In response to requests for more information, this letter aims to provide more information on the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement (IRSSA), its impact on our archdiocese and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) which is part of that agreement.   Read More


Archbishop begins an online monthly journal
Don’t miss reading the Archbishop’s monthly journal / blog of his travels and celebrations throughout the month. 

In his last entry, he notes, the month of July began with a retreat, in his journal he shares his experiences there, where he’s pleasantly surprised to hear that both Rohr and Keating consider the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, to be in essence a step-by-step description of our spiritual journey.  Then he’s off to several pilgrimages including one on Lake Athabasca, which is hosted by the Dené people where he’s struck by the strong Dené Catholic religious traditions such as the rosary, processions and endless mass intentions.  He notes, “While these intentions might not be considered liturgical by many, at a deeper level I began to appreciate how these strong traditions involved the youth, which gave the people identity and provided a connection with their ancestors that was a source of strength for them.”  From there he was off to Colebay for a celebration of the sacraments of initiation at the outdoor grotto, then to Beauval for a blessing of tabernacle, to followed by a Cree mass and pipe ceremony at the St. Laurent Pilgrimage near Duck Lake.

The last event for the month of July was the Lac St. Anne Pilgrimage, where Fr. Susai, a priest from India, who in a short 9 months has begun to master the Cree language, presiding and preaching in Cree.  The event included, a grand entry with a drum, and the presence of chiefs who took time out from their AFN elections in Calgary to come to the celebration. 

The month ended with a birthday celebration for Fr. Bill who turned 70 this year, and some time at Clearwater Lake where he enjoyed the use of his kayak and sail board. 

It was a world wind month indeed.   You’ll have to read the blog to find out the details. You are also welcome to post a comment or question.  Enjoy.    Archbishop's Journal


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Youth Spiritual Walk

Here is a shot of the group involved in the sacraments of initiation in La Loche on Sunday  June 29th, 2008. There were 104 confirmed and of that number, about 25 of them made their First Communion so the whole group is now fully initiated in the life of the Church. They followed the Journey of Faith program with some of the parents participating over the last 8 months. Fr. John Zunti OMI is the pastor; the catechist was Jackie Lemaigre along with a team of volunteers.

Sr. Margaret Sadler sej Pastoral Minister in Lynn Lake
Alex McKenzie, parish council youth rep; confirmed last year; graduation this year; helping out with bible camp this summer. Fr. Bill Stang OMI, chancellor and vicar general.  Taken June 22, 2008

Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine
129th Annual Pilgrimage
St. Laurent, SK. (via Duck Lake, SK)

The 2008 Pilgrimage will take place July 15th, 16th, August 15th and September 8th at St. Laurent. The theme this year is "God's Healing and Care through Mary". Mass and Daily Novena Prayers start Sunday, July 6th and end Monday, July 14th. Sunday mass will be held at 4:00 p.m., and weekday mass will be held at 7:30 p.m. For more information, please contact the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Duck Lake, SK at 306-467-2003.
Pilgrimage Schedule:


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