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Easter Sunday, April 1, 2018
“Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.” Colossians 3:2. On this day we thank God for his Son, Jesus, who died and rose for us. We celebrate and sing “Alleluia.” Let’s try to keep the joy of this Easter season in our hearts throughout the year. Pray daily and listen for how God is calling each of us to joyfully use our gifts to fulfill God's salvation plan.
WE PLEDGE 5% . . . Vision TV $668.97 St. Mary's Weekday Hampers $708.36 Saskatoon Pregnancy Options $709.62 Thank you!
BAPTISM Expectant parents please contact the parish office three months prior to the baptism date to arrange for the baptism preparation program and for the baptism celebration. The next baptism celebrations are April 21, May 12, June 2, June 23. Please call Sharon, 306 374-1425 for registration information. CHILDREN’S LITURGY The program takes place during the readings and homily at Sunday Mass. It is suitable for children age 4 to pre-First Eucharist. Parents and young people interested in leading the program or helping, please call Celena Komarnicki, 306 374-1425. CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the Catholic Church’s process whereby one could inquire about the Catholic faith and journey towards full reception into the Catholic Church on Easter Vigil. At Holy Spirit Parish, RCIA meets weekly from mid-September through April. There is no fee and all materials needed are provided. New participants are always welcome. Meetings are Tuesdays at 7:00 pm. For information call Arch McKay, 306 373-0993; [email protected].
NEW PARISHIONER REGISTRATION/CHANGE OF ADDRESS
NAME __________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS _______________________________________________________________
POSTAL CODE _______________________ TELEPHONE _____________________
EMAIL __________________________________________________________________
PARISH OFFERING ENVELOPES? YES ______ NOT AT THIS TIME ______ PRE-AUTHORIZED GIVING PROGRAM YES _________
NEW IN THE PARISH? MOVING? Please help us keep parish records up-to-date. It assists us to serve you. Please complete the following and return to the parish office by mail or in the weekend collection basket. Thank you for your assistance.
SUNDAY, March 25 Envelopes/Pre Author ized Giving Program $13,735.48 Loose $2,004.95 Budgeted Weekly Operating Expenses $17,978.00
MARRIAGE PREPARATION Arrangements for marriage can be made by contacting the parish priest eight months prior to the date of marriage. This will provide adequate time for documentation and the diocesan required marriage preparation program. This program is intended not only for engaged couples but also for couples considering engagement and marriage. Please call Todd and Maureen Heroux, 306 491-7878 or email [email protected] for information and to register for the next session.
Catholic Family Services, 306 244-7773, also offers a marriage preparation program. Please check the diocesan website for more opportunities for marriage preparation, saskatoonrcdiocese.com.
SPECIFIED DONATIONS All donations received and designated for a specific program or project will be used for a purpose determined by Holy Spirit Parish Finance Committee or Parish Council, to be consistent with the spirit of the gift. Thank you for your continued financial support.
Holy Spirit Finance Committee
HOLY SPIRIT PARISH SASKATOON, SK
CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE Acting President - Elaine Easton 306-955-0063 [email protected]
General Meeting - Tuesday, April 10. Mass at 7:00 pm. Following Mass we will have a guest speaker - Dave Wake from the Canadian Mental Health Association. Topic: Mental health issues facing our young people and strategies to address the problems. Everyone is welcome.
New memberships and member renewal, and for change of address - Diana 306 652-0840 cwlsk.ca and cwl.ca
114 Kingsmere Place • Saskatoon, SK S7J 3V7
Phone 306 374-1425 • Fax 306 374-3190
Office Hours 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Office email [email protected]
Website holyspiritsaskatoon.ca
Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon
Phone 306 242-1500
email [email protected]
Rev. Darryl Millette, Pastor
Rev. Peter Olisa, Associate Pastor
Sunday Mass
Saturday - 5:00 pm
Sunday - 10:00 am, 12:00 noon, 7:00 pm
Daily Mass Tuesday to Fr iday - 8:30 am
Reconciliation
Saturday 11:00 am - 12:00 noon
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Office Administrator
Delores McLean
Pastoral Associates
Charlene Nijhawan, Ministry of Care
Kelly Wormsbecker, Ministry of Care
Arch McKay, Christian Initiation of Adults
Sharon Powell, Faith Formation
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Celena Komarnicki
Financial Administrator
Monica Johnson
Building Maintenance
Jack Altrogge, Ed Yuzyk
Finance Committee
Basil Waslen, Chair Mike Gartner
Pat Pitka Ed Solie Bob Korol
Parish Pastoral Council
Fern Boutin, Chair
Louise Bitz Lynn Eremondi
Bev Jutras Jonathon Neufeld
James Nestmann Kenton Peterson
Ian Rana
MASS SCHEDULE
Saturday 5:00 pm
Sunday 10:00 am, 12:00 noon, 7:00 pm
Weekday Mass
Tuesday - Friday 8:30 am
THIS WEEK AT HOLY SPIRIT
Monday, April 2 Office Closed
Tuesday, April 3 8:30 am Mass 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus meeting
Wednesday, April 4 8:30 am Mass
Thursday, April 5 8:30 am Mass 1:30 pm 55+ Seniors Cards and Bingo
Friday, April 6 8:30 am Mass 9:00 pm - 12:00 noon Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
Saturday, April 7 11:00 am - 12:00 noon Confessions 5:00 pm Mass
Sunday, April 8 10:00 am Mass 12:00 pm Mass
7:00 pm Mass
PERSONAL HEARING DEVICES
Personal Hearing Devices are
available for use from the sound
technician before Mass. You will be provided
with the necessary information and earphone.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 8905 Grand Knight, George Gartner - 306 955-1608
Knights of Columbus memberships and information, please call James, 306 373-2301 or Rob, 306 374-8559.
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY - April 8 Bishop Mark Hagemoen will be presiding at this service (no Mass) celebrating the Feast of Divine Mercy at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, 123 Nelson Road. Love offering, and refreshments to follow. Everyone Welcome.
Saskatoon Diocesan 83rd CWL (Catholic Women's League) Annual Convention will be held at St. Joseph’s parish in Kindersley, SK on Monday, April 23, 2018; beginning at 9:00 am. The guest speaker will be Carla Carlson, author of “Everyday Grace.” There will also be a speaker from National CWL Council on “Planning Strategically for the Future.” Bishop Mark Hagemoen will preside at the Eucharistic celebration, 4:30 pm. For registration or information contact Doreen Gramlich email: [email protected] or phone (306) 463-2298 or TEXT ONLY to (306) 460-8963.
DID YOU KNOW? . . . • Daily Catholic Mass is broadcast on Vision TV,
Monday to Friday - 6:00 am and 10:00 am local time. See dailytvmass.com - National Catholic Broadcasting Council, 5762 Hwy. 7 East, PO Box 54035, Markham, ON L3T 7Y4 888 383 6277
• McClure United Church, Saskatoon, is seeking a permanent, full time Office Administrator. Candidates should be a graduate of a recognized business college or equivalent and/or have previous office experience. Previous church office experience is an asset but not a requirement. This position is anticipated to be 7 hours/day, Monday to Friday. McClure offers a full benefit package including pension following the successful completion of three months of service. For more information and/or to submit a resume, please email [email protected]. Interested can-didates should send their in confidence to the email above or as a hard copy to: Sandy Hoenecke, c/o McClure United Church, 4025 Taylor Street East, Saskatoon, SK S7H 5N7.
• Development Office Assistant position is available at the Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation. Please see the position summary on the bulletin board in the Place of Welcome.
• Registration is now open for the 2018 summer camp season at St. John Bosco Wilderness Camp. An early bird discount is available until April 30 for all registered and paid campers. For more information - johnboscocamp.com, or call 1-844-SJBOSCO (1-844-752-6726). See bulletin board.
• Springs of Living Water Prayer Group meets every Wednesday at 7:30 pm (after 7:00 pm Mass) at Holy Family Cathedral on Attridge Drive. Everyone is welcome.
• St. Augustine Parish Refugee Sponsorship Committee steak night at the Sutherland Bar and Grill - Thursday, April 19. Cocktails 5:30 pm; Supper 6:30 pm. Menu options include: steak, chicken, or veggie burger with Caesar salad, potato wedge fries, and garlic toast. 50/50 draw, silent auction and much more. Tickets $25/person (must be 19 years or older) available at the parish office (306) 373-3453 and after weekend Masses March 10-11, 17-18, and April 7-8 and 14-15.
• Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Foundation presents ‘Swing into Spring’ Fashion Show & Dinner, Thursday, May 3, 2018 at Prairieland Park. Plans are under way for an evening of fun, food, fashions, camaraderie and great prizes. See the Foundation website at foundation.gscs.ca for more details or call 306 659-7003 or email catholicschoolsfoundation@ gscs.ca.
The James P. Mahoney Institute of the Family provides grants to registered charities with initiatives and programs intended to strengthen and support the family in rural and urban communities within the geographic area of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Like the popular bishop for whom it is named, the Mahoney Institute reaches beyond the Catholic community and operates on a non-denominational basis. Deadline for applications is 5 p.m. May 15, 2018. Apply online at SaskatoonCommunityFoundation.ca or call 306-665-1766 for more information.
WE PLEDGE 5% . . . Str8Up' offers an opportunity for people wanting to exit gang life. Fr. Andre Poilievre, oversees Str8Up with patience and tough love to support those who want to get out and stay out of gangs. Participants are generally over the age of 18. They meet once a week to learn healthy lifestyles, to contribute and participate, in a positive way, in the community and for recreational activities and barbeques. Three visions/goals for each participant - to be a responsible citizen, to be a faithful partner, and to be a loving parent (presently, all participants are parents). And, five conditions each participant has to be willing to adhere to - drop colours, deal with their addiction, be honest, be humble, and be willing to give 'Str8Up' a chance by accepting support and by their participation in the program for four years. Activities/requirements involve visiting and having meetings with the men in the correctional centre, making presentations in schools, on reserves, at addiction centres, and wherever there is need. The program also offers support in areas of housing, employment, and general community errands.
FOOD FOR THE POOR A food container is available at the church entrance to receive your gifts of non-perishable food. This food will be distributed to agencies in Saskatoon involved in helping to feed the poor. Why not try on a weekly basis to bring an item of food? It will be a great reminder of God’s blessings and how we are called to bless others.
WELCOME to all visiting with us this weekend. Your faith and spirit enrich our community. May you travel safely and know that God’s presence is always with you.
PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES . .
to Roger, Stacey, Leanne, Adam, Maria and families on the death of wife, mother, grandmother and daughter Shirley Carriere;
to Helen, Carla, Kevin and families on the death of husband, father and grandfather Bill Krynowsky;
to Shirley, Cheryl and families on the death of husband, father and grandfather Gordon Reineke. -
May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in God’s peace.
Van Gordon Bykowy Reid and Quinn
Joseph Declan Egan Joe and Brandy
Shepherd Terry Redpath Jordan and Zandrae
Summer Victoria Rogers Scott and Marla
Taylor Marie Larson James and Jennifer
Reuben Douglas Morson Michael and Chelsea
Claire Helene Schaan Matthew and Rochelle
Ethan Claude Turk Andrew and Nicole
Ava Michelle Lewis Mark and Carla
Tye Christopher Madsen Christopher and Carla
Malia Rose Mescall Justin and Alison
Keagyn Rae Desorcy-Charriere Laurent and Laurie
Louis George Siemens Jessie and Jessica
Freya Sophie Chapman Allyce
Grayson William Empey Kevin and Caroline
Jemma Marie Lomenda Gary and Vanessa
BAPTISMS We welcome to our par ish community the following children who were baptized recently.
55+ SENIORS CARDS/BINGO
Fun, enjoyable afternoons of card games and bingo are held
two Thursdays each month in the parish hall.
The next gathering is
Thursday, April 5 - 1:30 pm
For more information, please call Lucille, 306 242-4482.
SPAGHETTI SUPPER
Holy Spirit Church
Friday, April 27
Cash wine bar • refreshments - 5:30 pm
Supper 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$10/adult • $5/6-12 yrs • 5 yrs and under/free
Homemade spaghetti sauce, Caesar salad,
garlic buttered bun, dessert.
Guest speaker - Mary Deutscher, bioethicist for St. Paul's Hospital and the Catholic Health Association of Saskatchewan. Topic: Conscientious Objection, attached to the main topic, Medical Assistance In Dying.
Funds will be directed to the Blackstrap Youth Camp.
This event is brought to you by Knights of Columbus of Holy Spirit Church.
MINISTRY OF CARE Pastoral care to the sick and the homebound is a ministry of compassion, a responsive desire to alleviate the suffering of another. As Catholics, we seek healing and strength in the Eucharist. Members of our parish community bring the Eucharist to those who cannot be with us for worship, whether temporarily or ongoing. If you or someone you know is in need of this Ministry of Care, or if you feel a calling to volunteer, please call pastoral associates Charlene or Kelly at 306-374-1425 or email [email protected] or [email protected].
Mark your calendars
FAMILY DAY
Sunday
June 3
All is new "What's new?" That's what we ask when we want to hear a story. Stories celebrate the great moments of life. When you hear one, it fills you with delight. When you ten one, you fulfill an inner desire to share what has shaped your life anew.
After Jesus rose from the dead, the disciples did not wait for people to ask, "What's new?" They proudly proclaimed it: "God raised Jesus on the third day and granted that he be visible to us witnesses." Now, that's new!
If you have kept a good Lent, you know very well what is new with you. You are what is new! You have faced your sin, admitted your fault, and accepted your dependence upon God's help. You have prayed and fasted with the community. You have loved your neighbour. Because you have emptied a place inside yourself, you created a space for God's Spirit to enter. Christ is risen indeed, and he has appeared to you! You are now a witness of au that God can do.
This Easter Day, tell your story. Tell your faith. Let joy radiate from your face and loosen your tongue! Jesus lives!
Paul Turner. Resource Publications Inc. rpinet.com
BOOK CLUB The CWL Book Club is reading the memoir , W hen Breath Becomes Air, by Paul Kalanithi. At the age of 36, on the verge of completing a decade’s worth of training as a neurosurgeon, Paul is diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. The book chronicles Kalanithi’s transformation from naïve medical student into a skilled and empathic neurosurgeon, as well as patient and new father confronting his mortality. For a copy of the book contact Isabelle at 306 242- 2094 and leave a message. We will meet to discuss this book on Tuesday, April 17, 7:15 at Holy Spirit church, Conference Room C. All are welcome.
POPE FRANCIS ON TWITTER
Follow the pope’s tweets: @Pontifex
Catholic Communion and Celiac Disease
Holy Spirit parish provides ‘low-gluten’ hosts. It is important that you seek out the appropriate information - websites provided above/also your own physician - if you have questions. The hosts will always be in a separate container on the altar and will not be in contact with the other hosts on the altar. At the time of communion they will be distributed by the Communion minister in the centre aisle on the left side as you walk forward. A simple indication to the Communion minister is all that is required. If you wish to receive less than the full host, please indicate that to the Communion minister. (Always remember that the reception of the wine/the precious blood is the full reception of Holy Communion/the Eucharist). If you have any questions, please speak to one of the priests. Thank you for your kindness as we try to provide, as possible, for this need in our parish community. • To learn more about celiac disease:
celiac.org • benedictinesisters.org * A brochure is available at the hospitality
desk in the welcome area. The brochure
provides additional information.
By leaving a gift in your will or estate to Holy Spirit parish, the impact will be felt and
remembered for generations. For more information, please contact
the parish office, 306 374-1425.
Bishop Hagemoen Blog - In a new feature on our diocesan website, Bishop Mark Hagemoen reflects on his first few weeks as Bishop of the Diocese of Saskatoon. Check out the Bishop’s Blog saskatoonrcdiocese.com/blogs/bishop-mark-hagemoen
SASKATOON SERVICES FOR SENIORS Saskatoon Services for Seniors is a not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to providing services that enable older adults (55+), seniors and physically challenged individuals to reside independently in their own home for as long as possible. For more information call the office at 306-668-2762 or saskatoonservicesforseniors.ca
JOE KAMMERMAYER COMMEMORATIVE DINNER
Columbus Bosco Homes presents its annual fundraiser, the Joe Kammermayer Commemorative Dinner Thursday, April 26 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family - cocktails at 6:00 pm; dinner at 6:45 pm followed by entertainment. A dessert auction is a highlight of the evening. Tickets $50/person. Proceeds from the dinner support the Farm School, the Substance Abuse Education Program and nine Family Support Centres. These programs provide essential support to at-risk adolescents, preschool children, and families in our community. For tickets - Chris 306 343-5640 or 306 221-4686; Lorne 306 374-6134 or 306 227-7576; or Ernest 306 260-6273.
REFUGEES Holy Spir it’s Refugee Committee is looking for people interested in supporting the work of bringing refugees to Saskatoon. Most recently, the Committee has helped settle people from Iraq, Syria and Eritrea. If you would like to join us, please contact Shirley McGuire at 306-244-5125 or come to our next meeting March 22, 7:00 pm, Room C at the parish.
In a spirit of compassion, let us embrace all those fleeing from war and hunger, or forced by discrimination, persecution, poverty and environmental degradation to leave their homelands. - Pope Francis
RETROUVAILLE (helpourmar r iage.com) is a lighthouse for marriages on stormy seas. If you and your spouse are struggling in your marriage, even if you are separated, know that there is hope. If you are interested in learning more about Retrouvaille, please pick up a brochure by the bulletin board. For confidential information about, or to register for, the April 27-29, 2018 weekend in Saskatoon, call Ben and Joanne at (306) 652-7155 or [email protected]
to the volunteers who assist the Environment and Art Committee and have prepared our church worship space for the liturgical season of Lent/Easter;
to the altar servers for their ministry at weekday and weekend Masses;
to all who donated flowers for the church Easter season décor;
to the sacristans for preparing all the liturgies during the Lent/Easter season - to the music ministry groups - to readers, hospitality ministers, sound board technicians, ushers, communion ministers and to many others working behind the scenes to prepare for and help our parish community pray and celebrate the each season.
to the leaders who lead the Christian Initiation of Adults sessions;
to all who visit and bring Holy Communion to the sick and shut-ins;
to volunteers who assist in the parish office and those who each week help with the bulletin;
to all who in a spirit of stewardship support financially Holy Spirit parish and enable programs, projects and faith education initiatives to enhance parish life;
to the parish staff for providing leadership in the daily operation of parish services and activities;
for the kindness and service of the parish sacristans who prepare the church for all school and parish Masses and liturgies;
to parishioners who faithfully bring an item of food on a regular basis and place it in the ‘food for the poor’ bin in the welcome area;
to all who gather Friday mornings and Sunday afternoons for adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the chapel at Holy Spirit;
to the Knights of Columbus for preparing and serving the parish Sunday breakfasts;
to the Catholic Women's League for their faithful service in the parish;
to the parents who assist the youth ministry EDGE and Finding God programs;
to those who prepare, organize and serve lunch on the occasion of parish funerals; and to the members of the Resurrection Choir who lead the music ministry;
to our pastors for their faithful guidance and leadership at Holy Spirit parish - regular daily Mass, 40+ funerals, 50+ wedding interviews with couples and weddings, preparing daily and weekly homilies, presiding at four Sunday Masses, ecumenical meetings, monthly parish council meetings, weekly school Masses, visiting students/teachers at our six schools, confessions, making time for each ministry/group in the parish, being available before and after Sunday Masses, staff meetings, daily meetings/appointments with parishioners, parish finance committee meetings, visiting and anointing the sick and homebound, hospital visits, attending parish events/activities and anniversary/birthday celebrations, participating in diocesan meetings/events/committees, implementing new Church/Diocesan initiatives, and . . . . !
Guest Speaker on YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH Holy Spirit Catholic Women's League (CWL) is hosting Dave Wake from the Canadian Mental Health Association on Tuesday, April 10. His topic is mental health issues facing our young people and strategies to address these problems. We will begin with Mass at 7:00 pm, followed by the guest speaker about 8:00 pm. This evening is open to all.
March 22, 2018
Dean brother Priests, Religious, and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Saskatoon: Greetings to you all! The lengthening Spring days are upon us here in the Prairies. All over this vast land, people are expressing gratitude for the sun and for the light.
The Holy Week and Easter season is upon us, when we confront how the Creator's light infuses all darkness, and reminds us of the ever-bearing hope that God's love and light will conquer all obstacles to human flourishing.
I am inspired about this time of hope and new life as I recall the famous words of the great St. John Chrysostom in his Easter message:
First and last alike, receive your reward. Rich and poor, rejoice together! Conscientious and lazy, celebrate the day! You who have kept the fast, and you who have not, rejoice, this day, for the table is bountifully spread!
Let no one grieve being poor, for the universal reign has been revealed. Let no one lament persistent failings, for forgiveness has risen from the grave. Let no one fear death, for the death of our Saviour has set us free. The Lord has destroyed death by enduring it. The Lord vanquished hell when he descended into it. The Lord put hell in turmoil even as it tasted of his flesh. Isaiah foretold this when he said, "You, O Hell, were placed in turmoil when he encountered you below."
O death, where is your sting? O hell, where is your victory? Christ is risen, and you are cast down! Christ is risen, and the demons are fallen! Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice!
We prepare to again celebrate the anniversary of the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ - the little and vulnerable One who comes at Christmas shows the world a new and ultimate strength; He is a true King who saves all people. God's vision for shalom and a true community of nations united in love may seem to be impossible in a world which - despite tremendous blessing and advancement - experiences widespread division and brokenness, and is capable of great injury and destruction. Yet, the Saviour does not waver in showing us a new and ultimate way. Indeed His light will illumine the greatest darkness! His is a Light of blessing, respect, compassion, service, sacrifice, and deep love. May His way show us all the way we need to find together. Thank you all so much for your support and openness to me as your Bishop. The people of this diocese reveal great love and zeal for Jesus Christ and His mission for God's people. I thank God for the opportunity to serve His Church - His People. I also thank the many priests, religious, lay men and women - who show me what it means to have a generous heart and a servant spirit.
May God bless you All. Have a hope-filled Holy Week and Easter time.
Sincerely in Christ, Most Reverend Mark A. Hagemoen Bishop of Saskatoon
Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon
Office of the Bishop
123 Nelson Road Phone 306-242-1500 Saskatoon, SK S7S 1H1 Fax 306-244-6010 saskatoonrcdiocese.com Toll free 877-661-5005
ANGELINA IRINICI
I began this process slightly nervous and not knowing what to expect. It turned out to
be a beautiful journey. Group leader Arch McKay and the others in the program
made it what it is: accepting, enlightening and comforting. There were specific
moments along the way that confirmed I am on the right path. The process is tailored
very well for adults in today's society. My favourite part has been hearing the stories,
values and thoughts of others. I will forever cherish my time in RCIA, what I've
learned, how I've grown and the conversations with others. It's prepared me for
baptism and what is to come in many aspects of life.
AVA KIRCHGESSNER
My name is Ava Kirchgessner and I am in grade 4. I have chosen to become a
member of the catholic faith because I want to be closer to God and receive the
Holy Communion. I’m excited to continue on this journey with the guidance of my
family.
EMERSEN SHORT
Emersen is in grade 5. She loves playing soccer, volleyball and spending time with
family and friends. She has a younger brother and two dogs. She wants to thank
everyone at Holy Spirit Parish for 'Helping Her Grow in God's Love.'
Thanks (Sharon) for everything over the last months. You are truly a special lady
and Emersen and I are so thankful that we have got to meet and spend time with
you. Christine (mom).
BREE (Alyssa) DIXON
I was not raised Catholic but was fortunate to receive my education through the
Greater Saskatoon Catholic School Division. I then attended the University of
Saskatchewan where I was a member of the Catholic Christian Outreach Club.
Through this club my faith flourished. With my friends I began attending church
at St. Thomas Moore on campus.
The formality of the Catholic Mass is enjoyable and the history of Catholicism is
of special interest to me.
I have been attending Mass for a number of years and last year decided it was
time to become an official member of the Church. The RCIA process has been a
great joy and blessing. I am looking forward to becoming Catholic.
HLA PHAW MU
I am a Karen (ethnicity) girl from Burma. Since I was young my country has been in
an ongoing civil war that has lasted over six decades. One memory I remember
vividly - I was being carried away by my father as he told me to hold on tight. My
village was being invaded by armed Burmese soldiers in the middle of the night. We
ran deep into the jungle not knowing if my mom and younger sister made it out as
well. My dad held up the barb-wired fence that surrounded the village as I went
under. Everything fades black. We became refugees in Thailand and afterwards
immigrated to Canada. I was 4 years old. Growing up, my parents were very strict
Buddhist which led me to rebel and make poor choices in my teens. I had a dark
shadow over me and was angry at the world. Through my struggles I eventually had to grow up and
prayed for God’s help. I started going to church and found peace in Christ. To me God is love. Although I
went to different churches every week, I never really found a church to want to belong to until a friend
invited me to Holy Spirit Parish. One day last year at 10 o’clock Mass I witnessed a baby girl getting
baptized by Father Darryl. At that moment I felt a strong emotion come over me. Immediately, a weight
was lifted off my heart. I understand I need Him in my life and felt led to take the next step of baptism; to
make a public declaration of something that I have kept private for years. I am grateful to Arch for helping
me learn more through RCIA. A lot of great memories were made with a group of awesome new friends.
Fortunately for me I am lucky to be going through this journey with one of my closest friends, Kimberly,
as we prepare for this great celebration! I am a little nervous but super excited to get baptized.
CHARLIE FIDLER
Charlie Fidler is eight years old and is in grade three at a Catholic school in
Saskatoon. She has one younger brother, Luke and two cats. Charlie loves to swim
and is a competitive swimmer with the Saskatoon Goldfins Swim Blub. She loves to
read and is a very creative person. She attends art classes and is always making
homemade gifts for her friends and family.
TYLER STOESZ
Since fall I've been doing classes for my baptism and sacraments with becoming
Catholic and it has been awesome! My teachers have been great - thank
you!! Between all the sports I do: hockey, swimming, dryland training, and basketball
I'm glad I found time for this journey. Thanks to all! Tyler !!
TAO FLORY
Tao Flory attends Catholic School in Saskatoon. He is an athlete that has passion
for being active and playing all sports, with hockey and golf being his favourite. He
is an only child that enjoys socializing with his friends playing street hockey, mini
sticks, and other games.
KAYLEE BAUN
My name is Kaylee Baun. I am 15 years old, and in grade 9 at Bishop James
Mahoney high school. My passion is hockey and I spend as much time as I can
playing it. I will be receiving my first communion at the Easter Vigil this year. I
began to take the next step in my journey with my faith just before Christmas and
I can’t wait to see where it will take me.
KIMBERLY THOUMASAVANH
My time with RCIA has been truly exceptional. I appreciate the thoughts, detailed
information and openness of this program. This class, alongside Arch's guidance with
his thoughts and explanations, has really help me understand the faith more and make
me excited to become a follower of Christ. It has opened the door to many great
discussions and teachings in everyday life. I thank Holy Spirt Church, Arch, my
sponsor, and my fellow peers in RCIA for becoming a part of my stepping stone as I
head towards baptism.
DANIELLE SINCLAIR
I grew up attending the Anglican church and five years ago I was introduced to
the Catholic faith through my husband Ben. I joined RCIA because we wished to
move forward united in our faith and grow as Christians together. RCIA has been
a supportive, nurturing environment, and I am excited to begin my journey as a
Catholic at Holy Spirit Parish.
SIAN WALL
I was born into a Protestant Christian home. When I was 12 I decided to be
baptized in the Baptist Church in Nokomis, SK. Once my family moved to
Watrous in 2008, we started going to a Mennonite Brethren church. I always had
a faith; however, it wasn’t until the last few years that my faith has become more
my own. I started dating my fiancé Josh in 2016 and would periodically attend
Mass with him and our friends Kathan and Kateri. After many conversations and
searching, my heart started feeling a stirring to join the Catholic Church. I am
very excited for my first communion and I'm so thankful for the support of my
friends and family in this process.
ASHLEY PETERS
Ashley's brother Ryan received his sacraments last year. Ashley and her
daughter have decided to join him in the faith.
KEAGYN DESORCY
My name is Keagyn. I am a grade twelve student in Saskatoon. To tell you a little
about myself, I’ll start off by saying that I’m an athletic person. For example I have
been playing hockey for the majority of my life - even winning provincials last year.
I am very driven to have faith in my life, although sports has been a part of my life
for many years, so has my faith in my religion. I chose to be baptized so I can always
have people who I can trust, relate to, and be open with.
RYLAN BAUN
My name is Rylan Baun. I am 18 years old and I am currently beginning the
journey of my faith. With post-secondary schooling marking a new chapter in my
life, I couldn’t think of a better time to strengthen my connection with God through
communion. Throughout the past couple of months as I’ve been travelling down
this new road I’ve learnt so much, not only about the church and Catholicism, but
about myself as well. It has been an uplifting experience to say the least. I am
excited to continue to grow in my faith and cannot wait to see where this journey is
going to lead me.
ADAM NEUFELD
It truly is right and just to give thanks to God.
I grew up in the Protestant church and was raised in a Christian home. My journey of faith has led me
down many roads. Some were pleasing to God. Others were not. I believe, through RCIA and counsel
from members of the Catholic Church, that I can best serve God, my family, and my community by
joining the Catholic faith and discovering what God’s plan for me is. I am excited to fully realize
God’s love and intention.
PAULA GAMBAL
I was raised in a Catholic family, received my baptism and first communion, but without my
confirmation I did not feel like a full Christian. I was given a great opportunity at Holy Spirit Parish to
complete my sacraments and meet wonderful people. As a mother of one boy I want him to become a
part of a Catholic church and be raised in good faith.
