Message to the Faithful

On April 14, 2016, the federal government introduced Bill C-14 — legislation that, if passed, will amend the Criminal Code to make euthanasia / assisted suicide legal and accessible throughout the country. Now that Bill C-14 has been tabled, here are some practical steps you can take:

• Distribute the attached action plan, “It’s time to talk Poster”. This can be distributed most effectively as a bulletin insert, or it can be made available in appropriate locations in your parish.
• Use the suggested bulletin announcements and encourage parishioners to visit http://www.canadiansforconscience.ca/. Concerned Catholics can write directly from the website to the federal Ministers of Justice and Health as well as to their local MP. By registering through this website, you can use or adapt a proposed message to communicate your concerns.
• Consider a letter writing event. A number of parishes have offered information sessions on euthanasia / assisted suicide. Resources are available on the website of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, http://www.cccb.ca/site/eng/media-room/euthanasia-and-assisted-suicide/4463-campaigns-against-physician-assisted-suicide. Use this information session or any gathering of parish organizations (CWL, Knights of Columbus, parish council, social justice groups, and others) to write to the Minister of Justice and cc the Minister of Health and your MP. Remember to ensure your local Member of Parliament receives this communication.

We know that original letters, phone calls or emails are the most powerful way to reach our elected officials. A sample letter with possible messaging can be found on the “It’s Time To Talk” handout. Thanks to all parishes and parishioners for working on this most important issue!

Thousands of Canadians have contacted their elected officials, respectfully expressing their concerns. Visit http://www.canadiansforconscience.ca/ to urge elected representatives to protect healthcare workers and institutions from having to provide or refer for euthanasia/assisted suicide. Ask Members of Parliament to expand palliative care and support for the vulnerable.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

CISPG Employment Opportunities

Here is a list of teacher positions for the 2016-2017 school year.

The positions are as follows:

• Annunciation Continuing 1.0 FTE Learning Assistance Sept-2016
• Annunciation Continuing .50 FTE Band & Music Sept-16
• Sacred Heart LD 1.0 FTE Intermediate Sept-16
• Anthony’s Limited Duration .50 FTE Language Arts – Sept-16
• Anthony’s Continuing 1.0 FTE Primary – Sept-16
• Joseph’s Limited Duration .80 FTE Learning Assistance Sept-16

Camp Morice

Online camp registration for Camp Morice is open! Check out our new website campmorice.com for all the details of camps for ages 6-18 offered this summer. Our theme this summer is Star Wars: The Faith Awakens!

We are still looking to hire several paid team members, cooks and volunteer counsellors for this summer. Contact programdirector@campmorice.com for application and info.

During the month of May, Camp Morice will be collecting bottles at the 2629 Vance Road Recycling Depot under Camp Morice to support our Leadership Training week for volunteers who are helping during our camp season and for those who cannot afford a week at camp. Your bottle donations would be a great help to those in need.

If you are cleaning out your house, camp can use your stuff!

Used sports equipment: balls, bats, gloves, life jackets, canoes, boats, water stuff, slides etc…

Furnishings: sofas, loveseats, queen beds, old used Truck, used quad, lawn mowers, weed eaters, chain saws and air conditioners.

Costumes: baggy pants, white shirts, brown boots, belts etc…

Kitchen Equipment: Fridges, Freezers, BBQ, New/Used Commercial Dishwasher, New/Used Commercial Stove, mixing bowls, mugs, cups, pots, pans, knives, spoons, microwave.

Call 250-996-7881 or email info@campmorice.com

OEC and Youth and Young Adults Events

DYC is happening this weekend!

Please keep the Diocesan Youth Conference in your prayers as over 150 youth and young adults gather for a weekend to encounter Jesus. Pray for open hearts to encountering the mercy of our Father. Also, all parents and families are welcome to come for our final mass on Sunday, May 1 at 11 AM at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre (6500 Southridge Avenue)

World Youth Day Fundraisers

Art Knapp’s Plantland, both Prince George locations, and Homesteader Meats are donating a portion of your purchases to World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

When:   Art Knapp’s from May 6 – June 5, 2016
Homesteader Meats from April 5, to May 5, 2016

What:    When you present them with the coupon found in
World Youth Day 2016 web page at
www.pgdiocese.bc.ca/our-ministries/youth/

Art Knapp’s will donate 20% of your purchase of bedding and annual plants, annual hanging baskets, vegetables and herbs

Homesteader Meats will donate 10% of $25.00 or more to the Diocese of Prince George World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

Photos of Diocesan parishes or missions

Any parishioners out there with an updated  photo of any parish or mission.  Please submit a digital copy  to mprimus@pgdiocese.bc.ca as soon as possible.

REGIONAL VOCATIONAL DISCERNMENT GATHERINGS

There will evenings of vocation discernment for high school students throughout the diocese in April: in Terrace, Burns Lake, Prince George and Dawson Creek. If you are in grade 8-12 you’re invited.

The evening will begin with a pizza dinner, followed by a program that will allow the participants to come to a better understanding of God’s call in their life.

To help us plan for the evening, please indicate your attendance by contacting one of the sites:

Friday, April 15:

Sacred Heart Parish, Terrace               250-635-2313
Immaculata Parish, Burns Lake          250-692-3568
Vianney House*, Prince George         250-964-4424 *adjacent to the Domano Renewal Centre

Friday, April 22:

Notre Dame Parish, Dawson Creek    250.782.3456

Pope Francis recently wished young people a “good journey of discernment.” “For each one of us,” he said, the Lord has his vocation, that place He wants us to live our lives.” But, the Pope continued, “we must seek it, find it; and then, continue in it, always going onward.”

The 4^th Sunday of Easter, April 17, 2016 is World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Please pray for vocations.

Fr. Charles Donovan, OMI

We are sorry to report that Fr. Donovan has been recalled by his Oblate provincial to work in Ottawa as the superior of a community of retired priests. Fr. Donovan’s unexpected departure from Prince George was occasioned by the sudden death of the former superior of retirement house. We are grateful for his service to our diocese during his limited time here.

RACHEL’S VINEYARD RETREAT

A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat will be held in Cache Creek from Wednesday, May 4 to Friday, May 6. The retreat is confidential and is designed to help those suffering from abortion, miscarriage or other unresolved pregnancy loss.  During the past year, Rachel’s Vineyard as an international organization has been doing a “Shockwaves” campaign.  Basically, they are reaching out to those affected by these losses and traumas beyond just the mothers and fathers directly involved.  Certainly grandparents, siblings, friends are also affected, and so too are health care workers, counsellors, pregnancy care workers and crisis phone line workers.  All who are experiencing grief, pain, even anger, around such a loss are most welcome and invited to attend the retreat.

It is not easy to come to a retreat.  It is also not easy to ask someone you know who needs healing to attend one. The healing that occurs each and every time is simply amazing.  If you are suffering a little or a lot, or someone you know is suffering, it doesn’t have to be that way.  Help is available.

More information is available at www.rachelsvineyardkamloops.org or on the Facebook page www.facebook.com/rvkamloops  or by phone or text at 250-267-5081.

OEC &
Youth and Young Adults

Come and Rest

Who:       Everyone is welcome and childcare programs will be provided for ages 2-18!

When:     Sunday, April 17, 3:00 -7:30 PM

Where:   Christ our Savior Parish, Prince George (4514 Austin Road West)

Event:     We will begin with a coffee and snack social in the parish hall, followed by John Connelly and Fr. Basil Burn’s presentation entitled, “What is The Secret of The New Evangelization?” After a question and answer period there will be a potluck supper. Please bring enough food for your family and there will be enough for everyone! Adoration will follow.

For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

World Youth Day Fundraisers

Art Knapp’s Plantland, both Prince George locations, and Homesteader Meats are donating a portion of your purchases to World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

 When:   Art Knapp’s from May 6 – June 5, 2016

Homesteader Meats from April 5, to May 5, 2016

What:    When you present them with the coupon found in World Youth Day 2016 web page at www.pgdiocese.bc.ca/our-ministries/youth/

• Art Knapp’s will donate 20% of your purchase of bedding and annual plants, annual hanging baskets, vegetables and herbs
• Homesteader Meats will donate 10% of $25.00 or more to the Diocese of Prince George World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

DYC 2016:  

DYC is just 2 weeks away. Registration for the 2016 DYC: The Ascent is open for all those in Grades 7-12! You can register online at www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca. The fee is $60. Scholarships are available. The Diocesan Youth Conference is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise and worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration. This year, our theme is ‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to the Catholic Christian faith.

Seeking Volunteers for DYC16

If you have graduated from grade 12 and are passionate about seeing young people come to know Jesus, please sign up to volunteer at this year’s DYC. Email Eunice Hii, our youth coordinator at youth@pgdiocese.bc.ca for more information on how you can get involved!

Diocesan Annual Appeal Monthly update for March 2016

Doman Renewal Centre – First Nations Retreat Flyer

Mary’s Parish: Mass time changed April 9, 2016

The 7:00 PM Mass at St. Mary’s Parish in Prince George has been changed to 5:00 PM on Saturday, April 9, 2016. This change is to accommodate the Charter Night Mass for the Knights of Columbus.

Open House Farewell Tea

Please save this date of June 2, 2016. This will be an opportunity to say farewell and thank you to Sister Elizabeth Pollièvre. More details to follow.

Finance Department News

WCB 1st Quarter Report Deadline Wednesday April 13, 2016—Parishes and Schools are asked to report to Diocesan Payroll Services any WorkSafeBC (WCB) payments for the first quarter January 1, 2016 to March 31, 2016. Payments include those made to individuals who are not on the diocesan payroll and to contractors who are not registered with WCB.  Thank you.

 Outage Notification:  April 7, 2016

Payworks will be performing scheduled maintenance on Thursday, April 7, 2016, beginning at 11:00 PM (Central).  The plan is to have system availability restored by 4:00 AM (Central) on Friday, April 8, 2016.

Please be advised that you will not be able to access the Payworks application during this time (including Payroll, Human Resources, Employee Time Management and any clock updates functionality). Users attempting to access the application during the planned outage will be redirected to a system outage notification page.

OEC, and Youth and Young Adults Events

 Come and Rest

Who:       Everyone is welcome and childcare programs will be provided for ages 2-18!

When:     Sunday, April 17, 3:00 -7:30 PM

Where:    Christ our Savior Parish, Prince George (4514 Austin Road West)

Event:     We will begin with a coffee and snack social in the parish hall, followed by John Connelly’s presentation entitled, “What is The Secret of The New Evangelization?” After a question and answer period there will be a pot luck supper. Please bring enough food for your family and there will be enough for everyone.

For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

World Youth Day Fundraisers

Art Knapp’s Plantland, both Prince George locations, and Homesteader Meats are donating a portion of your purchases to World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

When:         Art Knapp’s from May 6 – June 5, 2016
Homesteader Meats from April 5, to May 5, 2016

What:             When you present them with the coupon found  here WYD 2016 Art Knapp and Homesteaders coupon-letter or in World Youth Day 2016 web page at www.pgdiocese.bc.ca/our-ministries/youth/  

Art Knapp’s will donate 20% of your purchase of bedding and annual plants, annual hanging baskets, vegetables and herbs and

Homesteader Meats will donate 10% of $25.00 or more to the Diocese of Prince George World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

 For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

DYC 2016

DYC is just 3 weeks away. Registration for the 2016 DYC: The Ascent is open for all those in Grades 7-12! You can register online at www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca. The fee is now $60. The Diocesan Youth Conference is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise and worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration. This year, our theme is ‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to the Catholic Christian faith.

Domano Renewal Centre – Check these out!

Domano Renewal Centre April at a Glance

Bishop Gerald Wiesner’s Retreat Weekend

St. Mary’s Parish: Mass time changes for April 9, 2016 

The 7:00 PM Mass at St. Mary’s Parish in Prince George has been changed to 5:00 PM on Saturday, April 9, 2016. This change is to accommodate the Charter Night Mass for the Knights of Columbus.

Bishop Jensen’s Episcopal Anniversary

April 2 is the Episcopal Ordination Anniversary of our Bishop, Most Reverend Stephen Jensen. This is a diocesan celebration (please see ORDO Pastoral Note 25a). Because April 2, 2016 falls on the Octave of Easter, the Solemnity of that day will be celebrated. However, the Bishop’s Anniversary should be remembered in the Prayers of the Faithful on the actual day, and on Sunday, April 3, the Second Sunday of Easter. You may use the following prayer:

We celebrate the 3rd anniversary of the ordination and installation of our Bishop Stephen Jensen. May God send the Holy Spirit to guide him and all the people of our diocese in following the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.

Divine Mercy Sunday Citywide Celebration

Bishop Jensen will celebrate Mass for the Solemnity of the Divine Mercy on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 3:00 PM at Sacred Heart Cathedral.

Schedule

12:10 – 3:00 PM    Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

There will be a sign-up sheet provided for each of the city parishes for those who wish to come for adoration.

2:00 – 3:00 PM      Confession

3:00 PM                Chaplet of Divine Mercy preceded by a Solemn Mass

NOTE: The Divine Mercy Sunday Indulgence: On the June 29, 2002, the Apostolic Penitentiary of the Holy See promulgated a decree creating new indulgences that may be gained by the faithful in connection with the celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday. This decree grants a plenary indulgence to those who comply with all the conditions established, and a partial indulgence to those who incompletely fulfill the conditions.

To receive the Jubilee Indulgence offered this year, Pope France invites you to take these steps:

• Make a brief pilgrimage and pass through a Door of Mercy as a sign of your deep desire for true conversion.
• Celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (up to eight days before or after your pilgrimage).
• Participate in a celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
• Offer a prayer (such as an Our Father) for the Pope and his intentions.

Youth and Young Adults Events

DYC 2016

Registration for the 2016 DYC: The Ascent is now open for all those in Grades 7-12! You can register online at www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca. The fee is now $60. The Diocesan Youth Conference is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise and worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration. This year, our theme is ‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to the Catholic Christian faith.

World Youth Day Fundraiser

Where: Homesteader Meats (556 North Nechako Roadd, Prince George)

When: April 5 –May 5, 2016

What: When you  present the coupon found under World Youth Day 2016 at   www.pgdiocese.bc.ca/our-ministries/youth/, Homesteader Meats will donate 10% of your purchase to the Diocese of   Prince George World Youth Day 2016 Pilgrims.

Divine Mercy Sunday City-wide Celebration

Bishop  Jensen will celebrate Mass for the Solemnity of the Divine Mercy on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 3:00 PM at Sacred Heart Cathedral.

Schedule

12:10 – 3:00 PM    Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
There will be a sign-up sheet provided for each of the city parishes for those who wish to come for adoration.

 2:00 – 3:00 PM   Confession

 3:00 PM                Chaplet of Divine Mercy preceded by a Solemn Mass
Most Rev. Jensen, Main Celebrant

NOTE: The Divine Mercy Sunday Indulgence.  On the 29^th of June 2002, the Apostolic Penitentiary of the Holy See promulgated a decree creating new indulgences that may be gained by the faithful in connection with the celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday. This decree grants a plenary indulgence to those who comply with all the conditions established, and a partial indulgence to those who incompletely fulfill the conditions.

To receive the Jubilee Indulgence offered this year, Pope France invites you to take these steps:

• Make a brief pilgrimage and pass through a Door of Mercy as a sign of your deep desire for true conversion.
• Celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (up to eight days before or after your pilgrimage).
• Participate in a celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
• Offer a prayer (such as an Our Father) for the Pope and his intentions.

Bishop Jensen’s Episcopal Anniversary

April 2 is Most Reverend Jensen’s 3rd Anniversary of his Episcopal Ordination.  This is a diocesan celebration.  Since April 2, 2016 falls on the Octave of Easter, the Solemnity of that day that will be celebrated.

Bishop Jensen will celebrate Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral on that day at 9:00 AM.

Regional Vocational Discernment Gatherings

There will be evenings of vocation discernment for high school students throughout the diocese in April: in Terrace, Burns Lake, Prince George,  and Dawson Creek.

If you are in grade 8-12 you’re invited.

The evening will begin with a pizza dinner, followed by a program that will allow the participants to come to a better understanding of God’s call in their life.

To help us plan for the evenings, please indicate your attendance by contacting one of the sites:

Friday, April 15

Sacred Heart Parish, Terrace                              635.2313

Immaculata Parish, Burns Lake                         692.3568

Vianney House*, Prince George                         964.4424
*adjacent to the Domano Renewal Centre

Friday, April 22

 Notre Dame Parish, Dawson Creek                   782.3456

Pope Francis recently wished young people a “good journey of discernment.” “For each one of us,” he said, the Lord has his vocation, that place He wants us to live our lives.” But, the Pope continued, “we must seek it, find it; and then, continue in it, always going onward.”

Looking for DYNAMIC Catholic Teachers To Teach Passionately AND INSPIRE Others In Our FAITH!

Catholic Independent Schools,  Diocese of Prince George is accepting applications for Continuing and Limited Duration Teacher positions beginning September 2016 . For a complete listing of all teacher postings please go to  www.cispg.ca.  Please note that the CIS webpage is updated as positions are filled, and postings are available.

Returning To Spirit (RTS)

See the following website for upcoming RTS Workshops info@returningtospirit.org.

OEC NEWS & EVENTS

Holy Saturday: “Where did He Go?”

Who:       Everyone

When:     Saturday,  March  26, 9:00-10:30 AM

Where:    Christ our Savior Parish

Event:     Fr. Basil Burns will be explaining the meaning of Holy Saturday

For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

Youth and Young Adults Events

DYC 2016: EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION ENDS APRIL 1!

Registration for the 2016 DYC: The Ascent is now open for all those in grades 7-12! You can register online at www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca. It is $40 before APRIL 1 and $60 after April 1. The Diocesan Youth Conference is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise and worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration. This year, our theme is ‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to the Catholic Christian faith.

Annual Diocesan Appeal Weekly Report for 2016-03-09

Chrism Mass 2016

The Mass of Chrism will be celebrated at 7:00 PM on Monday, March 14, 2016 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. In this diocesan celebration the Holy Oils and Chrism used in the Sacraments are blessed and consecrated. The priests will renew their commitment to serve the Church.

A reception will follow. Those attending are asked to bring a plate of snacks to share. Please put on the table in the lower church hall before Mass. Thank you.

Holy Week Mass Times

We would like to publish the Mass times for ALL parishes in the Diocese for Holy Week on the Diocesan webpage.

Please email Teresa at reception@pgdiocese.bc.ca with your Mass times for Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday by Tuesday, March 15, 2016. Thank you.

Please note:

The Easter Vigil Mass is not an ordinary Saturday evening Mass. It should begin after dark and be at a different time from the usual Saturday evening Mass hour to show its unique character as the greatest celebration in the Church year. (CDW: Easter, nos. 77-80 and 93)

The entire celebration takes place at night. It does not start before nightfall and must be over before daybreak on Sunday. The celebration of Mass alone without vigil service without the vigil service is forbidden. (Ordo pg. 186)

Divine Mercy Sunday Citywide Celebration

Bishop Stephen Jensen will celebrate Mass for the Solemnity of the Divine Mercy on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 3:00 PM at Sacred Heart Cathedral. The Divine Mercy Chaplet will be prayed prior to Mass. According to the schedule of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy this day is dedicated to be Jubilee for those who are devoted to the spirituality of Divine Mercy.

For those who are dedicated to the spirituality of Divine Mercy a meeting will be held on Thursday, March 17, 2016 at 7:00 PM at Sacred Heart Cathedral to plan this special celebration.

Looking for DYNAMIC Catholic Teachers To Teach Passionately AND INSPIRE Others In Our FAITH!

Catholic Independent Schools Diocese of Prince George is accepting applications for Continuing and Limited Duration Teacher positions beginning September 2016 . For a complete listing of all teacher postings please go to cispg.ca. Please note that the CIS webpage is updated as positions are filled, and postings are available.

OEC NEWS & EVENTS

 Come & Rest:

Who: Everyone

Where: Christ Our Saviour Parish Prince George. (4514 Austin Road West)

When: March 20, 3:00-7:30 pm

Event: These events encourage a renewed vision, celebrating our Sabbath Rest Day with talks, fellowship, and adoration. Open to all people in the Diocese with childcare available. We are currently exploring the connection between the Year of Mercy and the Heart of Jesus. Please bring enough food for your family and everyone will have plenty.

For more information, please contact Angelo at asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca  or (250) 964-4424 (ext. 230)

Youth and Young Adults Events
DYC 2016: REGISTRATION now OPEN!

Registration for the 2016 DYC: The Ascent is now open for all those in grades 7-12! You can register online at www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca. It is $40 before APRIL 1 and $60 after April 1. The Diocesan Youth Conference  is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise & worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration. This year, our theme is ‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to the Catholic Christian faith.
Young Adult Ski Retreat: Register Online

Smithers. Skiing. Retreating. What more could you ask for? Come join us March 18-20 in the beautiful slopes of Smithers for a time away from the busyness of daily life. Ages 18-40. The theme this year is SKI MERCIFUL. We will be exploring themes of receiving and giving mercy. Guest speaker, Megan Turland from Catholic Christian Outreach, will be joining us all the way from Toronto along with our fav skiing priest, Fr. Jack Michalchuk. To keep cost minimal, we are joining the Hudson Bay Mountain PG Community weekend so lift tickets are only $25! This event will fill up quickly so please register online at: http://bit.ly/1nhuXyZ

UNBC CAMPUS MASS

We have a weekly mass offered to university students as well as faculty, staff and whomever else would like to join right on the UNBC Campus. Join us each Wednesday at 12:30 PM. Message Eunice at youth@pgdiocese.bc.ca if you would like to find out where the next one is!

ATTACHMENTS

• Annual Diocesan Appeal Report 2016-03-02
• DRC March 2016 at a Glance

Looking for DYNAMIC Catholic Teachers To Teach Passionately AND INSPIRE Others In Our FAITH!

Catholic Independent Schools Diocese of Prince George is accepting applications for Continuing and Limited Duration Teacher positions beginning September 2016 . For a complete listing of all teacher postings please go to cispg.ca

Chrism Mass 2016

The Mass of Chrism will be celebrated at 7:00 PM on Monday, March 14, 2016 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. In this diocesan celebration the Holy Oils and Chrism used in the Sacraments are blessed and consecrated. The priests will renew their commitment to serve the Church.

A reception will follow. Those attending are asked to bring a plate of snacks to share. Please put on the table in the lower hall before Mass. Thank you.

 Music Ministry for the Chrism Mass

Choir practice will take place on Thursday, March 3 and Monday March 7 at 7:00 PM at Sacred Heart Cathedral.

If you are hospitalized

Just a reminder that if you are being admitted to the hospital and would like a visit from those whose ministry is visiting the sick, tell the admissions clerk that you are a Roman Catholic. They will then provide your name to those visiting the sick. Due to the privacy act a patient cannot be asked what religious affiliation they have, but can volunteer the information.

Monthly Day of Eucharistic Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Emmanuel Hermitage invites you to a Personal Date with Jesus on March 8, 2016 in the Domano Chapel, 6500 Southridge Ave. Mass will be celebrated at 7:30 a.m. and the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a day of silent prayer and adoration. We will pray for the universal Church and the world, and the people and needs of our Diocese. In particular we will pray for the protection of all human life, for vocations, and for the intentions of those participating in the day. Please mark your calendar on the second Tuesday of each month for Personal Dates with Jesus days.

Attention Former Frontier Apostles

The Frontier Apostolate, established by Bishop O’Grady in 1956, will celebrate the 60th Anniversary of its founding with a reunion of former Frontier Apostles on August 19-21, 2016 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. For more information contact PGFAreunion@gmail.com.

OEC NEWS & EVENTS

Marriage Preparation Weekend

Living a Joy-Filled Marriage –

Who: For all couples preparing for marriage. Also open to married couples who want an opportunity for encouragement and renewal.

Where: Diocesan Pastoral Centre (6500 Southridge Ave. Prince George)

When: Saturday and Sunday March 12-13.

Cost:   $200/couple Includes (Workbooks Lunches and Snacks)

Contact Angelo at the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis for registration and information. Phone (250) 964-4424 (ext. 230) or email asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

Youth and Young Adults Events

DYC 2016: REGISTRATION now OPEN!

Registration for the 2016 DYC: The Ascent is now open for all those in grades 7-12! You can register online at www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca. It is $40 before APRIL 1 and $60 after April 1. The Diocesan Youth Conference  is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise & worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration. This year, our theme is ‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to the Catholic Christian faith.

Young Adult Ski Retreat: Register Online

Smithers. Skiing. Retreating. What more could you ask for? Come join us March 18-20 in the beautiful slopes of Smithers for a time away from the busyness of daily life. Ages 18-40. The theme this year is SKI MERCIFUL. We will be exploring themes of receiving and giving mercy. Guest speaker, Megan Turland from Catholic Christian Outreach, will be joining us all the way from Toronto along with our fav skiing priest, Fr. Jack Michalchuk. To keep cost minimal, we are joining the Hudson Bay Mountain PG Community weekend so lift tickets are only $25! This event will fill up quickly so please register online at: http://bit.ly/1nhuXyZ

• Diocesan Annual Appeal  Report
• OEC Come and Rest Poster
• Joy-filled poster 2016
• Marriage Preparation Registration 2016

Marriage Preparation Weekend 

Living a Joy-Filled Marriage – Please see attached poster for more information.

When:             March 12-13, 2016.

Cost:               $200/couple Includes (Workbooks Lunches and Snacks)

Contact Angelo at the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis for registration and information. Phone (250) 964-4424 (ext. 230) or email asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

Office of Evangelization and Catechesis

Is proud to announce the next “Come and Rest” event.

WHO:             Everyone is welcome and childcare programs will be provided for ages 2-18!

FEE:               Free

WHEN:          Sunday Feb.21, 3:00-7:30pm

WHERE:       Christ our Savior Parish in Prince George (4514 Austin Road West)

EVENT:                    

Will begin with a coffee and snack social in the parish hall.

Presentation to follow by John Connelly entitled, “What is the greatest devotion in the church?”

Q & A period

Share a pot luck supper

 Please bring enough food for your family and there will be enough for everyone!

 For more Information, please contact Angelo at (250) 613-3969 or asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

 Rite of Election at Sacred Heart Cathedral

On Sunday, February 14, the first Sunday of Lent, the Rite of Election of Catechumens will be celebrated by the Bishop at Sacred Heart Cathedral at the 11:00 AM Mass.

The Church highlights the various stages of the initiation process for those who are to be baptized into the Catholic community and marks key moments with special rites. One of the most significant is the Rite of Election. This step marks the “beginning of the period of final, more intense preparation for the sacraments of initiation, during which the elect will be encouraged to follow Christ with greater generosity.” (#105)

We invite catechumens from the city parishes to gather with their sponsors, family members, catechists and members of their parish communities to celebrate this rite in the mother church of the diocese. Candidates who are already baptized in other denominations and who seek admission to full communion in the Church will also be welcomed. A reception will follow in lower hall after the Mass.

Catechumens, candidates and sponsors are asked to be at the Cathedral by 10:00 AM to review the rite and have a rehearsal with Fr. Rector Tolentino.

Additional Note: Pastors of parishes outside the city of Prince George are delegated by the Bishop to celebrate the Rite of Election with their catechumens and to welcome candidates for full communion.

The Camp Morice Society Fundraiser

 Camp Morice Society invites you to a Lasagna Dinner

When:          Sunday, February 28, 2016

Doors open at 5:00 PM

Dinner at 6:00 PM

Where:        St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1088 Gillett Street, Prince George

Cost:            By donation

 All donations will go towards training our volunteer staff at Leadership Week and to help those who need assistance to go to camp. Come support our Catholic Camp. This year’s theme is “The Faith Awakens”, come and see what is in store for a great summer.

Contact Maria Barnes president of Camp Morice Society at 250-961-3225 or president@campmorice.com for more information.

Northern Catholic News

The deadline for the next Northern Catholic News is the 15^th of February –we look forward to receiving pictures and articles to liven up the spring edition of the Northern Catholic News. Please send to majamin@pgdiocese.bc.ca as soon as possible. Thank you!

Attention Former Frontier Apostles

The Frontier Apostolate, established by Bishop O’Grady in 1956, will celebrate the 60th Anniversary of its founding with a reunion of former Frontier Apostles on August 19-21, 2016 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. For more information contact PGFAreunion@gmail.com

 YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS

This is a Catholic youth event put together by Development and Peace that aims to educate youth about the causes of poverty and to learn how to spread the message of peace and justice. During the fast, students will not eat solid food for 24 hours and will only drink water, fruit juice, broth, or other liquids. There will be sessions, activities, games, and much more! When: Saturday February 20th at 10am until Sunday February 21st after 9am mass and pancake breakfast.

 Where: Immaculate Conception Parish

Bring:

Minimum $10 donation

your health card and emergency contact information

an overnight bag

a sleeping bag and pillow

a reusable water bottle

Contact:         Deirdre O’Callaghan @ 250-613-1525 if you have any questions

The Diocesan Youth Conference

Check this out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrpkzAXqZTE

For Registration go to: www.dycpgdiocese.eventbrite.ca

DYC is a packed weekend adventure filled with dynamic talks, workshops, games, adoration, praise and worship, and a coffeehouse featuring artists from across our diocese as part of an evening celebration.

This year, our theme is‘The Ascent’. The Christian journey often feels like a tough climb, but we hope young people will leave ready to take on every mountain. With the help of Face2Face Ministries, we will unpack that which is most central and basic to our Catholic Christian faith. “Verso l’alto!” – Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati

 When:     Friday, 29 April 2016 at 6:00 PM – Sunday, 1 May 2016 at 1:00 PM (PDT)

Where:    6500 Southridge Ave – Prince George, BC V2N 5P9

2016-02-03 Diocesan Annual Appeal Report

Office Assistant

Office Assistant to The Office of Evangelization and Catechesis (OEC) position has been filled as of Monday, January 25, 2016. The successful applicant is Mr. Angelo Sabbadin. We congratulate Angelo and welcome him to the Diocesan Pastoral Center as our newly hired Office Assistant to the OEC.

Marriage Preparation Weekend

Joy-filled poster 2016

Marriage Preparation Registration 2016

Living a Joy-Filled Marriage — (See links)

When:             March 12-13, 2016.

Cost:               $200/couple Includes (Workbooks Lunches and Snacks)

Contact Angelo at the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis for registration and information. Phone (250) 964-4424 (ext. 230) or email asabbadin@pgdiocese.bc.ca

Message from Sr. Elizabeth Poilievre, FCJ

Because of increasing needs in Edmonton; my community is calling me back to help out with needs there. I will leave the Domano Renewal Centre effective July 1, 2016. It has been a joy for me to work here and to meet so many wonderful people across the Diocese. It will be hard to leave.

Rite of Election at Sacred Heart Cathedral

On Sunday, February 14, the first Sunday of Lent, the Rite of Election of Catechumens will be celebrated by the Bishop at Sacred Heart Cathedral at the 11:00 AM Mass.

The Church highlights the various stages of the initiation process for those who are to be baptized into the Catholic community and marks key moments with special rites. One of the most significant is the Rite of Election. This step marks the “beginning of the period of final, more intense preparation for the sacraments of initiation, during which the elect will be encouraged to follow Christ with greater generosity.” (#105)

We invite catechumens from the city parishes to gather with their sponsors, family members, catechists and members of their parish communities to celebrate this rite in the mother church of the diocese. Candidates who are already baptized in other denominations and who seek admission to full communion in the Church will also be welcomed. A reception will follow in lower hall after the Mass.

Additional Note: Pastors of parishes outside the city of Prince George are delegated by the Bishop to celebrate the Rite of Election with their catechumens and to welcome candidates for full communion.

The Camp Morice Society Fundraiser

 Camp Morice Society invites you to a Lasagna Dinner

When:    Sunday, February 28, 2016

  Doors open at 5:00 PM

  Dinner at 6:00 PM

Where:   St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1088 Gillett Street, Prince George

Cost:        By donation

 All donations will go towards training our volunteer staff at Leadership Week and to help those who need assistance to go to camp. Come support our Catholic Camp. This year’s theme is “The Faith Awakens”, come and see what is in store for a great summer.

Contact Maria Barnes president of Camp Morice Society at 250-961-3225 or president@campmorice.com for more information.

Vocations Retreat

On the weekend of February 12 – 14, there will be a Vocation Live-In for boys or young men interested in the priesthood or the consecrated life, at the Seminary of Christ the King, Mission, BC.

For more information call 604-826-8715 or

 Father Mark Dumont, OSB                      Tel: 604-826-8975

Vocations Awareness Committee             Fax: 604-826-8725

Seminary of Christ the King

PO Box 3310 Mission BC V2V 4J5 website: http://www.sck.ca/

Monthly Day of Eucharistic Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Emmanuel Hermitage invites you to a Personal Date with Jesus on February 9, 2016 in the Domano Chapel, 6500 Southridge Ave. Mass will be celebrated at 7:30 a.m. and the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a day of silent prayer and adoration. We will pray for the universal Church and the world, and the people and needs of our Diocese. In particular we will pray for the protection of all human life, for vocations, and for the intentions of those participating in the day. Please mark your calendar on the second Tuesday of each month for Personal Dates with Jesus days.

Northern Catholic News

The deadline for the next Northern Catholic News is the 15^th of February –we look forward to receiving pictures and articles to liven up the spring edition of the Northern Catholic News. Please send to majamin@pgdiocese.bc.ca as soon as possible. Thank you!

Attention Former Frontier Apostles

The Frontier Apostolate, established by Bishop O’Grady in 1956, will celebrate the 60th Anniversary of its founding with a reunion of former Frontier Apostles on August 19-21, 2016 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. For more information contact PGFAreunion@gmail.com.

YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS

This is a Catholic youth event put together by Development and Peace that aims to educate youth about the causes of poverty and to learn how to spread the message of peace and justice. During the fast, students will not eat solid food for 24 hours and will only drink water, fruit juice, broth, or other liquids. There will be sessions, activities, games, and much more! When: Saturday February 20th at 10am until Sunday February 21st after 9am mass and pancake breakfast.

Where:               Immaculate Conception Parish

Bring:                 Minimum $10 donation

your health card and emergency contact information

an overnight bag

a sleeping bag and pillow

a reusable water bottle

Contact:         Deirdre O’Callaghan @ 250-613-1525 if you have any questions