Last weekend was just Amazing! The goodness that this parish showed towards its neighbours (especially those in need) was wonderful. Parishioners of all ages worked together as we were able to provide a van load of items to Michael House, a truckload for the St. Vincent de Paul Store, and several car loads of household items for Bridges Shelter. This while another group prepared a wonderful supper at the Out of the Cold Program, serving and feeding about 80 people. On Saturday evening, a beautiful Marian Crowning Mass with the memorable presence of children in First Communion attire, bringing forth flowers to honour our Blessed Mother. On Sunday, our Kids Khior offered us a wonderful gift at our 9:30am Mass and at our 11:00am Mass, couples celebrated their Anniversaries of Married Life.
A Parish Feast Day tells not only of the patron we celebrate, but of those who are celebrating. The Feast of the Visitation is about welcome, caring for our neighbour and nourishing Christ within. The Parish of Our Lady of the Visitation definitely is about welcoming others (we do that every weekend). But last weekend, there was no doubt we demonstrated the care and love of neighbour. As a result of both, Christ’s presence was nourished (within us and in those we helped). It was what a Feast Day should be.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Mother's Day
The month of May has traditionally been devoted to Mary. This month highlights the special sharing of our Blessed Mother in the paschal mystery of Christ, her Son. We are called to imitate Mary in her openness to God's will, in her prayerfulness of spirit and in her quiet dedication to the purpose and mission of her Son's life. Let us pray to God through Mary that every person may model her discipleship and her devotion to Christ, her Son. Our May Crowning Celebration will take place during the 5:00 p.m. Mass as part of our Feast Day celebrations on May 29th. This celebration is a part of our Parish Feast Day celebrations.
Our Parish Feast Day is a wonderful occasion to gather to give thanks - First and foremost, to Almighty God for all the blessings which He gives to us as a parish family. We also gather to give glory to our patroness, Our Lady of the Visitation, for her faithfulness to the Will of the Father in bearing the gift of God’s Son: Her faithfulness in becoming and being who the Father was calling her to be. May this Parish Feast Day inspire us to take time to consider, reflect on and become who the Father calls us to be, so that faithfulness can also be our mantel.
PRAYER FOR ALL MOTHERS
Eternal God, we ask Your blessing upon our mothers.
Bless all mothers who labour in the home for their families; give them courage and strength when the going gets rough.
Bless those mothers who are preparing for the birth of their child. Give eternal joy to our mothers whom you have called to be with You in eternal life.
We bring this prayer to Mary, the Mother of Your Only Son, so that she may intercede with Jesus our Lord who answers all our prayers. AMEN.
Our Parish Feast Day is a wonderful occasion to gather to give thanks - First and foremost, to Almighty God for all the blessings which He gives to us as a parish family. We also gather to give glory to our patroness, Our Lady of the Visitation, for her faithfulness to the Will of the Father in bearing the gift of God’s Son: Her faithfulness in becoming and being who the Father was calling her to be. May this Parish Feast Day inspire us to take time to consider, reflect on and become who the Father calls us to be, so that faithfulness can also be our mantel.
PRAYER FOR ALL MOTHERS
Eternal God, we ask Your blessing upon our mothers.
Bless all mothers who labour in the home for their families; give them courage and strength when the going gets rough.
Bless those mothers who are preparing for the birth of their child. Give eternal joy to our mothers whom you have called to be with You in eternal life.
We bring this prayer to Mary, the Mother of Your Only Son, so that she may intercede with Jesus our Lord who answers all our prayers. AMEN.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Praying for our Holy Father
PRAYER FOR POPE BENEDICT XVI
Lord, source of eternal life and truth,
give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit
of courage and right judgment, a spirit
of knowledge and love. By governing
with fidelity those entrusted to his care,
may he, as successor to the Apostle
Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your
Church into a sacrament of unity, love
and peace for all the world. Amen.
V/ Let us pray for Benedict, the pope.
R/ May the Lord preserve him,
give him a long life,
make him blessed upon the earth,
and not hand him over
to the power of his enemies.
V/ May your hand
be upon your holy servant.
R/ And upon your son,
whom you have anointed.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Holy Week Celebrations
HOLY THURSDAY - MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
On Holy Thursday we commemorate the Last Supper that Christ had
with his Apostles. At the Supper he anticipated his death and offered
them his Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine.
He commanded his apostles to repeat this action saying “Do this in
Memory of Me”. At the beginning of this Mass, the tabernacle is
empty, since we are remembering the First Eucharist.
This evening we also remember the “New Commandment” that Christ
left us at the Last Supper, “Love one another as I have loved you”.
Some parishioners will have their feet washed by the priests to
remember how Christ humbled himself and washed his disciples feet.
As Christians we are called to humble ourselves and serve others. It
is only by frequently receiving Jesus in Holy Communion that we can
be transformed into his likeness and love as he loved. After this Mass
is concluded, the Blessed Sacrament is carried in procession to the lower level of the Church for prayer and adoration. This is to recall
Christ’s Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane where he went to pray
with his disciples. Peter, James and John fell asleep. Christ asked them
“Could you not spend one hour with me?’ We spend time in prayer
and adoration this night to make reparation for all the times we have
fallen asleep and failed to keep vigil with Christ. We are pleased to welcome Bishop Ustrzycki to lead us in this celebration which begins at 7:00 p.m..
GOOD FRIDAY
On Good Friday, we commemorate the death of Jesus on the cross for
our salvation. There will be two celebrations on Good Friday, 11:00a.m. and 3:00 p.m. On this day our parish also sponsors a Fishy Fry from 4:00-7:30pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall. We also mark the Stations of the Cross (lead by our youth) at 7:00pm.
HOLY SATURDAY
Holy Saturday remains a day of mourning, fasting and prayer – joining
Christ in his descent among the dead. We commemorate the
“absence” of Christ by refraining from celebrating the sacraments
during the day.
We mark the custom of blessing the food for Easter celebrations at 1:00pm
EASTER VIGIL
The Easter Vigil, which begins at 7:00p.m., is the highest point of our Liturgical year. On this night we commemorate Christ’s Glorious Resurrection from the dead.
The evening begins in complete darkness – to represent the darkness that
covered the world without Christ. The Easter fire is lit at the back of the
Church and blessed. From this fire we light the Easter candle, which
represents the risen Christ emerging from the tomb and enlightening the
world. The congregation carries small candles of their own which are lit
from the Christ candle. As the presider reaches the front of the Church,
he chants an ancient hymn known as the “Exultet” announcing the
Church’s joy at the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Vigil continues with a series of readings from the Old Testament,
beginning with the Creation of the world, and summarizing the whole
history of Israel. We reflect upon all of the great deeds God has done for
us throughout history. Before the New Testament Reading and Gospel,
the Glory to God is sung – and the lights in the Church are raised to full
power as we hear of the greatest deed of God – the death and resurrection
of his Son, that has saved us from sin and death.
After the Homily, the Baptismal font is blessed and together the
congregation renews its baptismal promises. It is Jesus Christ, risen
from the dead, who gives the baptismal water the power to forgive sins.
Those who have been preparing to become Catholic receive the
Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. They will make their First
Communion that evening as well. We are welcoming 11 new members into our faith this evening.
While it is true that the Easter Vigil is the longest rite in our Liturgical
Calendar (2 ½ hours), the solemn and celebratory spirit makes it move
quickly. It is an opportunity to support those entering the Church and to
reflect on our own Baptism and Confirmation. While it may be difficult
to attend with small children, it is a wonderful opportunity for older
children to witness the richness of our Catholic Faith. The vigil Mass is
usually less crowded than the Masses on Easter Sunday. Please plan to
attend with your family this year.
EASTER SUNDAY
The Easter Sunday Mass is the model for all of our Sunday Masses
throughout the year – each and every Sunday is like a “little Easter” –
where we participate in the death and resurrection of our Lord. On
Sunday Morning, we continue the joy that filled the Easter Vigil. We
will renew our Baptismal promises and the presider will sprinkle the
congregation with Holy Water. The victory over sin and death that we
have received in Christ must permeate the rest of our year.
On Holy Thursday we commemorate the Last Supper that Christ had
with his Apostles. At the Supper he anticipated his death and offered
them his Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine.
He commanded his apostles to repeat this action saying “Do this in
Memory of Me”. At the beginning of this Mass, the tabernacle is
empty, since we are remembering the First Eucharist.
This evening we also remember the “New Commandment” that Christ
left us at the Last Supper, “Love one another as I have loved you”.
Some parishioners will have their feet washed by the priests to
remember how Christ humbled himself and washed his disciples feet.
As Christians we are called to humble ourselves and serve others. It
is only by frequently receiving Jesus in Holy Communion that we can
be transformed into his likeness and love as he loved. After this Mass
is concluded, the Blessed Sacrament is carried in procession to the lower level of the Church for prayer and adoration. This is to recall
Christ’s Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane where he went to pray
with his disciples. Peter, James and John fell asleep. Christ asked them
“Could you not spend one hour with me?’ We spend time in prayer
and adoration this night to make reparation for all the times we have
fallen asleep and failed to keep vigil with Christ. We are pleased to welcome Bishop Ustrzycki to lead us in this celebration which begins at 7:00 p.m..
GOOD FRIDAY
On Good Friday, we commemorate the death of Jesus on the cross for
our salvation. There will be two celebrations on Good Friday, 11:00a.m. and 3:00 p.m. On this day our parish also sponsors a Fishy Fry from 4:00-7:30pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall. We also mark the Stations of the Cross (lead by our youth) at 7:00pm.
HOLY SATURDAY
Holy Saturday remains a day of mourning, fasting and prayer – joining
Christ in his descent among the dead. We commemorate the
“absence” of Christ by refraining from celebrating the sacraments
during the day.
We mark the custom of blessing the food for Easter celebrations at 1:00pm
EASTER VIGIL
The Easter Vigil, which begins at 7:00p.m., is the highest point of our Liturgical year. On this night we commemorate Christ’s Glorious Resurrection from the dead.
The evening begins in complete darkness – to represent the darkness that
covered the world without Christ. The Easter fire is lit at the back of the
Church and blessed. From this fire we light the Easter candle, which
represents the risen Christ emerging from the tomb and enlightening the
world. The congregation carries small candles of their own which are lit
from the Christ candle. As the presider reaches the front of the Church,
he chants an ancient hymn known as the “Exultet” announcing the
Church’s joy at the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Vigil continues with a series of readings from the Old Testament,
beginning with the Creation of the world, and summarizing the whole
history of Israel. We reflect upon all of the great deeds God has done for
us throughout history. Before the New Testament Reading and Gospel,
the Glory to God is sung – and the lights in the Church are raised to full
power as we hear of the greatest deed of God – the death and resurrection
of his Son, that has saved us from sin and death.
After the Homily, the Baptismal font is blessed and together the
congregation renews its baptismal promises. It is Jesus Christ, risen
from the dead, who gives the baptismal water the power to forgive sins.
Those who have been preparing to become Catholic receive the
Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. They will make their First
Communion that evening as well. We are welcoming 11 new members into our faith this evening.
While it is true that the Easter Vigil is the longest rite in our Liturgical
Calendar (2 ½ hours), the solemn and celebratory spirit makes it move
quickly. It is an opportunity to support those entering the Church and to
reflect on our own Baptism and Confirmation. While it may be difficult
to attend with small children, it is a wonderful opportunity for older
children to witness the richness of our Catholic Faith. The vigil Mass is
usually less crowded than the Masses on Easter Sunday. Please plan to
attend with your family this year.
EASTER SUNDAY
The Easter Sunday Mass is the model for all of our Sunday Masses
throughout the year – each and every Sunday is like a “little Easter” –
where we participate in the death and resurrection of our Lord. On
Sunday Morning, we continue the joy that filled the Easter Vigil. We
will renew our Baptismal promises and the presider will sprinkle the
congregation with Holy Water. The victory over sin and death that we
have received in Christ must permeate the rest of our year.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Lenten Parish Mission
The countdown to our Parish Mission is on. A Parish Mission is a time of GRACE. It is a time in which, as a parish family, we dispose ourselves to the blessings of God bestowed upon us so that His Grace can enter our hearts. A Parish Mission is a time of GOODNESS. We take time to reflect upon the goodness of God within our lives, and in the life of our parish family, and seek a greater portion of that goodness. A Parish Mission is a time of GODLINESS. We find ourselves more open to seeing the presence of the Lord in our midst and to seeking to imitate Him. I encourage you to join us for our Parish Mission.
PARISH MISSION - LENT 2010
Freedom and renewal in Jesus
Guest: Father Graham Keep
Sunday, March 21st, 2010
Eucharistic Adoration
Who do people say that I am?
Exposition will take place in the Church following the 11:00a.m. Mass. The Church will remain open during the day for quiet prayer as we begin our Mission.
7:00 p.m. Benediction with Homily
Reception to follow in Parish Centre.
Monday, March 22nd, 2010
Solemn Vespers
Who do YOU say that I am?
7:00 p.m. Vespers Service
Reception to follow in Parish Centre.
Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010
Celebration of Eucharist
Healing for mission!
7:00 p.m. Celebration of Eucharist
Reception to follow in Parish Centre.
Wednesday March 24th, 2010
Celebration of Reconciliation
Un Bound and Set Free !
7:00 p.m. Penance Celebration (Six visiting priests present)
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM
A program for children aged 3-8 will run each evening in the Parish Centre. Please bring your child directly to the Parish Centre before the start of the Mission. This program will be led by some of our Children’s Ministry Leaders.
PARISH MISSION - LENT 2010
Freedom and renewal in Jesus
Guest: Father Graham Keep
Sunday, March 21st, 2010
Eucharistic Adoration
Who do people say that I am?
Exposition will take place in the Church following the 11:00a.m. Mass. The Church will remain open during the day for quiet prayer as we begin our Mission.
7:00 p.m. Benediction with Homily
Reception to follow in Parish Centre.
Monday, March 22nd, 2010
Solemn Vespers
Who do YOU say that I am?
7:00 p.m. Vespers Service
Reception to follow in Parish Centre.
Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010
Celebration of Eucharist
Healing for mission!
7:00 p.m. Celebration of Eucharist
Reception to follow in Parish Centre.
Wednesday March 24th, 2010
Celebration of Reconciliation
Un Bound and Set Free !
7:00 p.m. Penance Celebration (Six visiting priests present)
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM
A program for children aged 3-8 will run each evening in the Parish Centre. Please bring your child directly to the Parish Centre before the start of the Mission. This program will be led by some of our Children’s Ministry Leaders.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Haiti Update
I am delighted and overwhelmed at the magnificent response of our parish family to our appeal for the victims of the tragic earthquake that struck Haiti. The special collection resulted in $17,495.00 and some 2,348 Haiti Health Kits for the Sisters of St Joseph of Hamilton Diocese and their medical outreach ! There has never before been such an outpouring of generosity and love through a special collection for our brothers and sisters who have lost so much. Such generosity will be a blessing for the people of Haiti but it will also be a blessing for those who opened their hearts.
My heartfelt thanks.
My heartfelt thanks.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Lent Begins
Each year the church invites us to reflect on how we live our Catholic faith. Lent is a time for us to reflect and to review our life in light of the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Gospels. One of the prayers that may be used as the priest imposes ashes on our head is the words of St. Mark Gospel, “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel”, Mark 1:15
As we begin our journey through Lent, I encourage all Catholics to continue our traditional Lenten practices: increased prayer, appropriate fasting, penance, and a continued effort to undertake and to foster charitable giving.
During our journey through Lent, I encourage each one of us to reflect on how we conform our lives to the principles and to the values of the Gospel. How good it would be if each one of us spend some time reading the Gospel and reflecting on how we conform our lives and attitudes to the Heart of Christ.
Our Holy Father Pope Benedict in his Lenten message spoke about the culture of justice and reminded us that evil and injustice many times comes from our own hearts. It is my hope that we would all place special emphasis during this Lenten season on the virtues of justice and charity. That we would respect each other for who we are, “children of God created in his likeness and image”; and that in all our relationships that we would treat each other as Jesus treated the people with whom He had contact with, and as revealed to us in the Gospels. Let us continue to look to Jesus as our hope and as an example of how we should live our lives for He is “the way, the truth and the life.”
As we begin our journey through Lent, I encourage all Catholics to continue our traditional Lenten practices: increased prayer, appropriate fasting, penance, and a continued effort to undertake and to foster charitable giving.
During our journey through Lent, I encourage each one of us to reflect on how we conform our lives to the principles and to the values of the Gospel. How good it would be if each one of us spend some time reading the Gospel and reflecting on how we conform our lives and attitudes to the Heart of Christ.
Our Holy Father Pope Benedict in his Lenten message spoke about the culture of justice and reminded us that evil and injustice many times comes from our own hearts. It is my hope that we would all place special emphasis during this Lenten season on the virtues of justice and charity. That we would respect each other for who we are, “children of God created in his likeness and image”; and that in all our relationships that we would treat each other as Jesus treated the people with whom He had contact with, and as revealed to us in the Gospels. Let us continue to look to Jesus as our hope and as an example of how we should live our lives for He is “the way, the truth and the life.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)