March 2026 – Diocese of Saskatoon

Mar 31

Chrism Mass Homily (video)

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Bishop Mark Hagemoen presided at the Mass of Chrism March 31, 2026 in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. View a video of the bishop’s homily as clergy from across the diocese celebrated the anniversary of the institution of their priesthood:

Mar 31

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Bishop Hagemoen presides at annual Chrism Mass; milestone ordination anniversaries acknowledged at banquet

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Representatives from across the diocese of Saskatoon — clergy, consecrated religious, and laity — joined Bishop Mark Hagemoen for the annual Chrism Mass on March 31, 2026.

The joyful diocesan celebration at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon celebrated the institution of the ministerial priesthood by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper, a renewal of priestly commitment by clergy from across the diocese, and the blessing of sacred oils to be used in celebrating sacraments throughout the diocese in the year ahead.

Chrism Banquet

A traditional diocesan dinner for priests and parish representatives was held before the Chrism Mass, emceed by Jennifer Rommens of Saint Anne Parish, Saskatoon.

As part of the banquet program, Bishop Mark Hagemoen acknowledged milestone anniversaries of ordination that will be celebrated by priests in the diocese in 2026, including:

20 years – Fr. Peter Olisa
25 years – Fr. Michael Magaji
30 years – Fr. Demetrius Wasylyniuk, OSB
40 years – Fr. Les Paquin and Fr. Stefano Penna
60 years – Fr. Bill Stang, OMI

Chrism Mass

The joyful celebration of the Chrism Mass that followed the banquet included a re-commitment to priestly ministry by the clergy, led by Bishop Mark Hagemoen.

Oils were then brought forward for blessing by oil bearers Sr. Renee Buliard, SMS, and Edgar Neudorf (Oil of the Sick); by Daniel Pettipas and Jennifer Stromme (Oil of Catechumens); and by Fr. Colin Roy and Fr. Matthew Ramsay (Sacred Chrism).

Music ministry was provided by a diocesan choir directed by Shaun Bzdel, with participation from parish musicians and singers from across the diocese

Live-stream of Chrism Mass

The Chrism Mass was live-streamed on the diocesan YouTube Channel and at https://saskatoonmass.

View the bishop’s homily:

Photos – Banquet & Chrism Mass:

Volunteers and Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff welcome parish representatives from across the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon to the 2026 Chrism Banquet. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

In the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon the annual Chrism Mass and Banquet is attended by both the clergy and parish representatives from across the diocese. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Members of the Eritrean Catholic Community of Saskatoon were among those attending the 2026 Chrism Mass banquet — it was the first diocesan Chrism Mass attended by recently-arrived priest Fr. Tekkie Kidane Michael, who serves the community in Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Representatives from pastoral regions of the Kerrobert and Macklin areas of the diocese were among those at the 2026 Chrism Mass banquet. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Chrism Banquet (l-r): Fr. Ken Webb of the Sacred Heart Latin Mass Community, retired diocesan priest Fr. Denis Phaneuf, and Fr. Pius Schroh, pastor of parishes at Bruno and Peterson, SK, at this year’s diocesan event. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Parish representatives, religious, and clergy attend the Chrism Banquet in the diocese of Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Jennifer Rommens of Saint Anne Parish in Saskatoon was MC for the Chrism banquet. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen speaks at the 2026 Chrism Banquet in the Roman Catholic Dicoese of Saskatoon on March 31. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Chrism Banquet 2026. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

During the banquet program Bishop Mark Hagemoen congratulated Fr. Peter Olisa, pastor of parishes in Watrous, Young, and Imperial, celebrates his 20th anniversary of priestly ordination in 2026. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Fr. Stefano Penna (left) pastor of St. Paul Co-Cathedral in Saskatoon will celebrate his 40th anniversary of ordination in 2026, along with Fr. Les Paquin. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Chrism Banquet 2026. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Chrism Mass

The Chrism Mass was held on the Tuesday of Holy Week 2026 March 31. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Chrism Mass entrance procession (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

A diocesan choir with representatives from across the diocese provided music ministry for the Chrism Mass. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

First reading proclaimed in English by Sr. Malou Tibayan of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Cantor leads the response to the psalm. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Victor Granger proclaimed the second reading in French. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Deacon Nicholas Blom of St. Mary Parish in Saskatoon proclaimed the Gospel. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Priests from across the diocese renewed their commitment to the ministerial priesthood at the diocesan Chrism Mass. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Oil bearers Edgar Neudorf and Sr. Renee Buliard, SMS, who both provide spiritual care in the diocese, present to the bishop the oil to be blessed as the Oil of the Sick. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Oil bearers Daniel Pettipas and Jennifer Stromme of the Saint Anne Parish RCIA program brought forth the oil to be blessed as the Oil of Catechumens.

Bishop Mark Hagemoen receives the oil (to be blessed as the Oil of Catechumens) from Jennifer Stromme, who will be baptized at this year’s Easter Vigil. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Fr. Colin Roy and Fr. Matthew Ramsay bring forward the oil to be blessed as Sacred Chrism. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Blessing of the sacred oils. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskaton News)

Bishop Hagemoen pours the balsam perfume into the oil to be blessed as Sacred Chrism. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Preparing the oil for blessing as Sacred Chrism. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon

Blessing the Sacred Chrism Oil. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

Priests from across the diocese joined in the prayer to bless the Sacred Chrism Oil. Blessing the Sacred Chrism Oil. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

The Charteris family of Kerrobert brought forward the gifts for celebration of Holy Eucharist. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

Priests sharing a sign of peace at the altar during the Chrism Mass. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

Recessional procession at the end of the Chrism Mass. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

Priests acknowledged the bishop with applause and singing of a hymn together at the conclusion of Mass. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon)

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Kiply Lukan Yaworski is the communications coordinator for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon: rcdos.ca.

Communications and Catholic Saskatoon News are supported by gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal: dscf.ca/baa.

Mar 29

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Bishop Hagemoen’s Palm Sunday Homily (video)

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Bishop Mark Hagemoen celebrated Mass for Palm Sunday of the Passion of Our Lord March 29 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon. View a video of his homily for the start of Holy Week:

Mar 29

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Bishop participates in Lenten40 pilgrimage run

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Beginning and ending under the large crucifix set up a few days before on the grounds of the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, some 90 runners took part in the 2026 Lenten40 relay run on March 28, the day before Palm Sunday.

Runners start the Lenten40 on the morning of March 28, setting out on the first leg of a 41.9-km course from the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, through the river valley, past St. Paul Co-Cathedral in downtown Saskatoon, and back again. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen stresses that the Lenten40 is not a race or a competition or a marathon. Instead, he explains that the event is a pilgrimage — to be framed in prayer and tackled as a spiritual exercise, connected to Lenten sacrifice and grounded in meditation upon the saving passion of Jesus Christ.

“The hope is that the Lenten40 is a time of spiritual recollection for all the participants, a time when we think about what Jesus has done for on his journey – his pilgrimage – to the holy cross, by which he saved the world,” says Saskatoon’s bishop, who participated as a runner in the fourth annual event.

The bishop was also again on hand to lead Stations of the Cross the night before, and to celebrate Holy Eucharist on the morning of the pilgrimage run, as well as blessing the crosses that the runners carry in the relay from one leg to the next. In addition he leads both the opening and closing prayer on the event day.

Bishop Hagemoen has also laid out themes for each of the four legs of the 41.0 course, based on the mysteries of the rosary, which are posted on the event website at www.lenten40.com

The Lenten40 pilgrimage begins and ends with prayer led by Bishop Mark Hagemoen. (Photo by Hannah Berry, courtesy of Lenten40)

Run becomes part of Lenten journey

“It has been really special to work with the bishop on this event each year,” says Lenten40 organizer Dominic Montpetit, describing how the relay has become an annual Lenten discipline for many of those who participate.

“Many of the participants will share different stories about the run and the impact – and every year a lot of people come back and are doing it again, or bringing other friends or family into it,” he says.

Organizer Dominic Montpetit welcomes particpants to the fourth annual Lenten40 pilgrimage relay March 28 in Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

“I do think it’s a really good way to enter into Holy Week. It becomes part of people’s Lent every year, because it is not just the race, you have to prepare before, you have to do some training… and it is in their mind what they are training towards,” says Montpetit. “It is not just a run, but again it is a pilgrimage, a call to enter into the way of suffering. It is not an easy run, with the conditions and some of the distances.”

Participants appreciate the opportunities that the Lenten40 provides, he adds. “I just heard feedback from somebody who said what a blessing it is for him to be able to run the Lenten40 with his kids the last couple of years, and how he never thought he would be able to run this far in his life. It has been a cool experience for their family to do it together.”

Montpetit observes that as runners finish each leg there are moments of joy and satisfaction after the great effort — a concrete reflection of the Paschal Mystery, in which Good Friday is followed by the Easter resurrection.

“People really enjoy having the opportunity to do this as a community – to do this in our diocese together with family and friends, and to enter into that Lenten season together. “

Lenten40 participants from Holy Cross Catholic High School in Saskatoon stand with Bishop Mark Hagemoen (right) before the pilgrimage run. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Related: Easter message from Bishop Mark Hagemoen – LINK

Easter celebrations in parishes across the diocese – LINK

Montpetit also stresses the vital importance of the volunteers who provide support with all aspects of the event.

“We could not do this event without all the volunteers …there is lots of support from family members and friends,” says Montpetit. About 25 volunteers were on hand this year, stepping up as trail guides, marking the course, manning the check points on each of the four legs, working as shuttle divers, assisting with photography, social media, and managing website design, he notes.

Montpetit says that if anyone is interested in getting involved in any way, the next Lenten40 falls on Saturday, March 20, 2027. Those interested can contact lenten40km@gmail.com for information.

“We want to grow this as much as we can and impact as many people as we can. We really do this to bless others and have them experience this pilgrimage,” he says.

Photos

Participants gather in the hall at the Cathedral of the Holy Family before the start of Lenten40. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Preparing for the Lenten40 March 28. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Hagemoen provided practical information about the Lenten40 course before leading participants in prayer. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Organizer Dominic Montpetit hands a cross to a Lenten40 participant as Bishop Hagemoen prays a blessing. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

A Lenten40 participant about to set off on Leg 1 of the 41.9-km course accepts a cross from Dominic Montpetit as Bishop Mark Hagemoen prays a blessing. Some 90 runners and 25 volunteers participated in this year’s Lenten40 March 28. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Leg 1 runners were presented with a cross to carry in the pilgrimage relay, blessed by Bishop Mark Hagemoen. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

Bishop Mark Hagemon leads a prayer before the start of the Lenten40. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

Lenten40 organizer Dominic Montpetit speaks at the start of the event. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

Members of the Catholic Women’s League team prepare for the Lenten40. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Sr. Marta Piano (left) and Sr. Sol Abala (in pink) of the Verbum Dei Misisonary Fraternity with members of a Lenten40 team from St. Therese Institute of Faith and Mission, Bruno, SK. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

The starting/finishing line for the Lenten 40 stands underneath a large crucifix raised on the grounds of the Cathedral of the Holy Family for Holy Week 2026. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Runners tackling Leg 1 of the Lenten40 pilgrimage prepare to start.

Starting Leg 1 of the 41.9-km course. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

(Photo by Hanna Berry, Lenten40)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen at the 2026 Lenten40. (Photo by Hanna Berry, Lenten40)

Passing the cross to a team member on the Lenten 40 course. (Photo by Hanna Berry, Lenten40)

(Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

Volunteers are vital to the Lenten40 event. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

Camaraderie on the course. (Photo by Hanna Berry, Lenten40)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen participates in the Lenten40. (Photo by Hanna Berry, Lenten40)

(Photo by Hanna Berry, Lenten40)

The last stretch of the pilgrimage run. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

(Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen offers a closing prayer of praise and thanksgiving to wind up the 2026 Lenten40 pilgrimage. (Photo by Hannah Berry, Lenten40)

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Mar 26

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Crucifix again raised on cathedral grounds in preparation for Holy Week 2026

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

On a cold and blustery spring day, a crucifix was again raised on the grounds of the Cathedral of the Holy Family in preparation for Holy Week in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Bishop Mark Hagemoen joined the volunteer work crew to raise the outdoor cross at the Saskatoon cathedral on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

The crucifix was rebuilt this year on a more stable, taller tree trunk now serving as the cross. Preparing and raising the cross were Curtis Mann, Derek Boldt, and Jon and Finn Neufeld.

(Photo by Bishop Mark Hagemoen)

The crucifix was first raised on the cathedral grounds in 2020, when COVID-19 pandemic restrictions prevented many from venerating the cross during traditional Good Friday solemn liturgies. The tradition has continued each year since.

A Lenten 40 relay run will start and end at the foot of this cross on Saturday, March 28, when runners will tackle four legs of a 41.9 km pilgrimage course through Saskatoon’s river valley, before returning to the foot of the cross to conclude the event combining the physical and the spiritual.

Related: Parish Easter Triduum schedules – LINK

Photos

The cross was raised on the cathedral grounds by (l-r) Derek Boldt, Finn Neufeld, Jon Neufeld, Bishop Mark Hagemoen, and Curtis Mann. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

Preparing the new, taller base of the cross. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen (right) discusses placement of the crucifix on the grounds of Saskatoon’s cathedral. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

The bishop works to prepare the cross. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

Curtis Mann and Jon Neufeld carry out the carved figure of Jesus to place on the new, larger cross. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

Finn Neufeld brings needed materials to the site. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

Raising the cross on a snowy spring day March 26, 2026. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)

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Mar 20

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Bishop blesses new entrance at Saskatoon’s Catholic hospital

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

The bright and busy new entrance of St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon was the site for a blessing liturgy on a recent Friday afternoon.

During the March 20 gathering in the entrance lobby near the patient registration desk, Saskatoon Bishop Mark Hagemoen led the liturgy, joined by Deacon Harry Lafond of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation; Hospital Chaplain Fr. Benedict Arakkal; and diocesan Vicar General Fr. Kevin McGee, pastor of nearby St. Mary Parish.

A number of Catholic health leaders and members of hospital administration and staff gathered for the liturgy near the patient registration desk in the entrance lobby. The short service included scripture, reflections, and prayers for all those who walk through the doors, both patients and staff, including a prayer of praise to God in the six directions led by Lafond.

Reflections by Hagemoen and Lafond acknowledged the vital and ongoing importance of the hospital — which was founded by the Grey Nuns more than a century ago — to the surrounding neighbourhood and to the wider community. An entrance is significant in offering welcome and belonging, noted Hagemoen, stressing that the work undertaken by hospital staff is not simply medical and technical, but sacred.

Official opening Jan. 28

A message from the diocesan bishop was part of an official ribbon-cutting opening celebration Jan. 28, however Hagemoen was unable to attend that earlier event in person.

The Catholic hospital’s main entrance renovation includes a new accessible main entrance with a covered drive and drop-off area for patients, a bright and welcoming foyer, and a new Kikâwînaw wîki Healing Centre – Cree for “Our Mother’s Home,” the new healing centre adjacent to the main entrance provides space for reflection and Indigenous cultural ceremonies.

The expanded entrance area also includes additional washrooms, a spacious gift shop, and relocated patient registration, visitor information and protective services areas.

Photos from March 20 blessing

Before the liturgy to bless the new hospital entrance, Bishop Mark Hagemoen greets St. Paul’s Hospital Executive Director Carrie Dornstauder as Deacon Harry Lafond and his wife Germaine (seated at left) look on. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Fr. Kevin McGee, Deacon Harry Lafond, and Bishop Mark Hagemoen (l-r) prepare for the blessing liturgy March 20 at the entrance of St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Scripture, hymns, prayer and reflection were part of the brief blessing liturgy for the newly-renovated hospital entrance. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Left to right: Hospital Chaplain Fr. Benedict Arakkal, St. Mary Parish Pastor Fr. Kevin McGee, Deacon Harry Lafond, and Bishop Mark Hagemoen. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Deacon Harry Lafond of the Diocese of Prince Albert, who serves as Indigenous Scholar at St. Thomas More College in Saskatoon, proclaimed the Gospel. provided a reflection, and led prayer in the six directions during the March 20 liturgy at St. Paul’s Hospital. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen reflected on the sacredness of the care, compassion and outreach offered at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen blesses the holy water before blessing the new entrance at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen blesses the hospital entrance. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Blessing the newly-renovated hospital entrance. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen blesses the new entrance. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Fr. Kevin McGee leads a closing hymn. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

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Kiply Lukan Yaworski is the communications coordinator for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon: rcdos.ca.

Communications and Catholic Saskatoon News are supported by gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal: dscf.ca/baa.

Mar 18

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Confirmations continue across diocese before Easter

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Bishop Mark Hagemoen celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation with youth from several parishes March 10-17, 2026, including:

March 10 at St. Patrick Parish, Saskatoon;
March 14 at St. Mary Parish, Macklin, SK;
March 15 at St. James Parish, Wilkie, SK;
March 15 at St. Peter Parish, Unity, SK;
March 17 and 18 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, Saskatoon;
March 21 at St. Theresa Parish, Lintlaw.

These follow earlier confirmations at St. Philip Neri and St. Joseph Parishes in Saskatoon.

After Easter, the schedule will continue, beginning with Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Saskatoon on April 17, and Saint Anne Parish, Saskatoon on April 18.

An earlier start to the bishop’s confirmation schedule was necessary in order to fit in the 37 celebrations across the diocese this year, which will conclude at the end of June.

St. Mary Parish, Macklin – March 14:

Bishop Mark Hagemoen and Pastor Fr. Rev. Santhosh Thekkekulam, VC, with youth confirmed March 14 at St. Mary Parish in Macklin, SK (Submitted photo)

Photos from St. Patrick Parish, Saskatoon March 10, 2026:

Confirmation at St Patrick Parish in Saskatoon March 10, 2026 (Facebook)

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Mar 13

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First of three Spring Congress days held in Saskatoon: Bishop reflects on synodality

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

BIshop Mark Hagemoen gave an overview of synodality to open Spring Congress March 11 in Saskatoon. The Congress Day will be repeated April 18 in Watson, and April 25 in Kindersley. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Spring Congress 2026 focuses on listening to God and to others

“Speak Lord, Your Servant is Listening” – Congress Day theme resonates with implementation of synodality in the diocese

Bishop Mark Hagemoen and ministry leaders from the Catholic Pastoral Centre gathered with parish representatives at Holy Spirit Parish in Saskatoon March 11 for Spring Congress, reflecting on the call to synodality and exploring how listening and walking together is lived out in prayer, evangelization, ministry, and outreach.

The Spring Congress day will be repeated at two other locations in the diocese of Saskatoon — Saturday, April 18 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Watson, SK, and April 25 at St. Joseph Parish in Kindersley, SK (find registration at: rcdos.ca/spring-congress-2026).

Congress presenters from the Catholic Pastoral Centre (l-r): Marilyn Jackson, Sr. Malou Tibayan, Sr. Marta Piano, Jacqueline Saretsky, Myron Rogal, John Hickey, Quin Kleiboer, and Astrid Alas. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Holy Spirit pastor and chair of the Diocesan Synod Committee Fr. Joseph Salihu welcomed some 85 participants — including laity, religious and clergy — to the Congress Day.

Diocesan Synod Committee Chair Fr. Joseph Salihu, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish welcomed participants. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Elder Diane Anderson, who coordinates Restorative Ministry in the diocese, led the opening prayer in the six directions.

Diocesan Director of Ministry Services Marilyn Jackson led an introduction to the day, inviting those present to engage in a listening exercise.

The Saskatoon Spring Congress Day was held March 11 in Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen offered a reflection on the importance of synodality in the life of the Church, pointing to the need for collaboration among ordained and non-ordained, with all the baptized having a role in the gospel mission to proclaim Jesus Christ and God’s Kingdom.

Sr. Malou Tibayan of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity and a member of the Diocesan Synod Committee, gave an overview of the Synod on Synodality, introduced by Pope Francis in 2021 and now continuing under Pope Leo. She introduced a number of significant themes in the Synod of Bishops’ Final Document, which dioceses around the world have been asked by the pope to implement.

In a presentation entitled “Synodality: What is it? Why does it matter?” Sr. Malou Tibayan of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity highlighted information from the Synod on Synodality Final Document. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski,Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Sr. Marta Piano of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity introduced the Synod’s “Spiritual Conversation Model” as a method for Spirit-led conversations grounded in prayer and active listening – a process which has been used throughout the Synod.

The Synod’s “Spiritual Conversation Model” was introduced by Sr. Marta Piano of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski,Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

In his presentation, Evangelization and Mission Leader John Hickey emphasized the importance of listening and building relationships as the foundation of sharing faith with others.

John Hickey, diocesan Evangelization and Catechesis Leader, presented a talk entitled “See and Seize.” (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Listening to God and to others was emphasized by Quin Kleiboer, diocesan coordinator of Rural Catechesis, in a presentation on discernment and mission in parish catechesis: “Listening to Heaven, Listening to the Room.”

Coordinator of Rural Catechesis Quin Kleiboer reflected on the importance of listening to God as well as to those one is ministering to. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

As part of Congress Day, Fr. Darryl Millette summarized the work he does as diocesan Chancellor. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Diocesan Coordinator of Adult Faith, Astrid Alas, reflected on art and beauty as a bridge to encountering Christ.

Astrid Alas is an artist and designer as well as coordinator of the diocesan Adult Faith Office. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Myron Rogal of the diocesan Justice and Peace Office reflected on encountering God amongst the poor, drawing from teachings of the gospel, writings of the saints, and Delexi Te, the recent papal exhortation from Pope Leo on love for the poor.

Justice and Peace Coordinator Myron Rogal spoke about encountering God in the poor. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Jackie Saretsky, coordinator of Hospital Chaplaincy, spoke about the crucial role of listening in accompanying those who are sick or dying. She also introduced practical resources — a pamphlet from the Catholic Health Association of Saskatchewan (CHAS) on Accompaniment Through Illness: A guide to conversations about death and dying (LINK) and a brochure that has been developed to explain the Sacrament of the Sick (LINK).

Hospital Chaplaincy Coordinator Jackie Saretsky’s talk was entitled “From Accompaniment to Reconciliation.” (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

Time for discussion as well as a question-and-answer session were also part of the Congress Day, with a closing prayer by Bishop Mark Hagemoen.

Photos from the Congress Day in Saskatoon:

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski,Catholic Saskatoon News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski,Catholic Saskatoon News)

(Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)

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Mar 09

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Share Lent message from Bishop Mark Hagemoen

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Bishop Hagemoen – Share Lent message – PDF

Share Lent 2026

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The theme of this year’s Share Lent campaign is On Track for Justice.

The Gospel for the 5th Sunday of Lent is from St. John the Evangelist. Jesus raises from the dead His friend Lazarus. In responding to the ultimate obstacle to all human life – death itself, Jesus dramatically establishes his power over death, leading to a realization about what life and death are really about.

The First Reading from the Prophet Ezekiel is also incredible. Ezekiel’s dramatic vision of a whole people being reborn, brought out of graves, gathered and placed on their own soil corresponds vividly to the Easter hope that God’s people will not only be raised from the dead, but will be restored to the fullness of abundant life that Jesus promises all people. (see John 10:10)

In Dilexi Te – the first apostolic exhortation from Pope Leo XIV- the Holy Father calls our attention to the preferential option for the poor, a core component of Catholic Social Teaching that highlights how all people of good will work together to bring restoration and renewal to those facing poverty and other forms of disadvantage. To say that God has a preference for the poor does not mean he excludes people. Rather, Pope Leo XIV explains,

“…wanting to inaugurate a kingdom of justice, fraternity and solidarity, God has a special place in His heart for those who are discriminated against and oppressed, and He asks us, His Church, to make a decisive and radical choice in favor of the weakest.” (§16)

I also recall Pope Francis’s reminder to us about the pathway to peace: “If we really wish to prepare a path to peace in our world, let us commit ourselves to remedying the remote causes of injustice, settling unjust and unpayable debts, and feeding the hungry.”

Let us support the On Track for Justice appeal by a renewed commitment to have the same mind and heart as Christ Jesus in all things – He who holds in His Sacred Heart all our peoples of our world.

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops again designates the 5^th Sunday of Lent as Solidarity Sunday when our annual Share Lent collection will be taken up. On Sunday, March 22, 2026 I ask you to please be generous in donating to Development and Peace / Caritas Canada.

Sincerely in Christ,

Bishop Mark Hagemoen

Mar 09

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Confirmation 2026 season begins – Bishop Hagemoen confirms youth from several parishes in Lent

By Kiply Lukan Yaworski Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Bishop Mark Hagemoen confirmed youth from St. Philip Neri Parish, Saskatoon on a Friday in Lent, March 6 2026, as well as at St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon on the Third Sunday of Lent, March 8.

Other confirmations will also be held in the days before Holy Week, namely:

March 10 at St. Patrick Parish, Saskatoon;
March 14 at St. Mary Parish, Macklin, SK;
March 15 at St. James Parish, Wilkie, SK;
March 15 at St. Peter Parish, Unity, SK; and
March 17 and 18 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, Saskatoon.

After a brief pause, confirmations across the diocese will then continue after Easter.

The early start to the bishop’s confirmation schedule was necessary in order to fit in all the celebrations this year.

Photos from St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon

Pastor Fr. Hoang Nguyen (left) and Bishop Mark Hagemoen with confirmands from St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)

St. Joseph Parish, Saskatoon – March 8, 2026 Confirmation. (Photo by Armand Ian Vocalan)