beings through the heart of Christ crucified.” Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated on the Second Sunday of Easter. Registration for RCIA Classes – Anyone who wishes to register for RCIA in preparation for joining the Church Easter 2025 is asked to contact the office during the month of April. Classes will begin in the first week of May and will be held twice a month – dates and times to be announced before classes commence. Scripture Insights – Second Sunday of Easter Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 168. On this Second Sunday of Easter, the Liturgy of the word begins with a most beautiful and idealistic text from Acts. Of special significance is the description that the Jerusalem community “was of one heart and mind”, with “everything in common”. How many of us struggle daily to live for the common good! The reading from the First Letter of John, like our responsorial psalm, invites us to reflect on the incomprehensible love of God. God’s commandments are not intended to be a burden for us; rather, they have been given to us as guides for living faith-filled lives. While locked behind closed doors, Jesus appears to the disciples and offers them peace. Upon recognizing Jesus, the disciples rejoice. Jesus extends peace to them a second time, then bestows the Holy Spirit on them. In yet another encounter behind locked doors, Jesus appears again. This time, after extending peace to the disciples, Jesus invites Thomas to touch him and to believe in him. This scene concludes with reference to other signs that Jesus performed so that we might have life in Jesus’ name.
· In one way, the doubting Thomas is all of us. Doubt and faith go hand in hand: true faith knows doubt well and wrestles with it throughout life’s journey. Part of the Good News is that Christ still shows us his wounds, still invites us to touch the places where the world had broken him open: in the hungry, the poor, the vulnerable, the marginalized. Where can we see the wounded Christ among us today? 3/28/2024 0 Comments Easter Sunday March 31, 2024Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-3:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Psalm 118 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Apr. 1 – No mass Tues., Apr. 2 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - +Peter & Bernice Martell Wed., Apr. 3 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - +Edwin Martell & +Arthur Martell Thurs., Apr. 4 – 8:30 – 9:30 am Adoration before mass Thurs., Apr. 4 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - +Theresa & William Hetherington Fri., Apr. 5 – No mass Sat. Apr. 6 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - People of God Sun., Apr. 7 – 10:00 am – (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Mar. 24: Meadow Lake $1743.05 Green Lake $33.50 Children’s Collection $15.00 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for April – for the role of women – We pray that the dignity and immense value of women be recognized in every culture, and for the end of discrimination that they experience in different parts of the world. Easter Season – The seven weeks from Easter to Pentecost are celebrated as one great Feast day. St. Athanasius called them “the great Sunday.” Christians sing the “Alleluia” during these days on their rejoicing. (GNLY, no. 22) Taken from Ordo page 99 Scripture Insights – Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 156. Jesus has been raised from the dead. Alleluia! Alleluia! John is the only evangelist to report Mary Magdalene as the sole visitor to the tomb of Jesus, “early in the morning,” “on the first day of the week.” John’s simplification of Mary’s visit – she neither encounters an angel nor is she invited to peer into the empty tomb – downplays Mary as a primary witness to the Lord’s resurrection. Instead, John places the emphasis on Peter “and the other disciple,” who come to see and believe because of what they see at the empty tomb. There is great urgency in the way Peter and his companion run to the tomb. The unnamed disciple runs faster than Peter and is the first to see the burial cloths. Nevertheless, he refrains from entering the tomb. This honor belongs to Simon Peter alone. He is to be seen as the first of the apostles who witness to the resurrection of the Lord. Peter enters by himself and sees the burial cloths. Only after this does the other disciple enter. John reports that “he saw and believed.” It has long been understood that John intended this unnamed disciple to symbolize the believing Christian in general. Therefore, while Peter is the first to “see,” it is every faithful and loving Christian who is called to “believe.” Because this mysterious disciple is the “beloved disciple,” the one who stood by the cross of Christ. Although the beloved disciple believes, John makes it clear that such is not the universal experience of all of Jesus’ followers. Mary Magdalene stands outside the tomb and weeps. However, her agony provides John the opportunity to include an angelic intervention like those found in the synoptic accounts. Interestingly enough, Mary has no reaction to seeing two angels clad in white sitting in the tomb, asking why she is weeping. In fact, she seems quite calm as she explains: “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” In response to this statement, another takes over questioning Mary, who presumes he is the gardener. “Whom are you looking for?” for John, this is the primary evangelical invitation. Mary fails to hear this invitation coming from the lips of the resurrected Lord. Instead, it takes the mention of her name to make her turn to face Jesus and to recognize him at last. With this first sighting of the resurrected Lord, Mary is sent with the mission to tell her good news to the other disciples: “I have seen the Lord.” Mary becomes the first to truly “see and believe.” Whether it energizes you or frustrates you, or likely some combination of the two, you will see people in your congregation today whom you have not seen before. You will see some that you haven’t seen for quite a while – Christmas, perhaps. Maybe Ash Wednesday. And you will see some people whom you know to expect just these couple times a year. What kind of message, what kind of church are you welcoming them back to? Lean into the Alleluia, the joy of this celebratory day; for what once was lost is now found! Take special care with your words, so that not even a hint of judgement or suspicion be found. Today is about joyful hospitality, new life, reunion, and resurrection. · The first person to greet the risen Christ was a woman. Not a priest, not one of the twelve, not the one who will be the rock of the Church. A woman. For a while, the entire Church consisted of just one woman, as Mary Magdalene sprinted from the tomb to spread the Good News. How are women carrying the Good News in your community today? So we offer respect, platforms, opportunities for that woman-borne message to be born? · What prevented their eyes from seeing Jesus? Was it the sun? The tears, shed for their dashed hopes and murdered friend? Only after he recounted their history, broke, blessed, and shared bread with them, were they able to recognize him. And by then, he was gone. Where do we miss Christ along our journey? How might we practice better habits to recognize Christ in each other in the moment, in our surprise, and while we are carrying our own grief and questions? 3/22/2024 0 Comments Palm Sunday March 24, 2024Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-3:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Psalm 22 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Mar.25 – No mass Tues., Mar. 26 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Mar. 26 – 9:00 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - +Fred & Victoria Martell Wed., Mar. 27 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - +Marcel & Doris Martell Thurs., Mar. 28 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) Thurs., Mar. 28 – 7:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Holy Thursday Fri., Mar. 29 – 2:00 pm Stations of the Cross (Our Lady of Peace Church) Fri., Mar. 29 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Good Friday Fri., Mar. 29 – 5:00 pm (St Jude’s Green Lake) Sat. Mar. 30 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile Waterhen) Sat., Mar. 30 – 8:00 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Easter Vigil (People of God) Sun., Mar. 31 – 10:00 am – (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Easter Sunday (People of God) Sun., Mar. 31 – 12:30 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - Easter Sunday (People of God) THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Mar. 17: Meadow Lake $1743.05 Green Lake $33.50 Children’s Collection $15.00 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for March – for the new martyrs – We pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world inflame the Church with their courage and missionary enthusiasm. 40 Cans for Lent – The Meadow Lake Knights of Columbus are sponsoring 40 Cans for Lent for food to be donated to the Door of Hope. We are asking families to bring nonperishable food each week of Lent. Pictorial Directories – The pictorial directories have arrived! If you had your picture taken for the directory please pick up your free copy at the back of the church or at the office during office hours. Holy Week – Holy Week is the week which precedes the great Feast of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday: it includes the last days of Lent and the beginning of the Easter Triduum. During Holy Week, the Church celebrates the mysteries of salvation accomplished by Christ in the last days of his life on earth, beginning with his messianic entrance into Jerusalem. Scripture Insights – Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 136. Today begins the first day of the Holy Week. Palm Sunday commemorates the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, where he is proclaimed king. The first reading, from Isaiah, is one of four poems that are called “the Servant songs.” Another of these poems will be heard on Good Friday. While these texts are believed to have originated during the exile, the Church sees these words as speaking to the identity of Jesus, the one who has given himself for the life of others. The psalm refrain, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me,” will be heard in today’s Gospel reading from Mark. Since this line also appears in the Gospel of Matthew, Psalm 22 is perhaps one of the best known of the lament psalms. Today’s text from Philippians is often referred to as the “Christ hymn.” Paul uses this poem of uncertain origin to speak of the humiliation and the exaltation of Jesus. Similarities between this text and the reading from Isaiah are self-evident. Since Mark’s passion account is lengthy, involving multiple scenarios, it can be difficult to follow the details of the Gospel. The text opens with the religious authorities plotting to arrest Jesus and put him to death and is followed by a meal in Bethany, where Jesus was anointed, the preparation for the Passover meal and the meal itself, Jesus’ foretelling of Peter’s denial, Jesus’ prayer in the garden, Judas’ denial, Jesus’ arrest and trial, and finally his death and burial. · Hosanna! From the youngest to the oldest in our communities, processing and waving our palms high in the air is one of the most memorable moments of our liturgical year. Remember: this procession happens not only here, today, but is an extension of that first procession, the triumphant entry into Jerusalem toward the death and resurrection of Jesus. We are part of that journey that has continued over two thousand years and will continue long after our time. Take note of those faces and stories that make our community today, and weave their story into today’s jubilant gathering and solemn sending forth. · There are ways that Scripture makes it sound like we are encouraging an acceptance of physical abuse. Glorifying it, even. Remember: there are people in your assembly who regularly experience abuse. Perhaps some of these people hear Scripture like this and think that it is God’s will for them. But how powerful would it be for a victim of domestic violence to hear that escaping their abuser is not only possible, but the right thing to do? Handle with care those who need a message of strength to leave, as well as those who need a message of strength to endure. · One of the heartbreaking aspects of Jesus’ last hours on earth is the complete abandonment by his friends. They fall asleep in the garden when asked to pray. Peter denies knowing Jesus. Judas – the ultimate betrayal. And still, Jesus dines with them. Forgives them, loves them. Peter becomes the rock on which Christ builds the Church. Each of us imperfect beings is still invited into something greater than our worst parts. While we may each be discerning our role in God’s world in the days to come, let us also remember to hold one another accountable for the times when we know better, and do better. Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-3:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 Create in me a clean heart, O God. Psalm 51 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Mar.18 – No mass Tues., Mar. 19 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Mar. 19 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Doreen Sinclair by Wilfred & Glen Sinclair & Virginia Delaire Wed., Mar. 20 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Thurs., Mar. 21 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Thurs., Mar. 21 – 6:30 pm Penitential Service/Reconciliation Fri., Mar. 22 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Souls in Purgatory Fri., Mar. 22 – 5:00 – 6:30pm Opportunity for Confession Sat. Mar. 22 – 4:00 – 5:00 Opportunity for Confession – Green Lake Sat., Mar. 23 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - People of God Sun., Mar. 24 – 10:00 am – (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) Palm Sunday - People of God Sun., Mar. 24 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile Waterhen) Palm Sunday - People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Mar. 10: Meadow Lake $4845.30 Green Lake $256.90 Children’s Collection $7.20 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for March – for the new martyrs – We pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world inflame the Church with their courage and missionary enthusiasm. 40 Cans for Lent – The Meadow Lake Knights of Columbus are sponsoring 40 Cans for Lent for food to be donated to the Door of Hope. We are asking families to bring nonperishable food each week of Lent. Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace Lent 2024 – Through their prayer, fasting and almsgiving during Lent, Christians express their desire to turn toward God and to all God’s children in preparation for Easter. The Bishops of Canada have reserved the Season of Lent for a collection to assist the Global South. Normally this collection is held on the Fifth Sunday of Lent. On the day of the collection, an appropriate intercession may be added to the Prayer of the Faithful. The Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace financially supports development and aid projects in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as informs Canadian Catholics on international social justice questions. “So many people even today hope to have enough to eat. The planet has food for all, but the will to share with everyone seems to be lacking. To prepare the table for all, and to ask that there be one table for all. Doing whatever we can so that everyone has food, but also reminding the world’s powerful that God will call them to be judged one day, and it will be demonstrated whether they have truly tried to provide food for Him in each person (cf Mt 25:35) and whether they have acted in order that the environment would not be destroyed but would be able to produce this food.”
Pictorial Directories – The pictorial directories have arrived! If you had your picture taken for the directory please pick up your free copy at the back of the church or at the office during office hours. The Way of the Cross – Please join us on Friday evenings for the Way of the Cross. We will gather at 6:30 pm in the Church to pray with Jesus as he makes his way to Calvary. Easter Reconciliation – There will be opportunity for confession on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 (Penitential Service) with additional priests available. Fr. Uche will also be available March 22 from 5:00 – 6:30 pm. He is also available to anyone by appointment. Scripture Insights – Fifth Sunday of Lent Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 128. Today’s passage from Jeremiah tells of a covenant unlike what Israel has known. Whereas the Sinai covenant identified multiple stipulations that Israel was required to uphold, in this covenant Israel is passive. God would place this new covenant within the heart of the people. Israel would receive this covenant freely. While similar images exist in a variety of texts in the Old Testament ( for example, EZ 11:19 – 20; 36:26; and Is 42:9), nowhere else do we hear od a new covenant until we turn to the New Testament. Psalm 51, often associated with King David, though not necessarily composed by him, is one of the better known psalms of the psalter and certainly one of the best known of the seven penitential psalms. The refrain “Create a clean heart in me, O God,” is a plea for newness. The heart, in Hebrew anthropology, was the most vital of all organs. It also was understood to be that place where discernment took place and where decisions were made. As the liturgical year draws closer to the celebration of the Triduum, the New Testament readings bring our attention to the death of Jesus. In the Letter to the Hebrews, Jesus’ humanity is detailed. He was a being who prayed, cried, learned, and suffered. In the Gospel, Jesus states, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified,” indicating that the time of his suffering, death, and resurrection is at hand. · First, there were the laws as they were written on the tablets. Now, God desires even more intimacy: God’s laws will be written on our heart, in the depth of our being. Consider the things we are doing, individually and as a community, to both shape our consciences and to discern and live out God’s deepest desires for us. How might we lean into this invitation? · Jesus was in the flesh – incarnate. This messiah who came to live with us, as one of the most vulnerable among us, now cries and suffers with us. Christ, in his most fully human expressions, teaches us both the sacred source of our emotions and the capacity we retain for reverence, prayer, faithfulness. It is in the midst of this tension that we find relationship with God and God’s people: not in a straightforward, comfortable, or easy way of living. What tempts us toward a life of less suffering? · No matter how we choose to live out our lives, the fact remains that life on earth is brief. We will all die someday, and when we do, what comes next? Have we lived our lives via a path of least resistance? What are the ways that we have shown (or hope to show) how our dying to self may give life for others, like Christ? How can we use the time we have on earth with responsibility and integrity? Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-4:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 Let my tongue cling to my mouth if I do not remember you! Psalm 137 Refrain March 10, 2024 4th Sunday of Lent Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Mar.11 – No mass Tues., Mar. 12 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Mar. 12 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) Anonymous Wed., Mar. 13 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) Anonymous Thurs., Mar. 14 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) Thurs., Mar. 14 – 6:00 pm Adoration/Holy Hour Retreat Day 1 Anonymous Fri., Mar. 15 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) Fri., Mar 15 - 10:00 – 11:00 am Adoration/Holy Hour Retreat Day 2 Fri., Mar 15 – 6:30 – Stations of the Cross Anonymous Sat., Mar. 16 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) People of God Sun., Mar. 17 – 10:00 am – (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Mar. 3: Meadow Lake $1065.00 Green Lake $320.80 Children’s Collection $7.00 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for March – for the new martyrs – We pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world inflame the Church with their courage and missionary enthusiasm. 40 Cans for Lent – The Meadow Lake Knights of Columbus are sponsoring 40 Cans for Lent for food to be donated to the Door of Hope. The Knights of Columbus are asking the members of the parish to once again support this project. Each day of Lent, one can will be placed in the cross. We are asking families to bring nonperishable food each week of Lent. Thank you. Pictorial Directories – The pictorial directories have arrived! If you had your picture taken for the directory please pick up your free copy at the back of the church or at the office during office hours. The Way of the Cross – Please join us on Friday evenings for the Way of the Cross. We will gather at 6:30 pm in the Church to pray with Jesus as he makes his way to Calvary. Lent/Easter Retreat – The dates are Thursday and Friday, March 14 and 15. Morning masses both days are also part of the retreat. Then Thursday evening will start with Adoration/Holy Hour starting at 6:00 pm followed by Scriptural Rosary and Retreat Reflection and ending with sharing of experiences and Final Blessing at 8:30 pm. Friday evening will begin with Stations of the Cross at 6:30 pm followed by Retreat Reflection and sharing of experiences and Final Blessing at 8:30 pm. Easter Reconciliation – There will be opportunity for confession on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 (Penitential Service) with additional priests available. Fr. Uche will also be available March 22 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. He is also available to anyone by appointment. Scripture Insights – Fourth Sunday of Lent Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 122. Three things are presented in the first reading. The conclusion of the Second Book of Chronicles contains a condensed account of the fall of Jerusalem, Israel’s exile in Babylon, and the possibility of Israel’s return to Judah. The Persian defeat of the Babylonians under King Cyrus brought an end to the exile and ushered in the period often referred to as “the restoration.” Psalm 137 provides insight into the exilic experience that was glossed over in the first reading. As the psalmist tells us, the Judeans were taunted by the Babylonians, who asked the exiles to sing songs from their homeland. Ther exiles refused to sing for their captors and instead held fast to their fond memories of Jerusalem as expressed in today’s refrain: “Let my tongue be silenced, if I ever forget you!” This psalm is a lament, a song of longing for the world that the exiles had known prior to their defeat by the Babylonians. Today’s New Testament readings broaden our understanding of what it means to believe in Jesus, the Christ. Ephesians reminds us that God’s mercy and grace are freely given to all who believe in Jesus and that our faith is a gift of God. While we know from the very first chapter of Genesis that we are made in the image and likeness of God, in Ephesians we hear that, in addition to being God’s “handiwork”, we are created “in Christ Jesus” for good works. Meanwhile, the Gospel reminds us that the life we have in Jesus is eternal. If eternal life is desired, we must choose to walk in the light of God. · We often understand Scripture that expounds upon the “temple” to also mean for us an invitation to think of our body as a temple, a holy place. What are the things that pollute the sacred spaces and our bodies? How do we contribute to our own destruction? · Both the first and second readings remind us that even as we are sinful, even though we make mistakes and fall short, God loves us. Even as the world burns down around us, sometimes by our own doing, God still lifts us on high and sees us as being more than we are just on our worst days. How can we help each other know this fundamental truth: that we are fundamentally good, are fully capable of doing better, and are ultimately found worthy of God’s love? · Today’s Gospel includes one of the most commonly known verses in all of Scripture: John 3:16. We hear it so often, sometimes we take for granted the depth of its sentiment: that we, in all of our human mess, have been loved so deeply that God was willing to become human with us, suffer with us, die for us, and ultimately show us how to live with the divine integrity we were created with. Are we showing recognition and gratitude for this truth? Are we behaving in ways that reflect this level of gift? 2/23/2024 0 Comments Third Sunday of Lent March 3, 2024Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-4:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 Lord, you have the words of eternal life. Psalm 19 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Mar. 4 – No mass Tues., Mar. 5 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Mar 5 – 1:00 pm Mass at Elders Lodge Flying Dust Tues., Mar. 5 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Wed., Mar. 6 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Thurs., Mar. 7 – 8:30 – 9:30 am Exposition/Adoration before mass Thurs., Mar. 7 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Fri., Mar. 8 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Sat., Mar. 9 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - People of God Sun., Mar. 10 – 10:00 am – (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - People of God Sun., Mar 10 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile Waterhen) - People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Feb. 25: Meadow Lake $1834.00 Green Lake $102.35 Children’s Collection $8.55 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for March – for the new martyrs – We pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world inflame the Church with their courage and missionary enthusiasm. 40 Cans for Lent – The Meadow Lake Knights of Columbus are sponsoring 40 Cans for Lent for food to be donated to the Door of Hope. Unfortunately there are still families and individuals in Meadow Lake and surrounding area that depend on the Door of Hope to supplement their food requirements. To help meet this need, the Knights of Columbus are asking the members of the parish to once again support 40 Cans for Lent. Each day of Lent, one can will be placed in the cross. We are asking families to bring nonperishable food each week of Lent. Thank you. The Way of the Cross – Please join us on Friday evenings for the Way of the Cross. We will gather at 6:30 pm in the Church to pray with Jesus as he makes his way to Calvary. Lent/Easter Retreat – Mark your calendars for a retreat by Fr. Uche. The dates are Thursday and Friday, March 14 and 15 starting with mass at 6:30 pm each evening. A spiritual retreat for Spiritual Growth and Healing focusing on the Seven Sacraments. Easter Reconciliation – There will be opportunity for confession on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 (Penitential Service) with additional priests available. Fr. Uche will also be available March 22 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. He is also available to anyone by appointment. Scripture Insights – Third Sunday of Lent Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 114. Even people who have little familiarity with Judeo-Christian beliefs are well acquainted with the reading from Exodus of the giving of the Ten Commandments, also called the Decalogue. While these commands may be quite familiar to us, it is essential to recognize that they were delivered within the context of God entering into a covenant relationship with Israel. To be God’s treasured possession, Israel must follow the behaviors specified in the words of the Commandments. To be in close relationship with God requires that Israel assume responsibilities toward its neighbor. Psalm 19 is a song of praise for God’s Torah, or “instruction.” Far different from the North American mentality that views Torah as “law” in a restrictive sense, today’s psalm expresses quite clearly how Israel understood God’s instruction as a guide for living well. Thus, the psalmist can speak of God’s Torah as being sweeter than “honey from a comb.” Within the first two chapters of John’s Gospel, readers learn Jesus’ identity, see him perform his first sign at the wedding celebration in Cana, and hear him confront the religious authorities in the temple in Jerusalem. The most obvious focus in today’s reading is Jesus’ cleansing of the temple, followed by reference to his impending death and resurrection. Looking carefully at the passage, though, we see that the last verses turn attention to the people who had begun “to believe in his name when they saw the signs he was doing. But Jesus would not trust himself to them because he knew them all.” The reading is clear that a reciprocal relationship between Jesus and true believers exists. It is implied that some people were beginning to follow Jesus because they were interested in seeing great works, not because they trusted in him. · Sometimes reading a list of rules and regulations can make us wonder what events might have created need for the rule in the first place. “Do not steal.” Was there a lot of theft? Did this commandment help curb theft? Rather than imagining a list of demands to create a cookie-cutter society, these rules are about relationships with God and with God’s people. What is getting in the way of good relationship? How might these commandments be worded were they created in the context of today? · What a mystery it is that God came to us as a human – to suffer as we suffer, to taste mortality. And yet this is perhaps the most powerful of God’s gifts of self: to show us, as humans, how to live well, how to die well, how to place our hope in that which we cannot see. Do we believe this? · Being fully human means knowing the fullness of human emotion. In today’s Gospel, Christ is angry. His encounter with such a display of commercialism in the holiest of places frustrates and offends this man who is preparing to give over his life for these people. Righteous anger is holy. It is a fully human, fully sacred expression when we encounter that which keeps us from God. What are we using our righteous anger for now? Who are the voices carrying holy rage in our midst? Who suffers when we hide the emotions that might displease some people? Our Lady of Peace Parish Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile Parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake Office Hours: Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 1-3:00 pm Office Phone: 306-236-5122 Cell Phone: 306-304-7271 Parish Email: olpsecretary2023@gmail.com Pastor Email: olpmlpastor@gmail.com Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/ Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5 Your paths, Lord, are love and faithfulness for those who keep your covenant. Psalm 25 Refrain Our Vision: A Community of Disciples Our Mission We commit to form disciples who joyfully and faithfully live out the mission of Jesus Christ by enriching our relationship with God and neighbour through the intercession of Our Lady of Peace. Pastor: Fr. Uche Umechikelu, MSP Parish Secretary: Pat Bencharski Masses Intentions When there is a funeral, the daily mass will normally be cancelled. Check Facebook for the most up-to-date information. On Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, Our Lady of Peace masses will be livestreamed on Facebook. Mon., Feb.19 – No mass Tues., Feb. 20 – 10:00 am Liturgy with Communion at the Lodge Tues., Feb. 20 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Wed., Feb. 21 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Thurs., Feb. 22 – 8:30 – 9:30 am Exposition/Adoration before mass Thurs., Feb. 22 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Fri., Feb. 23 – 9:30 am (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - Anonymous Sat., Feb. 24 – 5:00 pm (St. Jude’s Green Lake) - People of God Sun., Feb. 25 – 10:00 am – (Our Lady of Peace Church & Facebook) - People of God Sun., Feb. 25 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile Waterhen) - People of God THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Sunday Collection – Feb. 11: Meadow Lake $1047.85 Green Lake $214.85 Children’s Collection $5.00 The Pope’s Prayer Intention for February – for the terminally ill – We pray that those with a terminal illness, and their families, receive the necessary physical and spiritual care and accompaniment. Thank You – Thanks to the Knights of Columbus for a delicious breakfast on Sunday and for the bingo games. Also a big thank you to Mauri Young, Judi Lang and Joe & Shirley Dombowsky for the donated items. And thanks to A & W for providing teenburger coupons for prizes. Our Parish Fun Day was enjoyed by all who attended. Evangelization Activity for February – We are encouraging parishioners to pray every day at 1:00 pm for a family member, friend or neighbor to begin attending regular Sunday Mass. The Way of the Cross – Please join us on Friday evenings for the Way of the Cross. We will gather at 6:30 pm in the Church to pray with Jesus as he makes his way to Calvary. Scripture Insights – First Sunday of Lent Taken from Source Book for Sundays, Seasons and Weekdays 2024: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, LTP Liturgy Training Publications Copyright 2023, 3949 South Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609, pg. 102. On this First Sunday of Lent, a time when most of us are inclined to reflect more deeply on how we live as Christians, we are reminded of God’s everlasting love. Our first reading, from Genesis, follows the well-known story of the great flood. While the text states that God addresses Noah and his sons, it is important to note that the covenant that God makes goes well beyond this remnant of humankind and their future descendants. This covenant is with all that God had created. The “bow”, which we associate with the rainbow, is said to have had its origins in the mythology of the Ancient Near East. Since it might have been a reference to a warrior’s bow, we might easily imagine this bow as representing God’s decision to hang up this weapon of destruction while promising anew to be in relationship with all of creation. · For many across the nation who have experienced flooding, God’s promise to never again destroy the world by these waters seems wishful thinking. Much of the increased flooding and storms of the past several decades is a direct result of the effects of global warming and our failure to care for creation in the ways that our reciprocal covenant has required of us. Remember the covenant and the promise: God’s desire to be near us is as strong today as it was for Noah. Remember our role. · Paul connects the flood now to baptism: when once we were saved on the waters, now we are saved by the waters. But make no mistake: these are both death-dealing and life-giving waters. Again we are asked to live in this tension: are we handling the gift of water responsibly? Are we carefully holding the balance of all that holds such power? · The brevity of this Gospel is part of the message: what we need to do now is to believe that the kingdom is here, now. This is not some far away dream, not a distant platitude. We need to behave now, in this very moment, as children of this kingdom. We need to let go of our temporary comforts and grasp on to the beautiful, eternal reign of God. DIOCESAN NEWS & BEYOND THE CALLED & GIFTED INTRODUCTORY WORKSHOP … is the first of three steps in the C&G Discernment Process. During this five-session workshop, you will learn the Church's ancient teaching on charisms, the steps for discerning your God-given charisms, and how discerning your charisms can change your life, parish, and community. This year, during the Lenten Season, there will be four opportunities to take step one of the Called & Gifted Discernment Process. Participants are required to purchase the Called & Gifted Discernment Process resource book. The cost is $60 plus $5 for mailing. These can be purchased by contacting Nicole at 306-922-4747, extension 228. For those interested in taking Step One of the C&G Discernment Process, the five-session Introductory Workshop will be offered four times during Lent, twice on Zoom and twice in person, by the Diocesan Called & Gifted Team. MORNINGS from 9:30 - 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays, Feb 27, Mar 5, 12, 19, & 26. EVENINGS from 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. on Mondays, Feb 26, Mar 4, 11, 18, & 25. There is also the option of taking the sessions in person. For the in-person events, the first session will be on Thursday evenings and the other four on Saturday. In Prince Albert, the first step of the Called & Gifted Discernment Process is being offered at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Thursday, March 7, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, March 9, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. In North Battleford, the first step of the Called & Gifted Discernment Process is being offered at the Light of Christ Learning Centre on Thursday, March 21, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, March 23, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. To register, email ecassistant@padiocese.ca or call Nicole at 306-922-4747, extension 228. |
Parish BulletinThis bulletin is prepared by the Parish Secretary and the Pastor Archives
April 2024
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