tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89081496106384384722011-10-27T20:00:12.811-07:00From beyond the Jackpine CurtainWebsternoreply@blogger.comBlogger971100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-48821947713088241902011-10-27T19:53:00.003-07:002011-10-27T20:00:12.854-07:00

<!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-CA X-NONE X-NONE <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]>

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-79540887789842559252011-10-26T19:41:00.000-07:002011-10-26T19:48:03.499-07:00

Due to problems with my Nikon transfer, I accidently deleted the pictures I had taken of the session, so this is a picture of the general secretary, Patrick Powers, out-outgoing president, Bishop Pierre Morrisette, and incoming president, Archbishop Richard Smith, taken last year. Below is my summary of the plenary.<!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-79930065958551117902011-10-26T18:45:00.000-07:002011-10-26T18:52:57.864-07:00

On October 13 -15th, 2011, I participated in a Returning To Spirit Reconciliation session at Queen's House of Retreats in Saskatoon with about 50 aboriginal and non-aboriginal participants. RTS is a powerful program that brings together both groups, after a 7 day process separately, for three days of dialogue and reconciliation. The evaluation below tells the story.EVALUATION OF THE RETURNING TO

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-26917594048665032742011-10-18T19:29:00.000-07:002011-10-18T19:46:50.532-07:00

The second day of the plenary has finished here in Cornwall. Pictured above are the General secretary Msgr. Patrick Powers, out-going president Bishop Pierre Morrisette and in-coming president Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton.In addition to the information provided below by Zenit, i want to mention that the project of the northern bishops on enriching marriage and family life fits in well

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-15014943949379036782011-10-18T10:31:00.000-07:002011-10-18T10:37:45.043-07:00

Blogging will be light this week, as I am attending the 2011 plenary of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. See you online again soon! Pray for us!

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-37528068457454172982011-10-12T08:44:00.000-07:002011-10-12T08:44:58.095-07:00

From Sept 19-23, this group gather at Queen's House in Saskatoon for our annual Study Days. With two great presenters, Fr. Pau Fachet OMI and Fr. Bill Burke, some were saying this was the best yet. We had also held meetings of the Sounci of Priests, Assembly of Religious and the Curia or leadership team before the event, which lightened the schedule. There was also a day for discussing

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-7504441258211353402011-09-25T20:07:00.000-07:002011-09-25T20:07:55.024-07:00

Fr. Paul Fachet OMI, replaced Fr. Ron Rolheiser OMI who was scheduled to come but could not for health reasons. Fr. Paul used two paintings by the German artist Sieger Koder to draw out the deeper, more profound meaning of the two scriptural events of the washing of the feet and the meeting of Jesus with the woman at the well. The washing of the feet art work by Sieger Koder, a retired priest in

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-29045363405423654692011-09-04T21:58:00.000-07:002011-09-04T21:58:10.318-07:00

On Sunday, Sept. 4th, Fr. Paul Bringleson was installed at the Sunday Eucharist as pastor of St. Anne parish in Flin Flon, Canadian Martyrs in Cranberry Portage, and Our Lady of the Snows in Snow Lake. The readings on forgiveness fit the occassion well, as central to the life of the church, and the ministry of a priest. At the end of the ritual, which included mention of Fr. Paul's dog Kismet as

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-53526033953027605392011-08-29T03:44:00.000-07:002011-08-29T03:44:36.495-07:00

On Saturday, August 27, our volunteer pilot Ted Dodds flew me into Sandy Lake, Ontario (a three hour flight by float plane) for the sacraments of initiation there. We joined Fr. Bart Burke who at the age of 82 is doing tremendous work preparing the young people all week for this great event in their lives. The celebration went well and was followed by a pot luck lunch. Fr. Bart will be

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-38628898490360381062011-08-26T15:23:00.000-07:002011-08-26T15:23:09.847-07:00

Note: I am finally starting to blog again with the help of our webmaster, Rusty Gardiner, though not yet out of the woods regarding blogging problems. On Thursday, August 25th, the parish of St. Lawrence in Thompson bid farewell to Fr. Eugene Whyte OMI who had served the parish and the surrounding area (6 missions) for six years. Teh gathering was an informal pot-luck supper with a tremendous

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-41136117394131577712011-08-22T19:50:00.000-07:002011-08-22T19:50:15.661-07:00

On Saturday, August 20, our volunteer pilot Ted Dodds flew me into Wollaston Lake just in time for a retreat with these confirmation candidates. They were attentive, sang out loudly, and knew their faith quite well. I shared a power point presentation with them on Human Needs and the Great Commandment, Learning to Forgive, a Jesus Quiz, the gifts, fruits and names of the Holy Spirit. Despite the

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-11774811212837819562011-08-19T21:09:00.000-07:002011-08-19T21:09:01.978-07:00

Here is where Ted Dodds, our volunteer pilot who donates his plane, time and gas for amonth to fly me to our isolated missions, flew me for the celebration of initation in God' Lake Narrows. The group of newly initiated candidates posing with Fr. Bart Burke and me. The outdoor fish following the celebration of confirmation and First Communion. On August 15, feast of the Assumption of Mary, I

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-31300601551100144602011-05-22T09:17:00.000-07:002011-05-22T09:17:03.374-07:00

Sr. Margaret Sadler, the pastoral worker in Lynn Lake, worked hard to prepare these candidates with help from her leaders. The celebration was well attended given that it was held Saturday evening. After the celebration there was a pot luck supper in the newly renovated hall in the basement. Sr. Margaret is very adept at finding funds and volunteers to carry out the much needed maintenance in the

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-5167326784905356972011-05-22T09:16:00.001-07:002011-05-22T09:16:26.035-07:00

Sr. Mary Kastens is one of the six Adrian Michigan Dominican women religious who came to minister in our archdiocese three years ago as part of their open placement venture. Under the leadership of their former prioress, Donna Markham, the congregation chose to try to live together in community more and to be more missionary. They established a mission fund out of which they pay their own

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-38936222301147608302011-05-22T09:16:00.000-07:002011-05-22T09:16:14.940-07:00

During the Knights of Columbus convention, I was able to slip out to the RTS banquet. The Returning to Spirit program is seen as one of the most effective programs in the country that manages to help participants move beyond being victims stuck in their story, to experiencing genuine personal freedom. It also brings together aboriginal and non-aboriginal people for three days of dialogue, prayer,

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-28010372940680633202011-05-22T09:15:00.001-07:002011-05-22T09:15:47.573-07:00

The group of newly initiated candidates at South Indian Lake, prepared by Bro. Tom Novak OMI with the help of local leaders. During his last stay here, Bro. Tom gand I ave the Christopher Leadership Course with the help of Troy Paul of Thompson and Sr. Margaret Sadler from Lynn Lake. A family gathering at one of the tables after the celebration. South Indian Lake is good at putting on pot luck

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-51071568657369129552011-05-22T09:15:00.000-07:002011-05-22T09:16:01.482-07:00

For the first time since I became archbishop, I was able to attend a Knights of Columbus convention, though I had to miss the state banquet due to a previous commitment. It was an event that I thoroughly enjoyed. Meeting so many of my brother knights was indeed a privilege and a pleasure. We were given a preview of the revised 3rd degree. The projects that the Knights are carrying out are quite

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-67278275556772188182011-05-20T20:32:00.001-07:002011-05-20T20:32:37.392-07:00

Cathoic Missions In Canada is a fund-raising organization based in Toronto that provides moral, prayer and financial support for needy and missionary dioceses across the country. Teh president is Fr. Philip Kennedy, who is beginning his second term. A board of bishops and laity oversee the actitivies of the organization. Each year they host Tastes of Heaven, a gala that gathers hundreds of

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-87835743908220398112011-05-20T20:32:00.000-07:002011-05-20T20:32:19.096-07:00

After the diocesan CWL convention in The Pas, I was able to travel to Edmonton for the blessing of the new St. Joseph Seminary, a beautiful structure of glass and stone in Southwest Edmonton, next to the chancer offices. About 12 bishops joined in the celebration, along with many priests, religious and laity. Archbishop Richard Smith presided at the ceremony and lavishly consecrated the altar

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-79146677278143456432011-05-20T20:31:00.000-07:002011-05-20T20:31:30.015-07:00

Another successful diocesan CWL convention took place in The Pas the first days of May, 2011. The theme of the convention was Centered on Faith and Justice. Though I had to leave early, I was able to preside at the Saturday evening Eucharist and attend the banquet. One of the strengths of the CWL at all levels is the well researched and written up resolutions that are taken to both provincial and

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-73605704279970153282011-04-25T18:02:00.001-07:002011-04-25T20:08:29.504-07:00

The church and attached rectory at Lac Brochet. The weather over most of Holy Week was unusally cold, with snow flurries. This picture, taken some years back, could have been taken this Easter. This year I was priviledged to spend the latter part of Holy Week in the Dene community of Lac Brochet. MB. This is the most northern of our missions in Manitoba. A strong faith community, the events of

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-9054986849103781342011-04-19T20:22:00.000-07:002011-04-19T20:54:28.537-07:00

For the past 16 years, the Domano Retreat Centre in Prince George has been putting on a First Nations retreat, with some of the participants faithfully returning each year. The past few years the retreats have been on addictions awareness. This year I was invited to give a retreat on the topic of Living the 12 Steps Daily.The themes of the presentations were Human Be-ing; the Original Wound and

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-45228702202338339912011-04-18T20:50:00.000-07:002011-04-18T21:01:55.885-07:00

The parish of St. Albert is celebrating their 150th anniversary this year. Each month they are putting on a special event. Bishop Emeritus Croteau OMI kicked it off in January; In February the provincial of the Lacombe Canada Oblates, Fr. John Malezdrewich, presided over a celebration honoring all the priests and religious who ministered in the parish over their history. In March I was invited

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-2344452379178897772011-04-02T19:10:00.001-07:002011-04-02T19:24:32.697-07:00

Lately our pastoral strategy involves sending Bro. Tom Novak OMI into one of our isolated communities for a time to work with the lay leaders and the community. Bro. Tom, who speaks Cree, instructs drama, has a strong social justice thrust, plays the guitar and is well versed in both theology and ecclesiology. He establishes a rapport with people quickly and seeks to empower the lay leaders

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-46381855615082385372011-03-13T14:13:00.000-07:002011-03-13T14:36:53.863-07:00

The first Sunday of Lent was the official kick off date for the Returning To Our Roots process initiated by the Archdiocese of Keewatin The Pas. The process was a response to the dream of archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI to have a renewal process that would involved everyone in the archdiocese. Based on Acts 2:42 which describes the early church as devoted to the prayers, the teachings of the

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-25380292133918197692011-03-13T12:32:00.001-07:002011-03-13T12:57:36.187-07:00

On Thusrday, March 6, Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI flew into St. Theresa Point to install the new priests, Fr. Messia Vallapadasu and Fr. Victor Savarimuthu, both members of the Society of the Sons of de Mazenod. While there he presented a two day workshop on Healing from Addictions that was attended by about 10 people. The busy schedule included celebrations at the two missions of Wasagamach

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-66957265738041873462011-03-13T11:48:00.000-07:002011-03-13T12:27:26.934-07:00

Two years ago, Charmaine, the daugher Rose and step-daughter of Kevin Carlson lost her life in a snow bank after experimenting with hair spray with some friends. Realizing that other youth in the community of Lac Brochet were in danger of coming to a similar tragic end, Kevin and Rose generously and courageously organized a youth conference to remember and honour their daughter, and also help

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-15870473846035538872011-02-21T22:10:00.001-08:002011-02-21T22:44:53.158-08:00

Pictured here are the participants in the meeting. Back Row, L-R: Bishop Richard Gangon (Victoria), Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI (Keewatin-The Pas and chair), Sam Quaw (Vanerhoof), Bishop Murray Chatlain (McKenzie), Rennie Nahanee (Vancouver), Greg dunwoody (Facilitator, Winnipeg), Bishop Gary Gordon (Yukon). Front row, L-R: Margo Lavoie (Winnipeg), Susie Tress (Burns Lake), Emma Nahanee (

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-57735387343745743152011-02-19T18:50:00.000-08:002011-02-19T18:58:03.079-08:00

A second workshop to prepare for the Returning to OUr Roots Process that the Archdiocese of Keewatin-The Pas is initiating the first Sunday of Lent 2011, was held at Queens House in Saskatoon. The first was in Thompson, Manitoba. As the archdiocese stretches across northern Sakatchewan as well as northern Manitoba, this workshop gathered clergy, pastoral ministers and lay leaders from as far away

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-55843513628878235612011-02-17T20:21:00.000-08:002011-02-17T20:40:56.176-08:00

About 45 participants gathered at the Providence Center in Edmonton for a retreat entitled The Truth Will Set You Free. Facilitated by Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI, the retreat was basically on self awareness as it surfaces in the 12 Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Four of those Steps are on self awareness: Step 1 - we are powerless over something or someone in our lives; Step 4 - we make

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-39165611767222801232011-02-02T08:58:00.000-08:002011-02-02T09:25:15.269-08:00

Every winter, for many years now, a workshop for lay presiders and lay leaders has been held in Thompson. This year the workshop was a preparatory event for the Returning To Our Roots Process that our archdiocese is initiating the First Sunday of Lent. It is based on Acts 2:42 which states that the early followers of Jesus were devoted to the prayers, the teachings of the Apostles, the breaking

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-3547203736645596812011-02-02T07:49:00.001-08:002011-02-02T08:52:16.228-08:00

Getting to South Indian Lake is an adventure in itself. The ferry 100 kilometers northwest of Leaf Rapids provides the only access.Bro. Tom Novak OMI receives a gift of appreciation from Minnie Moose, one of the graduands. Bro. Thomas is our "roving missionary". His ministry is to go into our more isolated communities to encourage, empower and train the lay leaders in their leadership. The

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-39714132424709334452011-01-10T20:12:00.000-08:002011-01-18T12:16:16.526-08:00

Back Row: Bishops Gary Gordon, Yukon; Murray Chatlain, MacKenzie-Fort Smith; Eugene Cooney, Emeritus of Nelson; Davie Munroe, Kamloops; Fr. Antohny Gittins CSSp, retreat master; Fred Henry, Calgary; Richard Gagnon, Victoria; Donald Bolen, Saskatoon; Remi DeRoo, Ermitus of Victoria.Front Row: Archbishops Sylvain Lavoie OMI, Keewatin-The Pas; Jame Weisgerber, Winnipeg; Michael Miller, CSB,

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-82886465304047163412011-01-10T17:38:00.001-08:002011-01-10T18:01:01.099-08:00

Picture here is part of the congregation that gathered Christmas Eve to celebrate the birth of Christ into our world. Pukatawagan is one of two communities in our archdiocese that do not have a regular priest assigned to them, since the death of Fr. Pietro, who was very much present in spirit. However, they are managing to continue the faith life of the community quite well with very generous lay

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-6866163909106093372010-12-16T12:27:00.000-08:002010-12-16T13:03:24.131-08:00

Each summer the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs (SCAA) of the Assembly of Western Catholic bishops puts on a Directions for Aboriginal Ministry in St. Albert for both aboriginal and non-aboriginal people involved in the Church. The theme was First Nations Spirituality - Gift to the Church, and was focused on the Medicine Wheel as a catechetical and healing tool. Sr Eva Solomon csj, who

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-62745489145048169442010-12-09T20:22:00.001-08:002010-12-09T21:03:01.745-08:00

From Sunday evening, Dec. 5th, to Thursday evening, Dec. 9th, the Emmanuel Process team of Sr. Ethel Detz OP, Fr. Bill Stang OMI and Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI, offered sessions to a crowd of participants that grew from a dozen the first night to around 40 the last three nights. Each session had a particular theme: Setting out into the deep; Who is Jesus for me?, Forgiveness, healing and

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-13702343289163404922010-12-06T14:20:00.001-08:002010-12-06T14:44:37.576-08:00

On December 5th, the second Sunday of Advent, Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI presided over the sacraments of initation for around 80 eager candidates. Pictured here are most of the group of candidates who were confirmed, with many of them also receiving Holy Communion for the first time.Fr. Susai Jesus OMI with his helpers has been working hard for the past two months preparing these candidates.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-48028805469695001862010-11-28T18:52:00.001-08:002010-11-28T18:58:06.635-08:00

Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI came to La Loche to install Fr. Gaspar Savarimuthu as the new pastor of Our Lady of the Visitation parish La Loche and Our Lady of Lourdes parish in Turnor Lake, replacing Fr. John Zunti OMI who has been assigned to Patuanak.Fr. Gaspar is a diocesan priest from India who has been in Canada for six months. He spent a few months in orientation and acculturation and

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-88699469569201174362010-11-28T18:32:00.000-08:002011-01-10T20:34:47.961-08:00

The workshop covered topics such as being human, self esteem, spirituality and the 12 Step healing journey. This was the beginning of Addictions Awareness week for Turnor Lake. A group of dedicated adults gave much needed support to Lorraine Sylvester who organized the workshop and invited Archbishop Sylvain to be the resource person.The participants standing for a moment of prayer before the

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-12256400508618088952010-11-28T18:11:00.000-08:002010-11-28T18:26:50.048-08:00

Sr. Ethel Detz proclaims the Word of God with the help of two candle bearers. The Word of God is central to the Emmanuel Process.Each session finished with a ritual to help integrate the content of the evening.A group of elders share their experience and wisdom, adding to the event.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-90886535767652220032010-11-16T20:47:00.001-08:002010-11-16T21:06:34.703-08:00

Thirty five years ago, the Christopher Leadership Course was introduced into northern Saskatchewan and our archdiocese by Gerry Vermette, Paul Boudreau and then Fr. Sylvain Lavoie OMI, It spread like wild fire and has been given to over 630 participants since then. The course is an effective speaking course that helps people grow personally, overcome shyness, gain confidence and promote community

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-52123855426509585252010-11-16T20:23:00.000-08:002010-11-16T20:33:43.612-08:00

A busload of bishops were able to travel to Montreal after the plenary in Cornwal to participate in the celebration for the canonization of Bro. Andre Bissette, a humble prayerful man considered a great healer. Buses drove us right onto the playing field. Cardinal Turcotte of Montreal told the crowd that God uses saints to speak to us today, and that everyone seems to know about Bro. Andre. Here

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-43692924606776730032010-11-11T20:32:00.000-08:002010-11-11T20:47:43.035-08:00

This was my sixth plenary since becoming archbishop. It is a fraternal gathering of the nation's Catholic bishops for input, discussion and mutual support. We learned from Sr. Nuella Kenny that we had unfinished business in terms of the sexual abuse crisis, in that there was a need to go beyond apologies and protocol to addressing the underlying causes for this recent crisis.Cardinal-elect Ravasi

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-27416656736139197722010-11-11T20:27:00.000-08:002010-11-11T20:31:45.003-08:00

Fr. Arokia Vijay, OMI, has been sent to us from the new India province. He is 32 years old and is presently participating in a period of orientation and acculturation with the Lacombe Oblates as well as the archdiocese.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-17728137700373181672010-10-17T20:29:00.000-07:002010-10-17T20:50:24.983-07:00

The hall in the sister's house was packed after the ceremony, as everyone enjoyed the hospitality provided by Sr. Susan and Sr. Ellen.All but one of the candidates took in a retreat given by + Sylvain Lavoie and Sr. Susan Gardiner, with support from Sr. Ellen and Agnes Linklater, in preparation for the confirmation itself. The retreat used power point projection to focus on self esteem, who is

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-74462504641201600732010-10-16T06:33:00.000-07:002010-10-16T06:34:39.918-07:00

For some time now, the computer would allow only one picture to be posted for a blog. The problem is being worked on and may be resolved. Thank you for your patience. + Sylvain

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-83063505731742111512010-10-16T06:23:00.000-07:002010-10-16T06:32:58.043-07:00

The team members for the workshop are pictured here, as well as Fr. John Zunti OMI, the new pastor who was installed the same weekend, and Sr. Bernadine Fetter OSU who is exploring ministry in our archdiocese. Darlene George, the Health Worker who organizd the conference, is on the far right.Most of the participants who participated in the workshop are pictured here at the awards banquet. Two

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-35762307400763189512010-08-05T09:19:00.000-07:002010-08-05T09:27:46.452-07:00

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-62113762460755947462010-07-26T20:40:00.000-07:002011-05-22T09:17:19.268-07:00

The group of newly initiated candidates are pictured here with Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI Some of the participants in the ceremony who came to pray for the newly initiated. Half of the folks that gathered for the celebration including the music ministry. Sr. Carmen and I were able to visit some of the elders in the community during my short stay there.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-55292562726867504652010-07-25T07:06:00.000-07:002010-07-25T07:48:15.841-07:00

A unique part of the Emmanuel Process in Lynn Lake was a presentation by a group of Cree singers led by Helen Dumas. This was their first public appearance and was very much appreciated by the participants.Daylight did a bit of drumming on her own as her contribution to the evening.The week began with the confirmation of two candidates who were unable to be at the last initiation event in Lynn

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-83088830962384802672010-06-02T17:42:00.000-07:002010-06-02T20:46:37.963-07:00

I went to Pukatawagan for the weekend because Father Pietro Bignami OMI, the pastor, has had two strokes while in Winnipeg visiting his doctor that left him with slurred speech, very weak, partially paralyzed and somewhat confused. We are not sure that he will be able to recover enough to return to Pukatawagan even for a last visit. He is now at the Riverview Health Center, 1 Morley Ave, (204)

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-4972105936892236202010-06-01T17:39:00.000-07:002010-06-01T20:46:16.397-07:00

The newly initiated candidates of Canoe Narrows gather for a group shot on a beautiful day. This was one of the largest groups in recent memory for this community. Fr. Louis Legare OMI, the pastor, was away on retreat with his brother Oblates in Winnipeg and so was not present for this celebration.Most of the missions in our archdiocese are located on or near a river or lake and have a beautiful

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-73059955531259547962010-05-28T20:04:00.000-07:002010-07-24T21:10:57.068-07:00

This picture was taken by Tina Schwartz. Ile-a-la-Crosse is one of the many communities that are participating in a new initiative to restore the order of sacraments to their original order of baptism, confirmation and then Eucharist. A specialness about this community is the ability of the catechists to carry on and put on the preparatory retreat without me, as I had to stay in Saskatoon for a

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-10319276472078339322010-05-24T20:25:00.000-07:002010-05-24T21:09:19.830-07:00

Here Fr. Mark presents a teaching on sacramentals to the candidates during a preparatory retreat the day before the event. These candidates were well prepared by a team of catechists. Their letters to the bishop were very mature and showed a deep understanding of their responsibility as fully initiated members of the Catholic Christian community in La Ronge.The group of newly confirmed posing

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-88404238494978889552010-05-24T19:46:00.001-07:002010-05-24T20:12:05.524-07:00

Fr. John Zunti OMI from La Loche, Fr. Paul Guzman, pastor of Meadow Lake and I attended this event which was held on the Flying Dust First Nation. This meant traveling down from Patuanak for me and from Beauval for Fr. John. The agenda was simple: prayer by and elder, a meal, entertainment by coutnry gospel award winner Yvonne St. Germaine, a grand entry with a drum group, eagle staff and flags,

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-60642345742652455132010-05-24T19:26:00.001-07:002010-05-24T19:43:55.440-07:00

Though the numbers preparing varied, ultimately there were seven young men who were confirmed, almost enough for a hockey team. In a sense they were joining God's team. This is probably a first in that no girls were confirmed. Always there is a hope that one of these fine young men will respond to God's call to become a priest to replace Fr. Mathieu, who is 86 years old! On the left is Fr. Gaspar

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-77971174479919672502010-05-24T09:55:00.000-07:002010-05-24T15:27:42.308-07:00

This picture was taken just after the celebration of the sacraments of initiation in La Loche on May 16th, as we were getting ready for a group photo. Candidates and sponsors were from both communities of La Loche and Turnor Lake. This celebration followed the invitation of the archdiocese to restore the order of sacraments in that confirmation was followed by First Holy Communion for many of the

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-85690317669332461332010-05-23T21:26:00.000-07:002010-05-23T22:05:52.532-07:00

On the way to celebrate the sacraments of initiation in La Loche, I went to Sandy Bay to pick up Fr. Gaspar Savarimuthu, a priest from India who will be ministering in our archdiocese. Fr. Susai Jesu OMI, pastor of Sandy Bay and Pelican Narrows, took advantage of that occasion to organize a meeting of all the teams that he has put in place to carry out the renovations of Kateri Hall. Vaiouus

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-40997490737742569012010-05-21T09:12:00.000-07:002010-05-21T10:46:44.106-07:00

The newly initiated young people of the parish of St. Anne's in Flin Flon are pictured here with their pastor Fr. Calixtus Fernando; Marilyn Jackson, Family Life coordinator, Archbishop Sylvain and Lucille Rossington, Religious Education Coordinator.The confirmation celebration was preceded the evening before by a preparatory retreat facilitated by Archbishop Sylvain OMI. The themes were being

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-79967487761611386422010-05-21T08:43:00.000-07:002010-05-21T09:11:34.326-07:00

Our board met in May in Grand Prairie in the archdiocese of our chair, Archbishop Gerard Pettipas. On Sunday we joined the local faith community for a celebration of the Eucharist in the beautiful new church complex that was built while + Gerard was pastor of the parish in Grand Prairie.CEPIRSS stands for the corporation of Catholic Entities party to the Indian Residential School Settlement

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-4698920629184330422010-05-20T21:16:00.000-07:002010-05-20T21:36:03.966-07:00

At the invitation of Bishop Gerry Wiesner OMI and Sr. Donna Dolan, director of the Domano Retreat Centre in Prince George, I presented a retreat for First Nations persons that had the 12 Step program of recovery as a focus. This retreat was unique in that it divided the program into five themes, each accompanied by a ritual to deepen the experience of the theme. The themes were Powerlessness and

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-34030006423637010742010-05-20T20:45:00.000-07:002010-05-20T21:08:24.194-07:00

Pictured here are the faithful who gathered for the celebration of the sacraments of initation in Southend. The joyful celebration concluded with the hymn Bind Us Together which naturally led to the invitation to join hands across the aisle to symbolize the unity to which the Lord Jesus calls us through the power of the Holy Spirit.The group of newly confirmed candidates pose for a picture with

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-39079078141757585262010-05-20T19:44:00.000-07:002010-05-20T19:58:53.448-07:00

A preparatory retreat for the candidates, sponsors and parents and others who care to attend was facilitated by Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI. This allows him to get to know the candidates and do a little bit of youth ministry, which was a predominant part of his ministry as a priest.A candlelight ceremony was part of the preparatory retreat.The newly initiated candidates are pictured here with

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-83385459112603998002010-05-20T19:15:00.000-07:002010-05-20T19:39:31.614-07:00

The first confirmation in many years in Nelson House was preceded by a retreat for the candidates facilitated by Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI. The retreat covered topics such as being fully human, self esteem, forgiveness, Who is Jesus Christ and the Names of the Holy Spirit, as well as a run-through of the ritual of confirmation itself. Great hospitality was provided by the Dominican Sisters

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-21287958372752452532010-05-20T18:36:00.000-07:002010-05-20T18:59:54.456-07:00

Pictured here is the newly initiated young peoplle with their pastor Fr. Eugene Whyte, Fr. Terry Kraychuk, Archbishop Sylvain and the two young catechists Tamara and Patricia.Thompson parish is blessed with dedicated young catechists Tamara Landego on the left and Patricia Sroga on the right who have helped out with sacramental preparation for some years now. What exemplary young people they are

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-70529522054344842682010-05-20T18:05:00.000-07:002010-05-20T18:27:59.119-07:00

Every year the Caritas Foundation, a Catholic charitable organization based in Winnipeg founded by the Knights of Columbus, recognizes an outstanding person who has contributed to the life of the Church in Manitoba and Canada. This year the award was presented to Archbishop James Weisgerber, past president of the Conference of Canadian Catholic Bishops. Among many other accomplishments, his work

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-596741931071005402010-05-20T17:51:00.001-07:002010-05-20T18:04:17.859-07:00

On April 15th, while waiting for the Caritas banquet to start, I made the hour and a half journey to Holland, Manitoba, where the Trappist Monastery is located. There a community of 11 Trappist monks live out their lives dedicated to prayer and work (ora et labore). Though the farming activity has been scaled back, they still make and sell their well known cheese.I was able to join the monks for

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-20468368196533992482010-05-20T17:35:00.001-07:002010-05-20T17:48:32.813-07:00

Every two years, Southdown Institute in Aurora, Ontario, a treatment centre for priests and religious of all faiths, offers a conference for major religious superiors and bishops on human growth and development as well as addictions awareness. Pictured here are the participants who come from all over North America as well as from abroad. The conference this year was held in Toronto from April 11-

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-86098615601602095322010-05-08T21:43:00.001-07:002010-05-08T22:01:15.178-07:00

Every Easter I try to go to a different community for at least part of Holy Week. This year it worked out that I was able to fly into Lac Brochet. Though the plane was delayed due to poor weather, I was able to arrive just in time for the Holy Thursday celebration of the Lord's Supper and washing of the feet, plus adoration until around eleven pm. Over the next two days until I left on Sunday, I

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-32917208528876860682010-05-08T21:24:00.000-07:002010-05-08T21:40:51.269-07:00

On March 30, 2010, Eric Apetakon was installed as the new chief of the Norway House First Nation. Eric has completed three years of the Nathaniel Lay Formation program in St. Boniface, MB and was contemplating full time ministry with the Church when he was approached by community members to run for the office of chief. The well attended ceremony was a blend of First Nations and Christian

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-32399444157566124122010-05-08T21:12:00.000-07:002010-05-08T21:19:15.319-07:00

Dr. Jane Simmington, founder of Taking Flight International, gave a training session for 12 participants in The Pas. She gives workshops and trains facilitators on Trauma Recovery and Grief Support. Here she is pictured with Fr. Bill Stang OMI vicar and chancellor; Sr. Ethel Detz OP Director of Pastoral Development and Sr. Iva Gregory OP who is coordinator for HSP in or archdiocese. Srs. Ethel

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-45590881583328735982010-05-08T20:53:00.000-07:002010-05-08T21:09:35.035-07:00

The Henry Budd Ministry Formation Centre in The Pas, under the direction of Paul Sodtke & Marion Jenkins, graciously hosted a 12 Step Addictions Awareness workshop that I facilitated Friday evening, March 26 and all day Saturday, March 27. The workshop covered the themes of Being Human; a Spirituality of Recovery; The Journey into Addiction; The 12 Step Healing Journey and Integrating the 12

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-77739649739032925462010-04-20T20:11:00.000-07:002010-04-20T20:30:55.338-07:00

On Thursday evening, March 24th, Don Bolen from the Archdiocese of Regina was ordained the new bishop of Saskatoon. I had first met him during my first Ad Limina visit to Rome with the Western Bishops, where he was serving as part of the Congregation on Ecumenism. A strong and articulate advocate of ecumenism, the ordination was preceded the evening before by an ecumenical service that packed

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-20373144111371599702010-04-16T20:10:00.001-07:002010-04-16T20:45:56.259-07:00

Because of the size of our archdiocese, the Chrism mass is celebrated earlier than usual. The celebration this year saw over 84 persons from across the archdiocese participate. Here Fr. Mark Blom OMI, the MC, and Fr. Bart Burke, the oldest priest present, are seated with Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI. This is one of two events during the year that seeks to gathers the clergy and pastoral

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-54823222030710752902010-03-27T20:14:00.000-07:002010-03-28T20:28:24.273-07:00

The Christopher Leadership Course is a course on effective speaking that not only develops leadership skills but also helps people overcome shyness and grow in self confidence. The Christopher Motto is: "It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness." The course was introduced into Canada from the USA in 1953 and has spread across the country. It was brought to Beauval area in 1975

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-33854821198582757002010-03-24T08:31:00.000-07:002010-03-29T20:01:33.492-07:00

The Emmanuel Process is a five evening mission given within our archdiocese by a team of Sr. Ethel Detz OP, Fr. Bill Stang OMI and Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI. It is introduced at the Sunday Eucharist in the morning and starts Sunday evening. The themes are Setting Out Into the Deep, Who is Jesus for Me? Forgiveness, Healing and Reconciliation, The Spirit and Mission of the Church, and finally,

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-19246167564971892112010-03-19T19:45:00.001-07:002010-03-19T20:19:12.110-07:00

<!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if !mso]> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } <![endif]--> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"WP TypographicSymbols"; panose-1:0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto;

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-27042600517558093052010-03-18T20:10:00.001-07:002010-03-18T20:36:00.418-07:00

Members of the Committee from L to R: Harry Lafond of Muskeg Lake (Member at Large), Myra Charlie from Victoria; Bishop Richard Gagnon of Victoria; Sr. Eva Solomon; Carl Sydney, Whitehorse; Rosa Mantla, McKenzie-Fort Smith; Archbishop Sylvain Lavoie OMI of Keewatin-The Pas (chair); Doris Reid of The Pas; Archbishop Daniel Bohan of Regina and President of the Western/Northern Bishops; Bishop

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-63384999337486559972010-03-11T12:21:00.001-08:002010-03-11T13:17:45.849-08:00

The 12 Step Pilgrimage was developed in Browning, Montana and brought into Alberta decades ago, from which it spread to Saskatchewan. Oliver and Ann Shouting from southern Alberta were instrumental in spreading it to northern Alberta and came once to northern Saskatchewan. Frank and Florence Large picked it up and have been key facilitators of the pilgrimage for years, especially in the St. Paul

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-55919182649788523252010-02-22T18:26:00.000-08:002010-02-24T06:08:29.368-08:00

Our archdiocese puts on an annual one day workshop for lay formation and ministry training in Thompson each winter. The theme this year was A Holistic Approach to Suicide: Prevention and Intervention. About 60 participants came from 14 communities within the archdiocese, the furthest being Lac Brochet, MB; Kinosao, SK and Oxford House, MB Gail Burrett of Taking Flight International from

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-36456989266685497862010-02-18T20:38:00.001-08:002010-02-22T18:26:18.679-08:00

Trappers' Festival here in The Pas began Wednesday, Feb 17th and runs through to Sunday Feb. 21st. The Knights of Columbus and the Parish Council team up to provide pancake breakfast each morning. Here Ron Stewart buys 50-50 tickets from Diane Kelly as Audrey Maksymchuk and Fr. Bill Stang OMI wait for more hungry customers. The winner was Ken Kelly, and contrary to some claims, all was fair and

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-62522340188339270942010-02-18T20:00:00.000-08:002010-04-17T08:33:40.705-07:00

A 95th birthday party was held at the Rod McGillivery Elders' Lodge today for Evelyn Jebb. She was one of the elders who blessed me at my episcopal ordination, and became my adopted kokum here in The Pas. She is a woman of deep faith and much wisdom. Amazingly, she still does bead work and would dearly love to have some smoked moose hide to work with. Does anyone know where I could get some for

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-32220459506558666342010-02-17T20:10:00.001-08:002010-02-17T21:02:18.260-08:00

Cormorant is about 80 kilometers from The Pas and is one of our smaller, struggling faith communities. As I would be going to Cumberland House on the winter road for the first Sunday of Lent, I responded to an invitation from the folks in Cormorant to go there for Ash Wednesday. Pictured are some of the folks who gathered.What I love about Cormorant is the music ministry and quite loud singing.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-62512596416291453832010-02-17T12:07:00.000-08:002010-02-17T20:10:12.849-08:00

Fr. Susai is the pastor of Pelican Narrows and Sandy Bay in northern Sask, both Cree speaking communities. He is also into his second year of learning Cree. Fr. Susai returned to India to visit his family, friends, relatives and brother Oblates right after Christmas after two years in Canada. He arrived in The Pas Feb. 16th, stayed overnight and then left with his new used vehicle to be on time

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-42541227374733730762010-02-15T11:56:00.001-08:002010-02-15T20:24:44.974-08:00

The acronym CCEPIRSS stands for the Corporation of Catholic Entities Party to the Indian Residential School Settlement agreement. This agreement was signed Sept. 20, 2007 between the federal government, the Assembly of First Nations and the four churches involved with the residential schools in Canada. Through this agreement the federal government accepted to pay compensation to former students

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-37594649419002367382010-02-11T20:14:00.001-08:002010-02-11T20:28:49.907-08:00

Once a month for the most part, we have a staff meeting around topics of a more general nature, followed by a diocesan leadership team meeting to discuss more specific topics of a pastoral nature as well as financial matters. The picture here is of our staff meeting on Thursday, February 11, 2010. Pictured here are Audrey Maksymchuk, our financial administrator; Rochelle Rydberg, our executive

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-11089929867690488312010-02-10T20:53:00.000-08:002010-02-10T21:14:40.487-08:00

After the retreat in Lumsden, I made my way to Cumberland House for a Eucharistic celebration there on Sunday. This community has no priest assigned to serve it on a regular basis so we are trying to cover it from The Pas as best we can. Still, they are very well organized and active and have put a new roof on the church as well as built a new deck, ramp and stairs at the entrance of the church.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-89163887910256638782010-02-10T20:39:00.001-08:002010-02-10T20:51:50.947-08:00

Fr. Bill Stang OMI, the vicar and chancellor for the archdiocese, and Audrey Maksymchuk, our financial administrator, travelled with me to Flin Flon to put on a workshop for the newly formed parish council. It has been years since there was a parish pastoral council in Flin Flon so this is really a new start for the parish community. About 14 parish council members and parish staff attended. We

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-28251333804754466912010-02-10T20:29:00.000-08:002010-02-10T20:38:08.827-08:00

An enthusiastic group of 26 participants attended this retreat that went from Friday evening to Sunday nooon. The theme was Stepping Into The Kingdom. Four of the 12 Steps of the program of Alcoholics Anonymous are on faith and prayer. Five presentations provided an overview of the program then focused on Steps 2, 3, 7 and 11. A prayer experience such as Lectio Divina, Centering Prayer, Taize

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-74344185762010198382010-02-10T20:08:00.000-08:002010-02-10T20:29:15.910-08:00

Fr. Bill Stang OMI and I were able to attend part of the gathering in Saskatoon at Queen's House Feb 8-9, 2010. After the district superior Fr. Albert Ulrich OMI provided an update, the Lacombe execuive lead us all in discussing a portion of the latest animation document that invites us to move beyond having more, to being more. Here Bro. Don Claerhout OMI, who has ministered in our archdiocese

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-23051811094028031122010-02-01T21:03:00.000-08:002010-02-01T21:07:47.984-08:00

This is where the Assembly of Western Catholic bishops gather each year for their retreat. It is home to a Benedictine community of monks who also run a high school and seminary. Some of the bishops of our group did their studies for priesthood here.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-55118886064459472992010-02-01T20:54:00.000-08:002010-02-01T21:01:55.809-08:00

This group of bishops and archbishops gathered at Westminster Benedictine Abbey for a retreat given to us by Cardinal Emeritus Cormac Murphy-O'Conner from England. He spoke on the topic of "How Can We Sing The Lord's Song on Alien Soil." His faith, joy, long experience and love for the church kept us awake and entertained, as well as inspired and enlightened. He is at the center of the picture.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-41303088516356358592010-02-01T20:49:00.000-08:002010-02-01T20:53:59.159-08:00

To remember and honor the passing of her husband a year earlier, Ida Colombe invited me to her home for a house blessing and sharing circle to celebrate the life of her husband. We gathered around a candle and the bible, sang hymns, shared memories, prayed and blessed the home.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-17897341422014343552010-02-01T20:42:00.000-08:002010-02-01T20:47:46.349-08:00

On Sunday night we held a candle light vigil for the people of Haiti who had been devastated by the earth quake. About 20 people came for this event. The night consisted of Cree hymns, Taize chants, a Lectio Divina praying with scripture, petitions and a decade of the rosary.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-6344514904067473832010-01-21T20:19:00.000-08:002010-01-22T07:13:06.203-08:00

Pukatawagan Church and rectory...Winter 2010.

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-42743702916306764192009-11-11T20:12:00.000-08:002009-11-13T18:57:45.351-08:00

JUNE 16 CANADA WIDE CAMPAIGN KICK OFF EVENT IN VANCOUVERPast National Chief Phil Fontaine and me at the Canada Wide Kickoff. The CCEPIRSS board (Coroporation of Catholic Entities party to the Residential SChool Settlement agreement had an AGM in Victoria just before this event which was held in Vancouver as a first public event for the campaign. The commitment of the Catholic Entities towards

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8908149610638438472.post-30711842990941781442009-11-10T14:54:00.001-08:002009-11-10T20:49:59.719-08:00

MAY WAS A MONTH FOR SACRAMENTS OF INITATION IN OUR ARCHDIOCESESr. Mary Kastens OP, Religious Education Director, with a group of young catechists, after the celebration in Thompson, ST. Lawrence ParishThe newly initiated candidates in Thompson, St. Lawrence ParishJennifer Pinto, lay volunteer, in an animated conversation with some of the children she loves to share her faith with.The newly

Archbishop Sylvainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18331394859077781101noreply@blogger.com0