Kiply Lukan Yaworski

St. Thomas More College community comes together to start the year off in fellowship

By Paul Sinkewicz, St. Thomas More College

Each year, the St. Thomas More (STM) community gathers in the college chapel to look for divine guidance in its mission of educating the next generation of leaders in our community.

On Wednesday, Sept. 13, the chapel was filled with voices both familiar and new at the 2023 Academic Mass.

On hand as celebrants were Bishop Mark Hagomoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, as well as Fr. Andre Lalach of the Campus Ministry team, and STM’s newest additions, Fr. Daniel Yasinski, who joins the Campus Ministry staff to preside over masses at the College. and Fr. Greg Smith-Windsor, who has joined the faculty at STM in the philosophy department.

The celebration began in a very special way, with Knowledge Keeper Jasmyn Albert performing a smudge ceremony.

After the bishop’s homily, Dr. Carl Still, President of STM College, presided over the commissioning of the STM community.

In the commissioning, those leading the college – faculty and staff – reaffirmed that they will work in partnership with its students for learning and growth, and to build a better society through the mission of the college.

The mission pledge states: “As the Catholic liberal arts college federated with the University of Saskatchewan, St. Thomas More College courageously explores the ‘riches of Revelation and of nature so that the united endeavour of intelligence and faith will enable people to come to the full measure of their humanity’. We are an inclusive community open to all persons.

“Through our teaching we are devoted to a partnership of learning and growth with our students which addresses the synthesis of faith and reason in all aspects of the human condition.

“The creative discovery of truth and its open dissemination nourishes our life as teachers and members of the wider academic and Catholic intellectual community.

“As a Catholic college we are called to share in Christ’s service to the people of God. Thus, the work of our college is not an end in itself, but must find application for the good of humanity.

I thereby promise to support and integrate the mission of St. Thomas More College during the upcoming academic year.”

 

 

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Bishop Mark Hagemoen celebrated an opening Mass with the 2023 residents at the Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation house Sept. 17.

The Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation program in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon is designed for young adults who are pursuing an “academic and vocational pathway” in life.

This includes men discerning ordained priesthood as well as men or women discerning religious life or professional lay ecclesial ministry in the Catholic Church.

Program participants live in community and pursue academic studies while discerning their life’s vocation, obtaining spiritual formation while they obtain a degree.

Program coordinators are the Verbum Dei Missionary Sisters — Sr. Malou Tibayan, Sr. Marta Piano, and Sr. Mirasol Abala — working in conjunction with diocesan Vocation Co-Directors Fr. Colin Roy and Fr. Dan Yasinski.

Learn more – LINK

Participants reflect – ARTICLE

Bishop Mark Hagemoen has officially launched an updated Pastoral Plan for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

He presented the updated plan at the annual Administration Day gathering of priests, parish staff and ministry leaders Sept. 14 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon.

The mission statement “To Proclaim Christ and God’s Kingdom Today” and the scriptural theme of “Have the same mind and heart of Jesus” (Phil 2:5) will continue, as will the six priorities identified in the Pastoral Plan that was first launched in September 2019.

Following several months of reflection on that original plan by the Diocesan Pastoral Council and feedback from a diocesan rural community task force, the updated Pastoral Plan includes several new “bullet points” under the six main priorities, which are:

• Draw people Into a deepening Intimacy with the Lord;
• Make every Sunday matter;
• “Embrace your priesthood” – Discerning God’s call to each person to share in the mission and life of the Lord;
• Build and support family and community;
• Promote the healing journey in the Lord;
• Move from maintenance to mission – Orienting parishes and church organizations from bureaucracy to pastoral effectiveness.

New “bullet point” suggestions and examples under the various priorities includes “promote understanding each other and growing in love for one another – the synodal way,” which reflects the ongoing Synod on Synodality underway in the Church, in particular as a response to increasing polarization in society, Hagemoen noted.

Other additions to the plan priorities relate to the increasing challenges facing a number of smaller rural parishes across the diocese that are faced with changing demographics and declining numbers. This concern was also echoed during a question period at Administration Day, in the comments of a rural parish representative describing challenges faced by small, struggling parishes.

As part of the review of the pastoral plan, the bishop noted that he created a Rural Community Task Force to reflect upon the plan and provide feedback to the Diocesan Pastoral Council specifically about how it can address rural issues. That input is reflected in new points in the plan, including: “sharing experiences, resources – from the rural to the urban;” “foster awareness of and relationship with rural parishes;” and “parish and diocesan re-structuring as an experience of the paschal mystery (new Pentecost versus dying and death).”

Other priority additions include focusing on “significant sacramental celebrations, such as baptism and funerals,” as key moments for evangelization and outreach.

Also, as part of promoting the healing journey, new points added to the plan include building “an awareness and relationship with Creation: foster stewardship;” and addressing “exploitative societal and cultural problems, i.e. human trafficking.”

Hagemoen noted that while it might not be possible for a parish to take on all six priorities, over the past four years “parishes have said what they have found helpful is focusing on ‘what are the one or two top areas that speak to our parish community and reality? Then these will be our focus.’”

Among the themes for the diocese and the ministries provided from the Catholic Pastoral Centre in moving forward with the Pastoral Plan and its priorities, is an ongoing focus on the universal call to mission and a commitment to actively live out the plan’s priorities, said the bishop. It includes “a belief and an ownership of the plan, a belief we can change the culture, especially where it needs to be changed, in our diocese and our context.”

In all of this, it is vital to “leave room for the Holy Spirit,” he added. “We need to put ourselves at the foot of the cross, and allow the Holy Spirit to work.”

Bishop’s Homily Sept. 17 – Introducing the updated plan:

RELATED: Administration Day 2023 held Sept. 14

RELATED: Ministry reports and events highlighted

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Priests, lay staff and ministry leaders gathered on the Feast of the Exultation of the Cross Sept. 14 for an annual diocesan Administration Day held at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon.

The day started with an opening Mass celebrated by Bishop Mark Hagemoen and a number of priests from across the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

“We begin the fall season with a very practical day,” the bishop noted in his homily. “I am inspired that this particular day falls upon the Feast of the Exultation of the Cross.”

He noted that the cross and “having the mind and heart of Christ Jesus” shows the way for parishes, ministries and the diocese to navigate and move forward in proclaiming the Kingdom of God in a spirit of humility and patience, even in the face of many challenges and a polarized, divided world.

The Administration Day program was led by MC Greg Chatlain, the new diocesan Director of Finance and Administration at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, and included introducing and welcoming new priests, parish and diocesan staff members, followed by a range of information updates and presentations about ministry and upcoming events and programs in the diocese of Saskatoon.

Pastoral Plan

Bishop Mark Hagemoen introduced the newly updated Pastoral Plan prepared by the Diocesan Pastoral Council after several months of reflection. Determining that the original plan launched four years ago in September 2019 is still pertinent, the decision was to update some of the priorities, rather than to launch an entirely new plan, he said.

The mission statement “To Proclaim Christ and God’s Kingdom Today” and the scriptural theme of “Have the same mind and heart of Jesus” (Phil 2:5) will continue, as will the six priorities identified in the Pastoral Plan – along with several additions. (See: related article HERE)

Catholic Foundation

Raissa Bugyi of the Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation, provided a presentation on planned giving, noting that information and a video about planned giving are now available to parishes.

Later in the day, Bugyi also introduced the Bishop’s Annual Appeal 2023, which will begin in parishes in October in support of a range of ministry and programs in the diocese of Saskatoon.

Administration and Finance

Amit Raj, the new Senior Accountant at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, provided information about the benefits and logistics of setting up electronic transfers to make payments. He noted that electronic banking has a shorter processing time than paper cheques, is less costly, and protects private information. He reviewed supports available from financial institutions and the diocese for making the transition, and best practices for security, administration and accountability.

Ejibha (Jibsy) Ehkeng, the new coordinator of Human Resource at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, gave a presentation about the importance of “Emotional Intelligence” in improving team performance and building empathic, compassionate workplaces and parish communities.

Information about other Administration and Finance matters included reminders about reporting and insurance, and an update about the diocesan Office of Migration’s work in refugee sponsorship.

Welcoming newcomers

As a Sponsorship Agreement Holder with the federal government, the diocese of Saskatoon was recently evaluated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Chatlain reported on behalf of Office of Migration coordinator Dr. Jan Bigland-Pritchard. The diocesan Office of Migration and its parish and community sponsorship groups passed that evaluation and were placed in the top category (A1) with no issues raised.

Dating from 2015, the diocese has sponsored 331 refugees to come to Canada, with another 144 either arrived or still in sponsorship to the end of 2022. In 2023, 27 people have been sponsored so far, with more applications underway. There are currently 13 parish refugee committees plus one community group community who are sponsoring refugees through the diocesan Office of Migration.

“September will be a big ‘graduation month,’ with 21 people completing their 12 months of sponsorship, noted Chatlain. “This is a huge achievement by the parish and community settlement teams, as well as by the newcomers themselves.”

“You Will Be My Witnesses”

A joint Bishop’s Annual Appeal and diocesan ministry “resource guide” publication was introduced during Administration Day. The 12-page booklet will be mailed to parishioners, as well as being available online at https://rcdos.ca/resource-guide

John Hickey, diocesan Evangelization and Mission Leader compared the 12-page booklet to the city of Saskatoon’s “leisure guide” of swimming lessons and recreational programs. In addition to diocesan programming, a number of parish and group events are also included in the publication.

A letter from Bishop Mark Hagemoen about the Bishop’s Annual Appeal and its 2023 theme “You Will Be My Witnesses” is also included in the resource guide publication, along with a BAA donation form.

Ministry Presentations

Ministry coordinators provided updates and information about programs and events during Administration Day, including Astrid Alas, Adult Faith coordinator; Myron Rogal, Justice and Peace coordinator; Sr. Marta Piano, co-coordinator of Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation Program; Jaqueline Saretsky, coordinator of Hospital Chaplaincy; and Marilyn Jackson, Director of Ministry Services. (See: related article HERE).

Development and Peace – Caritas Canada

Michael LeBlanc, provincial animator with Development and Peace – Caritas Canada, provided an overview of the Canadian Catholic organization and its work, describing the current “Stand for the Land” theme, and the work of the organization to raise awareness about issues, to encourage advocacy among concerned Canadians, and to raise funds to assist partners in the Global South.

Heeding the call of Development and Peace partner ERIC-Radio Progreso, the Canadian Catholic organization is mobilizing to support communities in Guapinol and the San Pedro sector in Honduras whose lands, waters, livelihoods and even lives are threatened by an open-pit iron mine. “Since the mine was irregularly established in a national park, it has polluted the rivers. The communities’ peaceful protests have been met with violence and repression. Trumped-up charges have been laid against 32 people, eight have spent over 900 days in detention, and three have been killed.”

LeBlanc noted that Development and Peace also supports humanitarian efforts in times of crisis, such as the recent devastating earthquake in Morocco. Development and Peace – Caritas Canada (DPCC) is in contact with organizations in the region, including Caritas Morocco. The wider Caritas Internationalis network, too, is mobilizing to help as necessary.

RELATED: Donate to Development and Peace – Caritas Canada online at: devp.org/en/ or call toll-free: 1-888-234-8533 or mail labelled donation to: 555 René-Lévesque Blvd West, 8th Floor, Montreal, Quebec, H2Z 1B1.

Other reports

Communication updates and diocesan communication platforms were also briefly reviewed at Administration Day, and Julie Leblanc, Executive Assistant to the Curia, provided information about an upcoming cybersecurity training session for pastors and Catholic Pastoral Centre staff.

Diocesan safeguarding coordinator Brenda FitzGerald joined Chatlain to provide an update about Covenant of Care safeguarding, including a new process for requesting a Vulnerable Sector Search for volunteers.

To conclude the day, Bishop Mark Hagemoen gave an update about policy development, before providing a closing blessing to participants.

 

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Ministry reports and events highlighted at Admin Day

A joint Bishop’s Annual Appeal and diocesan ministry “resource guide” publication was introduced during Administration Day Sept. 14 in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

The 12-page booklet will be mailed to parishioners, as well as being available online at rcdos.ca/resource-guide

John Hickey, diocesan Evangelization and Mission Leader compared the 12-page booklet to the city of Saskatoon’s “leisure guide” of swimming lessons and recreational programs – but for Catholics seeking programs and information about faith enrichment events.

Before the summer, Hickey contacted parishes and Catholic groups to invite event submissions, and a number of parish and Catholic organizations’ events are also included in the publication.

A letter from Bishop Mark Hagemoen about the Bishop’s Annual Appeal and its 2023 theme “You Will Be My Witnesses” is also included in the resource guide publication, along with a BAA donation form.

 

Adult Faith programs

Other ministry updates on Administration Day included information from Adult Faith Coordinator Astrid Alas about upcoming Awaken faith formation programs, including online webinars in fall 2023 and fall 2024: “The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church” online from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24, and “Everyday Apostles” online Feb. 20 and 27, and March 5 and 12.

Alas also introduced a video about the five-part “Church of the New Evangelization” in-person Awaken series to be held on five Wednesday evenings Oct. 25, Nov. 1-22 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, introducing Vatican II and papal documents about evangelization from four popes: Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis.

Speakers for the series are Sr. Mirasol Abala of the Verbum Dei Missionaries; Marilyn Jackson, Director of Ministry Services; Bishop Mark Hagemoen; Sr. Malou Tibayan of the Verbum Dei Missionaries; and Fr. David Tumback, pastor at St. Patrick Parish. Video:

She also reminded parish leadership about the Catherine of Siena Institute’s “Called and Gifted” program, which is available in the diocese of Saskatoon.

 

Justice and Peace

Myron Rogal, diocesan coordinator of Justice and Peace, spoke about a number of ongoing issues and upcoming events.

“We will continue to be looking at human trafficking, which was mentioned this morning during the presentation of the pastoral plan,” Rogal said, pointing to a “Working Toward Freedom” four-section resource about the issue created by the diocese of Saskatoon, the diocese of Victoria and the archdiocese of Vancouver, which is available on the diocesan website. He noted that this issue has also been taken on by the Catholic Women’s League both locally and nationally.

Another ongoing project is Grow Hope Saskatchewan, which brings together farmers and donors to raise crops that are sold in support of relieving hunger and increasing food security in marginalized areas of the world. “This year again we have 421 acres that can be sponsored,” he noted. Ecumenical partners include the diocese of Saskatoon, Development and Peace-Caritas Canada, Mennonite Central Committee and Canadian Baptist Ministries.

Rogal noted that Sept. 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and highlighted a “Walk for Reconciliation” event being held in Saskatoon that morning. A similar walk is also planned in Humboldt.

Former TRC Commissioner Wilton Littlechild is one of the speakers at an Oct. 26 event being held in Saskatoon in conjunction with the Catholic Health Association of Saskatchewan convention – the evening talk can be attended on its own, Rogal noted.

Nov 22 is “Red Wednesday” – the international day to recognize and to pray for persecuted Christians around the world. An ecumenical prayer service is planned for that evening, as well as a novena to St. Michael the Archangel beforehand, Rogal noted

Ongoing office support around the Diocesan Council for Truth and Reconciliation and fund-raising for the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund are also continuing. “We are available to give presentations on that fund,” he noted.

Another ongoing issue is working for those without housing in our city, working towards warm-up shelters and other outreach.

 

Sts. Benedict and Scholastica

Sr. Marta Piano of the Verbum Dei Missionaries provided a brief overview of the Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation Program, which offers human and spiritual formation in a community setting, to those engaged in an academic program, who are discerning priesthood, religious life, or lay ecclesial ministry.

So far, the program has included only men, but it is also open to women discerning religious life or ecclesial ministry, she noted.

Prayer, retreats, spiritual formation and community living foster this “integral formation” of young adults, Piano said.

Sts. Benedict and Scholastica is co-ordinated by the Verbum Dei Missionaries (Piano, Sr. Malou Tibayan and Sr. Mirasol Abala), on a team with Vocations directors Fr. Colin Roy and Fr. Dan Yasinski, and Bishop Mark Hagemoen.

 

Hospital Chaplaincy

Jacqueline Saretsky, coordinator of Hospital Chaplaincy, reported on her work with diocesan hospital chaplain Fr. Benedict Arakkal, providing spiritual care to patients at Royal University Hospital (RUH), Saskatoon City Hospital, Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, and the Leslie and Irene Dubé Centre for Mental Health.

“Fr Arakkal goes to all these hospitals, and he shares the load at St. Paul’s Hospital with Fr. Cosmas Epifano, OSB, who has been gratefully on loan to us from St. Peter’s Monastery out at Muenster.”

Regarding the ministry, she noted that Arakkal says Mass at RUH at 2 p.m. Sundays and at City Hospital at 4 p.m., for patients, their families, and staff. “So many of your parishioners from out of town come (to hospital), and it is good for you to have that knowledge, so that you can inform them,” she noted. “If you have a parishioner at one of the hospitals in the city, encourage them to ask for a chaplain upon admission, otherwise, we might not know that they are there… you have to request it.”

Right now, Saretsky also has a mission to educate people about palliative care, using the Horizons of Hope program developed by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. The goal is to have the program presented in every parish across Canada, she said.

“Many Catholics don’t know what palliative care is, and what it involves, and many Catholics do not understand what the Catholic Church teaches about end-of-life and the type of care that they have a right to receive,” she said.

“End-of-life care does not include Medical Assistance in Dying, also known as MAiD, which, bluntly stated involves euthanizing people by lethal injection – rather, palliatve care is care that supports the patient with compassionate physical, medical, social, and spiritual care until natural death.”

Any parish or group interested in the Horizons of Hope workshop can contact Saretsky at (306) 659- 5839 or jsaretsky@rcdos.ca

 

Evangelization and Catechesis

Director of Ministry Services Marilyn Jackson encouraged parish leaders to contact her office if they have any questions, requests, or ministry needs.

She also provided an update about initiatives in the diocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, including partnering with FacetoFace Ministries to offer confirmation retreats to young people in March 2024 at a number of locations. “All the confirmation candidates across the diocese will be able to choose one of those confirmation retreats to go to,” she said, encouraging parish leaders to watch for details in the coming weeks.

Jackson also highlighted sacramental preparation guidelines and resource materials available to parishes.

 

Marriage Movement

A marriage and family committee was recently formed in the diocese to identify features and gaps in the Pastoral Plan around the priority of “Building Family and Community.” The recommendation was to implement a “Marriage Movement” that will help to create social supports for married couples through small group gatherings.

A brochure about the initiative has been created inviting parishes to assist in supporting married couples and families through this movement. “We can provide support as a diocese, but it will only be successful if it is carried out at the parish level.”

 

Fall Congress

Jackson also highlighted the upcoming day-long Fall Congress on Thursday, Oct. 19 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, which is open to clergy, staff, lay leadership, and the general public. Registration can be found at: https://form.jotform.com/231977301558260

Keynote speaker for “The Lord Heals the Broken-Hearted and Saves the Crushed in Spirit” (Psalm 34:18) is Bryana Russell of Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries. Jackson introduced the ministry with a video about the Sanctuary vision of care and accompaniment. “If people are coming to us in their woundedness, we have to respond,” said Jackson.

Other speakers during the day will include a panel of grief support ministries in the diocese, including Dianna Knaus of Mourning to Dawn grief ministry for bereaved spouses; Sharon Powell of Transitions, which ministers to those who are separated or divorced; Anne Marie Hughes of the Saskatoon Pregnancy Options Support Centre, who will speak about post-abortion grief ministry; and Restorative Ministry coordinator Dianne Anderson, who will speak about ‘what grief and healing looks like in prison ministry.” There will also be information about Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit, pro-life Catholic grief ministry program for parents who have lost a child, from pregnancy through adulthood.

https://form.jotform.com/231977301558260

 

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“Rooted in Faith” was the theme of an opening day celebration for all teachers, staff, administration and board members of Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, held Sept. 1 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon.

MCs for the morning celebrations were Paula Fortier, principal of École Sr. O’Brien, and Maria Sander, Vice Principal of St. Philip School, who focused on the theme of relationships in their commentary and introductions.

A tipi set up next to the Cathedral was the site of an early-morning pipe ceremony with Elder Roddy Stonne to open the day. Before the opening Mass, Elder Jon Merasty and Maurice Bear provided an Honour Song.

Mass was celebrated by Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, along with Fr. Ivan Nahachewsky of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon, and a number of priests from across the diocese and eparchy.

In his homily, Bishop Hagemoen reflected upon five essential marks of Catholic education, citing a 2015 document from the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association, describing how Catholic education is:

• Inspired by a supernatural vision
• Founded on a Christian anthropology as revealed by God and our faith tradition
• Animated by communion and community
• Imbued with a Catholic world-view throughout its curriculum
• Sustained by Gospel witness.

“The Church sees education as a process that, in light of humanity’s transcendent destiny, forms the whole child and seeks to fix his or her eyes on heaven. The specific purpose of a Catholic education is the formation of boys and girls, men and women, who will be good citizens of this world, loving God and neighbour, and enriching society with the leaven of the gospel, and who will also be citizens of the world to come, thus fulfilling their destiny to become saints,” he said.

The bishop thanked teachers, staff, administrators and board members for their leadership and witness, and dedication to the accompaniment and mentoring of young people in Catholic schools, before concluding with a prayer for the World Day of Prayer for Creation, also marked on Sept. 1.

After the homily, all those present stood to make a Renewal of Commitment, pledging to use their gifts to serve all students who attend GSCS and help them respond generously too Christ’s call to be his followers; to recognize and embrace the diversity of gifts present in schools, and to work with fellow staff members to help students realize that the love of God “is forever and for everyone.” They also pledged “with humility, gentleness and patience of faithful disciples (to) endeavour to be living examples of joy in our schools, families, and community.”

Speakers after Mass included Diane Boyko, Chair of the GSCS Board of Education; François Rivard, GSCS Director of Education, and Laurie Karwacki, Chair of the GSCS Foundation. All three brought words of welcome, affirmation and encouragement for the upcoming school year.

The opening day keynote featured speaker and author Roy Petitfils of Louisiana,  who has worked with youth and young adults for more than 20 years as minister, a teacher, school administrator, school counselor and now as a counselor in private practice. His books include What Teens Want You to Know (But Don’t Tell You; A Practical Guide to High School Campus Ministry; and God Wears Running Shoes: Spiritual Reflections for Those Ministering to Young People.

Photo Gallery: LINK

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During the recent Russell Lake Pilgrimage near Behchokǫ̀, NT, Bishop Mark Hagemoen joined in the local celebrations July 18 and 19, as well as providing information and gathering feedback about an online Indigenous ministry education course offered in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

A few days after the pilgrimage, the area was under an evacuation order because of encroaching wildfires.

Saskatoon’s bishop was there as part of a process of evaluation for the Indigenous Pastoral and Lay Leader Ministry Education (IPL) program, launched in the diocese in 2020 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action.

A video overview about the IPL vision, methodology, objectives and impact provided context about the diocesan program, said Hagemoen. Indigenous Elders, Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders, and local clergy were then invited for their input.

“The reaction generally was positive. They appreciated the efforts undertaken to build awareness around Indigenous studies, spirituality and world view; about the impacts of colonialization and Residential Schools; and about the ongoing efforts of reconciliation, in particular the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Catholic Church,” said Bishop Hagemoen.

“Discussions also focused on what local people were looking for from their own local Catholic Church in their own Dene context,” he added. This includes a strong desire for practical outreach to youth and support for elders, as well as an emphasis on the importance of learning to pray and helping young people to pray, he said.

The visit was one step in a larger process of evaluation for the online certificate program related to IPL’s Pastoral Study Grant from the Louisville Institute. The evaluation process also includes a number of other such sessions, including with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Circle nationally, as well as forums in Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

IPL Background

Jointly sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, St. Thomas More College, and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, the four-course online Indigenous Pastoral & Lay Leader Ministry Education program (IPL) is led by teams of Indigenous and non-Indigenous instructors, modelling respectful and reconciling relationships.

The next course in the online IPL program –  “Introduction to Reconciliation: The Church and Indigenous Peoples” – will be held Sept. 26 to Nov. 21 from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoons. Registration is now open; cost: $200 per course (some funding assistance available). No prerequisite is necessary to take the course. (Those completing all four courses earn a ministry certificate.)

IPL Introductory Video:

During the recent Russell Lake Pilgrimage near Behchokǫ̀, NT, Bishop Mark Hagemoen joined in the local celebrations July 18 and 19, as well as providing information and gathering feedback about an online Indigenous ministry education course offered in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

A few days after the pilgrimage, the area was under an evacuation order because of encroaching wildfires.

 

Saskatoon’s bishop was there as part of a process of evaluation for the Indigenous Pastoral and Lay Leader Ministry Education (IPL) program, launched in the diocese in 2020 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action.

A video overview about the IPL vision, methodology, objectives and impact provided context about the diocesan program, said Hagemoen. Indigenous Elders, Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders, and local clergy were then invited for their input.

“The reaction generally was positive. They appreciated the efforts undertaken to build awareness around Indigenous studies, spirituality and world view; about the impacts of colonialization and Residential Schools; and about the ongoing efforts of reconciliation, in particular the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Catholic Church,” said Bishop Hagemoen.

“Discussions also focused on what local people were looking for from their own local Catholic Church in their own Dene context,” he added. This includes a strong desire for practical outreach to youth and support for elders, as well as an emphasis on the importance of learning to pray and helping young people to pray, he said.

The visit was one step in a larger process of evaluation for the online certificate program related to IPL’s Pastoral Study Grant from the Louisville Institute. The evaluation process also includes a number of other such sessions, including with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Circle nationally, as well as forums in Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

IPL Background

Jointly sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, St. Thomas More College, and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, the four-course online Indigenous Pastoral & Lay Leader Ministry Education program (IPL) is led by teams of Indigenous and non-Indigenous instructors, modelling respectful and reconciling relationships.

The next course in the online IPL program –  “Introduction to Reconciliation: The Church and Indigenous Peoples” – will be held Sept. 26 to Nov. 21 from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoons. Registration is now open; cost: $200 per course (some funding assistance available). No prerequisite is necessary to take the course. (Those completing all four courses earn a ministry certificate.)

IPL Introductory Video:

Renewing acquaintances

For Bishop Mark Hagemoen, the visit to the Russell Lake pilgrimage was also chance to visit the northern diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith, where he served as bishop from 2013 to 2017, before being appointed to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

“I was happy to renew acquaintances, and spend time with people I know, including Fr. Mick Fleming, CSsR, who served in the diocese of Saskatoon, and a seminarian that I brought in, Peter Dai Nguyen.” Also present were Fr. Bill Bernard, CSsR, and Liz Baile, an IPL instructor from the Northwest Territories.

 

Community threatened by fire

Shortly after the bishop’s visit, the Behchokǫ̀ community was one of those to be urgently affected by wildfires. The community of about 2,000 people, which is about 100 kilometres northwest of Yellowknife, was under an evacuation order as of July 24. While many residents left for Yellowknife, some stayed behind.

The Northwest Territories wildfire agency has reported that 4 homes were destroyed by fire at the edge of Rae (Behchokǫ̀), and as well as others along Highway 3.  “This is a serious loss for many and our hearts go out to everyone affected,” stated the agency in a report on the government website: https://www.gov.nt.ca/ecc/en/services/wildfire-update. NWT Fire noted that 48 structures were saved from the out-of-control wildfire by sprinklers and specialized gel.

“We pray for all those affected by the wildfires, and for the safety of residents and fire-fighters,” said Bishop Hagemoen. “We also give thanks that as the fire reached the edge of Rae (Behchokǫ̀), suddenly an east wind stopped it from coming into the town. Thanks be to God!”j

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During the recent Russell Lake Pilgrimage near Behchokǫ̀, NT, Bishop Mark Hagemoen joined in the local celebrations July 18 and 19, as well as providing information and gathering feedback about an online Indigenous ministry education course offered in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

A few days after the pilgrimage, the area was under an evacuation order because of encroaching wildfires.

 

Saskatoon’s bishop was there as part of a process of evaluation for the Indigenous Pastoral and Lay Leader Ministry Education (IPL) program, launched in the diocese in 2020 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action.

A video overview about the IPL vision, methodology, objectives and impact provided context about the diocesan program, said Hagemoen. Indigenous Elders, Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders, and local clergy were then invited for their input.

“The reaction generally was positive. They appreciated the efforts undertaken to build awareness around Indigenous studies, spirituality and world view; about the impacts of colonialization and Residential Schools; and about the ongoing efforts of reconciliation, in particular the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Catholic Church,” said Bishop Hagemoen.

“Discussions also focused on what local people were looking for from their own local Catholic Church in their own Dene context,” he added. This includes a strong desire for practical outreach to youth and support for elders, as well as an emphasis on the importance of learning to pray and helping young people to pray, he said.

The visit was one step in a larger process of evaluation for the online certificate program related to IPL’s Pastoral Study Grant from the Louisville Institute. The evaluation process also includes a number of other such sessions, including with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Circle nationally, as well as forums in Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

IPL Background

Jointly sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, St. Thomas More College, and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, the four-course online Indigenous Pastoral & Lay Leader Ministry Education program (IPL) is led by teams of Indigenous and non-Indigenous instructors, modelling respectful and reconciling relationships.

The next course in the online IPL program –  “Introduction to Reconciliation: The Church and Indigenous Peoples” – will be held Sept. 26 to Nov. 21 from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoons. Registration is now open; cost: $200 per course (some funding assistance available). No prerequisite is necessary to take the course. (Those completing all four courses earn a ministry certificate.)

IPL Introductory Video:

Renewing acquaintances

For Bishop Mark Hagemoen, the visit to the Russell Lake pilgrimage was also chance to visit the northern diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith, where he served as bishop from 2013 to 2017, before being appointed to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

“I was happy to renew acquaintances, and spend time with people I know, including Fr. Mick Fleming, CSsR, who served in the diocese of Saskatoon, and a seminarian that I brought in, Peter Dai Nguyen.” Also present were Fr. Bill Bernard, CSsR, and Liz Baile, an IPL instructor from the Northwest Territories.

 

Community threatened by fire

Shortly after the bishop’s visit, the Behchokǫ̀ community was one of those to be urgently affected by wildfires. The community of about 2,000 people, which is about 100 kilometres northwest of Yellowknife, was under an evacuation order as of July 24. While many residents left for Yellowknife, some stayed behind.

The Northwest Territories wildfire agency has reported that 4 homes were destroyed by fire at the edge of Rae (Behchokǫ̀), and as well as others along Highway 3.  “This is a serious loss for many and our hearts go out to everyone affected,” stated the agency in a report on the government website: https://www.gov.nt.ca/ecc/en/services/wildfire-update. NWT Fire noted that 48 structures were saved from the out-of-control wildfire by sprinklers and specialized gel.

“We pray for all those affected by the wildfires, and for the safety of residents and fire-fighters,” said Bishop Hagemoen. “We also give thanks that as the fire reached the edge of Rae (Behchokǫ̀), suddenly an east wind stopped it from coming into the town. Thanks be to God!”j

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Renewing acquaintances

For Bishop Mark Hagemoen, the visit to the Russell Lake pilgrimage was also chance to visit the northern diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith, where he served as bishop from 2013 to 2017, before being appointed to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

“I was happy to renew acquaintances, and spend time with people I know, including Fr. Mick Fleming, CSsR, who served in the diocese of Saskatoon, and a seminarian that I brought in, Peter Dai Nguyen.” Also present were Fr. Bill Bernard, CSsR, and Liz Baile, an IPL instructor from the Northwest Territories.

 

Community threatened by fire

Shortly after the bishop’s visit, the Behchokǫ̀ community was one of those to be urgently affected by wildfires. The community of about 2,000 people, which is about 100 kilometres northwest of Yellowknife, was under an evacuation order as of July 24. While many residents left for Yellowknife, some stayed behind.

The Northwest Territories wildfire agency has reported that 4 homes were destroyed by fire at the edge of Rae (Behchokǫ̀), and as well as others along Highway 3.  “This is a serious loss for many and our hearts go out to everyone affected,” stated the agency in a report on the government website: https://www.gov.nt.ca/ecc/en/services/wildfire-update. NWT Fire noted that 48 structures were saved from the out-of-control wildfire by sprinklers and specialized gel.

“We pray for all those affected by the wildfires, and for the safety of residents and fire-fighters,” said Bishop Hagemoen. “We also give thanks that as the fire reached the edge of Rae (Behchokǫ̀), suddenly an east wind stopped it from coming into the town. Thanks be to God!”j

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Bishop challenges pilgrims to be prophets of the new millennium

By Jonathan Perez, Catholic Saskatoon News

[CARMEL, SK] – As Catholic youth were gearing up for the 2023 World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, Bishop Mark Hagemoen urged those who participated in the Mount Carmel Pilgrimage July 16 to embrace their role as prophets of the new millennium.

On the feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the Mount Carmel Pilgrimage site west of Humboldt, to participate in the annual pilgrimage. The day commenced with praying of the rosary and Marian hymns, culminating in outdoor Mass with  Bishop Hagemoen, con-celebrated with Abbot Peter Novecosy, OSB, and priests from the area.

At the conclusion of Mass, the bishop carried the Blessed Sacrament to the top of the Mount Carmel hill to bless the surrounding fields.

RELATED: Mount Carmel Pilgrimage marked 100 years in 2022

During his homily, Hagemoen echoed the words of Pope Francis, calling on the pilgrims to embrace their prophetic calling and spread God’s word to all. He emphasized that each individual, through baptism, has received the gift of messianic prophecy, becoming a prophet themselves.

“The pope says, ‘Each of us, brothers and sisters, is a prophet. In fact, with baptism, let us all receive the gift of the messianic prophecy.’ He quotes the Catholic Catechism: a prophet is one who, by baptism, helps others read the present under the action of the Holy Spirit. It is essential to read the present, not like the news, but under the action of the Holy Spirit, who helps understand God’s plans and conform to them,” said Hagemoen.

Highlighting the significance of living according to Christ’s teachings, Hagemoen emphasized that being a prophet is not limited to mere words but requires actions that bear witness to Jesus and demonstrate His love and compassion to others.

“You and I are called to be prophets. As a bishop, my brother priests, and Abbot Peter [Novecosky], are called to be prophets as we live our ministry of priesthood and ordination. You are called to be prophets. Here is what the Holy Father says: ‘A prophet is someone who points to God, and who, by word and life, shows us how to be like Christ,'” he added.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical figure of Elijah, who challenged the prophets of the false god Baal on the historic Mount Carmel site in the Holy Land (as recorded in 1 Kings 18:16-45), Bishop Hagemoen encouraged the faithful to demonstrate the power of the one true God through their actions and devotion.

Further to World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, Fr. Gerard Cooper (rector and pastor of the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon), Verbum Dei Missionary Sr. Marta Piano, and a number of other adult leaders will accompany some 40 pilgrims from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon to the faith gathering, with another 30 from the Diocese of Prince Albert also joining them. Together, they will be part of a 5,000-strong Canadian youth delegation at the international event.

RELATED: Young pilgrims from diocese of Saskatoon prepare for World Youth Day in Lisbon Aug. 1-6

RELATED: Canadian delegation heading to World Youth Day – including Bishop Bryan Bayda and 12 other Canadian bishops

As the young pilgrims embark on this spiritual journey, Bishop Hagemoen’s message resonates, urging them to be modern-day prophets, spreading the message of love and hope to the world.

Photo gallery: LINK

Brief history of the Mount Carmel pilgrimage site:

• Sept. 10, 1922 – The Our Lady of Mount Carmel pilgrimage site is dedicated during celebration of Holy Mass, with some 3,500 in attendance from throughout St. Peter’s Colony, led by the Benedictines of St. Peter’s Abbey, Muenster.
• 1928 – An Italian-made white carara marble 2.5-metre-high statue of Mary holding the child Jesus was erected and blessed. The statue’s pedestal was struck by lightning in 1937 and 1950.
• 1938 – Stone mason and architect Antonion Molaro constructed the chapel from local stone.
• 1939 – Stations of the Cross, designed by Antonio Molaro, were canonically erected.
• 2019 – Lightning pole replaced and solar-powered light installed.

(A parishioner at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, Jonathan Perez is also a news reporter for Sask Today.)

 

Clergy from across the diocese gathered with Bishop Mark Hagemoen July 5, 2023 for an annual barbecue that included social time, soccer, and great food coordinated by a group of volunteers.

 

Photos courtesy of Fr. Stefano Penna, St. Paul Co-Cathedral:

Photos courtesy of Rita Flaman Jarrett, Catholic Pastoral Centre:

 

A group of Catholic men of all ages and states of life gathered June 30 at St. Augustine Parish in Humboldt to reflect on their primary identity as men of God.

Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon was guest speaker for the event, which also included time for table discussions and socializing.

The bishop addressed themes of baptismal identity and the seven cardinal virtues in his presentation.

He then explored features of male spirituality, including prayer, intimacy with Jesus Christ, life with others in terms of both community and service, sacraments, ongoing conversion, mission, evangelization, and the importance of hope and gratitude.

He also reflected on “living in the tension” of the Incarnation – which includes a “both/and” between immanence and transcendence, the heart and the law, love and truth.

“Our life is a journey – an adventure,” Bishop Hagemoen asserted, encouraging his listeners to be less activity-driven and more “receptive, trusting, and potent in Him.”

Questions for reflection addressed during discussion time included:

• What do you see as the biggest issue facing your family?
• Is anything happening at work that causes you concern about people knowing you are Catholic?
• What do you want from the Church?
• What do you remember most about Mass from when you were a kid?
• What is the biggest challenge you face as a Catholic man?
• How much freedom do you have as a Catholic man?
• What do you see as hopeful in our community/society/families and what can you do about it?
• At what point do we as laity address current social challenges and what do we do?
• What is the role of men in responding to our secular culture? How do we support women and families?

Photo Gallery:

 

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Another step on a journey of discernment and formation was celebrated on the Vigil of the Solemnity of St. Peter and St. Paul, June 28, 2023 at St. Mary Parish in Saskatoon, as three candidates for the permanent diaconate and a diocesan seminarian were instituted to the ministry of acolyte.

Bishop Mark Hagemoen presided at the institution of acolyte celebration for permanent diaconate candidates Nicholas Blom, Ryan LeBlanc, and Paul Wheeler, and for diocesan seminarian Luke Van Tam Tran.

“Acolyte” derives from a Greek term, akolouthos, meaning “attendant” or “server.” In the Roman Catholic Church, a person is installed in the ministry of acolyte in order to assist the deacon and the priest in liturgical celebrations, especially the Eucharistic liturgy.

Candidates for diaconate and for priesthood must receive the ministry of acolyte, and exercise it for some time, before receiving holy orders.

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal states: “The acolyte is instituted for service at the altar and to assist the priest and deacon. It is his place principally to prepare the altar and the sacred vessels and, if necessary, to distribute the Eucharist to the faithful as an extraordinary minister.” (GIRM 98)

It is appropriate that the institution of the four new acolytes was celebrated at St. Mary Parish in Saskatoon, noted St. Mary pastor Fr. Kevin McGee, Vicar General for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, who has also been journeying with those discerning ordination as permanent deacons in the diocese. Both Nicholas Blom and Paul Wheeler are St. Mary parishioners, and Ryan LeBlanc serves as teacher-chaplain at E.D. Feehan High School, which is a Catholic school served by St. Mary Parish. As well, diocesan seminarian Luke Van Tam Tran has just started a pastoral internship year at St. Mary Parish.

 

In his homily, Bishop Mark Hagemoen reflected on the role of acolyte. He noted that some may have heard more about the ministry of acolyte in January 2021, when Pope Francis announced a change in canon law to make the ministries of both lector and acolyte permanent in the life of the church, as well as officially opening both ministries to both men and women.

Since that announcement, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has been developing a theological and liturgical treatise about the ministry of acolyte, as a resource to making this a permanent ministry in the life of the Church, added Hagemoen.

However, the institution of these particular four candidates as acolytes is undertaken in the context of their “journey of ordination to the clerical status in the life of the Church; to diaconate and to priesthood,” he noted.

“The call and discernment for ministry in the Church occurs at the intersection of several components – the Church’s need, personal attributes and gifts, a desire to consecrate oneself to God through service to God’s Church and ministry, a call to ministry by the Church,” Hagemoen said, citing the reflection by the CCCB, and noting that the ministry is not merely about one’s own journey and giftedness, but is instituted within a discernment by the wider Church.

“The ministry of the acolyte is connected to the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. It is a part of the Church’s mission to the body of Christ,” he added. “The Eucharist is the theological foundation of the Church’s mission for the acolyte, for the acolyte serves not only the sacrament of the altar, but also the sacrament of the ecclesial body of Christ. We gather for the Church’s source and summit of Holy Communion, so that we may meet Jesus, receive Jesus, and become what we receive and then go forth to be for others what we have received.”

Citing the CCCB resource, the continued: “The spirituality of the acolyte is shaped by his or her service on behalf of the liturgical prayer of the community. It is the Eucharist in the broadest sense. The acolyte strives to be moulded more perfectly in the likeness of the Lord’s sacrifice, in giving his body and his blood for us and for our salvation. Thus a Eucharistic spirituality is for others. As the acolyte offers himself daily to God as a spiritual sacrifice, acceptable to him through Jesus Christ, he is reminded to be obedient to the Great Commandment – Love one another as I have loved you – by showing sincere love for Christ’s mystical body, for all God’s holy people, especially the weak and the sick. In doing this, the acolyte strives to make his life worthy of the service at the table of the Lord and of his Church. The acolyte enters more deeply into the Eucharistic mystery, more deeply into the life of the Eucharistic community as he shares the One Bread with brothers and sisters, he forms one body with them, sharing the joys and hope, as well as their grief and much anguish. Acolytes share a deep solidarity with the people of God because theirs is a community nourished by the Body of Christ, united in Christ and animated by the Holy Spirit in the pilgrimage from this life to the Father’s kingdom.”

The ministry is not about function first, but about a vocational call, said the bishop, “a relationship with the life and ministry and mission of Jesus Christ and his Church.” In terms of function, an acolyte is appointed to aid the deacon or priest in service of the altar and at the celebration of Mass. Other possible functions of the acolyte, when needed: distribution of communion, exposition and repose of the Blessed Sacrament, instruction of others to assist in liturgical celebrations, distribution of communion to the sick, and to celebrate or preside over Liturgy of the Word with distribution of communion when Mass is not available.

Institution to the ministry of acolyte followed the homily.

 

 

 

Video of Bishop Mark Hagemoen homily:

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