SAINT MICHAEL’S BASILICA - PHOTO BY PATRICIA LEE
FROM THE HOLY FATHER DECEMBER PRAYER INTENTION
FOR PILGRIMS OF HOPE
We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us, and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire; that is why I have chosen as the motto of the Jubilee, Pilgrims of Hope. This will indeed be the case if we are capable of recovering a sense of universal fraternity and refuse to turn a blind eye to the tragedy of rampant poverty that prevents millions of men, women, young people and children from living in a manner worthy of our human dignity Here I think in particular of the many refugees forced to abandon their native lands. May the voices of the poor be heard throughout this time of preparation for the Jubilee, which is meant to restore access to the fruits of the earth to everyone. As the Bible teaches, “The sabbath of the land shall
LET US PRAY THAT THIS JUBILEE STRENGTHENS US IN FAITH, HELPS US RECOGNIZE CHRIST RISEN IN OUR LIVES, AND TRANSFORMS US INTO PILGRIMS OF CHRISTIAN HOPE.”
provide food for you, for yourself and for your male and female slaves and for your hired servant and the sojourner who lives with you; for your cattle also, and for the beasts that are in your land, all its yield shall be for food” (Lev 25:6-7).
The spiritual dimension of the Jubilee, which calls for conversion, should also embrace these fundamental aspects of our life in society as part of a coherent whole. In the realization that all of us are pilgrims on this earth, which the Lord has charged us to till and keep (cf Gen 2:15), may we never fail, in the course of our sojourn, to contemplate the beauty of creation and care for our common home. It is my hope that the coming Jubilee Year will be celebrated and experienced with this intention too Growing numbers of men and women, including many young people and children, have come to realize that care for creation is an essential expression of our faith in God and our obedience to his will
Pope Francis
EXCERPT - LETTER OF THE HOLY FATHER FRANCIS TO MSGR. RINO FISICHELLA, PRESIDENT OF THE PONTIFICAL COUNCIL FOR THE PROMOTION OF THE NEW EVANGELIZATION, FOR THE JUBILEE 2025
FROM OUR BISHOP
JUBILEE LETTER
Office of the Bishop
Lettre pastorale pour l'année jubilaire
“Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)
Dear fellow Pilgrims of Hope!
At the beginning of his public ministry, Jesus proclaims himself as the fulfillment of the messianic prophecy spoken by Isaiah 700 years earlier as he reads aloud, “the Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (Luke 4:18-19). In an ancient tradition of Israel, a “year of the Lord’s favour” was set aside, a Jubilee Year, to commemorate, celebrate and rejoice in the mercy and goodness of God. In the Jewish tradition, the Jubilee was directly connected with the importance of Sabbath rest and blessing. The Church, the new Israel, continues this tradition by celebrating a Jubilee every twenty-five years, a Holy Year during which the people of God are blessed with a special opportunity to experience the
BISHOP CHRISTIAN RIESBECK, CC
healing, mercy, renewal, freedom, life and joy offered us by Christ in and through his Church and 2025 is a year of Jubilee!
With great anticipation we await the prophetic act of Pope Francis that begins the Jubilee Year, “when once more the Holy Door will be flung open to invite everyone to an intense experience of the love of God that awakens in hearts the sure hope of salvation in Christ.” This throwing open of the holy doors in Rome with expectant faith calls to mind the words of Saint John Paul II, “Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ.” Brothers and sisters, let us prepare our hearts to encounter Christ anew in this Jubilee Year which begins on December 24, 2024, and continues until January 6, 2026.
Bishop of the Diocese of Saint John
As Pilgrims of Hope, the theme for the Jubilee 2025, we embark on the path of this year with jubilation as sure signs of hope to our world, rejoicing in our faith, in our Church, and above all in our Lord Jesus, who manifests the merciful heart of the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit. Let us live deeply the great jubilee tradition of pilgrimage which invites us into an experience of transformation in Christ, when “one’s very being conforms to the holiness of God.” With joy then, let us “set out… with haste” (Luke 1:39) to bring Jesus to others on our pilgrimage to our Father’s house.
PILGRIMAGE TO THE CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
“I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’” (Psalm 122:1)
contacted with special invitations to make a pilgrimage to the Cathedral on designated First Saturdays throughout the year for the celebration of Mass, Adoration, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, veneration of relics, historical tours, and special Jubilee prayers and reflections. Those who are physically unable to participate in person due to age or infirmity will be able to make a pilgrimage of the heart, celebrating with their parish community via private livestream. The faithful are also encouraged to make personal pilgrimages to the Cathedral at any time during the Jubilee Year As we move forward in hope towards the physical restoration of our beautiful Cathedral church, we pray first and foremost for the Jubilee grace of the spiritual restoration of the living stones of our diocesan church, the hearts and souls of all people in the Diocese of Saint John.
The Cathedral, a symbol of unity and beacon of hope for our diocese will be designated as a special place of pilgrimage during the Jubilee Year. As we celebrate the 170 year of our beloved mother church, I invite all the faithful to make an inaugural pilgrimage to the Opening Mass for the Jubilee Year at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Sunday, December 29 (Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph) at 5:00 pm, with a reception to follow. In the coming weeks, parishes will be
CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Saint John, New Brunswick
PILGRIMAGE TO DIOCESAN SHRINES AND
MINOR BASILICA
“Jesus said to them, ‘Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while’.” (Mark 6:31)
In our diocese we are blessed with holy sites that are testaments to the faith of generations past and have always invited pilgrimage. During the Jubilee Year, the faithful are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to our diocesan shrines and our minor basilica, when possible, and particularly for Mass on their annual Feast Days:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine in Howard (Good Shepherd Parish)
Annual Shrine Mass
July 13, 2025, 3:00 pm Saint Francis of Assisi Shrine in Skiff Lake (St. John the Baptist Parish) Annual Shrine Mass
August 10, 2025, 11:00 am
St. Michael’s Basilica (St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Miramichi) Mass for the Vigil of the feast of St. Michael the Archangel, September 28, 2025, 5:30 pm
The desire of every pilgrim is to experience God’s presence and mercy and then to be a channel of that mercy to others. Indeed, the life of every Christian is marked by mercy received and mercy given, but in the Jubilee Year, as “a year of the Lord’s favour”, there is an extraordinary grace and
outpouring of divine mercy in and through the Church. We encounter the unfathomable mystery of divine mercy in the Sacraments, in the gift of indulgences, and works of mercy. All of these direct us to the primary purpose of the Jubilee – our spiritual renewal in Christ.
ST. MICHAEL’S BASILICA
Miramichi, New Brunswick
WORKS OF MERCY AND PENANCE
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:36)
“The works of mercy…educate us to be attentive to the most basic needs of ‘the least of these my brethren’ (Mt 25:40), in whom Jesus is present.”
Through the corporal works of mercy (which assist with material and bodily necessity) and spiritual works of mercy (which assist with spiritual necessity and ease suffering) we become tangible signs of hope to those who experience hardship and poverty in its many forms, ‘in a sense making a pilgrimage to Christ present in them (cf. Matthew 25, 34-36)’.” I am inviting parishes to perform these works in an intentional way, responding prayerfully to the unique needs present in their local communities. We will be using our diocesan communications platforms to share photos and stories from around the diocese as signs of hope throughout the year. I encourage you to send photos or stories of hope that are inspired by the works of mercy in your parish to communications@dioceseofsaintjohn. org.
PRAYER VIGIL - FREDERICTON
Photo by K-Lens Photography
Pilgrimage involves sacrifice: small deaths to self to more deeply experience life in Christ During the Jubilee Year, I encourage you to rediscover the importance of fasting and penance. In addition to the seasons and days prescribed by the Church, the Holy Father encourages us in a particular way to embrace a spirit of penance on Fridays, abstaining not only from meat but also from “futile distractions (real, but also virtual distractions, for example, the use of the media and/or social networks), from superfluous consumption” and “by donating a proportionate sum of money to the poor; by supporting works of a religious or social nature, especially in support of the defence and protection of life in all its phases [and circumstances in society]…by dedicating a reasonable portion of one’s free time to voluntary activities that are of service to the community or to other similar forms of personal commitment.”
MISSIONS, RETREATS, SPIRITUAL EXERCISES AND FAITH FORMATION ACTIVITIES
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
During this Jubilee Year, we are encouraged to participate in popular missions, retreats, spiritual exercises, or faith formation activities, particularly on the documents of the Second Vatican Council and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, held in a church or other suitable place, according to the mind of the Holy Father Some opportunities that will be available in the diocese during the Jubilee Year include:
Regional missions with Bishop Riesbeck on the theme of hope
Saint John (tentative date
March 31-April 2, 2025)
Fredericton (tentative date
June 2-4, 2025)
Miramichi (tentative date
September 29-October 1, 2025)
In-person retreats at the Villa Madonna Retreat House and online diocesan offerings relating to the Jubilee theme (more information to come or check the Villa Madonna website regularly for upcoming retreat opportunities: www.villamadonna.ca
CCCB Webinar Series, which can be incorporated into the pastoral year as individuals or in a group setting:
The Four Constitutions of Vatican II, CCCB Webinar Series, available at https://www.cccb.ca/evangelizationcatechesis-catholic-education/videoresources/the-four-constitutions-ofvatican-ii/)
A Great Symphony of Prayer: The Our Father as a Programme of Life, CCCB Webinar Series, available at https://www.cccb.ca/evangelizationcatechesis-catholic-education/videoresources/a-great-symphony-of-prayerthe-our-father-as-a-programme-of-life/)
CCCB Jubilee Year Resources, including Catechetical Activities for Children and Youth and Adult Faith Resources, available at https://www.cccb.ca/evangelizationcatechesis-catholic-education/theordinary-jubilee-of-the-year-2025/
VILLA MADONNA RETREAT HOUSE
Saint John Diocesan Youth Rally
JUBILEE INDULGENCE
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)
One of the unique graces of a Jubilee Year is the opportunity to obtain a plenary indulgence, which is “the remission before God of the temporal punishment due for sins already forgiven as far as their guilt is concerned.” The Jubilee Indulgence is a way of discovering the unlimited nature of God’s mercy; as an act of mercy it is intended to be focussed outward on the other, the faithful being invited to be agents of this mercy to those most in need of God’s mercy. For this reason, the Jubilee Indulgence is applied to the souls of the faithful departed. The normal conditions for obtaining a plenary indulgence include the sincere desire to be detached from sin, reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion, and prayer for the Holy Father’s intentions, as well as a specific act of piety or worship as designated by the Church. During the Jubilee 2025, with its emphasis on pilgrimage, mercy and hope, a special Jubilee Indulgence may be gained by participating in Pilgrimages, Pious Visits to Sacred Places, and Works of Mercy, including any of the abovementioned activities in our diocese. You are invited to consult the CCCB’s Catechetical Resources on Plenary Indulgences during the Jubilee Year for information on the specifications to obtain the Jubilee Indulgence for each of these categories
Jesus is the long-awaited hope whom we yearn for and seek. In this Jubilee Year may we, as Pilgrims of Hope guided by the Holy Spirit, truly recognize the spark of hope that dwells in the heart of each person we encounter, that desire for and expectation of good things and happiness. May we, Pilgrims of Hope, enkindle and fan into flame that hope with our proclamation in word and deed that Jesus is alive, that he loves us, and is the fulfillment of all our truest desires and dreams!
Please join me in praying our diocesan Jubilee Prayer now, and throughout the year in your homes and before or after the Lord’s Day Masses in your parishes at least once a month:
GraciousFather, youarethehopethatdoesnotdisappoint. MayweexperiencethegraceofthisJubileeYear asanoutpouringofdivinemercy fortherenewalofheartsintheDioceseofSaintJohn. Maywebenourishedinprayer andthroughfrequentencounterswithJesusChrist inthesacraments,especiallytheEucharist. EmbracingthejoyoftheGospel, maywebecultivatorsofhope inaworldindesperateneedofthesavingloveofJesus. Anchoredinhope,maywebeledbytheHolySpirit totakeupourbaptismalcall,joyfullylivingoutthemission, proclaimingtheGoodNewsofJesusChrist, andmakingdisciplesofothers. Throughourworksofmercy,maywebesignsofhope tothosewhoexperiencehardshipsofanykind, toprisoners,thesick,theyoung, migrants,theelderly,thepoor MayMary,MotherofHope, intercedeforallherchildrentobePilgrimsofHope duringthisYearofJubilee ThroughChristourLord, Amen.
Mary, Mother of Hope, pray for us!
✠ Christian Riesbeck, CC Bishop of Saint John
AN INTENTIONAL ADVENT
“He must increase; I must decrease” (Jn 3:30)
Advent is a beautiful season that the Church gifts to the faithful to direct them to prepare their minds and hearts for Christ’s coming
It is a time for much more than busy schedules, countless parties, shopping, wrapping and excess everywhere we turn. If intentional, planned and prayerful it is a time to grow much closer to the Lord as you ready the manger of your heart to receive him.
This season walks us through the past, present, and future. It welcomes the faithful to look back on the hope that was held for the coming of a savior, experience the joy of his birth and his reign in the present through his Church, and to prepare for his glorious return at his Second Coming.
We have prepared some suggestions for planning an intentional Advent that we hope will help you prepare to welcome the Lord.
ADVENT WREATH
Cathedral of the Immaculate
IN YOUR PRAYER
Choosing an intentional time of prayer for Advent is an excellent way to open your heart to be ready to receive Jesus.
Pray with Scripture: You can devote time to reading Scripture related to the Nativity story and the prophecies surrounding the Messiah and his glorious return at the end of time. Following the daily Mass readings is a great option. They can be found here.
Conception
Photo by: Faye Hanley
Join an Advent study: Many are available online and in local Parishes. Some online to look for include:
Hallow Pray 25: For God so Loved the World
Ascension: Rejoice Finding Your Place in the Advent Story
Ascension App: Face to FaceAdvent with Fr. Mike Schmitz
Abiding Together: Encountering Emmanuel
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops - Journey through Advent
Spend time with the Blessed Sacrament in Adoration:
An intimate opportunity to deepen your relationship with God. Perhaps the perfect start to your Advent could be asking Our Lord to help you draw near to him and then listening in the silence This is an excellent season to make a change that
reorients us to Christ. Adoration is offered throughout the diocese and you can find an Adoration time here as well as Monday - Friday after the 12:10pm Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
IN YOUR HEART
Advent is a time of joyful preparation, when we make an extra effort to “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely” (Heb 12:1).
“Make room in the inn” of your heart: Reflect on what is taking away space that could be filled with Our Lord Do you have a particular attachment or sin that is taking up too much of your life, your time and attention? This Advent season is the perfect time to let go, and as you do you will see that the space left in your life can be gloriously filled with Christ. You are invited to make time for the gift of the Sacrament of Reconciliation so that your heart can be filled with the grace you need to celebrate the feast of Christmas well.
Give with your heart: Grow closer to Christ by focusing on how to love your neighbour. This season is an excellent time to focus not on the excess of wants, but on those in need Giving your time to visit the lonely can change the entire season for someone without a visit to look forward to. A phone call, card or in person visit to those in nursing homes, prison or in the military can bring the light of Christ to their day.
You can also donate food, clothing, toys and necessities for those who are struggling. Supporting a meaningful charity can bring great meaning and growth in your heart this Advent.
IN YOUR HOME
Your home can be a place of light and warmth as you engage in this advent season.
Build an Advent Praylist: One way to keep yourself focused in the midst of busy Christmas preparations is to build a “praylist” of Advent music to help you continue to be intentional through this season. The Hallow app has an Advent Praylist with 50 beautiful songs ranging from O Come O Come Emmanuel to Angelus Ad Virginem and from contemporary music to chant for every mood. You could even create your own custom “praylist” with your family and friends to join in fellowship this Advent.
SETTING THE NATIVITY
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
NATIVITY
Set up your nativity scene or crèche: The perfect way to keep Christ at the centre of the season, is to place a nativity in a prominent place in your home. You can leave the manger empty in anticipation of Christmas Eve when the infant Jesus is finally placed in the manger.
Lighting the Advent Wreath: A new candle is lit on the Advent wreath each week, symbolizing the growing anticipation for the Christ Child.
However you choose to spend this Advent, we pray that an intentionally celebrated season will bring you the hope, faith, joy and peace of preparing well for Christmas.
St. Thomas the Apostle Church - Miramichi
Photo by: Annie Mae Morrison
UPCOMING FEASTS
one that prayed the rosary daily, attended Mass weekly, and attended confession monthly. My participation in these practices varied from sort of willing to being reluctantly dragged along. As a young child, I had a great love for the saints and personal prayer, but the older I grew, the more I preferred worldly ambitions and followed the whims of my passions.
Leaving DMCS and entering public high school carried me further away. I resented my family’s faith - my peers and teachers scoffed at Catholicism. I was bothered by the uncertainty of God’s existence. I was haunted by unanswered questions: who am I, and what am I for? I could hardly associate
KATHLEEN DESMOND
How glad I am that He is saving me, how much I pray that He continues to do so, and how obligated I am to share what He has done.
the deep, grand-canyon-sized wound of desire with the 60-minute routine of Sunday Mass. I looked elsewhere, and fell into serious sin. I lived two false lives- one struggling to fit in with my secular peers… and another struggling to fit in with my family. But the weight of the big questions grew yet heavier- I felt depressed and empty, finally spurring me to make a decision once and for all, that one question which every single human being has to face: either God is real, or it’s all made up.
As I approached graduation in grade 12, a youth leader invited me to a retreat called LEAD. I agreed, unaware that the week would change the course of my life. In a new environment, away from home and with an open heart, I was moved by vague truths growing solider, and the healing of many misunderstandings. Nothing “mystical” happened- at least, not in the way I understood mysticaljust a growing sense of being at home in God The pinnacle of this retreat was a Mass in which, at the moment of Communion, I accepted with the assent of faith and surrendering of reason that I had received the Heart of Jesus!!! How can one receive God, Creator and Saviour of all, and not be transformed by the encounter?
How glad I am that He is saving me, how much I pray that He continues to do so, and how obligated I am to share what He has done My worldview is forever changed: I have discovered myself a pilgrim on the straight and narrow. Often, the mountain of days ahead provokes discouragement, but He never asked us to climb the mountain all at once. Only to lean on Him and take one step, and then another. If He does not give the strength to bear the day, He certainly gives the strength to bear the moment I am finding that the strength for the moment arrives just at each moment : “do not worry about tomorrow …today's trouble is enough for today. ” Mt 6:34. His truth gives us the power to laugh in the most despairing circumstances: “for with God nothing will be impossible.”
Luke 1:37
CELEBRATING THE GIFT OF LIFE
In a special letter, Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC shared his appreciation for the work being done in the area for the dignity of life. “I am so grateful for the good work of pro-life organizations in our diocese including New Brunswick Right to Life and Birthright that help continue the important work of education on the value of life from conception to natural death, keeping the public informed on these issues, and serving women in unexpected pregnancies.”
He continued “I, along with many others, was disheartened to hear about recent decisions to expand abortion services in the province. Every civil right we enjoy is founded on the most fundamental right the right to life from conception to natural death.”
On the second Sunday of Advent, our annual Diocesan Pro-Life collections in support of these and other pro-life organizations were taken up in the parishes. By educating and advocating on behalf of the most vulnerable members of our society these organizations play a vital role in the mission of proclaiming the Gospel of life.
You can contribute to this special collection on the weekend of December 7-8 or anytime during the month of December using envelopes marked, “PRO-LIFE OFFERING”.
“Your prayerful and financial support will help promote respect and protection of human life at all stages, from conception to natural death. I urge you in charity to respond generously ”
In their Christmas address the New Brunswick Right to Life exclaimed that “the Christmas season is a time when we are reminded of the greatest gift of all—the miraculous gift of eternal life in Jesus that God has lovingly bestowed upon us. As we celebrate this holy season, we reflect on God’s boundless love, and the joy of family and friends. We are deeply committed to honoring and protecting the gift of life in all its forms, celebrating the blessings that touch our communities, our province, and our nation.”
Bishop Riesbeck concluded “It has never been more important to pray for our elected officials, to support the work of pro-life organizations, and to make our voices heard. Let us pray unceasingly that the fundamental right to life will be protected, valued, and upheld.”
Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the unborn – pray for us!
THE JOY OF GIVING
CATHEDRAL RESTORATION EFFORTS
Office of the Bishop
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
It has truly been a year of grace at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception We are experiencing a deepening sense of community and are seeing tangible fruit, including:
Faithful nourished by receiving Jesus in the Sacraments through Mass, Reconciliation before every Mass, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Monday-Friday after the noon Mass, as well as on First Saturdays following Mass.
CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Increasing numbers of young families, students, newcomers and those making their way back to the Church continuing to fill our pews. Increasing participation in faith formation, including Confirmation years and RCIA.
More young altar servers being trained to serve at Mass
Many successful missionary outreaches, including Pentecost Vigil, overnight Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Eucharistic, Marian and Good Friday processions, Holy Hour of Mercy with Divine Mercy Catholic School, a Young Adult summit, and more
Continued outreach via our St. Vincent de Paul Centre, which serves the physical needs of the most marginalized in the city and is undergoing renovations to help reach even more people with services that are desperately needed (including a meeting space and planned drop-in center).
The first ever Cathedral Alpha, which exceeded expectations and expanded to accommodate nearly 60 participants (including a group of young adults and RCIA candidates).
Photo by: Robyn Mason
To help support this work of renewal, the newly formed Cathedral Pastoral Visioning Team is assisting our Pastoral Team with visioning efforts and helping to raise up leaders, particularly through the recent “Stewardship Sundays” initiative, which invited the faithful to make a commitment to serving one another and the Church through their time, talent and treasure. With great joy we look forward to deepening our missionary efforts at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception during the Jubilee Year, when it will be an official place of Pilgrimage for the Diocese. The Holy Spirit is truly alive and on the move!
The Cathedral is vitally important, not only for its heritage value but also for the missionary outreach and spiritual revitalization it provides in an area of the diocese that desperately needs a Catholic Christian presence. As we continue to respond to the spiritual needs of the faithful, there remain immediate needs at the Cathedral that must be properly managed in order to be good stewards of this beautiful place of worship. Having addressed some initial, crucial work on the bell tower this year under the direction of Heritage Standing Inc. (HSI), including the installation of a monitoring system, we await the results of an updated Level 2 conditional assessment, which will provide important data for discernment as we continue to plan next steps for building conservation, being proactive in our long-term care of the Cathedral. I
am so grateful for the response of our diocesan faithful and for your ongoing support of the Cathedral restoration. Nearly $230,000 has been raised so far this year through our annual Corpus Christi collection, as well as other donations and bequests throughout the year. Your generosity greatly supports this important and ongoing work on our beloved mother church.
As we approach the end of the year, I am encouraging you to prayerfully discern a generous personal, tax-deductible donation towards the Cathedral restoration. I invite you to consider gifts of either a one-time or monthly donation (payable either by cheque, credit card, email money transfer or automatic withdrawal), multi-year pledge, securities, bequests, or life insurance, which are a tremendous blessing and will aid significantly in the success of these restoration efforts.
Please go to our website https://dioceseofsaintjohn org/do nations for information on how to donate. If you have any questions, or if you know of any people or organizations/businesses that could potentially make a significant gift to the Cathedral restoration, our Finance Department would be happy to assist you. Please contact Kelly Hudson, Director of Finance and Administration, at khudson@dioceseofsaintjohn org
I am counting on your fervent prayer for this work of restoration through the intercession of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, as we give God permission to move powerfully in our diocese I was happy to see many of you at our Diocesan Feast Day celebration together with the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception on December 9 at the Cathedral and I invite you to join in for the opening Mass for the Jubilee Year at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on December 29 at 5:00 pm, with reception to follow
Please be assured of my prayers for you and your loved ones, in this grace-filled season of Advent
United in prayer and mission,
✠ Christian Riesbeck, CC Bishop of Saint John
AROUND THE DIOCESE
CATHEDRAL CHORAL SOCIETY
The Cathedral Choral Society debut concert was held November 23rd to a packed house at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception The theme of the evening was “Rest Eternal” a beautiful way to remember the souls who went before us, with a "deconstructed requiem!"
It was a fantastic evening and all who attended were blown away by this new choir and their immense talents. The next concert will be in the New Year.
HOLY SPIRIT PARISH
OUTREACH
(SAINT JOHN REGION)
The mittens that have been made by our prayer shawl group were counted, sorted, & bagged. 300 pairs of mittens, 4 scarves, 8 pairs of socks, 22 hats, & 3 headbands were crafted
They will be distributed this to Westfield Elementary, Grand Bay Primary, Inglewood, River Valley Middle School, HVHS, as well as Avenue B & Horizon Recovery Centre
VILLA MADONNA RETREAT HOUSE
we invite you to come and check out our new website that is filled with historical information, new photo galleries, events and information on the Villa Madonna
Visit the Villa Madonna Website
December and January will see many guests visiting the Villa Madonna to partake in the peaceful and prayerful space that this special place offers
December 17 - Senior’s Mass and Lunch at 11 email: admindirector@villamadonna.ca no later than December 13 to register
January 24-26. 2025 Catechist Retreat: Pilgrims of Hope Retreat
Facilitator: Jim Anderson
Register online
Registration deadline: January 20th, 2025
CATHOLIC YOUNG ADULTS OF FREDERICTON HOST SECOND SUMMIT NIGHT
The Catholic Young Adults of Fredericton hosted their second Summit Night, at St Thomas University Chapel commemorating World Youth Day November 29th
Featuring Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Inspiring speakers, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and a community meal afterward in the Campus Ministry room
It was a beautiful evening of faith and fellowship
AROUND THE DIOCESE
FALL CATHOLIC WOMENS’ RETREAT A “TRUE GIFT” TO PARTICIPANTS
December 29, 5:00 pm Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
Diocesan Opening of the Jubilee Year Reception to follow at the Cathedral Rectory
The 2024 Fall Catholic Womens’ Retreat was held November 16th at the Villa Madonna Retreat House The retreat theme of inner healing was well received with many women finding a path towards their own healing journey with Jesus Talks from Fr John Gillis on “What is a Wound” and “What are Soul Ties” gave participants a taste of the work they can do in their faith towards healing It was a day of sisterhood, silent reflection, reconciliation, laughter, tears and personal growth.
STUDENT FUN
“The 2024 fall women's retreat was a true gift It was a remarkable steppingstone along my faith journey. The day was filled with peace, guidance, reflection/contemplation, reconciliation, adoration and fellowship The attending priests are incredible gifts to our diocese I left renewed and compelled to more ardently persue my relationship with Jesus. ” ~ E
AROUND THE DIOCESE
GOOD SHEPHERD PARISH CHRISTMAS GET TOGETHER (MIRAMICHI REGION)
A wonderful Christmas get together at Our Lady of the Assumption Church for the First Sunday of Advent. Our annual Christmas potluck, lighting of the Advent Wreath and the Blessing and lighting of the crèche and Christmas Tree
CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION COR: INTO THE BREACH (SAINT JOHN REGION)
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another - Proverbs 27:17
TUDENT FUN
Cor: Into the Breach sessions have been a success at the Cathedral Rectory! Lots of great insights from the young generation to the well experienced in life (men from 1870+yrs old)! We were also graced with the presence of Fr David Rioux, all the way from Miramichi! We ended with the Rosary in the Cathedral with the Sodality of St Joseph Prayer, formation, fraternity!
Cor exists to form and strengthen Catholic men in faith and virtue as missionary disciples by drawing them into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer, formation, and fraternity
STRENGTH IN FAMILY
FAMILY FRIENDLY ADVENT & CHRISTMAS
Advent and Christmas are special times in the Church and is a time to build meaningful and long lasting traditions. If you are looking for some fresh ideas for your family, we have a few suggestions that will bring your family closer together and closer to Christ this Advent.
Pray together as a family: A special way to prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus is to pray more often. Think of what prayer(s) you would like to add to this week or to each day of the week For example, if you do not pray them often already, you can pray the Rosary or Divine Mercy Chaplet during the week.
If you are looking for something to pray each day, perhaps you can pray the Memorare or spend quiet time with God each day. You may also enjoy reading a chapter in the Bible each day or reading the Mass readings each day. Make a plan as a family, and then do what you planned to add more prayer to your week.
MEANINGFUL TRADITIONS
Memorable moments to bring family closer to each other and to Christ
Adopt the tradition of Mary on the Mantle: As the popularity of a certain Elf soars, Catholics have developed their own tradition which involves a figure of Mary that can travel through the home as she prepares to give birth, inviting your children to do acts of kindness or charity.
Create a “good deed” crèche: Have your child or every family member place a slip of paper, acting as a piece of straw, in the manger each time they do a good deed so that the bed will be filled with “holy softness” for the newborn Jesus
Build an Advent Wreath: With this free printable template, four toilet paper rolls, a paper plate, some craft paper, tape, some willing helpers to colour, cut and assemble, you can create this Advent wreath with your family. View the online instructions and printable template here
Courtesy: Look to Him and be Radiant
Decorate, create or purchase a Jesse Tree: With ornaments that represent key stories from the Bible. Hang an ornament on the tree each day, sharing the associated bible
story with your children. There are many Jesse Tree resources to help you with this tradition Choose one that works best for your family at the stage of life you are in and feel free to change it up as the years go by.
Join together in acts of service and love: Bake cookies for neighbours that you know are alone or elderly and deliver them as a family. Add a hand drawn card by children and it will become a prized possession. Older kids or as a family you could offer to babysit for a family that may not be able to regularly afford a babysitter. Choose a gift to donate for a child less fortunate.
For more resources please be sure to visit the faith formation section of the Diocese of Saint John’s website. You will find activities, prayers and family friendly faith formation materials to make the most of the Advent and Christmas seasons.
STRIVING FOR HOLINESS
YOU TOO CAN BE A SAINT!
by Sarah Grace McDonald
Over the Remembrance Day weekend, approximately thirty young adults gathered at the Villa Madonna Retreat House to learn from the example of Blessed Carlo Acutis and grow together in faith and fellowship. The Striving for Holiness retreat for young Catholic adults was hosted in partnership with the Diocese of Saint John and centred around the idea that, as Blessed Carlos said, “You too can be a Saint!”
Various speakers gave talks on the 5 Pillars to Sainthood exemplified in the life of Blessed Carlo Acutis, soon to be the first millennial saint, who died in 2006 at the age of 15. He is known in particular for his devotion to our Lord in the Eucharist, which motivated him to design a website documenting hundreds of Eucharistic miracles around the world that is still active today. His 5 pillars include Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Confession and spiritual direction, devotion to Mary and the Saints, and the virtue of Charity.
STRIVING FOR HOLINESS
In addition to attending talks, participants had the opportunity to put these pillars into practice through Holy Mass on Saturday and Sunday, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Saturday night, occasions for confession, a rosary walk around the Stations of the Cross, guided Scripture meditations, and lots of time for prayer.
We were also pleasantly surprised by our good bishop with the special opportunity to venerate first- and second-class relics of numerous saints, including a first-class relic of the True Cross Overall, the retreat provided young adults a weekend to unplug from the cares and concerns of student and work life and
Young Adult Kayla, from Fredericton spends a quiet moment at the Villa Madonna during the Young Adults Retreat.
Photo by: Robyn Mason
invited them into a transformative encounter with Christ, who is always calling us to greater holiness through a deepening of our relationships with Him. Participants left with a renewed sense of peace and purpose, and new and strengthened bonds of friendship with one another.
We were blessed by the charitable donations of several people which allowed more people to attend the retreat than would have otherwise able, and as always by the delicious food and warm hospitality of the staff at Villa Madonna We would also like to thank speakers Jim Anderson, Bishop Christian Riesbeck, Jennifer Fabrizi, Father Aaron Knox, and Father Dennis Hayes for sharing their wisdom, as well as Bishop Christian and the priests for providing access to the sacraments and Holy Mass. Finally, thanks to all the participants who devoted their time and committed themselves to growing in holiness over the weekend.
Our hope is that this retreat served as kindling for the beginning or renewal of many dynamic personal relationships with Jesus Christ as well as in and between the young Catholic communities of the Saint
John Diocese.
Once again, in the words of Blessed Carlo Acutis: “You too can be a Saint!”
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
As a young man living in a spiritually isolated environment, with little in the way of fellowship with other young Catholics, the Striving for Holiness Retreat was a great blessing Often we of this new generation of the faithful carry Christ's light into dark corners of the country entirely on our own, or so it feels; therefore, being able to gather together to rest in Christ's presence and be better equipped to go fight the Goliaths again, is a wonderful privilege. This retreat, with the abundance of teaching, prayer times, sacraments and times of fellowship was wonderfully strengthening."
~ Benjamin Tucker
"The young adults retreat opened my heart to love my neighbor more deeply, and I left with a renewed love for our group. I connected with the heart of Jesus through Mass and meditation on the Scriptures There was a moment during the Mass on Saturday I felt God's love for me so much I started to cry. It was beautiful. Thank you to those who made it happen."
~ Robyn Mason
"Spending the better part of the weekend in prayer with fellow young Catholics was a blessing in ways that are hard to describe. My love of God’s Word deepened during lectio divina, and through it my love of God and His Church. My eyes were opened to both the depth and simplicity of sacred scripture, and I’ve been meditating on it more since.”
~ Dylan Capstick
I want to thank everyone who put together the retreat, they did a wonderful job It was such a beautiful experience and it was really nice to meet each & everyone who was there. They were so kind and welcoming. It was very peaceful and a great time to learn more about God & the Saints. Having Mass and confession was a really great way to start off, I felt a lot of calmness.
I’ll be honest and say I learned a lot more about the Saints than I thought I would and I'm really glad I did being able to go through the rosary was such a nice time. I learned I need to do that more often. Hearing all the priest talks, as well as the speakers was very enlightening. It had me so present in the moment listening to every single word that I felt I needed to hear After hearing all the talks, the small group chats were nice, because it was good to hear and understand others perspective on each talk that was given. Which really made you think even more, which is a really good way to see all sides of the scriptures.
It truly felt like one of the best experiences and I would recommend everyone to attend a retreat to truly calm the mind so you can hear the word of God.”
~ Jackie
"To me, what was so special about the young adults retreat is surrounding myself with others around the same age, who also desire reminders and are also looking for a deeper relationship with Christ. Through the special speakers, the scriptures and Adoration, I felt that my relationship with Jesus was much stronger than it ever was before and I was able to open my heart even more to allow Him in. The biggest takeaway for me during this retreat is that I, myself, can also become a saint as I just need to challenge myself to desire for it.”
~ Matthew Bell
“I feel more involved in the Catholic community, I know many people that I admire for the faith they have, also I felt really welcomed and in presence of God all the days of retreat, definitely it was the beginning of my journey of my Catholic life in Canada and I thanks for people who invited me and sponsored to do the retreat many blessings will receive them.”
~ Lyzza Garcia
CANADIAN CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS ADVENT 2024
TheCanadianConferenceofCatholicBishopspresentsJourneythroughAdventwiththeMostRev. FrankLeo,MetropolitanArchbishopofToronto JoinusaswereflectontheScripturesfortheSundays ofAdvent2024.
AjointinitiativeoftheNationalLiturgyOffice,theOfficenationaldeliturgieandtheOfficefor EvangelizationandCatechesis.
LEARN MORE
CHRISTMAS AND SOLEMNITY OF MARY
MOTHER OF GOD MASS TIMES
Paroisse Sainte Anne des Pays Bas
Christmas Eve - 16h00 et 22h00
Christmas Day - 10h00
New Year’s Eve 17h00
New Year’s Day 11h00
St Thomas Chapel
Christmas Day - 7:00pm
New Year’s Eve - 7:00pm
St. Barbara’s Parish
Christmas Eve
7:00pm - Holy Rosary Church
9:00pm - St. Joseph’s Church (Chipman)
12:00 - Midnight Holy Rosary Church
Christmas Day - 10:00am Holy Rosary Church
New Year’s Eve - 5:00pm Holy Rosary Church
New Year’s Day
9:00 am - St. Joseph’s Church (Chipman)
11:00 am - Holy Rosary Church
Saint John Paul II Parish
Christmas Eve
6:00pm St. Francis of Assisi Church, Lincoln
Christmas Day
10:00am - St. Vincent de Paul Church
12:00 pm - St. Bridget's Church, Gagetown
New Year's Eve
6:00pm - St. Francis of Assisi Church, Lincoln
New Year's Day Mass
10:00am - St. Vincent de Paul Church, Oromocto
(Note: there is no New Year's Day Mass at St. Bridget' Church)
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm & 6:00pm - Holy Family Church
(Masses will be livestreamed and will be the traditional Family Bell Mass with the children.)
Christmas Day
9:30am - St. Ann’s Church
11:00am - Holy Family Church
New Year’s Day
11:00am - Holy Family Church
FREDERICTON REGION
Saint John the Baptist Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - Family Mass, St Gertrude Church
7:30pm - Sts Simon & Jude Church
10:00pm - St Gertrude Church
Christmas Day
11:00am - St Gertrude Church
New Year’s Eve - 6:00pm St Gertrude Church
New Year’s Day - 9:00am Sts Simon & Jude Church
Our Lady of Peace Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - St Anthony’s Church
5:30pm - St Theresa’s Church
8:00pm - St Patrick’s Church
Christmas Day
10:00am - St Theresa’s Church
New Year’s Eve
4:00pm - St Anthony’s Church
New Year’s Day
1:30pm - St Patrick’s Church
St. Mary Magdalene Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - Sts John and Paul Church
6:00pm - St Columba Church
4:00pm, 8:00pm and Midnight - St Dunstan’s Church
Christmas Day
10:00am - St Dunstan’s Church
New Year’s Day
9:00am - St Columba Church
11:00am - Sts. John and Paul Church
11:30am - St. Dunstan’s Church
Mother of Mercy Parish
Christmas Eve
5:00pm - Saint Anthony’s Community (Juniper)
5:00pm - St. Leo’s Church
8:00pm - Saint John the Evangelist Church
Christmas Day
10:00am - Saint John the Evangelist Church
10:30am - Riverview Manor (subject to change)
Mass times for Dec 31-Jan 1 tba
CHRISTMAS AND SOLEMNITY OF MARY
MOTHER OF GOD MASS TIMES
Good Shepherd Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - St Raphael's Church Blackville
7:00pm - St Bridget's Church Renous
Midnight - Our Lady of the Annunciation Church Doaktown
Christmas Day
9:00am - St Raphael's Church Blackville
11:00am - St Bridget's Church Renous
New Year’s Eve - 4:00pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Church Doaktown
New Year’s Day
9:00am - St Raphael's Church Blackville
11:00am - St Bridget's Church Renous
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - St Edward’s Church
5:30pm - St Patrick's Church
7:30pm - Most Pure Heart of Mary Church
10:00pm - St Patrick's Church
Christmas Day - 11:00am - St Patrick’s Church
New Year’s Eve - 4:00pm St Patrick's Church
New Year’s Day - 11:00am St Patrick's Church
Saint Michael the Archangel Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
4:00pm - Saint Michael’s-by-the-Sea
6:00pm - Saint Margaret’s Church
10:00pm - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
Christmas Day
10:30am - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
5:30pm - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
New Year’s Eve
4:00pm - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
6:00pm - Saint Margaret’s Church
New Year’s Day
10:30am - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
(note: there will be no 9am daily Mass in the chapel)
5:30pm - Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica
MIRAMICHI REGION
Communauté Francophone Notre Dame-deL’Espérance
Christmas Eve - 16h00 et Minuit
New Year’s Day –11h00 l’Esperance de Notre Dame
Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm & 8:00pm - St. Mary’s Church
4:00pm - St. Samuel’s Church
6:00pm - St. Joachim’s Church
6:00pm - Sts. Peter & Paul Church
8:00pm - St Anne Church
Christmas Day
10:00am - St. Mary’s Church
10:00am - Sts. Peter & Paul Church
10:00am - St. Samuel’s Church
12:00pm - St Joachim’s Church
New Year’s Eve
4:00pm - St. Samuel’s Church
4:30pm - St Mary’s Church
New Year’s Day
10:00am - St. Samuel’s Church
10:00am - St. Mary’s Church
12:00pm - St. Joachim’s Church
10:00am - Sts. Peter & Paul Church
12:00pm - St. Anne Church
Our Lady of the Rivers Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - St. Thomas the Apostle Church
6:00pm - St. James Church (Sevogle)
9:00pm - St. Thomas the Apostle Church
Christmas Day
11:00am - St. Thomas the Apostle Church
New Year’s Eve
4:00pm - St. Thomas the Apostle Church
New Year’s Day
9:00am - St. James Church (Sevogle)
11:00am - St. Thomas Church (Sevogle)
CHRISTMAS AND SOLEMNITY OF MARY
MOTHER OF GOD MASS TIMES
Our Lady of the Assumption Parish
Christmas Eve - 4:00pm & 7:00pm
Christmas Day -11:00am
New Year’s Eve - 5:00pm
New Year’s Day -11:00am
Saints Joachim & Ann Parish
Christmas Eve - 7:00pm St Ann’s Church
Christmas Day - 10:00am St. Ann’s Church
New Years Eve - 7:00pm St. Ann’s Church
New Years Day - 10:00am St. Ann’s Church
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Christmas Eve - 4:00pm, 7:00pm and 10:00pm
Christmas Day - 10:00am and 12:00pm (Spanish Mass)
New Year's Eve - 5:00pm
New Year's Day - 12:00pm
St. Mark’s Parish
Christmas Eve - 4:00pm, 7:00pm & 10:00pm
Christmas Day - 10:00am
New Year’s Eve - 5:00pm
New Year’s Day - 10:00am
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish
Christmas Eve - 4:00pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, 9:00pm
Christmas Day - 10:00am
New Year’s Eve - 5:00pm
New Year’s Day - 11:00am
St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - Sacred Heart Church
5:00pm - St. Francis Xavier Church
6:00pm - Sacred Heart Church
8:00pm - St. Francis Xavier Church
Christmas Day
10:00am St. Francis Xavier Church
New Years Eve - 4:00pm - Sacred Heart Church
New Years Day - 10:00am - St. Francis Xavier Church
SAINT JOHN REGION
Holy Redeemer Parish
Christmas Eve - 4:00pm & 5:30pm
Christmas Day - 10:00am
New Year’s Eve - 4:00pm
New Year’s Day - 10:00am
Holy Spirit Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - St Matthews Church
6:00pm - St Rose Church
New Year’s Day - 10:00am St Matthews Church
Mary, Mother of God Parish
Christmas Eve - 8:00pm St George Church
Christmas Day
9:00am - Stella Maris Church
11:00am - St George Church
New Year’s Eve - 4:00pm Stella Maris Church
New Year’s Day
9:00 am - Stella Maris Church
11:00 am - St George Church
December 15 -23, 9 day Novena Masses which is spearheaded by Filipinos in the area.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
CHRISTMAS AND SOLEMNITY OF MARY
MOTHER OF GOD MASS TIMES
Blessed Trinity Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - St. Bridget’s Church
6:00pm - St Anthony’s Church
8:00pm - St Alphonsus Church
Christmas Day
9:30am - St Alphonsus Church
New Year’s Eve
4:00 - St Anthony’s Church
New Year’s Day
9:30am - St Alphonsus Church
11:30 am - St. Bridget’s Church
Paroisse Saint François-de-Sales
Christmas Eve - 20h00
Christmas Day - 10h30
New Year’s Day - 10h30
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - Stella Maris Church
4:00pm - St. Joseph's Church
6:00pm - St. William's Church
8:00pm - Stella Maris Church
Christmas Day
10:00am - Stella Maris Church
New Year's Eve
4:00pm - Stella Maris Church
New Year's Day
10:00am - St Joseph's Church
12 Noon - St William's Church
Saint Croix Parish
Christmas Eve
4:00pm - Church of Saint Stephen
6:30pm - Church of Saint Andrew
10:00pm - Church of Saint Stephen
Christmas Day
9:00 am - Church of Saint Stephen
11:00 am - Church of Saint Andrew
SAINT JOHN REGION
DIOCESAN ROUND UP
DIOCESAN ROUND UP
