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Parish Bulletin

5/21/2021 0 Comments

Pentecost Sunday - May 23, 2021

Our Lady of Peace Parish
Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake

Office Hours For Parish Secretary: Monday - Friday: 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Office Hours For Fr. Doug: Tuesday - Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Office Phone:  306-236-5122 
Cell Phone: 306-304-7271
Parish Email: [email protected] Pastor Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake
Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/
Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5
 
“Lord, send forth your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.” Psalm 104
 
May 23, 2021 -  Pentecost Sunday
 
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. Doug Jeffrey, OMI
Parish Secretary: Lorraine Thibeault
Pastoral Council Chair: Doris Beaubien
Finance Council Chair:

Mass Attendance:  If you would like to attend mass on Saturday nights or Sunday mornings in Meadow Lake, please call the Parish Office 306-236-5122 BEFORE FRIDAY NOON and leave a message.  Reservations are necessary as we have limited capacity (30 people), and we do not want to turn someone away from the door.

SaskHealth/Diocese of Prince Albert Regulations – The presence of the Covid-19 variants continues to cause concern among health care professionals. The variants spread quickly and seriously impact our health and well being. Statistics show that they are also having a significant impact on younger people. Let us continue to exercise caution and get a vaccine if our doctors tell us we can. The virus has not gone away. As a result of the latest guidelines published by SaskHealth and communicated to us via our Bishop, Our Lady of Peace Parish can accommodate a total of 30 persons at each of our Saturday evening (7:00 pm) mass and Sunday morning (10:00 am) mass. If you would like to take part in our liturgy you must register, maintain social distance, wear a mask and sanitize your hands. A virtual liturgy continues to fulfill our Sunday obligation. Our Liturgies at Green Lake and Waterhen Lake are likewise limited by these regulations.
 
THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
  1. Pentecost Sunday – Are you planning to come to the Sunday (Pentecost) mass this weekend? Whether you are at home or physically at the liturgy be sure to wear your brightest, boldest colors and listen closely to the homily! The Spirit colors us beautifully and boldly!
  2. Throughout the month of May, rain or shine, we are gathering at the Grotto at 6:00 pm for the recitation of the rosary, asking Mary to intercede for us. Covid-19 protocols are in place (maximum of 10 people, masks and physically distanced).
  3. Monday, May 24 – Victoria Day:  The office will be closed for this holiday.
  4. Fr. Doug is away on retreat May 24 – June 1 inclusive.  Should you need a priest in an emergency, please contact Fr. Kendrick Beler at Goodsoil.  306-238-2006
  5. Prayer Asking for the Blessing of Rain – Thanks to the many people who gathered for prayer. We reminded ourselves of our blessings and the goodness of God and we asked God for what we believe we need most at this time. Let us continue to speak with and listen to our God.
  6. There will not be Songs at Seven this week.  Songs at Seven will resume June 3, 2021.

Mass Intentions
 
Mon., May 24 – Feast of Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church - People of the Meadow Lake Cluster
 
Tues., May 25 – On retreat - +Clarence Derocher and family by Linda Poitras and Roy Shkopich
 
Wed. May 26 – On retreat - +Lou Chatelaine and family by Roy Shkopich and Linda Poitras
 
Thurs., May 27 – On retreat - +Allan Chatelaine and family by Linda Poitras and Roy Shkopich
 
Fri., May 28 – On retreat - +Dan & Chris Derocher and family by Roy Shkopich and Linda Poitras
 
Sat., May 29 – On retreat - +Norman Poitras and family by Linda Poitras and Roy Shkopich
 
Sat. May 29 - 7:00 pm (Our Lady of Peace Parish Hall, Meadow Lake) - Liturgy of the Word with Communion
 
Sun. May 30 - 10 am (Our Lady of Peace Church, Meadow Lake & Facebook) - Liturgy of the Word with Communion
 
Sun. May 30 - 12:30 pm (St Jude’s, Green Lake) - Liturgy of the Word with Communion
 
Note:  Upcoming - June 11 – Feast of the Sacred Heart; Anniversary of Sacred Heart Cathedral, P.A.; World Day of Prayer for Priests; Bishop Stephen Hero’s ordination to the Episcopate
 
About Pentecost – On Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the ways in which the Spirit inspires, guides and strengthens us to live as Christian Disciples. Especially in the later weeks of Easter Time, we have anticipated the advent of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the disciples and in the Church. Now we hear the account of the first Pentecost, when, through the presence and the power of the Holy Spirit, the Good News of Christ was shared with people from throughout the world. Those who heard the disciples speaking were amazed and astonished at the power of God. (Sourcebook 2021 p214)
 
Scripture Insights for the Feast of Pentecost (Sourcebook 2021 p214/215) – The texts invite us to consider the Spirit’s vast activity in both an outer, geographical sense and an inner, spiritual sense. Jesus apparently lived his life within a tiny territory, but the outpouring of his Spirit at Pentecost sent his disciples to the ends of the earth. The same Spirit pressed them deep within themselves to explore the truth about Jesus.
 
Outwardly, Luke’s list is a roll call, not of people who literally heard Peter’s Pentecost sermon, but of people who had heard the Gospel by Luke’s time in the late first century. The places named can be found on a good Bible map. They form a circle around Jerusalem, always the spiritual starting point for Luke. In Luke’s Gospel, the devil showed Jesus “all the kingdoms of the world” because they were his to give (Luke 4:5-6). Acts shows us the kingdoms that became Christ’s by the power of the Holy Spirit.
 
The list symbolizes the scope of God’s grace and the Spirit’s power. It also previews the rest of Acts. The Apostles would experience many successes and much rejoicing but also many conflicts and reversals. “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). The Spirit’s relentless energy constantly stirred and pushed the disciples beyond themselves. Their story became part of the story of “the mighty acts of God” (2:11).
 
Inwardly, the Spirit comes from Jesus to guide the disciples to all the truth about him. In the context of John’s gospel this means penetrating to the awesome mystery of Jesus’ divine being, the Word made flesh who in the beginning was with God and is himself God (John 1:1, 14).
 
Galatians says that by grace the Spirit instructs Christians about life by uniting them with Jesus’ crucifixion. For those who understand, Christ’s death powerfully centers the inner life of individuals and communities in the fruit of the Spirit.
 
Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church (Monday, May 24, 2021) – Mary was first referred to as Mother of the Church by Saint Ambrose of Milan and then by Pope Benedict XIV in 1748 and then by Pope Leo XIII in 1885. Pope Paul VI officially gave the title to Mary (November 1964) and then Pope John Paul II placed it in the Catechism of the Church. Pope Francis added it to the Liturgical Calendar on February 11, 2018.
 
 “The joyous veneration given to the Mother of God by the contemporary Church, in light of reflection on the mystery of Christ and on his nature, cannot ignore the figure of a woman (cf. Gal 4:4), the Virgin Mary, who is both the Mother of Christ and Mother of the Church.

In some ways this was already present in the mind of the Church from the premonitory words of Saint Augustine and Saint Leo the Great. In fact the former says that Mary is the mother of the members of Christ, because with charity she cooperated in the rebirth of the faithful into the Church, while the latter says that the birth of the Head is also the birth of the body, thus indicating that Mary is at once Mother of Christ, the Son of God, and mother of the members of his Mystical Body, which is the Church. These considerations derive from the divine motherhood of Mary and from her intimate union in the work of the Redeemer, which culminated at the hour of the cross.

Indeed, the Mother standing beneath the cross (cf. Jn 19:25) accepted her Son’s testament of love and welcomed all people in the person of the beloved disciple as sons and daughters to be reborn unto life eternal. She thus became the tender Mother of the Church which Christ begot on the cross handing on the Spirit. Christ, in turn, in the beloved disciple, chose all disciples as ministers of his love towards his Mother, entrusting her to them so that they might welcome her with filial affection.

As a caring guide to the emerging Church, Mary had already begun her mission in the Upper Room, praying with the Apostles while awaiting the coming of the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 1:14). In this sense, in the course of the centuries, Christian piety has honoured Mary with various titles, in many ways equivalent, such as Mother of Disciples, of the Faithful, of Believers, of all those who are reborn in Christ; and also as “Mother of the Church” as is used in the texts of spiritual authors as well as in the Magisterium of Popes Benedict XIV and Leo XIII.”

Taken from the Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, 11 February 2018, the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lourdes. Cardinal Robert Sarah

Good News from St. Jude’s Parish - On Sunday, May 16th at St. Jude’s parish, we celebrated Ascension Sunday with a liturgy that included the proclamation of the readings and the psalm in the Cree language. Rose proclaimed the readings in both English and Cree. In order to help prepare us for the liturgy, to purify our space and frame of mind, Florence used sage in a traditional Cree ritual of smudging. The proclamation of the sacred scriptures in English and Cree and the ritual of smudging help us to nurture harmony, unity and respect for our unique and sacred cultural histories. In the future, we can look forward to hearing and experiencing more of the Cree/Metis culture as we celebrate our faith. As we prepare for the celebration of Pentecost, we are reminded that the Holy Spirit is present and active in the world in every nation, people, tribe, and language. Discovering how the Spirit is at work makes for an exciting journey.

A new Chandelier - If you have ever joined us in prayer at St. Jude’s, you will remember that over the sanctuary there is a small but rather beautiful chandelier. This chandelier will be moved to the parish office in the back of the Church to make way for a gift chandelier that has recently been received. The new chandelier is much larger and has found its way to Green Lake thanks to the generosity of a former parishioner. After mass on May 16th, a group of parishioners met and discussed the need for us to check our breaker box and the condition of our wiring. In addition, we talked about how we might attach the newer and much heavier chandelier to the ceiling so that it remains above the sanctuary and not in the sanctuary. Stay tuned for some updates about the chandelier and its installation.

Information from the Landscaping Committee:  Because of our responsibility to care for the land and buildings which have been entrusted to us, we formed a Landscape Committee to look at the property of Our Lady of Peace Parish.  We are already taking care of the work on the steps and the ramp into the Parish Office. We will return to the parking area the gravel that has accumulated on the south end of the property where we pile the snow in winter. We will remove the tires from the Old Parish Office space and begin some work to complete the yard for the rectory.

The Committee identified some work that it thinks needs to be done. We would like to hear what you think. Share your thoughts & ideas with Fr. Doug or the Landscape Committee members in person or by phone or email. We will sort through your ideas and feedback and present the info to the Finance Council.  A timeline for when and how the work gets done and how it gets paid for (if not done by volunteers) will be set. The Landscape Committee members are:
  • Margaret Alger
  • Ben Barker
  • Chris Bencharski
  • Melba Cariou
  • Marie Mamchur.

  1. The Parking Lot on the west side of the Church:
    1. Remove timbers/wood
    2. Make sure there is a good slope away from the Church towards the ditch
    3. Do we need a barrier to keep vehicles away from the Church (such as timbers, posts with chains, or cement curbs?
    4. Fill in the holes where the water sits – using screener chips or gravel and then asphalt.
    5. Drain water from the Church roof into the ditches so that it does not run into the parking lot and sit/freeze.

  2. Sewer smell by the Rectory:  We propose contacting the City of Meadow Lake to investigate and then work to remedy the situation.

  3. Building Exteriors – Where the tunnel was attached to the Church there is a tar outline:
    1. Clean off the tar and some of the spray-painted symbols.
    2. The rectory – paint the siding and the garage – some of the facing is rotting and needs to be replaced. Care for the shingles that have been damaged by sap and leaves etc.

  4. Change the land where the old Office was into parking space.
    1. Ensure a proper slope away from the Church
    2. Pack the sand and fill with a mix of clay and gravel or screener chips.
    3. Use part of this space for a garden space for Fr. Doug.  Fence it to complete the rectory yard.

  5. Tree Trimming, Pruning, Removal and Replacement
    1. Identify and prune or remove dead, dying or disruptive trees.
    2. Replace the trees we remove, if possible, by using  replacement trees from public lands.

  6. North and South Driveways:   We are proposing that on the south and north driveways we install a barrier – posts and chains with locks which can be opened when there are parish functions in order to discourage vehicles entering the property and performing donuts or races through the property.  Paint the chain a fluorescent orange and have reflectors on it so that it would be easily seen.

  7. Columbarium – Would you like the parish to install a Columbarium to accommodate the cremains of parishioners who choose cremation. What do you think? Would we want this? If the answer is yes, we would gather information and share that with you so that we can make an appropriate decision.

  8. Power line - When the internet/phone lines were installed in the Church and in the Parish Office the line was not buried because the ground was frozen. SaskTel will be coming to bury the line. Would it be wise to also bury our power lines from the street to the Parish Office/Church and Rectory?

  9. “Work Bees”:
    1. Let’s hold some “work bees” to get a significant amount of work done.
    2. Develop lists for both indoor and outdoor tasks so that parishioners can apply their skills appropriately.
    3. Would you be willing to gather to do some work to keep our Property and Buildings in good condition? 
Thank you for the many ways you support the parish with your time, talents, and treasure! We cannot be a healthy parish community without you and all that you have to offer as a person made in the image and likeness of God. Thank you!
 
Grotto Rosary Project - May 2021 - During the month of May we are praying the rosary every day at 6:00 pm at our Grotto. There is a list of intentions for the month. If you sign up to lead the rosary, you are responsible for leading the rosary! You can lead the rosary in the language of your choice, regardless of who else is there. You are asked to come – rain, snow, wind, sun, or mosquitos. All people are invited to come (masked, social distancing – not more than 10 people total), so you may not be alone. If you need help to lead the rosary, an outline will be available in a plastic sleeve in Fr. Doug’s mailbox!

May 23 – For parents who are expecting children
May 24 – In gratitude for our grandparents
May 25 – For those who suffer because of racism – led by Judy Barker
May 26 – For reconciliation with our Indigenous brothers and sisters – led by Marcella Miller
May 27 – For all immigrants and refugees – led by Elsie Michel
May 28 – For all who will graduate this year – led by Leona Durocher
May 29 – For all who seek the Lord – led by Marie Mamchur
May 30 – In gratitude for the diversity of our community
May 31 – For our parish community that we might welcome those who are most in need
If you would like to sign up to lead the rosary at the Grotto, call Lorraine at the Parish Office (306) 236 5122.  There are still a few days needing leaders. Looking forward to seeing you as we gather in the presence of Our Blessed Mother, seeking the favour of the Lord.
 
DIOCESAN NEWS (& BEYOND)
 
Development and Peace:  An urgent appeal - In India, a terrible new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is infecting over 300,000 people and killing more than 3,500 every day. To help Caritas India cope with this emergency, Development and Peace has committed an initial sum of $50,000. Given that much of the Indian subcontinent is vulnerable to this crisis, much more help will be needed. Caritas India's executive director, Fr. Paul Moonjely, has appealed to us, "the community of (the) faithful, institutions and people of goodwill, to contribute generously." Let's respond with open hearts! Learn more.
Donate to our COVID Emergency Fund now.
 
SIGNS OF LIFE IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: May 2021 Webinar Series:
  Join in this series to explore signs that new missional perspectives are bringing life to local congregations.
  • Each Thursday in May at 3 pm (Saskatchewan) on Zoom.
  • 2 pm BC, 3 pm Alberta, 4 pm Manitoba, 5 pm Ontario & Quebec, 6 pm Maritimes, 6:30 pm Newfoundland
Free registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqf-ytqzosGdVoDhE6gNcveFr2JjU4-WCd
For further information, contact Archdeacon Cheryl Toth at [email protected].

May 27: To The Regions Beyond: Spiritual Care in Under-served Areas
This series is planned in the spirit of the LAURC Covenant by the Ecumenical Stewardship Committee of the Anglican Diocese of Qu'Appelle, the Saskatchewan Synod of the ELCIC, and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina.
 
May the Month of Mary 2021
 From the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis:  As Pope Francis has reminded us "The month of May is approaching, a time when the People of God express with particular intensity their love and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is traditional this month to pray the Rosary at home within the family. The restrictions of the pandemic have made us come to appreciate all the more this “family” aspect, also from a spiritual point of view." In his May letter to the faithful Francis invites the faithful to pray the rosary and offers two additional Marian prayers that he is also committing to pray at the end of his rosary each day. Find the letter and prayers here:   http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/letters/2020/documents/papafrancesco_20200425_lettera- mesedimaggio.html

Also, Pope Francis is inviting all Catholics and Marian Shrines around the world to dedicate the month of May to a marathon of prayer for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic. Read the full article here: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-04/pope-francis-shrines-may-2021-prayer-end-pandemic.html

Marian Activities for Children:  Marian Treasure Hunt from Loyola Press
Honouring Mary with Your Kids from Catholic Icing
In 2018 a new Marian feast day was introduced. It is celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost Sunday, this year May 24, 2021. Here are some ideas for celebrating the day Mary, Mother of the Church (Feast Ideas for Kids) from Catholic Icing



Marian Activities for Children from Busted Halo:  The Rosary in Two Minutes; How did the Rosary become associated with Mary; Mary in Two Minutes; and Who were Mary's Parents and What do We Know About Them?
More Resources from Loyola Press

Adult Faith Resources
Marian Resources from Loyola Press
The Rosary in Two Minutes from Busted Halo 
For more children, youth, and adult faith resources go to the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis webpage or follow us on Facebook.

OUR LADY OF LOURDES SHRINE - BOARD AGM:  Saturday, May 29, 2021 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Little Log Church @ St. Laurent Shrine.  If you are interested in attending, please call Linda at 306-763-3014 or 306-941-1976.

CATHOLIC FAMILY SERVICES
 
CALMING THE STORM- Anger Management for Adults - THIS IS A VIRTUAL CLASS.
A new session is posted each Monday for six weeks. The participant has the full week to view the lesson and complete the assignments.  Date: Week of May 24 – June 28    At the convenience of participant within each one-week period.  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
PARENTING FROM THE HEART – For parents/caregivers of children 5 – 12 years
Date: Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30  Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Transportation available  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
AFTER THE STORM – A support program for women who have left or are leaving an abusive relationship.  Date: Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30  Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Transportation available  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
TAMING THE TIGER – Anger management for children 5 – 12 and their parents/guardians
Date: Saturday, June 5 and Sunday, June 6  Time: 9 am to 12 noon  Transportation available
No fee – this program is funded by the Ministry of Justice – Victim Services

To register or for more information, call:   Catholic Family Services 922-3202 or 1-877-922-3202 or email  [email protected]


What’s your Catholic IQ?   Last bulletin’s question and answer:  Tradition tells us the name of Mary’s mother is: (a) St. Anne Though they are not named in the Bible, tradition tells us that Mary’s parents were named Anne and Joachim.  They would have been Jesus’ grandparents. St. Anne is the patron Saint of Canada. 
This week’s question:  The Bible says that in the desert John the Baptist ate: (a) meat and potatoes (b) thistles (c) yogurt (d) locusts and wild honey.

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5/16/2021 0 Comments

Ascension Sunday - May 16, 2021

Our Lady of Peace Parish
Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile parish, Waterhen Lake and St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake

Office Hours For Parish Secretary: Monday - Friday: 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Office Hours For Fr. Doug: Tuesday - Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Office Phone:  306-236-5122 
Cell Phone: 306-304-7271

Parish Email: [email protected] Pastor Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake
Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/
Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5
 
“Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age, alleluia.”  Matthew 28.20
 
May 16, 2021 - Ascension of the Lord - World Communications Day
 
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. Doug Jeffrey, OMI
Parish Secretary: Lorraine Thibeault
Pastoral Council Chair: Doris Beaubien
Finance Council Chair:

Mass Attendance:  If you would like to attend mass on Saturday nights or Sunday mornings in Meadow Lake, please call the Parish Office 306-236-5122 BEFORE FRIDAY NOON and leave a message.  Reservations are necessary as we have limited capacity (30 people), and we do not want to turn someone away from the door.
 
SaskHealth/Diocese of Prince Albert Regulations – The presence of the Covid-19 variants continues to cause concern among health care professionals. The variants spread quickly and seriously impact our health and well being. Statistics show that they are also having a significant impact on younger people. Let us continue to exercise caution and get a vaccine if our doctors tell us we can. The virus has not gone away. As a result of the latest guidelines published by SaskHealth and communicated to us via our Bishop, Our Lady of Peace Parish can accommodate a total of 30 persons at each of our Saturday evening (7:00 pm) mass and Sunday morning (10:00 am) mass. If you would like to take part in our liturgy you must register, maintain social distance, wear a mask and sanitize your hands. A virtual liturgy continues to fulfill our Sunday obligation. Our Liturgies at Green Lake and Waterhen Lake are likewise limited by these regulations.
 
THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
  1. Join us for another episode of Songs at Seven, Thursday, May 20 at 7:00 pm
  2. Throughout the month of May, rain or shine, we are gathering at the Grotto at 6:00 pm for the recitation of the rosary, asking Mary to intercede for us. Covid-19 protocols are in place (maximum of 10 people, masks and physically distanced).
  3. Saturday, May 15 will be the second of two presentations on the RCIA for those who have said yes to helping us welcome people who want to join the Church.
  4. Steps/Ramp of Parish Office – Some settling of soil has taken place. We will repair this as soon as possible. Please stay to the north side of the steps; do not utilize the ramp for now. Thanks!
  5. Prayer Asking for the Blessing of Rain – We will gather physically at the Church (live streamed on Facebook) on Tuesday, May 18, at 6:30 pm to pray for the blessing of rain on our lands.

Mass Intentions
 
Mon., May 17 - Personal Intention
 
Tues., May 18 – 9:30 am (Facebook) - +Sharilyn Gagnon by Elsa Slykhuis
 
Wed. May 19 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church, Meadow Lake & Facebook) - +Sharilyn Gagnon by Elsa Slykhuis

Thurs., May 20 - 9:30 am (Facebook) - +Mike Shkopich family by Roy Shkopich &Linda Poitras
 
Fri., May 21 - 9:30 am (Facebook) - +Mike Belick family by Roy Shkopich &Linda Poitras

Sat., May 22 – 9:30 am (Facebook) - +Josh Delrond family by Roy Shkopich & Linda Poitras
 
Sat. May 22 - 7:00 pm (Our Lady of Peace Parish Hall, Meadow Lake) - People of God
 
Sun. May 23 - 10 am (Our Lady of Peace Church, Meadow Lake & Facebook) - People of God
 
Sun. May 23 - 12:30 pm (St Jude’s, Green Lake) - People of God
 
Sun. May 23 – 3:00 pm (Our Lady of the Smile, Waterhen Lake) - People of God
 
Thank you - A special word of thanks to the Knights of Columbus (and especially Rhys) and Meadowgreen Greenhouse for the gift of a potted plant to all the moms who were able to be at mass on Sunday in Our Lady of Peace, St. Jude’s and Our Lady of the Smile. The plants were much appreciated. Thanks also to Joanne who provided roses to the mothers who came to Our Lady of the Smile. I brought a rose back to Meadow Lake for Our Lady of Grace at the Grotto 😊
 
Prayer Requests: 
  • Deacon Ghislain (Gil) Bellavance (North Battleford) passed away May 13, 2021. May his soul rest in peace. 
  • Fr. Roger Lavoie (semi-retired in North Battleford) is in University Hospital in Saskatoon suffering as a result of a stroke. 
 
Easter – The meaning of the Season (Taken from p 167 The Source Book For Sundays, Seasons, and Weekdays: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, Liturgy Training Publications, Archdiocese of Chicago, Chicago, 2019) – Easter time continues well into the month of May, traditionally associated with Mary.  From the May Crowning devotion to the recitation of the Rosary—particularly the first three Glorious mysteries (the Resurrection, Ascension, and Descent of the Holy Spirit)—we rejoice with Mary in the Resurrection of her Son.  The traditional “Regina Caeli,” the traditional Marian antiphon for Easter Time, is a fine prayer for singing or reciting throughout the season.
 
We do indeed rejoice with Mary, the communion of saints, the angelic choirs, and the Church universal throughout this season.  As Pope Francis said in his 2018 Easter Urbi et Orbi message, “We Christians believe and know that Christ’s resurrection is the true hope of the world, the hope that does not disappoint.”  During the fifty days of Easter, that hope inspires us to live the message of Psalm 118:  this is indeed the day that the Lord has made.  Let us rejoice and be glad in it!  Alleluia!
 
Important information from the Landscaping Committee:  Dear Parishioners:  In addition to having responsibilities for the work of evangelization, catechesis, liturgy, and service to those in need, we have a responsibility to care for the land and buildings which have been entrusted to us by the faithful people who have gone before us. This spring Fr. Doug formed a Landscape Committee to look at the property of Our Lady of Peace Parish. We have met and we have identified some tasks that need to be done immediately and some tasks that can be managed later.

Immediately we will take care of completing the work on the steps and the ramp into the Parish Office. We will also return to the parking area the gravel that has accumulated on the south end of the property where we pile the snow in winter. We will remove the tires from the Old Parish Office space and begin some work to complete the yard for the rectory.

The Committee identified some work that we think needs to be done and needs to be prioritized. We have done some thinking and we would like to hear what you think. Your feedback and your input are needed and welcomed. Please share this information with other Catholics as there are some who do not get the parish bulletin. You can be in touch with Fr. Doug or the Landscape Committee members in person or by phone or email with your thoughts and ideas. The Landscape Committee members are Margaret Alger, Ben Barker, Chris Bencharski, Melba Cariou and Marie Mamchur. When we have received and sorted through your ideas and feedback, we will present the info to the Finance Council who will then help determine a timeline for when and how the work gets done and how it gets paid for if it is not done by volunteers.
  1. The Parking Lot on the west side of the Church – We are suggesting that we remove timbers/wood and make sure there is a good slope away from the Church towards the ditch. We are wondering about the need for a barrier to keep vehicles away from the Church.  Some options are timbers – posts with chains, or cement curbs as in the parking lot on the east side of the Church and rectory. We are proposing to fill in the holes where the water sits – using screener chips or gravel and then asphalt. We are also proposing that we drain water from the Church roof into the ditches so that it does not run into the parking lot and sit/freeze.
  2. Sewer smell by the Rectory – For the last few years there has been a sewer smell by the north side of the Rectory. The source of it has not been located. We propose contacting the City of Meadow Lake to investigate and then work to remedy the situation.
  3. Building Exteriors – Where the tunnel was attached to the Church there is a tar outline. We propose cleaning off the tar and some of the spray-painted symbols. The rectory – the siding and trim has not been painted and needs paint. If we do not paint it in a few short years we will have to replace it. Painting seems to be the most practical thing to do. The garage – some of the facing is rotting and needs to be replaced. We also need to look at the shingles. It seems a tree or two is causing some damage (sap and leaves etc.)
  4. The footprint of the Old Office needs some attention. Our best thought is that we turn it into parking space. We will have to ensure a proper slope away from the Church – pack the sand and fill with a mix of clay and gravel or screener chips. Part of this space will become a garden space for Fr. Doug and will be fenced in, to complete Fr. Doug’s yard.
  5. Tree Trimming, Pruning, Removal and Replacement – Some of our trees are dying and diseased and some are interfering with lines and buildings. It is our plan to identify and prune or remove those trees. Where possible we will replace the trees we remove. We think that we can get replacement trees from public lands and so the purchase of trees would not be necessary.
  6. North and South Driveways - At various times vehicles enter the property from the north and south entrances and perform donuts or chase one another through the property. Often this happens in the middle of the night, interrupting Fr. Doug’s sleep. We are proposing that on the south and north driveways we install a barrier – posts and chains with locks which can be opened when there are parish functions. The chain would be painted a fluorescent orange and have reflectors on it so that it would be easily seen.
  7. Columbarium - It has been suggested that the parish install a Columbarium to accommodate the cremains of parishioners who choose cremation. We are wondering what you think! Would we want this? If the answer is yes, we would gather information and share that with you so that we can make an appropriate decision.
  8. Power line - When the internet/phone lines were installed in the Church and in the Parish Office the line was not buried because the ground was frozen. SaskTel will be coming to bury the line. We are wondering about the wisdom of also burying our power lines from the street to the Parish Office/Church and Rectory.
  9. “Work Bees” - Some significant maintenance work can be done by seasonal “Work Bees”. We are proposing ‘Work Bees” for spring and fall. We would develop lists for both indoor and outdoor tasks so that people would know what work needs to be done and so that people can apply their skills appropriately. Would you be willing to gather on a Saturday or an evening to do some work to keep our Property and Buildings looking good and in good condition? 
Thank you for the many ways you support the parish with your time, talents, and treasure! We cannot be a healthy parish community without you and all that you have to offer as a person made in the image and likeness of God. Thank you!
 
Pentecost Sunday – Are you planning to come to the Sunday mass next weekend (Pentecost)? Whether you are at home or at the liturgy be sure to wear your brightest, boldest colors and listen closely to the homily! The Spirit colors us beautifully and boldly!
 
Evangelization and Catechesis Commission – The Catechetical Directory - Reflection – Part Three:  In our last gathering, the Diocesan Commission for Evangelization and Catechesis reflected on Chapter Two (The Identity of Catechesis) of the new Directory for Catechesis.  Chapter Two contains and explores 5 themes:
 
  • The nature of Catechesis
  • Catechesis in the process of evangelization
  • Goals of Catechesis
  • Tasks of Catechesis
  • Sources of Catechesis
 
This past Tuesday our Commission gathered, and we explored Chapter Three which is entitled The Catechist. It contains and explores 6 themes:
  • The identity and vocation of the Catechist
  • The bishop as first catechist
  • The priest in catechesis
  • The deacon in catechesis
  • Consecrated persons in the service of catechesis
  • Lay catechists – parents, grandparents, god parents
 
The first theme offers us insights into the vocation and identity of the Catechist. It is the Holy Spirit who inspires and guides the catechist in their ministry of handing on the Word of God, helping them to share faith and introduce people into the Christian way of life. Catechists are witnesses to the reality of the Church and they are an expression of the local Church. Paragraph 113 reminds us that the catechist is “a witness of faith  and keeper of the memory of God’ and as such keeps alive the memory of God, reawakens it in the people and places this memory of God at the service of the proclamation of the gospel. Paragraph 113 reminds us that a catechist is a ‘teacher and a mystagogue’ who shares information with us and introduces us to mystery. We are such a ‘prove it to me’ culture and we dismiss ‘mystery’. The ministry of the catechist who leads us into mystery is such a blessing. Finally, the catechist is an ‘accompanier and educator’. The work of accompaniment is so important. God meets us where we are at. A profound image of accompaniment is found in the story of Jesus meeting, walking, and talking and breaking bread with the disciples on the road to Emmaus. The catechist is seen as one who connects people and their lived experience to the Gospel.

As we read through Chapter Three, I was encouraged to read how different people in the Church have different roles and responsibilities in terms of Catechesis. It struck me that one of the most significant tasks for me as pastor is, with the help of the people, to develop a good catechetical plan for our parish. A parish that lacks good catechesis is like a house built on sand. We celebrate sacramental rituals, but we do not help people to have a personal relationship with the living God. This will require some significant work on the part of our faith communities. The Directory reminds us that parents, grandparents and godparents are indispensable in shaping the lives of young people. The pastor and the parish must provide assistance – the people do the heavy lifting.

We spoke briefly about the decision of Pope Francis and the leadership of the Church to institute a new ministry – the ministry of Catechist. We were excited to see the emphasis placed on the work of Catechists. The Holy Father’s decision further reminds us that to be a catechist is indeed a call from God to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in nourishing faith. We are excited to see how this ministry will unfold. In paragraph 124 parents are encouraged not to hand over the work of faith formation to religious specialists but rather to take their proper role, with help, to form their children. We see catechists as important ministers in the work of sharing faith with both children and with adults.
 
Grotto Rosary Project - May 2021 - During the month of May we are praying the rosary every day at 6:00 pm at our Grotto. There is a list of intentions for the month. If you sign up to lead the rosary, you are responsible for leading the rosary! You can lead the rosary in the language of your choice, regardless of who else is there. You are asked to come – rain, snow, wind, sun, or mosquitos. All people are invited to come (masked, social distancing – not more than 10 people total), so you may not be alone. If you need help to lead the rosary, an outline will be available in a plastic sleeve in Fr. Doug’s mailbox!
 
May 16 – For those who work in our forests
May 17 – In gratitude for our medical professionals
May 18 – For all who are sick in our parish – led by Judy Barker
May 19 – For the victims of sexual abuse – led by Marcella Miller
May 20 – For those who are in prison – led by Elsie Michel
May 21 – For those who suffer from domestic violence – led by Leona Durocher
May 22 – For those who struggle with their mental health – led by Marie Mamchur
May 23 – For parents who are expecting children
 
If you would like to sign up to lead the rosary at the Grotto, call Lorraine at the Parish Office (306) 236 5122 to let her know which day you would like to volunteer to lead. Looking forward to seeing you as we gather in the presence of Our Blessed Mother, seeking the favour of the Lord.
 
SIGNS OF LIFE IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: May 2021 Webinar Series:  Join in this series to explore signs that new missional perspectives are bringing life to local congregations.
  • Each Thursdays in May at 3 pm (Saskatchewan) on Zoom.
  • 2 pm BC, 3 pm Alberta, 4 pm Manitoba, 5 pm Ontario & Quebec, 6 pm Maritimes, 6:30 pm Newfoundland
Free registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqf-ytqzosGdVoDhE6gNcveFr2JjU4-WCd
For further information, contact Archdeacon Cheryl Toth at [email protected].
May 20: Blessed to be a Blessing ... The Stewardship of Opportunity
May 27: To The Regions Beyond: Spiritual Care in Under-served Areas
This series is planned in the spirit of the LAURC Covenant by the Ecumenical Stewardship Committee of the Anglican Diocese of Qu'Appelle, the Saskatchewan Synod of the ELCIC, and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina.
 
May the Month of Mary 2021

From the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis:  As Pope Francis has reminded us "The month of May is approaching, a time when the People of God express with particular intensity their love and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is traditional this month to pray the Rosary at home within the family. The restrictions of the pandemic have made us come to appreciate all the more this “family” aspect, also from a spiritual point of view." In his May letter to the faithful Francis invites the faithful to pray the rosary and offers two additional Marian prayers that he is also committing to pray at the end of his rosary each day. Find the letter and prayers here:   http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/letters/2020/documents/papafrancesco_20200425_lettera- mesedimaggio.html

Also, Pope Francis is inviting all Catholics and Marian Shrines around the world to dedicate the month of May to a marathon of prayer for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic. Read the full article here: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-04/pope-francis-shrines-may-2021-prayer-end-pandemic.html

Marian Activities for Children:  Marian Treasure Hunt from Loyola Press
Honouring Mary with Your Kids from Catholic Icing
In 2018 a new Marian feast day was introduced. It is celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost Sunday, this year May 24, 2021. Here are some ideas for celebrating the day Mary, Mother of the Church (Feast Ideas for Kids) from Catholic Icing

Marian Activities for Children from Busted Halo:  The Rosary in Two Minutes; How did the Rosary become associated with Mary; Mary in Two Minutes; and Who were Mary's Parents and What do We Know About Them?
More Resources from Loyola Press

Adult Faith Resources
Marian Resources from Loyola Press
The Rosary in Two Minutes from Busted Halo 
For more children, youth, and adult faith resources go to the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis webpage or follow us on Facebook.

OUR LADY OF LOURDES SHRINE - BOARD AGM:  Saturday, May 29, 2021 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Little Log Church @ St. Laurent Shrine.  If you are interested in attending, please call Linda at 306-763-3014 or 306-941-1976.

CATHOLIC FAMILY SERVICES
 
RIDING THE WAVE - A Program for Children ages 6 - 12 exposed to Violence and Trauma and their families.  This class is being offered over a weekend (Saturday and Sunday) Date: May 15 and 16
Time: 9 am to 12 noon.  Transportation provided if needed
No fee – This class is funded by the Ministry of Justice – Victim Services

CALMING THE STORM- Anger Management for Adults - THIS IS A VIRTUAL CLASS.
A new session is posted each Monday for six weeks. The participant has the full week to view the lesson and complete the assignments.  Date: Week of May 24 – June 28
Time: At the convenience of participant within each one-week period
Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund

PARENTING FROM THE HEART – For parents/caregivers of children 5 – 12 years
Date: Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30  Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Transportation available  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
AFTER THE STORM – A support program for women who have left or are leaving an abusive relationship.  Date: Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30  Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Transportation available  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
TAMING THE TIGER – Anger management for children 5 – 12 and their parents/guardians
Date: Saturday, June 5 and Sunday, June 6  Time: 9 am to 12 noon  Transportation available
No fee – this program is funded by the Ministry of Justice – Victim Services

To register or for more information, call:   Catholic Family Services 922-3202 or 1-877-922-3202 or email  [email protected]

What’s your Catholic IQ?   Last bulletin’s question and answer:    The patron saint of France who cut her hair and dressed in armor to lead the army was (a) St. Joan of Arc.  St. Joan of Arc (1412 – 1431), the “Maid of Orleans,” seemed to come out of nowhere to help the true king of France reclaim his throne.  In war-torn France, she made so many enemies that she was later accused of being a heretic and burned at the stake.    This week’s question:  Tradition tells us the name of Mary’s mother is: (a) St. Anne (b) St. Joachim (c) St. Martha (d) St. Louis.

Sunday, May 16, is World Communications Day. In his message entitled “Come and See” (Jn 1:46). Communicating by Encountering People Where and as They Are, Pope Francis writes, “The invitation to “come and see”, which was part of those first moving encounters of Jesus with the disciples, is also the method for all authentic human communication. In order to tell the truth of life that becomes history (cf. Message for the 54th World Communications Day, 24 January 2020), it is necessary to move beyond the complacent attitude that we “already know” certain things. Instead, we need to go and see them for ourselves, to spend time with people, to listen to their stories and to confront reality, which always in some way surprises us. “Open your eyes with wonder to what you see, let your hands touch the freshness and vitality of things, so that when others read what you write, they too can touch first-hand the vibrant miracle of life”. This was the advice that Blessed Manuel Lozano Garrido[1] offered to his fellow journalists. This year, then, I would like to devote this Message to the invitation to “come and see”, which can serve as an inspiration for all communication that strives to be clear and honest, in the press, on the internet, in the Church’s daily preaching and in political or social communication. “Come and see!”  This has always been the way that the Christian faith has been communicated, from the time of those first encounters on the banks of the River Jordan and on the Sea of Galilee.”

In his message, Pope Francis explores the idea of “encounter” using the following themes, “Hitting the Streets”, “The Gospel as News Stories”, “Thanks to the courage of many journalists”, “Opportunities and hidden dangers on the web” and “Nothing replaces seeing things at first hand”.

He concludes his message writing, “We have books in our hands, but the facts before our eyes”, said Saint Augustine[3] in speaking of fulfilment of the prophecies found in sacred Scripture. So too, the Gospel comes alive in our own day, whenever we accept the compelling witness of people whose lives have been changed by their encounter with Jesus. For two millennia, a chain of such encounters has communicated the attractiveness of the Christian adventure. The challenge that awaits us, then, is to communicate by encountering people, where they are and as they are.

Lord, teach us to move beyond ourselves, and to set out in search of truth. Teach us to go out and see,
teach us to listen, not to entertain prejudices or draw hasty conclusions. Teach us to go where no one else will go, to take the time needed to understand, to pay attention to the essentials, not to be distracted by the superfluous, to distinguish deceptive appearances from the truth. Grant us the grace to recognize your dwelling places in our world and the honesty needed to tell others what we have seen.
Francis - Rome, Saint John Lateran, 23 January 2021, Vigil of the Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales” Taken from:  http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/communications/documents/papa-francesco_20210123_messaggio-comunicazioni-sociali.html
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5/16/2021 0 Comments

6th Sunday of Easter - May 9, 2021

Our Lady of Peace Parish
Also Serving Our Lady of the Smile parish, Waterhen Lake and
St. Jude’s Parish, Green Lake

Office Hours For Parish Secretary: Monday - Friday: 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Office Hours For Fr. Doug: Tuesday - Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Office Phone:  306-236-5122 
Cell Phone: 306-304-7271

Parish Email: [email protected] Pastor Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Catholic Church Meadow Lake
Website: https://www.meadowlakecatholicchurch.com/
Address: 504-3rd Ave. East, Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1H5
 

“Proclaim a joyful sound and let it be heard; proclaim to the ends of the earth: The Lord has freed his people, alleluia” Cf. Isaiah 48.20
 
May 9, 2021  - 6th Sunday of Easter (Mother’s Day)
 
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. Doug Jeffrey, OMI
Parish Secretary:
Lorraine Thibeault
Pastoral Council Chair:
Doris Beaubien
Finance Council Chair:


Mass Attendance:  If you would like to attend mass on Saturday nights or Sunday mornings in Meadow Lake, please call the Parish Office 306-236-5122 BEFORE FRIDAY NOON and leave a message.  Reservations are necessary as we have limited capacity (30 people), and we do not want to turn someone away from the door.

SaskHealth/Diocese of Prince Albert Regulations – The presence of the Covid-19 variants continues to cause concern among health care professionals. The variants spread quickly and seriously impact our health and well being. Statistics show that they are also having a significant impact on younger people. Let us continue to exercise caution and get a vaccine if our doctors tell us we can. The virus has not gone away. As a result of the latest guidelines published by SaskHealth and communicated to us via our Bishop, Our Lady of Peace Parish can accommodate a total of 30 persons at each of our Saturday evening (7:00 pm) mass and Sunday morning (10:00 am) mass. If you would like to take part in our liturgy you must register, maintain social distance, wear a mask and sanitize your hands. A virtual liturgy continues to fulfill our Sunday obligation. Our Liturgies at Green Lake and Waterhen Lake are likewise limited by these regulations.
 

THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
  1. Mother’s Day – Congratulations and blessings to all our mothers and to those who fill a mother’s role.  We are so grateful for all your kindnesses and your love.
  2. Beginning May 1 and continuing throughout the month of May, each day, rain or shine, we will gather at the Grotto at 6:00 pm for the recitation of the rosary. Covid-19 protocols are in place. We can be (physically) 10 people asking Mary to intercede for us, but we cannot be more than 10 people.
  3. Beginning May 6, Fr. Doug will be out of the Office on Thursday afternoons.
  4. Join us for another Songs at Seven episode, Thursday, May 13 at 7:00 pm
  5. Saturday, May 15 will be the second of two presentations on the RCIA for those who have said yes to helping us welcome people who want to join the Church.
  6. Steps/Ramp of Parish Office – Some settling of soil has taken place. We will repair this as soon as possible. Please stay to the north side of the steps; for now, do not utilize the ramp. Thanks!


Mass Intentions
 
Mon., May 10 - Personal Intention

Tues., May 11 – 9:30 am (Facebook) - Frey Family by Geoff Frey

Wed. May 12 – 6:30 pm (Our Lady of Peace Church, Meadow Lake & Facebook) - +Violet Ernest by Joanne Martel
 
Thurs., May 13 - 9:30 am (Facebook) - +Doreen Sinclair by Wilf Sinclair
 
Fri., May 14 - 9:30 am (Facebook) - +Virginia Sinclair by Wilf Sinclair

Sat., May 15 – No mass because of the RCIA Workshop
 
Sat. May 15 - 7:00 pm (Our Lady of Peace Parish Hall, Meadow Lake) - People of God
 
Sun. May 16 - 10 am (Our Lady of Peace Church, Meadow Lake & Facebook) - People of God

Sun. May 16 - 12:30 pm (St Jude’s, Green Lake) - People of God
 

 
Pastoral Council Meeting Report: The Parish Pastoral Council met on Wednesday, May 5 at the Parish Hall. The Council began by reviewing some upcoming dates of interest for the Parish. Fr. Doug will be away for his retreat from May 24-June 1. June 4th is a tentative date for 3 candidates to celebrate their confirmation and first communion. Our Bishop elect, Fr. Stephen Hero, will be ordained Bishop and installed on June 11. Details forthcoming. Sr. April Mireau will be professing her final vows with the Sisters of Presentation on June 12. July 9 is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Peace.
 
Fr. Doug made mention of his involvement on the Evangelization and Catechesis Commission. The Commission members are studying the new Directory for Catechesis. The Directory is available for reading online, and Fr. Doug encouraged people to read the document. He highlighted two things about the Directory – the importance of meeting people where they are at, answering their questions rather than leaving them with information ‘we’ think they should know and the importance of realizing that everyone is responsible for sharing faith/helping others deepen their experience of Jesus and his death and resurrection.
 
As we reflected on our life here at the parish, it was noted that people are generally happy to take part in the live-streaming events – masses offered on Facebook. People really miss socializing as a parish community – visiting with folks around mass and parish events. We noted the generosity of parishioners around our food gathering projects. Sacramental celebrations have been reduced because of the pandemic. Some folks reconnecting with the parish via Facebook livestreaming. Longing to gather as a parish community for prayer, social moments, potlucks, K of C breakfasts and other moments.
 
We discussed a different approach to Baptismal Preparation – encouraging people to read the Gospel of St. Luke to get to know Jesus. The review of the ritual itself is still done so people are at ease during the ritual itself.
 
Next fall our sacramental programs will begin. This year 3 children will be confirmed and receive the Eucharist for the first time on June 4. The size of the gathering will be set by SaskHealth and Diocesan directives
 
We also discussed how we welcome adult people into the church and back to the Church. Seven people from our parish are taking part in the RCIA workshops on May 5 and 18 to see what we might be able to do. A good group of people are interested in helping. We also talked about how we welcome people back to Church. It is hard to simply walk in the doors of the Church. How might we encourage one another. The focus should not be on knowledge but rather hospitality.
 
The idea of having a parish mission with Sr. Rita and Sr. Diane (Sisters of Presentation) was discussed. This will be explored further.
 
We acknowledge that in our community Gangs/Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Domestic Violence are problems that ordinary people are working with. How might we help them? This needs some more reflection. Bring in speakers from the RCMP, Meadow Lake Mental Health Services? Let us talk about this and surface some ideas.
 
A mass with elements of Cree language and culture within it will be celebrated in Green Lake on May 16. Further efforts to bring healing and reconciliation will be developed and celebrated as we leave Covid19 behind.
A report from the Finance Council noted that the Landscape Committee has met and has begun its work. As of today, we are trending behind our total income for this quarter last year. We need to encourage one another not to forget to make our contributions to the Parish.
 
While the CWL are not having formal meetings, they continue to quietly make an impact in our parish community and beyond. They have had a successful drive for food (Door of Hope) in December, they have led the World Day of Prayer in early March, they had a successful St. Patrick’s Day tea and quilt show which was done through Facebook, they have prepared Easter cards for staff and residents at The Lodge, and they have had some additional online events. Likewise, the Knights spearheaded two highly successful food drives and they have had various online presentations and events.
 
All in all, the sense of the Council members is that people seem to be pleased with what we have been doing as a Parish.
 
Easter – The meaning of the Season (Taken from p 167 The Source Book For Sundays, Seasons, and Weekdays: The Almanac for Pastoral Liturgy, Liturgy Training Publications, Archdiocese of Chicago, Chicago, 2019) – …. the season of Easter is a preferred time for other celebrations of the sacraments of initiation.  Many dioceses schedule Confirmations during Easter Time.  For those parishes whose Confirmation celebrations occur close to or on Pentecost, the link between Baptism and Confirmation—between the Paschal Mystery and the descent of the Holy Spirit—is all the more apparent.  Baptism itself has a “paschal character” (OBC, 9), and celebrating the Baptism of children on Sundays of Easter emphasizes the initiatory character of the season, especially for those who were not present for the Baptisms at the Easter Vigil (and doing so especially during the Eucharistic liturgy).  First Communion practices vary widely from parish to parish and diocese to diocese, but one common thread is that they are often celebrated during Easter Time.  Even other sacramental celebrations, such as ordinations and weddings, frequently occur during the Easter season.  All of these celebrations are invariably joyful, and celebrating them maintains the joy of Easter throughout the entire season.
 
Landscaping Plans & Committee:  The Landscaping Committee met on Tuesday for a first meeting. We made some notes and gathered ideas. We will have some ideas for your consideration within the week. Stay tuned.
 
Fr. Kendrick from Goodsoil will be taking some time for prayer/retreat this week, and I will be covering for him. Please say a wee prayer for him that his time of prayer will renew him and deepen his commitment as a pastor for the people of Goodsoil, Pierceland and Loon Lake.
 
Grotto Rosary Project - May 2021 - Please note this project may be adjusted because of Covid-19. During the month of May, it is my hope to have people from the parish come and pray the rosary every day at 6:00 pm at our Grotto. I have prepared a list of intentions for the month. You are asked to come – rain, snow, wind, sun, or mosquitos and lead the rosary. All people are invited to come (masked, social distancing – not more than 10 people total), so you may not be alone. If you sign up to lead the rosary, you are responsible for leading the rosary! You can lead the rosary in the language of your choice, regardless of who else is there. If you need help to lead the rosary, an outline will be available in a plastic bag in Fr. Doug’s mailbox!
May   9 – For all mothers, living and deceased
May 10 – For the gift of peace
May 11 – For those who are struggling with addictions – led by Judy Barker
May 12 – For the grace to forgive ourselves – led by Marcella Miller
May 13 – In gratitude for the gift of the earth – led by Elsie Michel
May 14 – For the blessing of our seeds and the fields that receive them
May 15 – For farmers – their work with animals and fields – led by Marie Mamchur
May 16 – For those who work in our forests
If you would like to sign up to lead the rosary at the Grotto – rain or shine – just call Lorraine at the Parish Office (306) 236 5122 to let her know which day you would like to volunteer to lead. If Lorraine is not in the office when you call, please leave her a message with your name & phone number and the date you would like to lead.  She will return your call.  You are welcome to come any night at 6:00 pm to join with whoever is praying as long as we do not exceed 10 people. There is no need to register if you just want to come and pray.  Looking forward to seeing you as we gather in the presence of Our Blessed Mother, seeking the favour of the Lord.
 
SIGNS OF LIFE IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: May 2021 Webinar Series:  Join in this series to explore signs that new missional perspectives are bringing life to local congregations.
  • Each Thursday in May, starting May 6 at 3 pm (Saskatchewan) on Zoom.
  • 2 pm BC, 3 pm Alberta, 4 pm Manitoba, 5 pm Ontario & Quebec, 6 pm Maritimes, 6:30 pm Newfoundland
Free registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqf-ytqzosGdVoDhE6gNcveFr2JjU4-WCd
For further information, contact Archdeacon Cheryl Toth at [email protected].
May 6: Unmasking the Post-Covid Church  May 13: Fabulously Flourishing in the Local Church
May 20: Blessed to be a Blessing ... The Stewardship of Opportunity
May 27: To The Regions Beyond: Spiritual Care in Under-served Areas

This series is planned in the spirit of the LAURC Covenant by the Ecumenical Stewardship Committee of the Anglican Diocese of Qu'Appelle, the Saskatchewan Synod of the ELCIC, and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina.
 
May the Month of Mary 2021

From the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis:  As Pope Francis has reminded us "The month of May is approaching, a time when the People of God express with particular intensity their love and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is traditional this month to pray the Rosary at home within the family. The restrictions of the pandemic have made us come to appreciate all the more this “family” aspect, also from a spiritual point of view." In his May letter to the faithful Francis invites the faithful to pray the rosary and offers two additional Marian prayers that he is also committing to pray at the end of his rosary each day. Find the letter and prayers here:   http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/letters/2020/documents/papafrancesco_20200425_lettera- mesedimaggio.html

Also, Pope Francis is inviting all Catholics and Marian Shrines around the world to dedicate the month of May to a marathon of prayer for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic. Read the full article here: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-04/pope-francis-shrines-may-2021-prayer-end-pandemic.html

Marian Activities for Children:  Marian Treasure Hunt from Loyola Press
Honouring Mary with Your Kids from Catholic Icing
In 2018 a new Marian feast day was introduced. It is celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost Sunday, this year May 24, 2021. Here are some ideas for celebrating the day Mary, Mother of the Church (Feast Ideas for Kids) from Catholic Icing

Marian Activities for Children from Busted Halo:  The Rosary in Two Minutes; How did the Rosary become associated with Mary; Mary in Two Minutes; and Who were Mary's Parents and What do We Know About Them?
More Resources from Loyola Press

Adult Faith Resources
Marian Resources from Loyola Press
The Rosary in Two Minutes from Busted Halo 
For more children, youth, and adult faith resources go to the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis webpage or follow us on Facebook.

OUR LADY OF LOURDES SHRINE - BOARD AGM:
  Saturday, May 29, 2021 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Little Log Church @ St. Laurent Shrine.  If you are interested in attending, please call Linda at 306-763-3014 or 306-941-1976.

CATHOLIC FAMILY SERVICES
CLIMBING THE ROCK – A Program for Youths Exposed to and Healing from Trauma
This class is being offered For teens between the ages of 13 and 17 years over two Saturday sessions.
Date: May 8 and May 9 Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Transportation available
No fee – This class is funded by the Ministry of Justice – Victim Services
 
RIDING THE WAVE - A Program for Children ages 6 - 12 exposed to Violence and Trauma and their families.  This class is being offered over a weekend (Saturday and Sunday) Date: May 15 and 16
Time: 9 am to 12 noon.  Transportation provided if needed
No fee – This class is funded by the Ministry of Justice – Victim Services

CALMING THE STORM- Anger Management for Adults - THIS IS A VIRTUAL CLASS.
A new session is posted each Monday for six weeks. The participant has the full week to view the lesson and complete the assignments.  Date: Week of May 24 – June 28
Time: At the convenience of participant within each one-week period
Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
PARENTING FROM THE HEART – For parents/caregivers of children 5 – 12 years
Date: Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30  Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Transportation available  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
AFTER THE STORM – A support program for women who have left or are leaving an abusive relationship.  Date: Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30  Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Transportation available  Fee: $25 – This class is partially funded by Community Initiatives Fund
 
TAMING THE TIGER – Anger management for children 5 – 12 and their parents/guardians
Date: Saturday, June 5 and Sunday, June 6  Time: 9 am to 12 noon  Transportation available
No fee – this program is funded by the Ministry of Justice – Victim Services

To register or for more information, call:   Catholic Family Services 922-3202 or 1-877-922-3202 or email  [email protected]


What’s your Catholic IQ?   Last bulletin’s question and answer:  The saint who loved animals so much that animals are now blessed on his feast day is (b) St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226).  He is the patron saint of ecology, the science of caring for our whole planet.  He was famous as a peacemaker.  He founded the Franciscans.  This week’s question:  The patron saint of France who cut her hair and dressed in armour to lead the army was (a) St. Joan of Arc (b) St. Mary Magdalene (c) St. Genevieve (d) St. Gertrude.

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