From the Vineyard

From the Vineyard

Newsletter No. 93 - February 28, 2020

LENT BEGAN ON ASH WEDNESDAY, and our churches were busy despite the beginnings of a winter storm.  It is worth reading Pope Francis’ message for Lent 2020, a brief reflection on 2 Corinthians 5:20, “We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”  May this annual season of penance be for all of us a time of growth in holiness, prayerfulness and charity.

WE WERE PLEASED WITH THE VISIT OF TEN SEMINARIANS from St. Augustine’s Seminary last Sunday at the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains.   After attending the 10:30 Mass, they were at the back of the Cathedral to greet parishioners and tell a little about themselves.   Lunch was provided at the Cathedral rectory afterwards, in which several young men of the parish joined us.  It was a fine event and a good reminder that we should continue to pray for all those who are in formation for the priesthood.

THIS WEEK I WILL RETURN THE FAVOUR AND VISIT ST. AUGUSTINE’S SEMINARY in the company of Father John Perdue, our Vocation Director.   We are looking forward to touching base with our two young men who are in formation there and hearing “progress reports” about them from the Seminary faculty.   We will conclude the festivities at a local eatery of Father Perdue’s choosing….and my paying!    

THE CHURCH WAS ROCKED LAST WEEK BY EPORTS ABOUT JEAN VANIER, the founder of L’Arche, and his apparent pattern of sexual abuse of women.  A statement from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops in response to the report has highlighted the great evil of sexual abuse and the need to respond to victims with compassion and understanding.   It is also important to recognize the good work done by L’Arche in providing communities of support for the mentally disabled, and to encourage them to find a path forward to continue this ministry.

PHASE ONE OF THE DOWNEYVILLE HALL RENOVATION PROJECT HAS BEEN COMPLETED, which I believe is the upstairs portion.  I will attend a grand opening celebration tonight along with Father Andrew Broda, pastor of St. Luke’s Parish.  This project has been underway for some time with the cooperation of many in the community, including the Knights of Columbus. 

THE ORGANIZERS OF THE ANNUAL GOOD FRINDAY WAY OF THE CROSS in Peterborough are recruiting volunteers, including actors and parade marshals.    Contact Deacon Aidan Murphy at 705-760-3145 or deaconaidanmurphy@gmail.com. 

THE PRIESTS OF THE CITY DEANERY WILL HOLD A LENTEN EVENING OF RECOLLECTION on Wednesday.   I will be happy to join them and even to offer a few spiritual reflections as we gather for prayer and priestly fraternity. 

                                                                                                                                            Fraternally,   † Daniel

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