FROM OUR BISHOP EASTER MESSAGE
FROM THE HOLY FATHER FOR PRIESTS IN CRISIS
MEET YOUR DIACONATE CANDIDATES A QUICK GUIDE TO THE TRIDUUM IT’S STILL EASTER A GUIDE TO THE LITURGICAL SEASON OF EASTER
CHRISTIAN UNITY SHARED LIGHT SHARED HOPE ECUMENICAL PRAYER SERVICE
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DIOCESAN HIGH SCHOOL
Office of the Bishop
“But the angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified He is not here, for he has been raised, as he said’.” (Matthew 28:5-6)
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today, the Church joyfully proclaims the truth announced at the empty tomb: “He is not here, for he has been raised” (Matthew 28:6) This is a message not just proclaimed to the “whole world” but spoken personally to each of us.
From the beginning, God has desired an intimate, personal relationship with each of his children. Scripture reveals God as the one who created us out of love, who pursued us even when we turned away, and came to us in the fullest revelation of his love in Jesus Christ, suffering death to save us from our sin and restore our friendship with him. “Christ’s resurrection teaches us that no history is so marked by disappointment or sin that it cannot be visited by hope However distant, lost or unworthy we may feel, there is no distance that can extinguish the unfailing power of God’s love” (Pope Leo XIV, October 8, 2025, General Audience).
Jesus died for us, personally and intentionally. He came to restore what was lost and draw us into communion with the Father The Catechism reminds us that, “the cross is the unique sacrifice of Christ, the ‘one mediator between God and men’. But because in his incarnate divine person Jesus has in some way united himself to every man, ‘the possibility of being made partners, in a way known to God, in the paschal mystery’ is offered to all men” (CCC 618). As you gaze on Jesus crucified and risen, let this truth touch your heart: Jesus loves us and continues to pursue us with his love.
We encounter this love most intimately in the Mass when we receive Jesus in the Eucharist, the re-presentation of Calvary, where Jesus gives himself to us in intimate communion, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. This is why, at the Cathedral, we recently reflected on how our gestures and postures at Mass help us to dispose our hearts in openness to this mystery with adoration, humility and deep reverence (visit https://www.immaculateconception.ca/ to learn more). When we approach the altar, we meet the One who longs to unite himself fully and completely to us. Let this Easter be the moment to be drawn into deeper unity with the Lord. Open your heart to him and all that he offers. Ask him to come even more deeply into your life.
The Risen Christ is alive and on the move, ready to pour out his mercy, joy, and transforming love from his heart to ours! Let us receive him with a resounding “Yes!” May this Easter encounter with Divine Love, crucified and risen, renew our hearts and fill us with the joy of knowing the Living Saviour who calls us by name.
In the Risen Lord,
✠ Christian Riesbeck, CC
Bishop of Saint John March 31, 2026
FOR PRIESTS IN CRISIS
Let us pray for priests going through moments of crisis in their vocation, that they may find the accompaniment they need and that communities may support them with understanding and prayer.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Lord Jesus, Good Shepherd and companion on the journey, today we place in your hands all priests, especially those going through moments of crisis, when loneliness weighs heavily, when doubt clouds their hearts, and when exhaustion seems stronger than hope
You who know their struggles and wounds, renew in them the certainty of your unconditional love. Let them feel they are not mere functionaries or lonely heroes, but beloved sons, humble and cherished disciples, and pastors sustained by the prayer of their people.
Good Father, teach us as a community to care for our priests: to listen without judging, to give thanks without demanding perfection, to share with them the baptismal mission of proclaiming the Kingdom in word and deed, and to accompany them with closeness and sincere prayer. May we support those who so often support us
Holy Spirit, rekindle in our priests the joy of the Gospel Grant them healthy friendships, networks of fraternal support, a sense of humor when things don’t go as expected, and the grace to always rediscover the beauty of their vocation May they never lose trust in You, nor the joy of serving your Church with a humble and generous heart. Amen.
~ Pope Leo XIV
DON’T GO AS EXPECTED, AND THE GRACE TO ALWAYS REDISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THEIR VOCATION.”
In November of 2022, Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC published a letter introducing the Permanent Diaconate to the Diocese of Saint John.
“First instituted in apostolic times, the permanent diaconate is a key vocation through which men dedicate their lives to the service of God’s people. Permanent deacons are a great support to the local church through their witness to Christ-like charity. As co-labourers in the mission their unique gifts and talents play an indispensable role in building up the Body of Christ. These ordained ministers of the word, the altar, and of charity, work together with lay people, religious and priests, to support the spiritual and material needs of the people of God.
A fruitful use of all seven sacraments, including the permanent diaconate, can be a great aid to our parishes, especially in view of all the challenges we face. A healthy diocese is one that makes use of all the gifts and charisms present in the many vocations, working together as the people of God to bring about his Kingdom in our midst.
PERMANENTDIACONATECANDIDATES StevenHorsley–OurLadyofPeaceParish ByronConway –St.JohnPaulIIParish IsaganiAldoverJr. –St.CroixParish DanielGaudet–St Mark’sParish withBishopChristianRiesbeck,CC, Fr.RalphMcRae,EVandFr.DennisHayes,CC
Let us give God permission to move powerfully in our diocese to bring hearts to Jesus, and let us surrender this process to his will, praying that the Lord of the harvest will send an abundance of laborers for the service of the Gospel and the glory of God.”
This prayer was answered by the response of four men with the support of their wives as they dedicated themselves to the discernment and formation process of the Permanent Diaconate. This summer they will be instituted in the ministry of Acolyte We are delighted to share a bit more about each of them and their experience of the formation process.
Can you share your personal and faith background and describe how did you first sense—and eventually confirm your call to the Permanent Diaconate?
I was raised in a family deeply devoted to the Catholic faith, where prayer was part of our daily life. I studied in Catholic schools run by priests and later by the De La Salle Brothers (FSC), which helped shape both my faith and character During school vacations, I stayed with my aunt, a very devout Catholic. We woke at 5:00 a.m. to pray the Rosary and gather again at 6:00 p.m. for evening prayer. What began as obedience gradually became personal conviction, and through these experiences, I developed a deep love for the Church and a desire to serve
As a young man, I became an altar server, which nurtured my reverence for the Eucharist and the liturgy. Later, I hoped to become a lay minister, but I was below the required age in the Philippines. Even so, I continued serving in whatever way I could.
While working in a place where the Catholic faith is condemned and public religious practice is restricted, I served quietly as a catechist and became an active member of the Legion of Mary. Living my faith in that environment strengthened my conviction that our faith is a gift worth preserving and sharing, even in difficulty
When I returned to my hometown during the pandemic, I resumed parish service and was eventually commissioned as a lay minister. Soon after, I moved to Canada. After completing my quarantine, the first place I went to was the church I introduced myself to the pastor Fr. Suresh Savariraj and expressed my willingness to serve. Serving the Church has always given me a deep sense of peace and purpose.
Later, Fr. Suresh asked me to attend a meeting in Fredericton regarding a formation program It was there that I learned about the Permanent Diaconate Initially, I felt unworthy and questioned whether I was fit or worthy for such a calling. In prayer, I continually asked God for guidance. With encouragement and through discernment, I began to see the needs within the parish especially the importance of reaching out to the sick, the vulnerable, and those longing for pastoral care
The call to the Permanent Diaconate did not come in a dramatic moment but unfolded gradually through lifelong formation, faithful service, prayer, and the encouragement of the Church. With humility, I continue to discern this path, trusting that if this is God’s will, He will grant me the grace to serve His Church faithfully as a deacon
How has your experience of formation shaped, challenged, or deepened your understanding of the Diaconate and your own readiness for ministry?
My experience of formation has profoundly shaped and deepened both my understanding of the Diaconate and my readiness for ministry. When I began this journey, I did not fully realize how much I still needed to learn not only intellectually, but also spiritually and personally. Throughout this process, I have gained new knowledge about the Church, the Ministry of the Diaconate, and my responsibilities as a future servant of God’s people. At the same time, I have received guidance and correction that helped me recognize areas in my life requiring growth, discipline, and conversion.
This journey has also been challenging. There were moments of temptation and inner struggle that made me question myself. At times, I wondered whether these difficulties were signs that I was not called to this vocation or whether they were spiritual trials meant to discourage me. Through prayer and reflection, I have come to understand that challenges are a normal part of vocation. They do not necessarily indicate we are on the wrong path but rather, they can serve to strengthen and purify our commitment.
Formation has taught me that the Diaconate is not simply a role or title, but a life of service requiring humility, spiritual maturity, and continual conversion. It demands serious preparation in physical, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral areas.
As I approach the final year of formation, I can see how this process has shaped me, it has deepened my faith, strengthened my trust in God, and made me more aware of both my weaknesses and God’s grace.
While I recognize that I am still growing, I now feel more prepared and at peace with this vocation. I have learned that readiness for ministry does not mean perfection, but rather a willing and faithful heart that continues to rely on God. Through this formation, my understanding of the Diaconate has matured, and my commitment to serve Christ and His Church has become clearer and stronger.
What has been most influential in your spiritual growth during formation—whether Scripture, prayer, saints, or particular moments of God’s presence?
What has been most influential in my spiritual growth during formation has been encountering Christ’s humility and mission in two powerful moments of the liturgy; “The washing of the disciples’ feet” and the words, “Do this in memory of me.”
The washing of the feet by Jesus Christ has profoundly shaped my understanding of humility Seeing the true King kneel before His disciples and take the place of a servant left a deep impression on me. It revealed that humility is not weakness, but love in action. In that moment, I understood that being a disciple means lowering myself in service, serving without seeking recognition, and loving without counting the cost. That image continues to challenge and form me, especially in learning to serve others with sincerity and compassion.
At the same time, every time I hear the words, “Do this in memory of me” during Mass, I experience them not only as a remembrance, but as a personal call Jesus is reminding me to continue His mission, and that is to love, to serve, and to give myself for others. Those words awaken in me a sense of responsibility and purpose. They invite me not just to recall Him, but to live like Him.
These moments in the liturgy have been powerful encounters with God’s presence. They have shaped my prayer, strengthened my desire to follow His will, and inspired me to continually ask God to form me into the person He wants me to be. In my formation, it is this combination of witnessing Christ’s humility and hearing His call to mission that has most influenced my spiritual growth, giving me the courage to follow wherever He leads.
Where do you feel most called to serve within the Church’s mission of charity, Word, and liturgy, and how do you hope to use your gifts for the diocese?
I feel most called to serve within the Church’s mission of charity. Since I was a child, I have always volunteered in ways that could help others. There has always been something deep in my heart that brings me joy and fulfillment when I serve. When I help others, I truly feel that I am encountering Christ in them I hold closely His words that whatever we do for others, we do for Him.
Although the missions of Word and liturgy are also very important to me, I see myself growing more in the ministry of charity. I feel drawn to extend the Church’s presence to those who cannot come to church, the sick, the poor, the elderly, and those who feel distant or forgotten. I hope to use my gifts of compassion, willingness to serve, and openness to others to become a bridge between the Church and the people in need within the diocese.
Through acts of service, I hope to make Christ’s love visible and tangible, so that those I encounter may feel that the Church is close to them, walking with them in their struggles and joys.
Outside of ministry, what should people know about you—your work, interests, or personal life—that helps them see who you are as a person?
Outside of ministry, I am a family-oriented and hardworking person. I am a husband to my wife, Ronna, and a father to my daughter, Angel and my son, Angelo. My family is one of the greatest blessings in my life, and Ronna’s support has always encouraged me in my responsibilities and vocation.
Professionally, I have worked in the technical and manufacturing field. Currently, I am working as a quality control technician in a fish feeds company. My work has taught me discipline, responsibility, attention to detail, and the importance of integrity, the values that I also carry into my ministry and personal life.
Personally, I am fun to be with and enjoy building relationships with others. I love watching sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. These interests help me relax, connect with others, and maintain balance in my life.
Overall, I strive to live a life rooted in faith, service, and meaningful relationships.
As you approach ordination, what are you most looking forward to, and how can the faithful best support and pray for you during this time?
As I approach ordination, what I look forward to most is the grace to serve more fully and faithfully in the mission of the Church From my earliest experiences as an altar server, catechist, and lay minister to my time in formation, I have always desired to give myself completely to God’s people. I am eager to assist at the altar, proclaim the Gospel, preach the Word, and especially reach out to those who are sick, poor, or feel forgotten. The example of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet continues to inspire me to approach ministry with humility, a servant’s heart, and a willingness to put others before myself. I hope to reflect His love and mercy in every encounter, trusting that God will use me, despite my weaknesses, for His greater glory.
I invite the faithful to support me with prayers for humility, obedience, faithfulness, and courage in preaching the Gospel, that my life may always reflect Christ’s love and service. Please also remember my family, my wife, Ronna, my daughter, Angel and my son, Angelo, whose support and sacrifices make this vocation possible. Your prayers for perseverance, holiness, and joy in ministry will be the greatest encouragement as I take this important step, seeking to answer God’s call with faith, dedication, and a heart open to His guidance.
Can you share your personal and faith background and describe how did you first sense—and eventually confirm your call to the Permanent Diaconate?
I am what you might call a cradle Catholic and have nuns, priests and even a bishop in the extended family. Growing up in Vancouver, I was blessed to be an Altar Server. It turns out that our programme was exceptional - we met every Saturday for several hours; praying, reflecting on the readings and of course learning how to serve at the Altar. I think this period of my life laid the foundation for a life of faith as I was afforded the opportunity to go beyond ‘Sunday School’ and my faith grew through instruction, service and fellowship.
The calling to become a Deacon was a ‘slow burn’, beginning in our Parish in Ottawa in the early 2000’s. We had several Deacons and this was my first exposure to the order. I was ‘adopted’ by one of the Deacons as I underwent Sacristan formation and through our many conversations became curious about the Deaconate. Later, Gisele, my wife, while working as the Parish Secretary in Oromocto, mentioned to me that Father had put a bug in her ear that I should consider becoming a Deacon. Finally, it was our Bishop who challenged me to take seriously the possible calling when he launched this program.
Over the course of our formation, I have been provided with many opportunities to learn about the Diaconate, to grow in fellowship with our clergy, other candidates and their families, to grow in love with my wife and perhaps most importantly, to grow in my prayer life – as an individual, in community and as a family.
How has your experience of formation shaped, challenged, or deepened your understanding of the Diaconate and your own readiness for ministry?
Our formation, which is a mix of formal courses provided on-line through Newman College and our ‘Deacon Weekends’ with the Atlantic Candidates has been a real eyeopener. We have touched on Canon Law, Spirituality, Mariology, Christology, History, Psychology amongst other interesting subjects. However, I have to say the one area that really stretched me was Homiletics Frankly, I had no idea what was involved in preparing a good homily. Deacon Peter Lovrick, D.Min., is assistant professor of homiletics at St Augustine’s Seminary in Toronto and provided us an absolutely amazing course on homiletics…and yes, we had to prepare and deliver one too! Through this course I gained a profound insight into the beauty of post Vatican II Liturgy and the scriptural feast that has been prepared for us every Mass.
What has been most influential in your spiritual growth during formation— whether Scripture, prayer, saints, or particular moments of God’s presence?
I have heard it said that: “…to know is to love more and to love is to want to know more.” Our formation has definitely expanded my knowledge, has greatly expanded my faith life and deepened my relationship with the Lord. However, I think the single biggest impact has been the availability of spending time with our Lord in the Chapel. It is such an amazing gift to have a Chapel so conveniently available during our livein weekends. Father jokingly calls it ‘Divine Radiation Therapy’ and of course he is on point as it is so healing to be quietly attentive in the Lord’s presence
Where do you feel most called to serve within the Church’s mission of charity, Word, and liturgy, and how do you hope to use your gifts for the diocese?
I would say that in my case, it has not been a clear calling. Rather, it began through a sense of obedience; if there was a calling it was my duty to explore it. However, along the way, this changed to surrender – Lord, I give you my ‘yes’, if you lead, I will follow. I think this is where I am now and I have a profound sense of peace as I consider Ordination I am looking forward to serving at the Altar and working with all our volunteers, especially the Sacristans and the Altar Servers. We are blessed to have two Priests who have a real gift for music guiding our formation, and I am gaining an appreciation for religious music…but it will be a while before I will be ready to chant the Exultet though! Typically, you will find me behind the scenes, which is where I am most comfortable, so service of the Word, specifically preaching, will be an area of growth for me That said, Gisele and I enjoy sharing the joy of learning with others through Bible studies. I don’t have a clear sense of where specifically I am being called in terms of ‘charity’.
I have a sneaky feeling, though, that 30 years in uniform have prepared me for life in the trenches!
Outside of ministry, what should people know about you—your work, interests, or personal life—that helps them see who you are as a person?
I am a veteran of 30 years in the Army where I served as an Engineer Officer. Perhaps a fun fact might be that I was a bomb technician and served in Afghanistan setting up Canada’s first counter IED capability. During my first posting to Gagetown, I met Gisele skydiving You might say we ‘fell in love’ and yes, for me it was very much love at first sight. We have four amazing children – two are at university and two are still with us. I am a passionate photographer, and this led to drones and a small drone business. We both work on the base Gisele works in Human Resources, and I work in Conflict Resolution. I was born in Zimbabwe and through my military career, have served all over the globe. My father lives in South Africa and we have been able to make several trips to visit him there. All of this to say, that I am blessed to have experienced many different cultures.
As you approach ordination, what are you most looking forward to, and how can the faithful best support and pray for you during this time?
“What’s it going to be like?” is a question that frequently gets discussed amongst our cohort and I think it is natural to be a bit apprehensive about post-ordination life. For me there is a sense of excitement too as I think about discovering my true calling as I simply put my trust in the Holy Spirit to guide me on this adventure.
To that end, I would ask for the faithful to pray for us. Pray specifically that we can truly discern our calling and have the faith, humility, love and courage to embrace it.
Can you share your personal and faith background and describe how did you first sense—and eventually confirm your call to the Permanent Diaconate?
Deacons have had a special place in my heart for a long time. When I was a teenager and into my early twenties, I admired deacons who were set aside with their stole over the left shoulder, proclaiming the Gospel, sometimes preaching the homily, and assisting the priest during the Eucharistic prayer. What always stood out to me was how their homilies would come from a different place than the priest's. They would draw from their everyday lives, their families, and their work. It felt grounded in a way that connected with me.
A few deacons really left a m over the years Deacon Haro Sivers and Deacon Bill Stelte Founding President of EWTN a positive impact on my life. Rick Hartnett from Amherst figure in the Charismatic Re Atlantic Canada, and his visi the "Between The Hearts Re Center" in Fort Lawrence, No near the New Brunswick bor Deacon Bill and Deacon Rick passed. Deacons were neve in the Diocese of Saint John aren't, but their witness stay me.
Over time, that admiration turned into something deeper. I've felt like a string has been pulling me toward the vocation of being a servant of the Church as a deacon. For a long time, my situation in life would have made it difficult, and there was no Diaconate Formation program in the diocese either. But it was always there in my thoughts and in my prayers.
The Eucharist is at the centre of my daily life. I go to Mass every day, and my routine includes prayer, scripture, and, when time permits, Eucharistic adoration Over the years, I've been involved in parish life in different ways, as a lector, in the music ministry, in youth groups, and for a time as an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist. When the pandemic hit, and churches couldn't have anyone in the pews, I was asked for advice on how to reach parishioners. Within a week, I had a livestream of the Mass up and running, and ended up producing over 100 live streams. A lot of parishioners thanked me for helping them stay connected during that
Am I called to be a permanent deacon? That's something I bring to God every day in prayer and at Mass. I believe the way my life has unfolded has been preparing me for this Jesus showed us what it means to be a servant when He washed the feet of His disciples at the Last Supper, and deacons are called to follow that example. I'm open to what God is calling me to do, and I ask for your prayers on this journey, whatever the outcome may be.
How has your experience of formation shaped, challenged, or deepened your understanding of the Diaconate and your own readiness for ministry?
There are four of us on this journey together, and we've all gotten close. We get together 10 weekends a year, along with our wives, as part of our formation Fr Ralph McRae and Fr Dennis Hayes have been instrumental in guiding us and are always part of our weekends. When I started, I figured my ministry of service would be focused on adult formation, helping people grow in their faith through teaching. While that could still be part of it, my perspective has been broadened quite a bit
The concept of the deacon as a "minister of the threshold" had a big impact on me. The idea comes from a book we studied during formation, The Deacon: Icon of Christ the Servant, Minister of the Threshold, by Timothy Terrance O'Donnell The threshold is where the Church meets the world, where people are on the edges, struggling, or feeling forgotten. The deacon is called to be present there, not waiting for people to come in, but going out to where they are.
Deacon Robert Kinghorn, a deacon in the Archdiocese of Toronto who has spent years doing street ministry at night among the homeless, addicted, and those living on the margins, presented to us about his experience. Hearing him discuss his ministry in some of Toronto's most difficult neighbourhoods made me think differently.
I had been approaching things from the angle of how to impact the most people, but it made me realize I need to be more like the Good Shepherd. He leaves the 99 sheep and goes out to rescue the one Being a minister of the threshold isn't always about the big approach.
Formation has also challenged me when it comes to the ministry of the Word. I've been presenting in front of groups for my job for over 25 years, so that part isn't new to me. But delivering a homily is something I see as far more serious than anything I do at work People's souls are at stake. I know I need to keep deepening my knowledge of Scripture. I've already started building a library of solid Catholic books, and I spend regular time studying and praying with the Word.
Another thing formation has taught me is the importance of balance, and not just in theory One of the things we were told from the beginning is that we would need to step back from some of our commitments during formation because of the workload. That's easier said than done when you're the kind of person who is drawn to serving and helping. For example, I had been involved in authoring the Priest Prayer Calendar for over 10 years, but I've had to step back from that for now With a family and a full-time career, there are only so many hours in a day, and I have a tendency to take on more than I should.
Formation has helped me see that a deacon is called to be a servant leader, not necessarily owning one ministry for life, but building and leading ministries that can eventually be managed by others.
Formation has also made me more honest about where I need to grow. I don't always bring my faith into my work life the way I should, especially when I'm busy or working late. It's easy to think I can handle it on my own.
Formation has made me more aware of that, and it's something I'm working on. The honest truth is that the more I learn, the more questions I find. But I trust that God has been guiding this process, and I keep asking the Holy Spirit to show me how it will all come together.
What has been most influential in your spiritual growth during formation whether Scripture, prayer, saints, or particular moments of God’s presence?
The Eucharist. That's the anchor. I find myself returning to the altar each day, the way Israel gathered manna each morning in the desert Not because I've stored up enough grace from yesterday, but because I haven't. The manna couldn't be hoarded. It had to be received fresh. The Eucharist works the same way in my life. There are days when I come to Mass full of comfort, and there are days when I show up simply because I know I won't make it otherwise He's there regardless
Reflecting on Scripture during formation has also been formative. The connection between Melchizedek's
offering of bread and wine, the Passover lamb, the manna in the wilderness, and the institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper has come alive for me in a new way. I've come to see more clearly that what we celebrate at every Mass is not something the Church invented. It's something God has been preparing since before Abraham.
John 13 has had an especially deep impact on me. There is no institution narrative in John's Gospel. Instead, we find Jesus on His knees with a towel. The word "deacon" comes from the Greek diakonos, meaning servant, and I can't think of a better image of what that looks like than God Himself kneeling in front of His own disciples. If that's what Jesus did on the night He instituted the Eucharist, knowing what was about to happen to Him, then every deacon who serves at that same altar should be ready to do the same.
Where do you feel most called to serve within the Church’s mission of charity, Word, and liturgy, and how do you hope to use your gifts for the diocese?
I feel called across all three areas, though I'm still discerning exactly how God wants each one to take shape.
In the ministry of service, I want to bring what I receive at the altar into the lives of those who need it most, including people who may never walk into a church themselves. Since starting formation, I've begun serving at Mass at a local parish, something I hadn't done before. I help before and after, doing whatever needs to be done. I'm learning that service doesn't have to be dramatic It starts with showing up and being available. I'm asking the Holy Spirit to guide me on where He wants me to serve, and I trust He will put me where I need to be.
In the ministry of the Word, I've been told I have a gift for reading the Scriptures aloud, and I take that seriously. I also know I have a lot of growing to do in my knowledge of the Bible. And I've come to understand that the congregation needs to know who I am, not just from the ambo but as a real member of the community. In the ministry of the altar, the liturgy is already at the centre of my life. I see the deacon's role there as the summit of his vocation, assisting the priest who stands in persona Christi as we participate in the re-presentation of Calvary. I tend to be detail-oriented, and part of me is actually looking forward to helping make sure everything proceeds with the reverence and preparation it deserves. I also bring some practical gifts from my career in technology that have already served the Church, like the livestreams during the pandemic. I hope to keep finding ways to put those skills to use for God's people.
Outside of ministry, what should people know about you—your work, interests, or personal life—that helps them see who you are as a person?
I'm a husband and a father of three. French is my mother tongue. My wife, Rosa, has been with me on this journey from the start. She's had to make sacrifices too, whether it's taking on more around the house when I'm working on my two assignments every week, or spending 10 weekends a year with the other candidates and me as part of our formation. I couldn't do this without her.
For work, I've spent over 23 years in technical presales and post-sales, serving as a technical advisor on security software solutions for some of the largest organizations in North America. The job has me travelling outside New Brunswick regularly and requires a lot of presenting, both in person and virtually. It's given me experience in communication, problemsolving, and working with all kinds of people, skills that I believe God has been preparing me to use in new ways.
In February 2024, I shattered my tibia and had to have reconstructive surgery I was bedridden for almost a month after that, and it took about 3 months before I could travel on my own and get back to daily Mass. Not being able to go to Mass was one of the hardest parts. It was also difficult watching my family, especially Rosa, take on so much more because of my situation. But not once did I think about stopping this journey It's now two years, and I've mostly recovered. If anything, the experience got me to slow down and focus on what's really important in my life.
I'm a 3rd-degree Knight of Columbus, and I've been involved in parish life in various ways over the years, including as a lector, in the music ministry, and in youth groups Being a daily communicant means that wherever my work takes me, finding a parish and attending Mass is always part of my day. Over the years, that's given me the chance to experience the universal Church in a very personal way, participating in the Mass in parishes and communities across North America.
As you approach ordination, what are you most looking forward to, and how can the faithful best support and pray for you during this time?
I've felt a pull toward the diaconate for a long time, and I'm looking forward to continuing to follow where God is leading me. I'm open to doing His will, and while I trust that He has been guiding this journey, I also recognize that discernment doesn't stop. I continue to bring this to God in prayer.
We were received as candidates by Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC, in the fall of 2024 at the Cathedral, and he installed us as lectors in 2025, also at the Cathedral. God willing, he will install us as acolytes this summer, each in our own parishes, and our ordination as deacons will be in 2027 I look forward to serving at the altar alongside the priest, proclaiming the Gospel, and being sent out to bring Christ's presence to those who need it most. I also look forward to discovering how the Holy Spirit will guide my ministry in ways I can't yet foresee.
Something I struggle with from time to time is the thought that I'm not worthy to go down this path. There are moments when I ask myself, "Will I be worthy enough to be at the altar with the priest?" But one of the things I've learned through formation is that God has always called imperfect people to serve Him. In one way, none of us is worthy, but through the grace of God and the Sacrament of Holy Orders, He makes it possible, even in our human brokenness.
The best way the faithful can support us is through prayer. Please pray for all four of us candidates and our families as we continue on this journey. Pray that we stay open to God's will and that He gives us the wisdom and strength to serve faithfully. I also ask for prayers for my wife, Rosa and my children, who are walking this journey with me and whose support has been essential every step of the way. God bless you all.
Can you share your personal and faith background and describe how did you first sense—and eventually confirm your call to the Permanent Diaconate?
I was born in Kingston, Ontario, the youngest of three boys. We moved to Saint John when I was five. I grew up on the West Side, where I attended St. Rose School and was an Altar Server for many years. My family moved to Fredericton in 1985, where I met my future wife, Tracy. We were married in 1993 and have four beautiful childrenthree daughters and one son.
I have always had a strong faith, but I wasn't too serious about the practicing part until I had a major conversion when my daughters were young. I started studying and reading everything I could get my hands on to help me better understand and live my faith. In my research, I kept coming across articles about the Permanent Deacons and listened to many interviews with Deacons from the United States. I was intrigued by the concept of a Permanent Deacon, but I put it out of my mind because I assumed it was just a USA thing since I had never heard tell of it "closer to home". When COVID happened, I watched Mass streamed online from Halifax and noticed a Deacon on the Altar. I was shocked because I didn't think that Deacons were present in Canada at all. So, when the Diocese of Saint John held an information session on the Permanent Diaconate, I felt I needed to attend to learn more
After careful consideration and with my wife's encouragement, I decided to apply to the program, trusting God to lead each step in the discernment process. I am certainly drawn to the Diaconate and am discerning God's call daily, remaining open and willing to serve Him wherever He leads.
How has your experience of formation shaped, challenged, or deepened your understanding of the Diaconate and your own readiness for ministry?
The diaconate formation experience has been incredibly rich. I'm slowly gaining a sense of what it means to be a Deacon, including how it differs from the priesthood and the laity.
There are four Deacon Candidates in our diocese, and our wives participate in the formation with us We all gather in Saint John for one weekend per month to join in online classes with the Candidates from Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. There, we are learning and growing together as a community. The workload has been busy at times, but we are blessed to have the guidance and teaching of some great priests like Father Ralph McRae and Father Dennis Hayes, who are leading and accompanying us in our formation.
We have had several guest speakers share their experiences of the many ways Deacons may serve the Church. Their stories have helped me with my own readiness for ministry by expanding my understanding of the Diaconate Every class, assignment, interpersonal encounter and experience has challenged and shaped me, and I'm sure that God is at work in every detail.
What has been most influential in your spiritual growth during formation, whether Scripture, prayer, saints, or particular moments of God's presence?
The mentorship and access to knowledgeable and experienced priests throughout my formation has been most influential in my spiritual growth. Whenever topics are difficult to understand or we have questions, the priests are available for frank conversations and help us understand the complexities of those topics. Working through issues openly has really helped me get a solid understanding of the topics, and I feel that because of this, we are becoming better formed intellectually and pastorally.
Where do you feel most called to serve within the Church's mission of charity, Word, and liturgy, and how do you hope to use your gifts for the diocese?
That is a good question. I have many areas of interest, but I remain open. I have been involved with Alpha for many years and am currently part of Life Groups, a small-group faith-sharing ministry in my parish, along with my wife. I really enjoy this experience. I am also participating in the Called and Gifted program, led by Jim Anderson, to discern our charisms. I'm sure this experience will prove very fruitful, and I'm excited to see if there are any areas of need within our diocese where my charisms will be of use. An Accountant by profession, perhaps these skills will also be useful.
Ultimately, I feel called to serve wherever I will be most fruitful, and I trust that Bishop Christian will discern where I will be a good fit.
Outside of ministry, what should people know about you—your work, interests, or personal life—that helps them see who you are as a person?
I have spent most of my career working for the Province of New Brunswick, but I recently started working in Financial Services at a local university. It has been a long time since I was a university student, and I am really enjoying how vibrant and active the university community is.
My kids were very active in sports, and I think we travelled to every hockey rink and soccer field in New Brunswick. My kids are grown now, but the next generation is coming up.
We have one terrific 18-month-old grandson who brings a lot of joy to our family life. He is still only a toddler, but he already has a pretty decent slapshot
My main interest outside of work is spending leisure time with family and friends and travelling whenever we get the chance.
As you approach ordination, what are you most looking forward to, and how can the Faithful, best support and pray for you during this time?
I am enjoying the journey of formation. I strive to be continuously open to God's call. I am willing to serve wherever the Lord needs me, and I am looking forward to discovering what He has in store for me.
The Permanent Diaconate is new to our diocese so you may have questions. Feel free to approach me or any of the candidates. We would love to chat with you about it anytime.
We certainly need your prayers. I would be very blessed if you would offer prayers for me –for the deepening of my interior life, for my ability to listen, and for my continued openness to how the Lord wants to shape and use me.
Thank you.
Dates for the Institution in the ministry of Acolyte for each of the Deacon candidates are as follows:
Sunday, May 17, 12:00 pm
St Mark’s Church (St Mark’s Parish) Daniel Gaudet
Saturday, June 6, 4:00 pm
St. Stephen Church (St. Croix Parish) Isagani Aldover Jr.
Saturday, July 25, 4:00 pm
St. Anthony’s Church (Our Lady of Peace Parish) Steven Horsley
Sunday, July 26, 10:00 am
St. Vincent de Paul Church (St. John Paul II Parish) Byron Conway
Holy Thursday commemorates Christ’s institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper, and it also marks the institution of the priesthood. The feast of the Lord’s Supper is also known as “Maundy Thursday.”
“A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)
The washing of feet, or the “Pedilavium,” is perhaps the most distinctive rite that can be used during the Holy Thursday liturgy.
The Holy Thursday liturgy concludes with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament as we keep vigil.
On Good Friday, the entire Church fixes her gaze on the Cross at Calvary. As members of the Church, we seek to understand the cost at which Christ has won our redemption.
In the solemn ceremonies of Good Friday—in the veneration of the Cross, the chanting of the Reproaches, the reading of the Passion, and in receiving the pre-consecrated Host we unite ourselves to our Savior and contemplate our own death to sin in the death of our Lord.
Good Friday is an obligatory day of fasting for Catholics ages 18–59 and of abstinence from meat for those age 14 and older. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.
The Easter Vigil includes the lighting of the Easter fire and Paschal Candle, the singing of the Exsultet (the Easter Proclamation), the expanded Liturgy of the Word that traces salvation history, the Liturgy of Initiation (in which new members are baptized and/or received into the Church), the renewal of baptismal promises, and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. All these rites come together for one purpose: to remember and recall the saving deeds of our God on our behalf.
Masses celebrated during the day on Easter Sunday are extraordinary as well. The Gospel is taken from John chapter 20, in which Mary Magdalene finds the stone removed from Christ’s tomb.
APRIL 5
APRIL 12
Christ is Risen! The tradition of celebrating Easter on the Sundayfollowing thefirst full moon of spring, dates back to 325 AD. Easter lasts 50 days until Pentecost. These days of Eastertide are celebrated as one joyful feast.
Divine Mercy Sunday is observed thefirst Sunday after Easter, concluding the Easter Octave. This feast calls the Church to rejoice in the merciful love of God through Saint Faustina's revelations and prayers.
MAY 17
The Ascension marks 40 days of Easter celebrating Jesus' ascent to Heaven after His resurrection.
MAY 24
Easter season officially ends on Pentecost Sunday, which falls on the 50th day (or7th Sunday) of Easter. Pentecost celebrates the descent ofthe Holy Spirit upon Mary and the disciples in the upper room. It is referred to as the birthday ofthe Church.
The Diocese of Saint John is taking an important step in strengthening missionary discipleship through the Called & Gifted Charisms Discernment program, offered in partnership with the Catherine of Siena Institute. This internationally recognized process helps intentional disciples discover, discern, and activate their God-given spiritual gifts known as charisms in service of the Church’s mission
At its heart, Called & Gifted is about learning to listen more closely to the Holy Spirit and responding with confidence and generosity. As one recent participant shared, “Participating in the Called and Gifted program helped me recognize charisms I never realized I had, and it opened my heart in a new way to how the Holy Spirit has been working in my life” (Genessa Nagas, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception).
The Called & Gifted process unfolds in three intentional stages. Participants begin with an introductory workshop that explores the signs and patterns of the 23 most common charisms of the Holy Spirit. This is followed by a one-on-one gifts interview with a trained interviewer, creating space for deeper listening and clarification The journey continues with a small-group discernment process, typically lasting six to eight weeks, where participants develop practical tools to recognize how God is calling them to act.
For many, learning how to discern is as transformative as identifying the gifts themselves. “The actual discernment process has been the greatest gift,” reflected Robyn Hayward, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. “Learning to become more attentive to the Holy Spirit and staying open to the ways God wishes to work through me… has been where I see transformation.”
By fostering an ongoing disposition of discernment for mission, Called & Gifted offers a structured, faith-based approach that benefits both individuals and parish communities. Parishes that cultivate intentional charisms discernment often experience a shift toward mission-focused ministry, a more empowered volunteer base, stronger pastoral care systems, and increased unity.
One participant noted how the process changed not only personal awareness but also team dynamics: “From the first introductory workshop, I sensed that the strongest gift of this program is to solidify teams, strengthen their bond together, and propel them into mission in their parish community” (Natasha Mazerolle, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception).
This alignment of gifts and mission leads to greater fruitfulness When people serve out of their charisms, ministry becomes life-giving rather than burdensome, both for individuals and for the wider Church.
Participants consistently describe the experience as affirming, clarifying, and deeply encouraging. “Being part of the Called and Gifted process has helped me recognize qualities in myself that others have seen for years—things I either took for granted or never noticed,” shared Patricia Lee, St. Michael the Archangel Parish “It is a beautiful way to understand how God has uniquely equipped you for His mission.”
Others speak of renewed joy and purpose in parish life. “Knowing my charisms and putting them into practice has been deeply edifying, and it fills me with joy to use these gifts to bless the Church,” said Genessa Nagas, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
The first diocesan Called & Gifted pilot cohort, launched in January 2026, brought together 12 participants from across the Diocese of Saint John. That group is now completing the formation process, with strong enthusiasm for what lies ahead
Building on that momentum, the next Called & Gifted program will begin April 17 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, welcoming 30 participants. Additional plans are already underway for a Called & Gifted offering in Fredericton in early fall
The cost of the program is $125 per person, which includes:
The Charisms Discernment
Complete Resource workbook
Lifetime access to the Catherine of Siena Institute Online Learning Portal
A one-time Gifts Inventory
A personal Gifts Interview with a trained interviewer
Host parishes provide hospitality for participants throughout the process. For many, the investment yields lasting spiritual fruit. As Jamie Ryan of Our Lady of Peace Parish expressed, “This experience has been incredibly enlightening… I would highly recommend future opportunities for charism discernment to anyone seeking spiritual development and looking to give back to their faith and parish.”
Called & Gifted is more than a program it is an invitation to discover how God is already at work within you, and how your gifts are meant to serve His mission in the Church and the world
Parishes interested in hosting a Called & Gifted Discernment process or individuals seeking more information are invited to visit https://dioceseofsaintjohn.org/calledgifted or contact: Jim Anderson, Director of Missionary Discipleship Formation, at janderson@dioceseofsaintjohn.org.
Jimy Beltran Leader, Fredericton Catholic Young Adults Community
I dreaded exams. The mere thought of them filled me with anxiety. Unlike other situations where luck or chance played a role, an exam was something I had control over—at least in theory. If I studied hard enough, prepared diligently, and followed all the rules, I should have been able to succeed. And yet, no matter how much effort I put in, there was always the gnawing fear that I would fail. Sometimes, I would stare at the test paper and realize that I had misunderstood a concept, or that my mind had gone blank on a crucial question. In those moments, all my preparation felt futile, and I longed for mercy a kindness beyond what I had earned, a generosity that met me in my imperfection.
This is the essence of Divine Mercy. It is that which we do not deserve but which we so desperately need. Pope Francis, in Evangelii Gaudium, reminds us that God’s mercy is at the heart of the Gospel He writes, “The Church is called to be the house of the Father, with doors
always wide open... Everyone can share in some way in the life of the Church; everyone can be part of the community” (Evangelii Gaudium, 47). Divine Mercy is the Father’s open door, welcoming sinners not because they have merited His love, but because He is love itself
If justice were the only measure of our relationship with God, none of us would stand a chance. Our sins, failures, and weaknesses would disqualify us from His presence. Yet, Christ’s sacrifice reveals a deeper truth: mercy triumphs over judgment. As St. Faustina recorded in her diary, Jesus tells us, “Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet” (Diary of St. Faustina, 699). This mercy is freely given, not
because we have earned it, but because God delights in saving us It is an invitation to trust, to place our lives in the hands of the One who loves beyond measure.
Yet, Divine Mercy is not merely something we receive it is something we are called to extend. Pope Francis calls us to a mission of mercy: “The Church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven, and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium, 114). This mission requires us to move beyond our comfort zones, to love without calculation, and to forgive even when it is undeserved. Just as we need mercy, so too do those around us: the forgotten, the wounded, the sinner who believes they are beyond redemption.
There is great freedom in embracing Divine Mercy When we acknowledge our need for it, we let go of our illusions of self-sufficiency. We stop striving for a perfection that is beyond us and instead allow ourselves to be transformed by grace. Like a child who, after dreading an exam, realizes that their best effort was not enough but is still met with unexpected kindness, we find in God’s mercy a reason to hope.
Join as a diocese in praying the Divine Mercy Novena which begins on Good Friday. The prayers will be posted daily on the diocesan Facebook page.
On Divine Mercy Sunday, April 12, at 3:00 pm a Holy Hour of Mercy will be celebrated by Bishop Riesbeck, CC, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Several priests will be available to hear confessions.
Music will be provided by Divine Mercy Catholic School choir.
You are invited to join our Diocese in praying the Divine Mercy Novena, which begins on Good Friday and we will conclude the Novena with a Holy Hour of Mercy on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 12, at 3:00 pm. This will be celebrated by Bishop Riesbeck at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception live-streamed via the diocesan Facebook page. Several priests will be available to hear confessions.
Music will be provided by Divine Mercy Catholic School choir.
Jesus, I trust in you!
Day One
Today bring to Me all mankind, especially all sinners, and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy In this way you will console Me in the bitter grief into which the loss of souls plunges Me."
Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
Day Two
"Today bring to Me the Souls of Priests and Religious, and immerse them in My unfathomable mercy. It was they who gave me strength to endure My bitter Passion. Through them as through channels My mercy flows out upon mankind."
Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service, that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard -- upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
"Today bring to Me all Devout a Faithful Souls, and immerse the the ocean of My mercy. These brought me consolation on the of the Cross. They were a drop consolation in the midst of an o of bitterness."
Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You im Your graces in great abundanc each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
"Today bring to Me those who do not believe in God and those who do not know Me, I was thinking also of them during My bitter Passion, and their future zeal comforted My Heart. Immerse them in the ocean of My mercy."
Most compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole world. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who do not believe in God and of those who as yet do not know You Let the rays of Your grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful mercy; and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Most Compassionate Heart
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who do not believe in You, and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your mercy for endless ages Amen
Pray the Chaplet
"Today bring to Me the Souls of those who have separated themselves from My Church*, and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy During My bitter Passion they tore at My Body and Heart, that is, My Church. As they return to unity with the Church My wounds heal and in this way they alleviate My Passion "
Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Church. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your mercy.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Son's Church, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
"Today bring to Me the Meek and Humble Souls and the Souls of Little Children, and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My Heart They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence ”
Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God Himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
"Today bring to Me the Souls who are in the prison of Purgatory, and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. Let the torrents of My Blood cool down their scorching flames. All these souls are greatly loved by Me. They are making retribution to My justice. It is in your power to bring them relief. Draw all the indulgences from the treasury of My Church and offer them on their behalf. Oh, if you only knew the torments they suffer, you would continually offer for them the alms of the spirit and pay off their debt to My justice "
Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of Purgatory, that there, too, the power of Your mercy may be celebrated.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded: Manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way but only through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
"Today bring to Me the Souls who are in the prison of Purgatory, and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. Let the torrents of My Blood cool down their scorching flames All these souls are greatly loved by Me. They are making retribution to My justice. It is in your power to bring them relief. Draw all the indulgences from the treasury of My Church and offer them on their behalf Oh, if you only knew the torments they suffer, you would continually offer for them the alms of the spirit and pay off their debt to My justice."
Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of Purgatory, that there, too, the power of Your mercy may be celebrated.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded: Manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way but only through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
Day Nine
"Today bring to Me the Souls who have become Lukewarm, and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. These souls wound My Heart most painfully My soul suffered the most dreadful loathing in the Garden of Olives because of lukewarm souls. They were the reason I cried out: 'Father, take this cup away from Me, if it be Your will.' For them, the last hope of salvation is to run to My mercy."
Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love, let these tepid souls who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His threehour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.
Pray the Chaplet
Optional Opening Prayers:
You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world.
O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us.
(Repeat 3 times) O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fountain of Mercy for us, I trust in You!
Our Father, Hail Mary and the Apostle's Creed
For each of the five decades (On each “Our Father” bead of the rosary, pray)
Eternal Father, I offer you the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your Dearly Beloved Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
(On each of the 10 “Hail Mary” beads, pray) For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world
Concluding prayer (Repeat 3 times)
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
Optional Closing Prayer
Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.
Dear Pastors and Parishioners of the Saint John Diocese,
On behalf of Hope House Maternity Home Inc., I sincerely thank all parish communities who contributed to the December 2025 Pro-Life Collection. Your generosity is a strong witness to the dignity of life and a meaningful investment in supporting expectant mothers in need.
Your contributions will help us advance our mission to provide a nurturing, faith-based home for expectant mothers, where compassionate care, practical support, and spiritual guidance are offered throughout pregnancy and beyond. This includes our work to establish a residential maternity home in the Fredericton area, serving women from across the Maritimes.
This past year marked an important transition. New Brunswick Right to Life Inc., which has faithfully promoted respect for life since 1980, discerned the need to respond more directly to women in crisis pregnancies. In 2025, this led to the establishment of Hope House Maternity Home Inc., shifting our focus toward providing residential care and handson support for pregnant women in need. While our structure has evolved, our commitment to the sanctity of life remains unchanged.
Your parish support is a visible sign of hope. Through your generosity, women will be offered a safe place to turn, and a foundation will be built for healthier futures for both mother and child.
Please be assured of our prayers for your parish communities. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in this mission.
May God bless you for your continued support of life.
Respectfully yours,
Ewart Kenney President, Board of Directors Hope House Maternity Home Inc.
Each year, during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the Church pauses with renewed hope to pray for the unity for which our Lord Himself prayed: “that they may all be one” (John 17:21).
On January 22nd, in the heart of this sacred week, the doors of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception were opened for the Shared Light, Shared Hope ecumenical prayer service. The pews were filled for an evening marked by unity, hope, and joy, as Christians from many denominations gathered to celebrate our shared faith in Christ.
Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC, presided over the service, which followed a liturgy developed by the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church. The evening was enriched by the presence of many faith leaders, including Archbishop David Edwards of the Anglican Diocese of Fredericton.
With a heart for unity AJ Thomas, Associate Pastor at Kings Church, delivered a powerful and passionate sermon on Christian unity that moved listeners from laughter to tears.
Bishop Riesbeck described the evening as a “meaningful witness to our shared hope in Christ and our ongoing commitment to seek unity through prayer, humility, and love.”
Following the service, the relic of the True Cross was exposed for veneration. After a brief explanation of its origin and the Catholic understanding of praying with and venerating relics, attendees were invited forward. The line to venerate the relic stretched from the front to the back of the Cathedral.
BISHOP CHRISTIAN RIESBECK,CC PRAYS OVER AJ THOMAS, ASSOCIATE PASTOR KINGS CHURCH
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
A reception followed in the rectory, where a beautiful moment of grace unfolded: high school students from different denominations gathered together, sharing their faith in Christ and engaging teenage Cathedral parishioners with thoughtful questions about the Catholic faith.
The reflections of those in attendance echoed Bishop Riesbeck’s sentiments:
“It was a beautiful night on so many levels. I think something started to shift in our city tonight. The personal highlight for me was when Bishop Christian called me forward so that he and the whole congregation could pray for me before I spoke. More Lord.”
AJ Thomas, Associate Pastor, Kings Church
“It was certainly amazing to witness. I am renewed with hope and encouragement from the number of people who attended.”
Debbie M
“A wonderfully blessed evening of living out the prayer of Jesus that we be one!”
Karen P
“Beautiful Holy Spirit filled night.”
Lisa S
“It was truly a beautiful event to have been a part ; To continue to be a part of! God is doing things, and He invites us in!!!! YES Lord!”
Debra C
“Grateful to have experienced this beautiful night of unity in Christ. We were truly blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit among us. Thank you to all who prepared, presented, and participated in this ecumenical gathering of shared light and shared hope.”
Heidi B
While it is impossible to fully capture the grace of the evening or the sense of the Holy Spirit filling the Cathedral in words or images, what we share here offers a glimpse into the beauty of that night.
STU Campus Ministry continues to be a vibrant presence at St. Thomas University, offering students a place to grow in faith, community, and service. Rooted in Catholic tradition and open to all, Campus Ministry nurtures the whole person spiritually, intellectually, and socially through prayer, conversation, and hands-on outreach.
At the heart of Campus Ministry is the belief that we learn to serve by serving. Students regularly come together to cook shared meals, support the STU Food Bank, and collect food and clothing for those in need simple but powerful ways of putting faith into action and responding to human dignity in tangible ways.
Campus Ministry also encourages students to engage thoughtfully with the deeper questions of life
Through retreats, faith studies, guest talks, and tools of evangelization including Alpha, Sumit Nights and Know Your Faith, Grow Your Faith, students are invited to explore the Church’s teachings, including Theology of the Body and its implications for Weekly Sunday Mass, regular opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration and Reconciliation, and welcoming dropin meals provide consistent spaces for students to pray, belong, and be supported during their university journey.
Through service, prayer, and meaningful formation, STU Campus Ministry remains a place where students are encouraged not only to grow in faith but to live it. For all the latest, sign up for STU Campus Ministry’ mailing list by emailing campusministry@stu.ca.
Villa Madonna Retreat House
During the last weekend of March Break, youth from across the Diocese of Saint John gathered at Villa Madonna for a spirit-filled retreat marked by strong leadership, powerful witness, and a deepening sense of Christian community.
Led by dedicated youth and young adult leaders, the retreat featured inspiring testimonies from teenagers and a joyful atmosphere that encouraged participants to grow closer to Jesus and to one another
Retreat talks followed a simple but challenging theme: “Be with Jesus,” “Become like Jesus,” and “Do what Jesus did,” inviting youth to reflect on their faith and live it more fully.
“Throughout the weekend the times of prayer grew increasingly more solemn, quiet and interior…while the times of fun, fraternity and food grew steadily louder… all signs of an excellent retreat experience!” reflected Fr. Aaron Knox.
Elena Sandoval Cartagena shared, “It was a real blessing to be part of the retreat, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside such an amazing team. The weekend was incredibly meaningful… grace-filled and life-giving.”
