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I WAS IN ROME LAST WEEK, attending a conference at the Gregorian University on behalf of the Canadian Bishops. It was wonderful to be back in “the Eternal City” for the first time in many years. Staying at the Pontifical Canadian College (in my old room, no less) gave me the chance to connect with Father John Perdue of our diocese, who is well into his doctoral studies at this point. I was blessed to celebrate Mass in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica with a small group of conference attendees and others. And I managed to get to St. Peter’s Square on Sunday at noon for the Angelus: so, at least I can say that I saw Pope Leo XIV, even if he didn’t see me!
ON TODAY’S SOLEMNITY OF THE SACRED HEART, I am celebrating Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Trout Creek. This Mass closes the festivities of the past eighteen months, marking the 350th anniversary of the apparitions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. Father Isaac Ogwu and parishioners, aided by priests of the Northern Deanery, have worked hard to put on a good program for this closing celebration.
CLERGY TRANSFERS TOOK PLACE ON WEDNESDAY, which means that this Sunday will be about “getting to know you” in several parishes of our diocese. May the landing in and the welcoming all go smoothly!
IT WILL BE A BUSY SUMMER OF JUBILEE EVENTS, including a Jubilee Mass for Cultural Groups at the Cathedral on Sunday, July 20 at 10:30 a.m. The theme is “Many cultures, one faith,” and it will bring together various linguistic groups that make up the Catholic community in our diocese. Later in the summer, a Marian Jubilee will be celebrated on August 15, the Feast of the Assumption at St. Mary’s Church (St. Mary of the Assumption) in Huntsville. Check out our Diocesan website to keep track of coming Jubilee events!
TWO PARISHES ARE CELEBRATING THEIR 150TH ANNIVERSARIES this summer. St. Joseph’s in Bracebridge will mark this milestone event on Sunday, July 27 at the 11:00 a.m. Mass. Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Grafton (St. Mary’s) will hold events throughout the weekend of August 15 to 17, culminating with Mass on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. Check out their website to see the full program. I am looking forward to being in both parishes to celebrate with parishioners many graces and blessings received over 150 years!
MANY OF OUR CHURCHES ARE INVOLVED IN THE NINE SHIPS CELEBRATION this summer, marking the bicentennial of the Peter Robinson Emigration. There is a busy roster of events and activities with a focus on the days between August 1st and 10th. Have a look at the Nine Ships website to see the many cultural, religious and educational events taking place!
SUMMER IS UPON US and so From the Vineyard will go on holiday for a couple of months. May you all enjoy a safe, blessed and relaxing and summer season.
Fraternally,
+ Daniel
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