Canadian, Catholic & Proud...

With Canada Day celebrations taking place from coast to coast, it's an opportunity for us to take a moment and pause, give thanks and reflect on the country in which we live. In Canada, we enjoy freedoms that are the envy of many around the world. Every year, tens of thousands look to the place we call home as a beacon of hope, a new opportunity, a fresh start. There is much to offer in this vast land and at this time of year, while giving thanks for our own country, we also pray for those citizens who struggle for freedom, democracy and peace in their homeland. For us, it's just a given.

Is it a perfect country? Of course not. Just as each one of us is imperfect, there are plenty of examples of a country that has stumbled at times or is treading down a slippery slope. From a faith perspective, there is plenty to be concerned about. We've seen countless examples in recent days of the move from freedom of religion to freedom from religion, a disturbing trend. The value of human life seems to have become a political football, whether it be from the moment of conception to the end of life, with polls and special interest groups dictating where the next shoe will drop. Just like any family, we've got plenty of work to do. It requires a whole lot of dialogue, engagement and a respectful exchange of ideas.

In reflecting on our country, we also take a moment to consider the Catholic Church in Canada and the important role it plays. We represent approximately 13 million residents across the nation who make up the more than 70 Catholic dioceses and eparchies of our country. Our faith community extends from coast to coast and includes the 6,000+ Catholics in Churchill-Hudson Bay where a handful or ordained clergy serve the community to our own Archdiocese of Toronto where close to 2 million faithful reside, grateful for the hundreds of clergy serving quietly day in and out.

While those of us in the Greater Toronto Area may be accustomed to having Mass offered on four or five occasions each weekend, that's not the reality for many. Consider the Eucharist coming to town only four or five times a year, with a priest or bishop travelling 18 hours to celebrate Mass for 20 people.

In addition to our spiritual services which are at the core of our faith, for many, our parishes are not just spiritual hubs but the place where family gathers for prayer, direction and fellowship, laughter and mutual support, an exchange of ideas. In short, it's home.

On top of all that our parishes provide across the country, consider the role of Catholic organizations in every community throughout our nation. Hospitals, many founded by religious women, continue to thrive and serve people of all faith, modelling the call of Jesus to love and serve anyone in need. We also see tremendous outreach in areas of social service, from soup kitchens to counselling, daycares to residences for seniors, care for those struggling with mental illness, drop in centres, youth programs, Out of the Cold, partnerships with other faith communities on any number of initiatives. There's the Catholic Women's League, Knights of Columbus and countless other lay associations that give selflessly of their time, talent and treasure.

It's been said before that we don't help others because they're Catholic, we do it because we are. 

Take the Catholic Church out of the equation and life in Canada would look very different.

This isn't an opportunity to boast, to puff our chests and suggest that we're "all that". In fact, if anything, it should be a reminder to us all that yes, we've made important contributions yet we need to push the bar even higher in the days ahead. It should push us to work harder where there is division, even within our own family, to heal wounds, to adopt an attitude of gratitude, to remind ourselves that once we're done with our earthly journey, have we left it all on the table so to speak?

It's interesting if you look at the verses of our national anthem, O Canada, ones that are rarely sung, the final verse is strikingly religious. Worth a look as we celebrate the nation's birthday.

Ruler supreme, who hearest humble prayer,
Hold our dominion within thy loving care;
Help us to find, O God, in thee
A lasting rich reward,
As waiting for the Better Day,
We ever stand on guard.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

So as we reflect on Canada Day this year, I certainly am grateful for all that my country has offered but I can't help but think to myself as a Catholic Canadian, infused with the spirit of our country but equally infused with the morals and teachings of a faith that has been that shining light for so many both in our country and around the world. 

I am Canadian, I am Catholic. I am proud of both. Yet there is much work to be done.

Clergy & Laity on the Move: Recent Appointments

This is the time of year, for many priests, when bags are being packed, goodbye and welcome receptions taking place and parishioners preparing for change. Diocesan priests pledge a vow of obedience to the local Ordinary (in our Archdiocese - Cardinal Collins) to serve in a particular diocese or Archdiocese (Toronto, Ottawa, etc.) so will remain within that diocese while religious order priests (Basilians, Jesuits, Oblates, etc.) can be called up on by their superior to serve literally anywhere in the world. So a basilian may get the call to go from Toronto to Trinidad while a diocesan priest could be on the move from Mississauga to Oshawa.


Generally speaking, pastors serve between 6 and 12 years at a particular parish although a pastoral need may require a move before that time. Associate Pastors usually serve a few years at a parish before another assignment although, again, it can depend on a number of factors based on pastoral needs of the Archdiocese.


Below you'll find a listing of the clergy moves, most of which will take place June 27 (with a few effective July 1):

PASTOR  

Fr. Damian Ali, St. John the Evangelist Parish, Whitby
Fr. Christopher Cauchi, Newman Centre Catholic Mission, Toronto
Fr. James Cherickal, St. Anne’s Parish, Brampton
Fr. Godofredo Claudio, St. Rose of Lima Parish, Scarborough
Fr. Darrin Corkum, Sts. Martha and Mary Parish, Mississauga
Fr. Oswin Fernandes, St. Joseph’s Parish, Beaverton
Fr. Adam Gabriel, CSMA, St. Teresa’s Parish, Etobicoke
Fr. Alan Glass, St. Paul the Apostle Parish, Alliston
Fr. Neidson Gomes, St. Agnes’ parish, Toronto (still continues as administrator of St. Mary of the Angels parish, Toronto)
Fr. Anthony Iacobelli, Good Shepherd Parish, Thornhill
Fr. Leo Llames, St. Patrick’s Parish, Stayner
Fr. Donald Lococo, CSB Holy Rosary Parish, Toronto
Fr. Michael Machacek, Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Etobicoke
Fr. Edward Murphy, Precious Blood Parish, Scarborough
Fr. Robert O’Brien, St. Gregory the Great Parish, Oshawa
Fr. Miroslaw Olszewski, OMI, St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, Toronto,
Fr. Joel Pabilona, St. Theresa’s Parish, Scarborough
Fr. Rohwin Pais, OFM, Immaculate Conception Parish, Toronto
Fr. John Pak, Sacred Heart of Jesus-Ye Su Sung Shim Parish, Etobicoke
Fr. Min-Kyu Park, St. Pius X Parish, Toronto
Fr. Ignacio Pinedo, St. James Parish, Toronto
Fr. Keith Wallace, St. Bernadette’s Parish, Ajax
Fr. Jimmy Zammit, OFM, St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Toronto

ADMINISTRATOR

Fr. Anthony Werunga, St. Bernard de Clairvaux Parish, Toronto

ASSOCIATE PASTOR

Fr. Victor Abimbola Amole, St. Bernard de Clairvaux Parish, Toronto
Fr. Kazimierz Brzozowski, CRL, Christ the King Parish, Etobicoke
Fr. Luis Calleja, St. Barnabas Parish, Scarborough
Fr. Kim D’Souza, St. Joseph’s Parish, Mississauga
Fr. Landorff Garcia Mariona, St. Agnes’ Parish, Toronto
Fr. Fabian Ihunegbo, St. Luke’s Parish, Thornhill
Fr. Myoung Soo Matthias Kim, L.C., St. Andrew Kim Parish, North York
Fr. Wojciech Kurzydlo, OMI, St. Eugene de Mazenod Mission, Brampton
Fr. Giacomo La Selva, OFM, St. Jane Frances Parish, North York
Fr. Paul Magyar, St. Anne's Parish, Brampton

In addition to the moves listed above, there are a couple of other significant comings and goings worth mentioning. 


Mr. John McGrath, who has served as the Chancellor of Temporal Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto for more than a decade will be retiring as of June 29, 2012. John has made incredible contributions to the Archdiocese and will be very much missed. While most day to day parishioners may not be aware of the extensive work of the office of Temporal Affairs, it essentially manages the "business" side of our faith community, working very closely with Cardinal Collins, the bishops, parishes and staff in the Catholic Pastoral Centre and its Satellite Offices. I know I'm not alone in saying that 'll certainly miss my dealings with John, his steady leadership and wise counsel over the years. Mr. Jim Milway will begin full time as Chancellor of Temporal Affairs July 3, 2012. Jim has been actively engaged in the life of the Archdiocese for many months, preparing for this transition so we look forward to him joining us on a full time basis.


Msgr. Marco Laurencic, who has served as the Director of the Office of Clergy Personnel since 2001 will be taking a well deserved sabbatical before his next assignment. The office is a demanding one - Msgr. Marco often refers to his work as being the "GM" of our "team", having to assign clergy for parishes and ministries, a huge puzzle to pull together. While there's no "salary cap" or trades to worry about, taking into consideration age, language, personal skills and traits while juggling the pastoral needs of the Archdiocese is no easy task. He was asked by the late Cardinal Ambrozic to take on the role (remember that vow of obedience?) and has dedicated himself to the position for more than a decade. Fr. Thomas Kalarathil, most recently pastor at Nativity of Our Lord Parish will be the new Director of the Clergy Personnel office as of July 3, 2012. Again, Fr. Thomas has been involved over the last number of months in working with Msgr. Marco to ensure a smooth transition. The Office of Clergy Personnel has expanded in recent years to include oversight for Catholic Chaplaincy and the Permanent Diaconate in addition to the priestly assignments. 


Fr. Ivan Camilleri, who served as Vice Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs for more than a year, will step into the role of Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs as of July 1, 2012. Again, a demanding position that requires the balance of pastoral care and application of Canon Law, Fr. Ivan almost daily is faced with complex and difficult situations to discern.


Finally, our new Auxiliary Bishop, Wayne Kirkpatrick, will have his Episcopal Ordination on July 25 in his home diocese of St. Catharines. Shortly thereafter, he'll join us as bishop of the Northern Pastoral Region in addition to serving as the Episcopal Vicar for Religious institutes of men and women and Episcopal Vicar for the Francophone community. We look forward to welcoming Bishop-designate Kirkpatrick shortly - after 28 years of priesthood in the Diocese of St. Catharines, it will be a whole new world so to speak - remember once again that vow of obedience? Well it works for bishops too - you get a phone call indicating the Holy Father has called you to serve a particular diocese and there you go.


We also extend our immense gratitude to those priests who are retiring after decades of service to the community this year: Fr. Edwin D'Souza, Fr. Antonio Pereira, Fr. John Pilkauskas, Fr. Florentine Rajaratnam and Fr. John Weber. You have been an inspiration to your flock and we give thanks for everything you have offered our family of faith over the years. There will be a void in our parishes without your presence yet we know you deserve a peaceful and restful retirement. Thank you Fathers!


Transitions bring with them a myriad of emotions for all involved whether it be priest, parishioner, bishop or laity. So let's ensure that we pray for all those who are experiencing a new chapter in the journey in the coming days. Our prayers and personal support can make all the difference - a welcoming smile, kind word or personal introduction make a huge impact.  

So whether your local church is experiencing a transition or not, take a moment to thank those who serve our faith community. We couldn't do it without you...

Thank You Dublin!

Sunday was the finale for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress, with events shifting to Croke Park, an historic stadium in Dublin, most accustomed to hosting Gaelic football sporting matches. For one day, the stadium was converted into a global parish, with advertisements around the structure replaced with the names of Irish parishes.

Presiding at the closing Mass of the IEC was Papal Legate, Marc Cardinal Ouellet. Some will recall the final Eucharistic celebration in Quebec City four years ago at the end of the IEC there, with one of the most rain-drenched celebrations in recent memory. Given the on/off rain experienced throughout the week in Dublin, many of our Archdiocese of Toronto pilgrims quickly reminded others, "the weather can't be worse than Quebec City."














They were right. While there was an intermittent sprinkle here and there, the sun did peek out from time to time and everyone made it through without a soaking.

An estimated 80,000 were in attendance for the final Mass, a great showing by the local Irish church as many weren't exactly sure what kind of turnout to expect given the difficult last few years for the Catholic community in the country. It seems that the momentum and positive spirit from the days leading up to the final Mass prompted many to make the trek.

As it was throughout the week and again on Sunday, music continues to shine and will likely be one of the lasting memories from Dublin's IEC. A closing ceremony televised throughout the country and around the world consisted of numerous musical acts including the Irish Tenors and recording artists "The Priests" among others singing classics like How Great Thou Art, Panis Angelicus and King of Kings to name a few.

The closing ceremonies also featured a number of short interviews, essentially personal witness stories with young adults speaking about their faith. One particularly powerful reflection was given by a young Irish woman who was struck by a car while attending World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain last summer. The driver went through a red light, seriously injuring her and leaving her wheelchair bound for the past year. She spoke of the accident being a "blessing" and how it had provided the opportunity to reflect on the important things in life, share her faith through her story and re-energize her commitment to the church.


In his homily, Cardinal Ouellet reflected on how we can extend the experience of a week of meditation on the Eucharist into our own communities:

"After this week of Eucharistic reflection, celebration and adoration, we are certainly more aware of God’s call to communion with Him and with one another.

Let us bear witness to this grace by calling others to faith in this communion. The Irish bell, which resounds from Lough Derg, from Knock and Dublin, must resound in the whole world. Let’s ring the bell further through our personal testimony of renewed faith in the Holy Eucharist.

Faith is the most precious gift we have received with Baptism. Let’s not keep it private and fearful! Let it grow as a splendid tree through sharing everywhere!"






The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, also offered a pre-recorded message to pilgrims before the final blessing, encouraging more active participation in both the liturgy and life outside the church in evangelizing those we encounter.

"The Eucharist is the worship of the whole Church, but it also requires the full engagement of each individual Christian in the Church’s mission; it contains a call to be the holy people of God, but also one to individual holiness; it is to be celebrated with great joy and simplicity, but also as worthily and reverently as possible; it invites us to repent of our sins, but also to forgive our brothers and sisters; it binds us together in the Spirit, but it also commands us in the same Spirit to bring the good news of salvation to others."

The full text and video of the Holy Father's message can be found via the Salt + Light blog here.

The Pope also announced that the next International Eucharistic Congress will take place in 2016 in the Philippines. While the country was not a surprise, the diocese was. The event will be moving to the Archdiocese of Cebu, not Manilla which had been predicted by many. Either way, get ready as no doubt the Philippines will have all hands on deck in preparing for the next IEC and there will be plenty of local participation. If anyone recalls 4 million pilgrims in Manila for World Youth Day 1995, that should serve as a reminder that the community is engaged and ready to go.








The Archdiocese of Cebu has 3.8 million Catholics and 144 parishes so plenty of resources to draw on as they prepare for 2016.

80,000 pilgrims making their way out of Mass was actually quite civilized with our contingent walking collectively back to our buses in about 45 minutes, a far cry from World Youth Day like crowds that can turn into a nightmare when one wants to stay connected to a group of 100 or so.

We wrapped up the day with a final meal together, Archdiocesan pilgrims sharing the fruits and blessings of the week. We were joined by some special guests, including Fr. Kevin Doran, Secretary General of the IEC 2012, who could have been anywhere after years of planning the culmination of his team's efforts - we were blessed to have him with us for our final banquet.









We also welcomed Archbishop Albert Legatt, National Delegate from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops as well as Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, Loyola Hearn, who shared some kind words of welcome and gratitude for the large Canadian delegation at the IEC this week.

Finally, Cardinal Collins also had the chance to break bread with about 6 relatives from his hometown of Drogheda, a short ride from Dublin and a wonderful opportunity to connect to his roots while in Ireland.

Monday morning, half the delegation departed for their post-congress tour while the other half will return to Toronto on Tuesday.

These days in Dublin have been blessed for many reasons: the chance to grow with one another in community, reflect on the Eucharist and its role in our own life and also to stand in solidarity with Ireland, a country going through a renewal of sorts as it relates to faith.

Whether it's emotional, physical or spiritual struggles, it's one thing to hear about the challenges but another to walk together with one suffering. We heard a lot of stories this week. Yet one of the stark reminders a Eucharistic Congress can offer is that it's about relationship: with God, ourselves and one another. The most precious gift we can give to others and even, at times, ourselves is time. To be truly present to a friend suffering, to listen to a complete stranger tell their story, to offer time to God in prayer and thanksgiving - yet in a world that suggests our success may lie more in what we can accumulate - riches, possessions, status, etc. giving time to one another tends to go against the grain.









So yes, it went against the grain to carry a sign saying "Archdiocese of Toronto" all week and advertise our faith on the bus, train and in our conversations and interactions. It may have gone against the grain to chat with strangers that we'll never see again, to say thank you to people for showing you the way, to smile and wave as a horn honked to acknowledge the Canadian flag. It went against the grain to pray publicly at an airport before boarding yet somehow all of these made us happier, more fulfilled, more human, more church.

We don't need a Eucharistic Congress to adopt this attitude of gratitude. As we pledged four years ago in Quebec City, we start anew with our personal renewal, we recharge the batteries and we remind ourselves, that in these blessed days of pilgrimage, God is calling us to be that public witness not just for a week in Ireland but every day.

When we return to Canada, disembark from our flights and have a custom officer ask, "What do you have to declare?", we will probably say "some clothes, a few souvenirs, etc." But what we really should be saying is, "We declare that God is good, we are blessed and that we're here to change the world."

Welcome home!

From the Philippines to Dublin...

"No wound is so great that it cannot be healed by love." These words were shared with pilgrims to begin Saturday morning at the IEC in Dublin. With regular showers descending on the thousands gathered at the RDS interspersed with moments of sun breaking through the clouds, it was an up and down morning. The catechesis & Mass schedule for Saturday was shifted to the morning, unlike the afternoon earlier in the week.

The quote above was shared by the presenter of the morning catechesis, offered by Archbishop Antonio Tagle of Manilla, Philippines. Many remember with fondness his talk from Quebec City's IEC in 2008, one of the highlights for many attendees. His topic for Saturday: "Communion in the Word" was covered in the first of a two part catechesis with the second section focusing on "Communion with Mary" on this feast day of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Once again, the Archbishop spoke powerfully and emotionally - he was moved to tears at one point in the talk, sharing his reflections on God's love for us. One particularly moving excerpt:

"We see in our time so much exchange of words happening at high speed and across national boundaries. But unfortunately the world is as divided as ever. Why is communion not achieved in spite of the exchange of words? Because Jesus is not the word they share and receive. When financial wizards talk about ways of manipulating the economy for their own profit, you do not call that communion; that is corruption! When politicians talk to people about grand promises without intending to fulfil them, you do not call that communion; that is cheating!

When the powerful “negotiate” among themselves while neglecting the weak, you do not call that communion; that is oppression! When so-called enterprising persons deal with each other on how women and children could be profitable merchandise, you do not call that communion; that is slavery! When communion consists in Jesus who is the Word of Life then the common good becomes central. And that is pleasing to God’s eyes."

In speaking of Mary, Jesus' mother learning that she would be the mother of the son of God, Archbishop Tagle offered these words:

"Mary, with Joseph by her side, listens, accepts and responds in silence. What mother would not be rendered speechless by such a report about her son? Amazed like the rest who hear the story of the shepherds she keeps all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. The most meaningful word is uttered in silence. Gazing upon the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, she nurtures her communion in the Word through silence. By being in communion with the Word, the Church like Mary will gladly listen to the lowly and the poor with reverential silence, listening to God speaking through them."

With plenty of folks predicting that the next IEC will be held in Manilla, Archbishop Tagle would be a passionate host who would enthusiastically embrace the opportunity for his country to welcome the world for days of prayer, fellowship and reflection.

The full text of Archbishop Tagle's talk is available here.

The witness talk Saturday morning was given by Professor John Monaghan, Vice President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Ireland. He offered some sobering stats on the number of people served by the SVDP, increasing poverty and isolation (especially for young people) in Ireland and the resources needed to keep the SVDP operational.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is one of those organizations that is present in most parishes throughout the world and quietly goes about their work day in and out, with thousands of visits and projects underway in our communities. We should be grateful for their work and offer our prayers for all those involved in this outreach ministry.



Cardinal Sarah, President of Cor Unum at the Vatican, presided at the noon Mass which included some brief but powerful showers proving that indeed, "He shall 'rain' forever." All the talks and homilies from this week can be accessed at the IEC website

Workshops were offered throughout the afternoon as things began to wind down at the RDS, our home for the last week. Kudos to the abundance of volunteers who couldn't have been friendlier and more helpful, providing free ponchos throughout the week whenever rain came down and always there with a smile to point you in the right direction.





There are a number of other very interesting spaces at the RDS this week. A large exhibit hall with some 200 booths made for respite from the rain and lots of great information shared throughout the walk in the hall. You could find everything from vendors selling vestments, church security systems to plenty of vocation booths, religious orders, Christian musicians and many many more.

The IEC also offered a very large prayer space that was accessible at anytime you were on the grounds. I was moved by the number of people that were present in the prayer space at any given time of the day. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament was ongoing, Lectio Divina was offered periodically throughout the day and the Sacrament of Reconciliation was available anytime the space was open.









Particularly moving was the active prayer wall where intentions could be written and posted publicly. Tens of thousands of prayers littered the wall by the end of the week. Some were prayers for specific people, others for a country or group (political leaders, priests, etc.). Some intentions were offered by small children and portrayed through pictures or simple words while others had the shaky script of someone in their twilight years. A very powerful visual reminder of the power of prayer.

Many of the Toronto pilgrims made their way Saturday evening to a traditional Irish dinner and dancing show. About half the group will return to Toronto Tuesday while the other half will continue on a post-congress tour throughout the country, no doubt energized and inspired by the congress experience.

Don't forget you can view the wonderful photos taken by Emanuel Pires on the Archdiocese of Toronto Facebook Page. The pics help capture much of the emotion of the experience - it's great to have them to help tell the story of our time here.

"No wound is so great that it cannot be healed by love." It's a powerful reminder for all of us. In a world that seems more and more wounded with each day, we need that love to guide us, heal us, inspire us. Our challenge post congress will be to find everyday ways to demonstrate simple acts of love for others, in new and meaningful ways.

It's the gift that keeps on giving...

Friday in Dublin. "Jesus Will Never Say No..."

Friday at Dublin's Eucharistic Congress brought with it rain and overcast skies but in many ways, it was a baptismal experience. Overall theme for the day was Communion in Suffering & Healing.

Organizers have scheduled most of the main plenary sessions this week in the afternoon to avoid the Dublin rush hour traffic as anyone who's been to Dublin can attest to the congested roadways in the city.

Friday afternoon pilgrims heard from the Archbishop of Erbil, Iraq, Bashar Warda, one of the youngest bishops in the world, born in 1969. The Archbishop, leader of 200,000 Chaldean Christians, spoke of the suffering of his flock, victims of violence and persecution in Iraq and throughout the Middle East.



It's a complex situation, as many Catholics in the Archdiocese of Toronto will be familiar with the sponsorship of refugees from that region making their way to Canada. Yet if the Christian population flees the area, it's mere survival is threatened. To stay or to go? One of the many challenges facing the Christians of the Middle East.

Full text of the Archbishop's homily can be found here.

Following the Archbishop's catechesis, we had the chance to pray the rosary as part of the Annual Global Rosary Relay for Priests.

The afternoon witness talk was given by Ms. Rose Busingye, founder of Meeting Point International, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) based in Uganda, reaching out to those living with HIV/AIDS and their families. You can find her witness talk here in which she speaks of treating every person with dignity and respect, especially those who have been suffering, in many cases alone.

The crowds at the IEC continue to increase each day with close to 8,000 in the arena for today's catechesis and Mass. The Eucharist was celebrated Friday afternoon by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Fouad Twal who gave a rousing homily, interrupted numerous times with applause. He spoke of traveling to Golgotha ad praying at the place of Christ's death for the persecuted Christians, remembering, "While we may feel alone, Christ is our hope, joy and freedom." It's worth reading his full homily which can be found here.








Friday's Mass also included the anointing of the sick for many gathered at the IEC. Often a misunderstood sacrament with many Catholics under the impression it's reserved only for those on their death-bed, the sacrament can be administered to anyone who is undergoing serious surgery, facing significant health challenges or for the elderly who are vulnerable to any number of health ailments. It was a powerful experience witnessing hundreds of priests, bishops and cardinals making their way throughout the arena to administer the sacrament to thousands of pilgrims who stood to indicate their desire to receive the sacrament. Personally, it was one of those "moments" at the IEC, recognizing the unity within our community and desire to pray for one another and God's love shared through our clergy for those suffering.


This evening, we had the chance to enjoy a great talk from Canadian CEO of Salt + Light Television, Fr. Tom Rosica, speaking on "Is there a Catholic media?" Providing some great reflections and food for thought for those working in the media, communications and Catholics in general, Fr. Tom also spoke of the papacy of Blessed John Paul II and his ability to cross the great divide that often exists between the church and media. His talk can be read here. Special thanks also to the crew traveling with Fr. Tom from Salt + Light Catholic Television Network this week. They're working long hours to provide coverage not only to Canada but coordinating the world feed to more than 100 countries, blogging and streaming video through their website.

The sick surround us in our world, the vulnerable, the marginalized and those who have no voice. Today was an opportunity to pray for them and to reflect on the power of prayer. Whether it's persecution in the Middle East, a child fighting cancer or a 90 year old faced with the reality of their final days, suffering is a reality. That said, with God's love and our own ability to care for those both near and far away, we walk with them on the journey, comfort them and anoint them in our own way.

During the anointing, the words of a south african hymn rang through the arena, resonating with all of us as the sacrament of the sick was shared with those suffering.

"Come, bring your burdens to God, for Jesus will never say no."

We probably already know that but a reminder never hurts...

Location:Dublin, Ireland

Fellowship & Forgiveness in Dublin

In many ways Thursday was a "tale of two cities" in Dublin at the International Eucharistic Congress. For the Toronto delegation, we started our day off by making a pilgrimage to the Newman Centre in Dublin for Mass with Cardinal Collins. It was an opportunity for our pilgrims to come together in fellowship, prayer and unity.

His Eminence reminded us that the very church in which we celebrated was created in part by funds from those who supported John Henry Newman in his battle against government authorities who were in many different ways, persecuting the church.






We experienced first hand local hospitality when the pastor of the parish opened his doors to allow us to celebrate Mass, following it up by providing tea and biscuits for everyone gathered. We were humbled by the hospitality. Yet upon departure we passed on funds collected to offer a gesture of our appreciation to the parish - about $700 was raised and the parish priest indicated that it would take him many months to raise this amount. So in many ways, we were able to support one another, just as the original "friends" of Newman were able to do so many years ago.

Following Mass we made our way on foot to a meeting of all Canadian delegates at a hotel ballroom close to the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) Congress Centre. A quick side note, it's impressive to see so many of our pilgrims doing the extensive walking involved in this pilgrimage. With many in their 70's there are little or no complaints when walking between 5 and 10 km every day. With a smile and nod, they always seem to take up the challenge to go that extra mile (or kilometer)...









While not all the Canadian pilgrims were in attendance at our national gathering, more than 500 made the trek, from coast to coast. We had the opportunity to come together with song, prayer, sharing and reflections from some of the 20 or so Canadian bishops who were present with us. We had the chance to hear from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops President, Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton and Primate of Canada, Quebec Archbishop Gerald Lacroix, who reminded us joyfully that "ordinary time is when we're at our best". "While we enjoy the pinnacle of Easter and Christmas, it's ordinary time where we do most of the heavy lifting without any fanfare or hype. It's great to be part of ordinary time. Let's make it anything but ordinary."

At the main grounds of the IEC, today's theme was "Reconciliation in our Communion". As mentioned in these pages before, the Irish church is in great pain and hopefully the congress is the beginning of a new chapter in its history. Today's Mass was celebrated by Irish Primate, Sean Cardinal Brady. Workshops throughout the day also focused on themes of forgiveness.

The witness talk Thursday afternoon was given by Richard Moore, founder of the charity, Children in Crossfire. He spoke powerfully of his experience being shot by a British Army soldier in Northern Ireland in 1972 at the age of 10. He was left permanently blinded and later in life, sought out the man who fired the bullet, ultimately meeting up with him for a four hour meeting where Richard forgave the man who took away his sight forever.

As Richard said, "I am a victim of violence. I can't change that. But I refuse to be a victim of anger and hatred. Forgiveness won't change the past but it will change the future."

At Mass, Cardinal Brady continued the day's theme, acknowledging the sins of the church and seeking forgiveness. He also provided food for thought with poignant words in his homily:

"One of my hopes for this Congress is that more and more enemies will begin speaking to each other, more and more adversaries will begin to shake hands, more and more opponents may meet and simply talk."

Powerful words that we should all take to heart. It is not easy to forgive, it is not easy to substitute love in place of anger, it's not easy to accept someone when they've hurt us.

Yet do we want to carry hate and anger with us day to day? Rocks in our pockets that weigh us down? It is not easy to forgive but as we learned from the personal witness talks and homily today, Jesus calls us to do just that.

Full copy of Richard Moore talk can be found here with full text of Cardinal Brady's homily available here.

Plenty of food for thought at the IEC Thursday and more importantly, reflections to take back and apply to our everyday lives and relationships.

We pray today for all those who have been hurt and those who hurt us, may we find peace, love and forgiveness in those moments where it may seem impossible. Fellowship and reconciliation in Dublin - a day of discovery and hope for all!

Location:Dublin, Ireland

Midweek Congress: Forgiveness, Dialogue and Prayer

Midweek here at at the Eucharistic Congress in Dublin with Wednesday's theme focusing on "Priesthood & Ministry in the Service of Communion. As usual plenty of morning workshops, with topics like: "Priests in a Changing World", "An Amazing Grace: The Poets of the Eucharist" and "The Permanent Diaconate: A Partnership in Ministry".

The afternoon sessions included catechesis from Canada's own, Archbishop Michael Miller of Vancouver who gave an excellent talk on the priesthood, its role for both clergy and laity which should be required reading for every priest and not a bad reflection for lay folks either. For anyone wanting to read the talks from the IEC this week, you can download written versions of them 24 hours after they're delivered via the conference website. Archbishop Miller's talk can be found here.


Among numerous thoughtful remarks, Archbishop Miller suggested, "Priests are called to live in a profoundly intimate relationship with God, not to know about him but to live with him." He also recalled the famous words of Blessed Pope John Paul II speaking about the priesthood, "There is no Eucharist without the priesthood and no priesthood without the Eucharist."

Witness talks were offered by two Irish women, Noreen Carroll, longtime teacher and educator who also works in parish ministry. She shared insights about the influence and impact of clergy in her own life, through both joyful and sorrowful experiences, including entering the hospital after the death of her husband. Unable to enter the room with her daughter, it was the local parish priest who was able to offer them support and walk with them through some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

Sr. Conchita McDonnell, President of the Conference of Religious Ireland. Educated by the Dominican Sisters, she spent many years in Africa, working in Nigeria, Cameroon, Kenya and Brazil in the field of Education, Counselling and Pastoral Ministry. She worked alongside clergy and spoke of the co-operation that was essential in carrying out her important work.










Wednesday evening was the traditional Eucharistic Procession, a highlight for many in the 2008 Quebec City IEC where the walk traveled throughout the city, a witness for the faithful gathered in the birthplace of the Catholic Church in Canada. The Dublin route was 2.5 km, although it seemed much further, essentially traveling around the outside of the RDS Congress Centre with a few more public jaunts close to numerous pubs and residential areas. Thousands lined the route and processed, led by bishops and hundreds of priests.

It's a powerful witness to have 5,000 plus join in a Eucharistic Procession and it's a reminder to all of us that sometimes walking with other Catholics in quiet prayer can be just what we need. For many pilgrims walking back from the procession, they described the event as a highlight to date for them.

It was also widely reported in the media today that Papal Legate (the Pope's representative at the IEC, Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet, made a pilgrimage to Lough Derg, Co Donegal on Tuesday and Wednesday, where he met with a number of victims of child abuse in the church. Meeting with victims for more than two hours, the cardinal heard the stories of pain and suffering before celebrating Mass in St. Patrick's Basilica on the island with about 100 Irish and international pilgrims.


In his homily Cardinal Ouellet said:

“Pope Benedict XVI asked me, as his Legate to the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin, that I would come to Lough Derg and ask God’s forgiveness for the times clerics have sexually abused children not only in Ireland but anywhere in the Church.

I come here with the specific intention of seeking forgiveness, from God and from the Victims, for the grave sin of sexual abuse of children by clerics. We have learned over the last decades how much harm and despair such abuse caused to thousands of victims. We learned too that the response of some Church authorities to these crimes was often inadequate and inefficient in stopping the crimes, in spite of clear indications in the code of canon law…

In the name of the Church, I apologize once again to the victims, some of which I have met here in Lough Derg.

I repeat here what the Holy Father told to the victims in His Letter to the Catholics of Ireland: ‘It is understandable that you find it hard to forgive or to be reconciled with the Church. In her name I openly express the shame and remorse that we feel. At the same time, I ask you not lose hope. It is in the communion of the Church that we encounter the person of Jesus Christ, who was himself a victim of injustice and sin.

The tragedy of the sexual abuse of minors perpetrated by Christians, especially when done so by members of the clergy, is a source of great shame and enormous scandal. It is a sin against which Jesus himself lashed out: ‘It would be better for him if a millstone was put around his neck and he is thrown in to the sea than for him to cause one of the little one’s to stumble’ (Lk. 17:2).

From the context of this International Eucharistic Congress, I reaffirm the commitment of the Catholic Church to create a safe environment for children and we pray that a new culture of respect, integrity and Christ like love would prevail in our midst and permeate the whole society.”

Cardinal Ouellet stayed overnight on the island with the Papal Nuncio (Archbishop Charles Brown) and others during which time they fasted and participated in other penitential exercises with pilgrims on the island.



Toronto pilgrims are eagerly sharing their reflections with each other over meals, walks and time spent on the bus and train. Wednesday night they had a chance to come together in a relaxed social atmosphere, about the mid-way point of the IEC, to enjoy fellowship and listen to some Irish music while recalling their experiences to date.

There's absolutely no shortage of activities, workshops, films, etc. to take in. The crowds seem to be growing each day with plenty of locals making their way, many of whom recall hearing about the 1932 Eucharistic Congress in Dublin from their parents, not wanting to miss the historical occasion

So as we reflect on those who serve the church through ordained ministry, we give thanks for all that they do. In eating breakfast this morning, it was something to share a lengthy dialogue with a parish priest, deacon, lay pastoral associate, all of whom bring tremendous gifts to the church, unique perspectives and the ability to have a huge impact on the body of Christ among us. Let's continue to work together, pray for each other and support one another on the journey.

Marriage & the Family: Tuesday in Dublin...

A very active day at the International Eucharistic Congress Tuesday with pilgrims settling into the familiar confines of the Royal Dublin Society Congress Centre (RDS). Today's theme? Communion in Marriage & Family.

Plenty of workshops for pilgrims to enjoy Tuesday morning including: "Where is the Young Adult Church Today?", "The Abuse of Chidren, Accepting Responsibility, Bringing Healing", "Strengthening Marriage & Family Life" to name just a few. There's a real diverse range of options for pilgrims including a special Youth Zone where special content geared for a younger crowd has been carefully prepared. School children from throughout Ireland as well as young people from around the world are enjoying this space, with bands and comfy pillows to enjoy workshops and other presentations.





This afternoon's Catechesis was presented by the retired Archbishop of Perth, Australia, Barry Hickey who gave a rousing defense of the church's teaching on sexuality and spoke of the need for the church to remain true to its teachings over the years, despite the secular influences that we see in today's world.

As the Archbishop stated to enthusiastic applause: "The church can compromise and face irrelevance or speak the truth and pray that the world is touched by God."

Witness talks were given by Carl Anderson, Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight (based in the USA) who reminded us that "Every vocation has a unique role and as a family we remind one another that we're on a common journey." He also reflected on the opportunity to celebrate daily Mass at the KOC offices and stepping out from the chapel into a world that often sets religion to the periphery. Our challenge is to be re-energized by the Eucharist, allowing us to inspire us to be that public witness to all those we encounter.

Breda O'Brien, columnist and journalist (Irish Times) spoke of the vocation of mothers and gave a particularly vivid image of a mom protecting her children in busy traffic, willing to put herself first and have her body broken for the sake of her little ones. Jesus also made a similar sacrifice for each one of us. She also spoke of her experience around the kitchen table where, for many, we learn for the first time to listen, to forgive, to love. In that way, it may be important for us to not only come to appreciate the value of the Eucharist but, also, the kitchen table ministry that has the ability to infuse every family, every day.



Following catechesis and the witness talks, Mass was celebrated by the Archbishop of Paris, France, Andre Armand Cardinal Vingt-Trois. Rain managed to hold off until late afternoon when ponchos came out in full force and many pilgrims retreated to the safety of the covered seating area (the RDS is usually utilized for equestrian events and rugby matches). Not to worry, just a small bit of mist - the prayers of organizers and pilgrims must have been answered to date as two straight days forecast for rain held off for all the main events. We'll see if that holds true for the rest of the week and Wednesday's Eucharistic Procession.

Some beautiful petitions were offered for the family today. They're worth repeating to demonstrate how simple, thoughtful prayers can bring our faith community together:

For spouses, For those who are widowed, For those who are separated.

For parents and children, for those who long to be parents. For parents who have lost a child.

For Grandparents, for foster parents, for adoptive parents, for Godparents.

For those preparing for marriage, for those who marriage is in difficulty, for families who struggle financially.

For single parents, for those who care for other family members, for the extended family.

For children with special needs, for adult children living with their parents. For single people.

For those who are living apart from their family, for the bereaved, for our family members who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith.



So simple, yet powerful, proclaimed in english, french, italian, spanish, gaelic, filipino, and malayalam, they represent the many realities that our global family of faith face each day.

Today's events also seemed to be the most well attended to date with the appearance of many more local pilgrims looking to take in a day or two at the congress. The Irish are a joyful people and despite some of the recent challenges in the local church, there has been no sign of protest, only welcome, humble hospitality by our hosts.

It seems not a day goes by where one of the Toronto delegation connects with someone who has a link to the Greater Toronto Area for some particular reason. My own experience Tuesday was sitting in the grandstand for Mass next to a local, an elderly gentleman probably 80 years old. As most of the Irish have done, he leaned over to welcome me to his country and city asking where I came from. When I replied "Toronto", he mentioned that about 10 years ago, he hosted a Toronto based politician in his home, married to an Irish woman who had a cousin related to a cousin...and making his way through Dublin. We deciphered who the politician was and exchanged warm words before assuring one another of each other's prayers. You travel across the ocean to find someone sitting beside you at Mass with a Toronto connection. These are the many unscripted "moments" at the Eucharistic Congress.





Marriage and the family. Essential pillars that, for many, serve as a rock for our faith community. We pray for married couples and all families. May they inspire us in their example. Young, old, from every corner of the world - we pray for them and support them in all that they do.

Today the church came out in full force and gave married couples and families a big group hug. Now it's time for us to pass it on...


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Location:Dublin, Ireland