FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
REMINDERS
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
Annual Parish Profile Statistics
Parish Staff: It's that time of year when Fr. Paul Baillargeon's department collects Annual Parish Profile statistics (for 2024) to send to Rome. The information is collected and filed through DDMS. Please file the statistics for each active Parish. If you require any DDMS assistance, kindly reach out to Erica at ewatkin@dol.ca for training. Please have these stats filed by Monday, March 3, as they will be submitted to Rome mid-March.
Accommodations for Pastoral Study Days
As we continue to work out the details for our upcoming Pastoral Study Days, we are making arrangements for an off-site hotel which will be considerably less expensive for those who may want an alternative option for their overnight stay. Details for this location should be available by the end of this week at www.dol.ca/pastoral-study-days.
Truth and Reconciliation - ReconciliAction
The Truth and Reconciliation Committee invites parishioners to participate in a Day of ReconciliAction and Friendship on Friday, March 14. The day involves a fire, breakfast and lunch, a tour of the three First Nations outside of London and opportunities to learn from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers. The deadline to register is March 7, 2025. For more information please see this link.
A Jubilee Year (for this week’s bulletins)
Development and Peace: What is a Jubilee? Celebrated every 25 years in the Catholic Church, a Jubilee is a special year of forgiveness and reconciliation in which people are invited to come back into right relationships with God, with one another and with all Creation. The tradition is inspired by the biblical year of jubilee, a time when debts were cancelled, slaves were set free and the land was allowed to rest (Lev. 25, Deut. 15). This year, under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” Pope Francis invites Catholics to renew their hope and adopt a vision that can “restore access to the fruits of the earth to everyone.” Find out how Development and Peace — Caritas Canada will be living the Jubilee by helping “Turn Debt Into Hope” at www.devp.org/lent.
REMINDERS
Empowering the Faithful: Tools for Identifying Parishioner Gifts – this week
This webinar is part of our Simple Solutions series on Parish Vitality. Join us on Thursday, February 13 from 1:00 to 2:00 to discover practical tools you can implement to help identify the gifts of your parishioners and how they can be used to enhance the ministries in your parish communities. Please register at this link.
Laudato Si’: Forgive Us Our Debts, As We Forgive Others
According to Hebrew Scripture, Jubilee year was celebrated as a year of general forgiveness and “liberty throughout the land for all its inhabitants” (cf. Lev 25:10). This Jubilee Year, as Pilgrims of Hope, let us to do everything possible to forgive the debts of others. To learn more about our indebtedness and forgiveness read the February Laudato Si' Action Plan at this link.
February's Step on a Path to Solidarity is Energy
Several remote First Nations communities are dependent on diesel fuel because they are too remote to be economically served by the provincial electricity grid. Learn about this issue, what is being done to move to renewable energy sources and how you can be part of the solution in this month’s Step on a Path at this link.
Vocation Event
Come and See Weekend
Friday, March 7 to Sunday March 9. St. Peter's Seminary invites you to a discernment retreat for men 17 years old and older that are considering a call to the priesthood. This weekend offers a firsthand experience of the life of a seminarian, provides spiritual help for discernment and offers the opportunity to meet current seminarians and faculty of St. Peter's Seminary. To register visit dolpriest.ca/registration. A poster has been included to advertise the event at this link. Please get in touch with Fr. Rob Renaud at vocations@dol.ca for more information about either event. To register, visit our website at www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
Family Day with Blessed Carlo: Celebrating the First millennial Saint
Join us in Celebrating the Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis! To mark this joyous occasion, the Youth, Young Adult & Family Ministry Office, along with several Families of Parishes, will be hosting a special Family Celebration - and all families are invited!
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
Time: approximately 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (times may vary depending on the church)
Locations: Multiple Families of Parishes (see the list below for the parishes hosting in your area)
This exciting diocesan-wide event welcomes families with children of all ages for an afternoon of faith, fun, and fellowship! What to Expect: Watch highlights from the canonization ceremony of Blessed Carlo Acutis. Enjoy a rotation of activities, including Mario Kart, games, snacks, and more. Experience family Adoration and moments of prayer together. Connect with other churches across the diocese via Zoom. To ensure we have enough supplies and snacks for everyone, we kindly ask families to sign up in advance. Share this link so they can sign up and celebrate with us! For questions, feel free to reach out to Christine Coyle at ccoyle@dol.ca. Two posters options are available here and here. We can’t wait to celebrate this historic moment with you and your family!
Location List:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Windsor, ON) - part of the South Windsor Catholic Family of Parishes
Holy Family (London, ON) - part of the Lucan Northwest Catholic Family of Parishes
Our Lady of Help Christians (Wallaceburg, ON) - part of the Kent Lambton Catholic Family of Parishes
St. George's (London, ON) - part of the Springbank Catholic Family of Parishes
St. Michael Parish, Bright's Grove – part of the Sarnia Bluewater Roman Catholic Family of Parishes (NEW)
FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
REMINDERS
|
FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
Empowering the Faithful: Tools for Identifying Parishioner Gifts
This webinar is part of our Simple Solutions series on Parish Vitality. Join us on Thursday, February 13 from 1:00 to 2:00 to discover practical tools you can implement to help identify the gifts of your parishioners and how they can be used to enhance the ministries in your parish communities. Please register at this link.
Laudato Si’: Forgive Us Our Debts, As We Forgive Others
According to Hebrew Scripture, Jubilee year was celebrated as a year of general forgiveness and “liberty throughout the land for all its inhabitants” (cf. Lev 25:10). This Jubilee Year, as Pilgrims of Hope, let us to do everything possible to forgive the debts of others. To learn more about our indebtedness and forgiveness read the February Laudato Si' Action Plan at this link.
Employment Opportunities
Heavenly Rest Cemetery is seeking a Full-time Cemetery/Crematorium Sales Consultant, the Windsor Lake St. Clair Catholic Family of Parishes is seeking a Part-Time Bookkeeper and a Business Manager, and the Lake Huron Catholic Family of Parishes is seeking a Music Director. Details are at this https://dol.ca/employment.
REMINDERS
Vocation Event
Jeremiah Day – This weekend
Saturday, February 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The story of the prophet Jeremiah tells us that it is never too early to think about God’s plan for us. This is a day for young men (grades 8 to 12) to grow closer to God and to visit our seminary. The activities include a tour of St. Peter’s Seminary, Mass, lunch, time for prayer and an indoor sports activity in the afternoon. See the poster at this link for more details. To register visit www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
Retreat Day – The Vocation of the Wisdom Years – This weekend
The South London Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting a Vocation of the Wisdom Years retreat titled “Living the Mystery of the Mass as Pilgrims of Hope” presented by Fr. John Comiskey, Vicar General of the Diocese of London. The retreat is on Saturday, February 8 at St. Justin’s Parish in London. For more information about tickets and registration go to www.londonsouthcatholic.ca. A promotional poster is at this link (PDF).
February's Step on a Path to Solidarity is Energy
Several remote First Nations communities are dependent on diesel fuel because they are too remote to be economically served by the provincial electricity grid. Learn about this issue, what is being done to move to renewable energy sources and how you can be part of the solution in this month’s Step on a Path at this link.
Family Day with Blessed Carlo: Celebrating the First millennial Saint – New Location Added
Join us in Celebrating the Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis! To mark this joyous occasion, the Youth, Young Adult & Family Ministry Office, along with several Families of Parishes, will be hosting a special Family Celebration - and all families are invited!
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
Time: approximately 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (times may vary depending on the church)
Locations: Multiple Families of Parishes (see the list below for the parishes hosting in your area)
This exciting diocesan-wide event welcomes families with children of all ages for an afternoon of faith, fun, and fellowship! What to Expect: Watch highlights from the canonization ceremony of Blessed Carlo Acutis. Enjoy a rotation of activities, including Mario Kart, games, snacks, and more. Experience family Adoration and moments of prayer together. Connect with other churches across the diocese via Zoom. To ensure we have enough supplies and snacks for everyone, we kindly ask families to sign up in advance. Share this link so they can sign up and celebrate with us! For questions, feel free to reach out to Christine Coyle at ccoyle@dol.ca. Two posters options are available here and here. We can’t wait to celebrate this historic moment with you and your family!
Location List:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Windsor, ON) - part of the South Windsor Catholic Family of Parishes
Holy Family (London, ON) - part of the Lucan Northwest Catholic Family of Parishes
Our Lady of Help Christians (Wallaceburg, ON) - part of the Kent Lambton Catholic Family of Parishes
St. George's (London, ON) - part of the Springbank Catholic Family of Parishes
St. Michael Parish, Bright's Grove – part of the Sarnia Bluewater Roman Catholic Family of Parishes (NEW)
Vocation Event
Come and See Weekend
Friday, March 7 to Sunday March 9. St. Peter's Seminary invites you to a discernment retreat for men 17 years old and older that are considering a call to the priesthood. This weekend offers a firsthand experience of the life of a seminarian, provides spiritual help for discernment and offers the opportunity to meet current seminarians and faculty of St. Peter's Seminary. To register visit dolpriest.ca/registration. A poster has been included to advertise the event at this link. Please get in touch with Fr. Rob Renaud at vocations@dol.ca for more information about either event. To register, visit our website at www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
REMINDERS
|
FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
February's Step on a Path to Solidarity is Energy
Several remote First Nations communities are dependent on diesel fuel because they are too remote to be economically served by the provincial electricity grid. Learn about this issue, what is being done to move to renewable energy sources and how you can be part of the solution in this month’s Step on a Path at this link.
Family Day with Blessed Carlo: Celebrating the 1st millennial Saint - Save the Date
Join Us in Celebrating the Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis! To mark this joyous occasion, the Youth, Young Adult & Family Ministry Office, along with several Families of Parishes, will be hosting a special Family Celebration - and all families are invited!
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
Time: approximately 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (times may vary depending on the church)
Locations: Multiple Families of Parishes (see the list below for the parishes hosting in your area)
This exciting diocesan-wide event welcomes families with children of all ages for an afternoon of faith, fun, and fellowship! What to Expect: Watch highlights from the canonization ceremony of Blessed Carlo Acutis. Enjoy a rotation of activities, including Mario Kart, games, snacks, and more. Experience family Adoration and moments of prayer together. Connect with other churches across the diocese via Zoom. To ensure we have enough supplies and snacks for everyone, we kindly ask families to sign up in advance. Share this link so they can sign up and celebrate with us! For questions, feel free to reach out to Christine Coyle at ccoyle@dol.ca. Two posters options are available here and here. We can’t wait to celebrate this historic moment with you and your family!
Location List:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Windsor, ON)- part of the South Windsor Catholic Family of Parishes
Holy Family (London, ON)- part of the Lucan Northwest Catholic Family of Parishes
Our Lady of Help Christians (Wallaceburg, ON)- part of the Kent Lambton Catholic Family of Parishes
St. George's (London, ON)- part of the Springbank Catholic Family of Parishes
REMINDERS
Veritas Lecture with Linda Staudt – This Week
The final Veritas lecture for this academic year: A Conversation in the Spirit: Reflecting on the Synod and the Experience of Synodality with Linda Staudt. King’s University College, Kenny Theatre Thursday, January 30 at 7:00 p.m. Please click here for more information (a downloadable/printable poster is also available at that link).
National Catholic Health Care Week - Next Week
During National Catholic Health Care Week from February 2 to 8, we are thankful for the privilege of serving millions of Canadians each day, carrying on our mission to serve all with compassion and humanity. This year’s theme is “Caring for our Common Home.” National Catholic Health Care Week falls on the week leading into The World Day of the Sick on February 11, a Catholic day of observance established by Pope John Paul II to encourage prayers and reflections for those who are ill and for all those who care for them. Please pray for our Catholic health ministry during National Catholic Health Care Week, and use the following information to raise awareness in your parishes and communities. The Diocese has scheduled social media posts for the week which you can share and amplify on your channels.
In addition, on this page www.dol.ca/catholic-health-care you will find:
• Prayers of the Faithful
• Daily Reflections and Prayers
• An infographic/brochure about "The courageous gift of Catholic health care"
French versions are available by replying to this email and requesting them. Bulleting text was distributed in a Parish Briefing on January 14.
Jubilee Pilgrimage
The Youth, Young Adult and Family Ministry Office is excited to welcome young Catholic leaders, ages 19-35, from the Diocese of London to join us on a Pilgrimage of Hope for the Jubilee of Youth in Rome. This event occurs during the Jubilee Year from July 23 to August 6, 2025. The cost of the pilgrimage is around $4000 and that includes airfare, accommodations and some meals. Fundraising efforts will be organized to help offset the cost. Spaces are limited and applications are being accepted to join the pilgrimage. We hope to bring a diverse group of young adults from across the Diocese. Applications are due January 31st, 2025. More information and the application form are at this link.
Assumption University Event
Assumption University is hosting a panel discussion: “Rosa Parks: Race, Religion, and Resistance.” The panel is comprised of Ms. Erica Thedford, Elder Lana Talbot, Dr. Shetina Jones and Mr. Micheal Brown. The event will take place at the Caribbean Centre, 2410 Central Ave., Windsor on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. All are welcome. More information and a poster is at this link.
Retreat Day – The Vocation of the Wisdom Years
The South London Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting a Vocation of the Wisdom Years retreat titled “Living the Mystery of the Mass as Pilgrims of Hope” presented by Fr. John Comiskey, Vicar General of the Diocese of London. The retreat is on Saturday, February 8 at St. Justin’s Parish in London. For more information about tickets and registration go to www.londonsouthcatholic.ca. A promotional poster is at this link (PDF).
Vocation Events
Jeremiah Day
Saturday, February 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The story of the prophet Jeremiah tells us that it is never too early to think about God’s plan for us. This is a day for young men (grades 8 to 12) to grow closer to God and to visit our seminary. The activities include a tour of St. Peter’s Seminary, Mass, lunch, time for prayer and an indoor sports activity in the afternoon. See the poster at this link for more details. To register visit www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
Come and See Weekend
Friday, March 7 to Sunday March 9. St. Peter's Seminary invites you to a discernment retreat for men 17 years old and older that are considering a call to the priesthood. This weekend offers a firsthand experience of the life of a seminarian, provides spiritual help for discernment and offers the opportunity to meet current seminarians and faculty of St. Peter's Seminary. To register visit dolpriest.ca/registration. A poster has been included to advertise the event at this link. Please get in touch with Fr. Rob Renaud at vocations@dol.ca for more information about either event. To register, visit our website at www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
Art Exhibit at Western University
Christopher Wallis: In the Balance of Light is an exhibition showcasing a remarkable collection of drawings, designs and windows by the late stained glass artist Christopher Wallis (1931 – 2021). In the Balance of Light celebrates Wallis’ creative process and the development of his distinctive aesthetic, combining traditional figures with mid-century abstract designs. The objects in the exhibition highlight Wallis’ projects across Canada, including heraldic windows at Rideau Hall and Western University, and installations at Osgoode Hall. Wallis’ stained glass windows can be found in many churches in London and southwestern Ontario, including St. Peter’s Basilica (London), St. Paul’s Cathedral (London), St. John the Evangelist (London), St. John the Divine (Arva), Christ Church (Petrolia), New Baptist Church (St. Thomas), and many more. The artLAB Gallery is in John Labatt Visual Arts Centre at Western University and the exhibit runs from January 9-30. More information is at this link.
Marriage Preparation - Please Keep This Information Handy for Engaged Couples
Dr. Bruce Tallman’s Marriage Preparation Course is approved by Fr. Paul Baillargeon (Marriage Tribunal Vicar) and is available to any couple in the diocese, conveniently delivered in three 75-minute sessions via Zoom and it includes a 40-page workbook on every aspect of marriage that couples complete in 10 hours at home. Since Dr. Tallman works with one couple at a time, the course is personal and can accommodate any couple’s schedule. The three sessions include practicing communication skills, how Myers-Briggs personalities affect marriage, and church teachings about sexual ethics and the sacrament of marriage.
Website: www.brucetallman.com Email: btallman@rogers.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BruceTallmanSpiritualDirector/
FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
REMINDERS
|
FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS
Jubilee Pilgrimage
The Youth, Young Adult and Family Ministry Office is excited to welcome young Catholic leaders, ages 19-35, from the Diocese of London to join us on a Pilgrimage of Hope for the Jubilee of Youth in Rome. This event occurs during the Jubilee Year from July 23 to August 6, 2025. The cost of the pilgrimage is around $4000 and that includes airfare, accommodations and some meals. Fundraising efforts will be organized to help offset the cost. Spaces are limited and applications are being accepted to join the pilgrimage. We hope to bring a diverse group of young adults from across the Diocese. Applications are due January 31st, 2025. More information and the application form are at this link.
Pastoral Letter on the Use of Social Media
On the one-year anniversary of the publication of the Pastoral Letter on the use of social media, “Let Your Speech Always be Gracious,” the CCCB has launched a new video series and other resources to help unpack the rich pastoral and moral insights of the Pastoral Letter more fully. A series of five videos on different aspects of the letter have been posted in English and French on the CCCB’s YouTube channel at this link and a downloadable PDF of the letter and social media resources are at this link.
REMINDERS
The Pope Francis Fund – Social Media
The Diocese has posted the Pope Francis Fund’s call for applications on Facebook, X and Instagram. Please promote/share these posts on your local social media channels to help spread the word about this funding opportunity for charities who work with the poor. For more information about the criteria and process, please link to this page: www.dol.ca/pff.
The Pope Francis Fund – Application Process is Open
For your bulletins: The Diocese of London’s Pope Francis Fund has opened the application process for grants that will be distributed in 2025. Last year, nine organizations received a total of $48,000 in funding. The process, criteria and past recipients are at www.dol.ca/pff. Parishioners are asked share this with any groups who could benefit from this funding and use it to help the poor in our communities. The application process closes on February 28.
Priests are encouraged to announce the following at Mass over the coming weeks: “Organizations that help the poor are encouraged to apply to the Pope Francis Fund for grants to support their charitable works. Details and criteria are available at www.dol.ca.”
Veritas Lecture with Linda Staudt
The final Veritas lecture for this academic year: A Conversation in the Spirit: Reflecting on the Synod and the Experience of Synodality with Linda Staudt. King’s University College, Kenny Theatre Thursday, January 30 at 7:00 p.m. Please click here for more information (a downloadable/printable poster is also available at that link).
Assumption University Event
Assumption University is hosting a panel discussion: “Rosa Parks: Race, Religion, and Resistance.” The panel is comprised of Ms. Erica Thedford, Elder Lana Talbot, Dr. Shetina Jones and Mr. Micheal Brown. The event will take place at the Caribbean Centre, 2410 Central Ave., Windsor on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. All are welcome. More information and a poster is at this link.
Retreat Day – The Vocation of the Wisdom Years
The South London Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting a Vocation of the Wisdom Years retreat titled “Living the Mystery of the Mass as Pilgrims of Hope” presented by Fr. John Comiskey, Vicar General of the Diocese of London. The retreat is on Saturday, February 8 at St. Justin’s Parish in London. For more information about tickets and registration go to www.londonsouthcatholic.ca. A promotional poster is at this link (PDF).
Vocation Events
Jeremiah Day
Saturday, February 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The story of the prophet Jeremiah tells us that it is never too early to think about God’s plan for us. This is a day for young men (grades 8 to 12) to grow closer to God and to visit our seminary. The activities include a tour of St. Peter’s Seminary, Mass, lunch, time for prayer and an indoor sports activity in the afternoon. See the poster at this link for more details. To register visit www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
Come and See Weekend
Friday, March 7 to Sunday March 9. St. Peter's Seminary invites you to a discernment retreat for men 17 years old and older that are considering a call to the priesthood. This weekend offers a firsthand experience of the life of a seminarian, provides spiritual help for discernment and offers the opportunity to meet current seminarians and faculty of St. Peter's Seminary. To register visit dolpriest.ca/registration. A poster has been included to advertise the event at this link. Please get in touch with Fr. Rob Renaud at vocations@dol.ca for more information about either event. To register, visit our website at www.dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.
Art Exhibit at Western University
Christopher Wallis: In the Balance of Light is an exhibition showcasing a remarkable collection of drawings, designs and windows by the late stained glass artist Christopher Wallis (1931 – 2021). In the Balance of Light celebrates Wallis’ creative process and the development of his distinctive aesthetic, combining traditional figures with mid-century abstract designs. The objects in the exhibition highlight Wallis’ projects across Canada, including heraldic windows at Rideau Hall and Western University, and installations at Osgoode Hall. Wallis’ stained glass windows can be found in many churches in London and southwestern Ontario, including St. Peter’s Basilica (London), St. Paul’s Cathedral (London), St. John the Evangelist (London), St. John the Divine (Arva), Christ Church (Petrolia), New Baptist Church (St. Thomas), and many more. The artLAB Gallery is in John Labatt Visual Arts Centre at Western University and the exhibit runs from January 9-30. More information is at this link.
Truth and Reconciliation
Technology is January's Step on A Path to Solidarity. Using digital technology is a feature of everyday life in today’s society. Digital literacy is important for living, learning, working, participating and thriving in today’s interconnected and technology-driven society. Unfortunately for many First Nations a digital divide exists compared to most of Canada. Learn more at this link and find out how you can help in this month's step.
Laudato Si’ Action Plan for January 2025
On 24 December Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica ushing in the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope. The theme of this Jubilee Year is "Pilgrams of Hope"; we are pilgrims and are called to be signs of hope for others. As pilgrims, especially as we cross borders, there are a few questions that we must answer. To learn more, read the January Laudato Si' Action Plan at this link.
Marriage Preparation - Please Keep This Information Handy for Engaged Couples
Dr. Bruce Tallman’s Marriage Preparation Course is approved by Fr. Paul Baillargeon (Marriage Tribunal Vicar) and is available to any couple in the diocese, conveniently delivered in three 75-minute sessions via Zoom and it includes a 40-page workbook on every aspect of marriage that couples complete in 10 hours at home. Since Dr. Tallman works with one couple at a time, the course is personal and can accommodate any couple’s schedule. The three sessions include practicing communication skills, how Myers-Briggs personalities affect marriage, and church teachings about sexual ethics and the sacrament of marriage.
Website: www.brucetallman.com Email: btallman@rogers.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BruceTallmanSpiritualDirector/