Parish Briefings Archive

Parish Briefings for November 18, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

Welcome Back Julianne Stanz

We will welcome Julianne to our diocese for two events. On March 26 Julianne will lead a workshop for priests, deacons, lay ministers, volunteers and educators called "Ready, Set, Rejoice!  Preparing Families to Embrace Sacramental Moments" at Visitation Parish in Comber.  Following this workshop, LEMs, Campus Ministers and Chaplaincy Leaders are invited to gather at Holy Family Retreat House for a retreat facilitated by Julianne.  Information for both events can be found at dol.ca/julianne.

Facility Usage Agreements

ATTN:  Business Managers and Staff responsible for Facility Usage agreements: This is a reminder to all Families of Parishes that the Hall Usage and Rental Policy must be followed for NON-PARISH groups.  Please click here to review the policy.  When a Facility User asks about the insurance certificate, please instruct them to provide a copy of the completed Facility Usage/Indemnity Agreement to their insurance company to ensure the certificate is completed correctly. Insurance requirements are clearly stipulated in this Agreement. If you have any questions regarding the use of parish facilities and/or insurance, please contact Heidi Monteith, Building and Property Coordinator (hmonteith@dol.ca).

Blessing of New Stairs & Mass

The Avon Thames Catholic Family of Parishes is delighted to announce that the blessing of their newly completed stairs will take place on Saturday, December 6th at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Church, 96 Huron Street, Stratford. Following the blessing, Mass will be celebrated together in thanksgiving for this wonderful improvement to our Parish. All Parishioners and friends are warmly invited to join this special occasion as we come together in gratitude, prayer, and community.  

Organ Pipes Available

St John de Brebeuf church in Kingsville is offering organ pipes from their decommissioned wind organ free to any church within our diocese who might need a replacement pipe, or who might be refurbishing their pipe organ. If any church is interested they can email mchomysh@hotmail.com for more information. Three photos are at this link.

Employment Opportunities

The London East Central Catholic Family of Parishes is seeking a Full-time Custodian, The Sarnia Bluewater Roman Catholic Family of Parishes is hiring a Bilingual Coordinator of Youth and Family Ministry – Bilingue Coordonnateur/trice du ministère de la jeunesse et de la famille as well as a Full-time Handyperson, and the Northern Huron Perth Catholic Family of Parishes is seeking a Part-time Business Manager. Details for all are at this link.

REMINDERS
NET Canada Mission Discernment Night
NET Canada is hosting a Mission Discernment Night in London on Thursday, November 20th at 7:00pm at Mary Immaculate Parish. This event is for any young adults from anywhere in the London and surrounding areas who are in grades 11-12 or between the ages of 18-30 who may be interested in a year of mission! This will be a night of fellowship, food, and praise and will provide young people a deeper look into what a year on mission with NET could look like! If you, or someone you know, is interested please contact Emma at communications@netcanada.ca.

Young Adult Advent Retreat

Step away from the busyness of life and make this Advent truly meaningful. Join us for the Young Adult Advent Retreat, a weekend designed to help you grow deeper in your Catholic faith and embrace the beauty of the Advent season, both in the Church and in your daily life. Experience a weekend filled with prayerful reflection, inspiring conversations, quiet moments, joyful activities, new friendships, social time, and amazing food. Space is limited, so don’t wait, secure your spot today! Retreat Details:

When: Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Retreat begins promptly at 7:15 p.m. on Friday | Ends at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday

Where: Holy Family Retreat House, 121 Victoria St RR#1, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0

Who: Young Adults ages 18 - 35

Cost: $275 (includes accommodations, all meals, and more)

A graphic to promote this event on social media is a this link. More details are at this link.

Development and Peace Fall Action Campaign

Development and Peace ~ Caritas Canada has provided bulletin announcements and other content for their fall action campaign to collect signatures to “Turn Debt into Hope.” Click here for bulletin copy and links to high resolution images. The series of bulletin inserts runs from November 1-2 to November 22-23 and there is a “post at any time” item as well.

Holy Family Retreat House - READY – SET – GO! Catholic Men’s Retreat – November 28 to 30, 2025

As the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee draws to a close, join us as Fr. John Shiha explores with us how Hope empowers us to move ahead with courage, faith, and purpose and enables us to recommit living out that virtue as a steady, spiritual strength rooted in Christ.  Through inspiring talks, celebration of the Sacraments, quiet reflection, and meaningful comradery, we will cultivate this essential virtue for our journey ahead. Cost is $300 per person.  To register or for more info call 519-738-6136 or visit www.hfrh.ca/upcoming-retreats.  Please follow this link for a one-page poster you can hang in your parish.

Laudato Si’: Chapter Four - Integral Ecology 

This month we explore Laudato Si' Chapter 4: Integral Ecology. After exploring the roots of the ecological crisis, Pope Francis turns attention to promoting a way forward as we address the crisis. He notes that since everything is interconnected, we must consider a way forward through multiple interconnected lenses. To read more, click here. All previous chapter summaries and more information about Laudato Si' are at this link.  

Parish Briefings for November 11, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

NET Canada Mission Discernment Night

NET Canada is hosting a Mission Discernment Night in London on Thursday, November 20th at 7:00pm at Mary Immaculate Parish. This event is for any young adults from anywhere in the London and surrounding areas who are in grades 11-12 or between the ages of 18-30 who may be interested in a year of mission! This will be a night of fellowship, food, and praise and will provide young people a deeper look into what a year on mission with NET could look like! If you, or someone you know, is interested please contact Emma at communications@netcanada.ca.

Laudato Si’: Chapter Four - Integral Ecology 

This month we explore Laudato Si' Chapter 4: Integral Ecology. After exploring the roots of the ecological crisis, Pope Francis turns attention to promoting a way forward as we address the crisis. He notes that since everything is interconnected, we must consider a way forward through multiple interconnected lenses. To read more, click here. All previous chapter summaries and more information about Laudato Si' are at this link.  

Save A Family Plan Advent Cards

In anticipation of the season of Advent, Save A Family Plan has made available for parishes and groups some handouts that promote the concept of charitable giving instead of material Christmas gifts.  These cards are available at no charge; simply email Nelson at ncouto@safp.org by Nov. 14 to request the quantity that your Catholic Family of Parishes would like.  Colourful brochures and posters are also available, again at no cost to you.  For more information visit safp.org/christmas-giving-2025.  If you are interested in having SAFP staff visit and give a presentation, please contact Nelson to arrange a date and time. 

REMINDERS

Young Adult Advent Retreat

Step away from the busyness of life and make this Advent truly meaningful. Join us for the Young Adult Advent Retreat, a weekend designed to help you grow deeper in your Catholic faith and embrace the beauty of the Advent season, both in the Church and in your daily life. Experience a weekend filled with prayerful reflection, inspiring conversations, quiet moments, joyful activities, new friendships, social time, and amazing food. Space is limited, so don’t wait, secure your spot today! Retreat Details:

When: Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Retreat begins promptly at 7:15 p.m. on Friday | Ends at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday

Where: Holy Family Retreat House, 121 Victoria St RR#1, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0

Who: Young Adults ages 18 - 35

Cost: $275 (includes accommodations, all meals, and more)

Early Bird Rate: $225 if registered and paid by November 7 (Payment plans available)

A graphic to promote this event on social media is a this link. More details are at this link.

“Vocation” Bible Camp Kit Available

There is a “Vocation” Bible Camp kit available to any parish who wishes to use it for the upcoming summer VBS season! It’s from Vianney Vocations and was used by KLRCFP this past summer to great enjoyment of the youth! KLRCFP is also happy to loan you their Vocations costume kit (kid-sized chasubles, wedding dresses, suits, etc.) as well as extra crafts and materials made to accompany the program. Please reach out to Fr. Rob at the Vocations Office for more information (vocations@dol.ca).

Development and Peace Fall Action Campaign

Development and Peace ~ Caritas Canada has provided bulletin announcements and other content for their fall action campaign to collect signatures to “Turn Debt into Hope.” Click here for bulletin copy and links to high resolution images. The series of bulletin inserts runs from November 1-2 to November 22-23 and there is a “post at any time” item as well.

Holy Family Retreat House

READY – SET – GO! Catholic Men’s Retreat – November 28 to 30, 2025

As the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee draws to a close, join us as Fr. John Shiha explores with us how Hope empowers us to move ahead with courage, faith, and purpose and enables us to recommit living out that virtue as a steady, spiritual strength rooted in Christ.  Through inspiring talks, celebration of the Sacraments, quiet reflection, and meaningful comradery, we will cultivate this essential virtue for our journey ahead. Cost is $300 per person.  To register or for more info call 519-738-6136 or visit www.hfrh.ca/upcoming-retreats.  Please follow this link for a one-page poster you can hang in your parish.

Needs Assessment Survey – Bulletin Announcement

We need your help! Our diocesan retreat center wants your help in developing a comprehensive plan for its future.  We are looking to engage key stakeholders, other individuals, and user groups to get their opinions and perspectives on our facility, programing and amenities.  Parishioners, parish groups, schools, and those in your community are encouraged to complete our survey.  The broader the feedback, the more encompassing our plans will be.  You can complete the Needs Assessment Survey by clicking this link: www.hfrh.ca/survey   Click here

for a one-page poster that you can use in your bulletin or hang on boards in your parish.

Parish Briefings for November 4, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

Lector Minister Workshop in Sarnia

Please note that the Lector Music Minister workshop scheduled for November 29 in Sarnia has been cancelled.

REMINDERS

Upcoming Youth Retreat – COR 42 - This weekend

There will be a retreat in Dublin for youth aged 16 (grade 11) to 21 from November 7-9. More is on the graphic for bulletins at this link. If you have any questions please email amy@croninfamilyfarms.com.

Young Adult Advent Retreat

Step away from the busyness of life and make this Advent truly meaningful. Join us for the Young Adult Advent Retreat, a weekend designed to help you grow deeper in your Catholic faith and embrace the beauty of the Advent season, both in the Church and in your daily life. Experience a weekend filled with prayerful reflection, inspiring conversations, quiet moments, joyful activities, new friendships, social time, and amazing food. Space is limited, so don’t wait, secure your spot today! Retreat Details:

When: Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Retreat begins promptly at 7:15 p.m. on Friday | Ends at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday

Where: Holy Family Retreat House, 121 Victoria St RR#1, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0

Who: Young Adults ages 18 - 35

Cost: $275 (includes accommodations, all meals, and more)

Early Bird Rate: $225 if registered and paid by November 7 (Payment plans available)

A graphic to promote this event on social media is a this link. More details are at this link.

“Vocation” Bible Camp Kit Available

There is a “Vocation” Bible Camp kit available to any parish who wishes to use it for the upcoming summer VBS season! It’s from Vianney Vocations and was used by KLRCFP this past summer to great enjoyment of the youth! KLRCFP is also happy to loan you their Vocations costume kit (kid-sized chasubles, wedding dresses, suits, etc.) as well as extra crafts and materials made to accompany the program. Please reach out to Fr. Rob at the Vocations Office for more information (vocations@dol.ca).

Development and Peace Fall Action Campaign

Development and Peace ~ Caritas Canada has provided bulletin announcements and other content for their fall action campaign to collect signatures to “Turn Debt into Hope.” Click here for bulletin copy and links to high resolution images. The series of bulletin inserts runs from November 1-2 to November 22-23 and there is a “post at any time” item as well.

Holy Family Retreat House

READY – SET – GO! Catholic Men’s Retreat – November 28 to 30, 2025

As the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee draws to a close, join us as Fr. John Shiha explores with us how Hope empowers us to move ahead with courage, faith, and purpose and enables us to recommit living out that virtue as a steady, spiritual strength rooted in Christ.  Through inspiring talks, celebration of the Sacraments, quiet reflection, and meaningful comradery, we will cultivate this essential virtue for our journey ahead. Cost is $300 per person.  To register or for more info call 519-738-6136 or visit www.hfrh.ca/upcoming-retreats.  Please follow this link for a one-page poster you can hang in your parish.

Needs Assessment Survey – Bulletin Announcement

We need your help! Our diocesan retreat center wants your help in developing a comprehensive plan for its future.  We are looking to engage key stakeholders, other individuals, and user groups to get their opinions and perspectives on our facility, programing and amenities.  Parishioners, parish groups, schools, and those in your community are encouraged to complete our survey.  The broader the feedback, the more encompassing our plans will be.  You can complete the Needs Assessment Survey by clicking this link: www.hfrh.ca/survey   Click here

for a one-page poster that you can use in your bulletin or hang on boards in your parish.

Parish Briefings for October 28, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

Young Adult Advent Retreat

Step away from the busyness of life and make this Advent truly meaningful. Join us for the Young Adult Advent Retreat, a weekend designed to help you grow deeper in your Catholic faith and embrace the beauty of the Advent season, both in the Church and in your daily life. Experience a weekend filled with prayerful reflection, inspiring conversations, quiet moments, joyful activities, new friendships, social time, and amazing food. Space is limited, so don’t wait, secure your spot today! Retreat Details:

When: Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Retreat begins promptly at 7:15 p.m. on Friday | Ends at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday

Where: Holy Family Retreat House, 121 Victoria St RR#1, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0

Who: Young Adults ages 18 - 35

Cost: $275 (includes accommodations, all meals, and more)

Early Bird Rate: $225 if registered and paid by November 7 (Payment plans available)

A graphic to promote this event on social media is a this link. More details are at this link.

“Vocation” Bible Camp Kit Available

There is a “Vocation” Bible Camp kit available to any parish who wishes to use it for the upcoming summer VBS season! It’s from Vianney Vocations and was used by KLRCFP this past summer to great enjoyment of the youth! KLRCFP is also happy to loan you their Vocations costume kit (kid-sized chasubles, wedding dresses, suits, etc.) as well as extra crafts and materials made to accompany the program. Please reach out to Fr. Rob at the Vocations Office for more information (vocations@dol.ca).

St. Peter’s Seminary Come and See Weekend - Friday, November 21st to Sunday, November 23rd, 2025

The Fall Come and See Weekend at St. Peter’s Seminary is now full. This is a wonderful sign of interest and openness among those discerning priesthood. Thank you for your prayers, invitations, and continued support in fostering a culture of vocation in the Diocese of London.

Seminarian Posters and Prayer Cards

Updated seminarian posters and prayer cards for the 2025-2026 year are now available. For those outside of the London area, these will be shipped directly to your Family of Parishes office. For those within the London area, they will be made available at the Priest Study Days.

New Diocesan Priests

A presentation with brief bios and pictures of the new priests in the Diocese can be found at this link.

Development and Peace Fall Action Campaign

Development and Peace ~ Caritas Canada has provided bulletin announcements and other content for their fall action campaign to collect signatures to “Turn Debt into Hope.” Click here for bulletin copy and links to high resolution images. The series of bulletin inserts runs from November 1-2 to November 22-23 and there is a “post at any time” item as well.

Assumption University Graduate Diploma in Catholic Studies – Winter 2026 Admission is Open

Learn more about the graduate diploma, admission requirements and scholarship opportunities at this link. The program is regarded as a hiring asset by eight Catholic school boards in the province.

REMINDERS

Holy Family Retreat House

READY – SET – GO!  Catholic Men’s Retreat – November 28 to 30, 2025

As the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee draws to a close, join us as Fr. John Shiha explores with us how Hope empowers us to move ahead with courage, faith, and purpose and enables us to recommit living out that virtue as a steady, spiritual strength rooted in Christ.  Through inspiring talks, celebration of the Sacraments, quiet reflection, and meaningful comradery, we will cultivate this essential virtue for our journey ahead. Cost is $300 per person.  To register or for more info call 519-738-6136 or visit www.hfrh.ca/upcoming-retreats.  Please follow this link for a one-page poster you can hang in your parish.

Needs Assessment Survey – Bulletin Announcement

We need your help! Our diocesan retreat center wants your help in developing a comprehensive plan for its future.  We are looking to engage key stakeholders, other individuals, and user groups to get their opinions and perspectives on our facility, programing and amenities.  Parishioners, parish groups, schools, and those in your community are encouraged to complete our survey.  The broader the feedback, the more encompassing our plans will be.  You can complete the Needs Assessment Survey by clicking this link: www.hfrh.ca/survey   Click here

for a one-page poster that you can use in your bulletin or hang on boards in your parish.

Upcoming Youth Retreat – COR 42

There will be a retreat in Dublin for youth aged 16 (grade 11) to 21 from November 7-9. More is on the graphic for bulletins at this link. If you have any questions please email amy@croninfamilyfarms.com.

Laudato Si’: Chapter Three - Part 2 Modern Anthropocentrism 

This month we continue to explore Laudato Si' Chapter 3: The Human Roots of the Ecological Crisis. Last month we examined on how the Globalization of the Technocratic Paradigm is at the roots of the ecological crisis. This month we will examine how modern anthropocentrism contributes to the ecological crisis.  To read more, click here. All previous chapter summaries and more information about Laudato Si' are at this link.