Message From Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC
As leaders and workers in the Lord’s vineyard, we all have a duty to provide for the temporal needs of the Church, but above all, for the care of souls in imitation of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am pleased to present our 2024 Stewardship Report, Forward in Hope
As leaders and workers in the Lord’s vineyard, we all have a duty to provide for the temporal needs of the Church, but above all, for the care of souls in imitation of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd
BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF SAINT JOHN
+ CHRISTIAN RIESBECK,CC
Message From Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC
Led by the Holy Spirit through the Gospel and the Eucharist, we are called to raise up disciples who are joyfully living out the mission, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and making disciples of others This is our diocesan mission, and it guides and directs every decision we make as a diocesan family. God wants everyone to know Jesus, grow in discipleship and friendship with Jesus and one another, and to go on perpetual mission, sharing the Good News and making disciples of others. 2024 was truly a year of transformation for our diocese We have made great gains in advancing the mission of the local Church, consolidating resources and streamlining policies to steward well the g
Diocesan Mission and Vision
OUR MISSION
Led by the Holy Spirit through the Gospel and the Eucharist, we are called to raise up disciples who are joyfully living out the mission, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ, and making disciples of others.
OUR VISION
Led by the Holy Spirit, all the faithful (clergy, consecrated and lay) have a deep and personal relationship with Jesus and his Church; all parishes are welcoming, invitational and vibrant communities where people are evangelized, discipled, and missioned to go and make disciples of others (Matthew 28:19-20)
Parish Support
Our parish staff are on the front lines of mission, welcoming, serving, and supporting our communities each day. By investing in and supporting them, we strengthen the heart of parish life and ensure that the mission and vision of our Church continue to flourish
“Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” Corinthians 15:58
Parish Support
CASSIE KERVIN GOOD SHEPHERD PARISH
When I first started working at Good Shepherd Parish, little did I know how much work this position entailed I figured I would do the bulletins, answer phones, do paperwork and a little bookkeeping A little bookkeeping? Nah, no such thing as a little bookkeeping
At first, things seemed OK until I started digging into things and trying to figure out why things weren't balancing or working out the way they were supposed to, you know, nice and easy One day I turned to look at Fr Paul (Doucet, Pastor) and asked if I looked discouraged, his response was "not really", then a tear started strolling down my face and I said, "Well I am" He took over my seat and looked over the books, then understood why
He called the Finance Department the next morning and within a week, I was in Saint John receiving help with the book work The Finance Department staff were so patient and helpful I went to Saint John a few times, and on one occasion a staff member even came to my office to help and show support, in addition to many phone calls, texts and emails
The Finance Department really works to fulfill the diocesan mission by living it out through their assistance to me. They are always helpful, cheerful, and always have that friendly smile and a "don't worry, we got this" encouragement This gave me signs of hope when I was starting to doubt myself The person I was dealing with had more faith in me than I have in myself, and for that I will be forever grateful She went from being just a co-worker to a friend, and I am so thankful that God crossed our paths
Youth Ministry
Our youth are the heartbeat of the Church’s future. Supporting them in faith formation, leadership, and service empowers them to carry forward the mission of the Diocese of Saint John, shining Christ’s light in every corner of our community
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." Hebrews 13:7
Youth Ministry
I’m really grateful for youth ministry in the Diocese of Saint John and the impact it’s had on my faith Before getting involved, most of my friends were either not religious, or raised Catholic but not involved For the ones who were Catholic it was more their parents who wanted them to go to church and different events. Going to things like Steubenville Atlantic completely changed that outlook for me. Being in a huge crowd of teens who were the same as me in a world that shuns faith made me feel like I wasn’t alone and helped me grow in my own faith
One of the best parts has been meeting new friends through youth events Some of my best friends now were people I knew before but got close to through Steubenville It’s helped me feel more confident as a Catholic, and it’s even motivated me to share that with others. I’ve been able to invite some of my friends to youth group, including a friend who has no religious background. Watching them learn about their faith and truly get to know God on a personal level for the first time has been really great It showed me that just inviting someone can make a big difference
Youth ministry in the Diocese of Saint John has helped me feel closer to God, but also more connected to others that are in the same boat. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I feel hopeful knowing I’m growing with a community around me.
KATIE MAZEROLLE CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Saint Vincent De Paul Outreach
Our mission calls us to serve others with open hearts. By engaging in outreach through acts of charity, support, and evangelization we make Christ’s love visible in our neighborhoods and communities
"Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me." Matthew 25:40
Saint Vincent De Paul Outreach
The Cathedral has supported the work of the St. Vincent de Paul Society both financially and operationally since it was established in Saint John by Bishop Connelly in 1857 In 1905 the work was transferred from the Cathedral Rectory to its present location at 146 Waterloo St.
Today the Centre is an integral outreach ministry of the Cathedral community. Our dedicated volunteers offer emergency material assistance through food, clothing and small household items to those in need within the City of Saint John and occasionally to those outside city boundaries Volunteers also offer compassionate support through listening and directions to agencies and services that could help With the generous support of Cathedral members, we also participate in the Saint John Community Christmas Exchange each year to provide Christmas meal support to those families or individuals in need of assistance living within the boundaries of the Cathedral
To date this year, from January to the end of August, volunteers have served 945 individuals over 1114 visits. Food was provided to 910 visitors, including snack bags to unhoused folks. Clothing and small household items were provided to 935 individuals Most visitors reside within Cathedral boundaries, followed by unhoused individuals, North End residents, Coverdale Centre, and other areas.
Your support to St Vincent de Paul, whether it be financial, material, or as a volunteer, is heeding the call of Jesus: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I needed clothes and you clothed me” (Matthew 25:35-36) If you would like to assist us in our work, please see our Facebook page “St. Vincent de Paul” to learn how you can help.
Meet our Seminarians
My name is Joseph Desmond. I grew up in the south end of Saint John. My family attended St. John the Baptist Church before its closure, and then went to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception My siblings and I have also been involved with St Mark’s and St Anne’s parishes, often with music and serving In May, I completed the Propaedeutic Year (AKA the Spiritual Year), the very first year of seminary formation It was a rich experience of prayer and introduction to parish life. In August, I will be entering the Discipleship Stage. My program of studies for the year will involve completing philosophy and beginning theology at St Augustine’s Seminary in Scarborough, ON.
Although I had expressed vocational aspirations to the priesthood from a young age, it wasn’t until my third year out of high school that my discernment became quite serious, after a conversation with a pious friend through which I believe God moved my heart to focus on the priestly vocation. My attraction towards the priesthood was nourished by the sacraments, opportunities to serve at the altar (which I’d highly recommend to young Catholic men considering priesthood), and through the example of inspiring, supportive priests I hope to continue on the path towards priesthood, according to God’s will. But this path depends on grace, which is why I beg your prayers.
Please pray that God may bless my vocation, strengthen me in understanding and wisdom, keep me from discouragement and pride, and inflame me with zeal! Please pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Remain assured of my prayers for the diocese and our beloved bishop and priests Peace!
JOSEPH DESMOND SEMINARIAN
Meet our Seminarians
RYAN TAPLEY SEMINARIAN
When I was Confirmed, Bishop Harris encouraged us to tell people who asked us who we are that we’re “beloved children of God.” So: who am I? My name is Ryan Tapley; like all of you, I’m a uniquelybeloved child of God Downstream of that, I’m also a seminarian for our Diocese of Saint John thank you for your prayers, and please continue to pray for me.
I grew up in the Fredericton area: a parishioner with my family at Holy Family (now part of St Kateri Tekakwitha) Parish, and a regular cantor there through high school It was around this time I first had the inkling that I could see myself someday being a priest. Of course, I did everything I could to ignore it as Francis Thompson wrote, “I fled Him, down the nights and down the days ” and went off to study acting in Toronto.
But the Good Lord uses our desires to draw us to Himself My theatre training, secular work (especially in show business and, later, for the Fredericton Public Library), and the friendships I made there, have all shown me different aspects of God’s simple and profound goodness. Eventually, after a deeply joyful experience of the sheer vastness of His love, it became clear that He could call (and is calling!) even a feeble sinner like me to seminary, and to His holy priesthood, after all.
Like Joseph, I’ve just finished the propædeutic year at St Augustine’s Seminary, and will be entering philosophical studies and the Discipleship Stage of formation there this fall which means, in normal language, that I’m going into my second of what will probably be (God willing) seven years in the seminary
Mary, Mother of the Church pray for us.
Vocations
Fostering vocations is a vital part of the Church’s mission. Encouraging and praying for future priests, deacons, and religious ensures that the Diocese of Saint John continues to bring Christ’s love and mercy to every corner of our community
“I have called you by name, you are mine." Isaiah 43:1
Permanent Diaconate
The Permanent Diaconate strengthens the Church by forming men committed to service in word, sacrament, and charity.
With four men currently in formation, we invite the faithful to join us in prayer, supporting them as they prepare to serve God and our diocesan community with dedication and zeal.
Prayer for Vocations
O Lord,
Who wills that all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth, look with love on the people of your Church.
Raise up, in your mercy, laborers for your harvest, holy priests, dedicated deacons, faithful religious, and committed lay faithful, who will serve you and your people with generosity and love
Grant them courage to follow your call, perseverance in trials, and fidelity to your Word and Sacraments, so that your Church may continue to grow in holiness and in service to the world.
Amen. (St. John Paul II)
Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry equips students to live their faith actively on campus and beyond Through prayer, formation, and service, the Diocese of Saint John ensures that young adults are supported, inspired, and ready to bring Christ’s love to their communities.
"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden."
Matthew 5:14
Campus Ministry
I truly cannot encapsulate the extent of my gratitude for Saint Thomas University’s Campus Ministry While living in such a secular environment, Campus Ministry has been much-needed fuel for my soul Everything from the weekly community lunches, summit nights, Thursday talks with Father Peter (Melansom, STU Chaplain and Pastor, Paroisse Sainte Anne-desPas- Bas), to the CCSA (Canadian Catholic Student’s Association) Conference in Montreal holds a special place in my heart. Without fail, after each gathering I felt strengthened and grounded, ready to provoke my peers into deep thought regarding our blink of an existence I departed each Campus Ministry event with renewed hope, comforted by the bonds of friendship with the Lord at their core Between the long hours of witnessing behaviour and conversation devoid of Christ, these friendships stemming from Campus Ministry have been crucial to my faith journey After Sunday evening Mass, the conversations that followed whether about my struggles with sin or endless questions regarding our faith were at last heard and understood
When peace seemed buried deep amidst the challenges of each day, Campus Ministry became a beacon of hope, a glistening ocean wave beating against stubborn, rocky earth This year, I witnessed how Campus Ministry like a persistent, salty wave prevents the decay of society by preserving the goodness of the world. Moved by the Holy Spirit, this Ministry fills receptive students with profound hope, strength and peace, gradually creating a ripple of change across the entire campus.
Next year will be my second year at Saint Thomas and I am excited to step into new questions and deepen my relationship with Christ In a time full of uncertainty, I am assured that the STU Campus Ministry will remain a sturdy staff on my road ahead God bless!
STEPHANIE BELL ST THOMAS UNIVERSITY
Refugee Support Ministry
Over the years, churches have played an important role in Canada’s refugee resettlement process They are frequently Sponsorship Agreement Holders who partake in the private sponsorship of refugees and provide an immediate community for newcomers.
The Gospels tell us to “love one another as I have loved you ” Through the support of parishes and the commitment of local volunteers, the Immigrant and Refugee Support Centre has been doing just that, welcoming strangers since 2019 In practical terms, that means hundreds of children, along with their loving parents, and many single adults, have been given a new opportunity as Permanent Residents in Canada which will impact many generations to follow.
I can’t begin to tell you of the satisfaction and joy I get from being actively involved in sponsoring refugees. I know that I can’t save the world, but I can do my share . Unless these families or individuals find sponsors, they are destined to live their lives out in a refugee camp or in situations with no future, with no hope for themselves or their children.
When a parish takes on a sponsorship, it brings life to the parish. We think bigger than our own parish. We are doing something active not just sitting in a pew week after week. We are being motivated to help desperately in need. We are making friends for
, it’s our chance to be an example in the he young people in our parish. To me it’s the given hope to a person or family who had none.
leen Daley, Miramichi Catholic Refugee Committee
Refugee Support Ministry
Through preparation for the newcomers’ arrival, we came together as a parish and formed relationships with many parishioners we only knew by name.
Upon the newcomers’ arrival, we meet wonderful, strong people who have much to teach us about their homeland and culture, their struggles and their perseverance. It is humbling and inspiring to hear their stories. We made new friends, friendships that endure long after the oneyear sponsorship is completed. We were also introduced to wonderful new foods as we share meals with our new friends. It is rewarding to see the families succeed….first with learning English, going to school, getting jobs and becoming fully independent.
Karen Bethune, St. Alphonsus Parish Refugee Sponsor Group
Sponsorship is an expansion on the idea of Outreach. Parishioners can come together in a very focussed way, for a period of time that fits each person’s time availability and likes. They work on finding and equipping housing for the newcomers. Others work devoting time helping newcomers with applications, both before and after their arrival. Others who want a longer, more personal relationship, then look to newcomers’ settlement needs, setting up and getting them to appointments. Line them up for language training and schooling. Help with their finances or job searching. Introduce them to what the community has to offer, like recreation. A few people may develop relationships that go on far beyond the 1-year sponsorship commitment. Best of all, it’s another way to know fellow parishioners in a deeper way, as well as gain an appreciation of newcomers’ outlook on life. Being a sponsor allows all to see the world in a broader context than just what the news portrays.
Chris Robins, Holy Family Sponsoring Group
Missionary Discipleship
Through missionary discipleship, the Diocese of Saint John empowers and equips the faithful to actively participate in Christ’s mission. By embracing our call from baptism to evangelize and serve, we bring hope, joy, and the message of salvation to every corner of our community.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last." John 15:16
Becoming a Missionary Disciple
SRI RAMADONA CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
I am a former Muslim I converted from Islam through the friendship of a co-worker who gently and clearly answered so many of my questions I was baptised by Msgr Hennebery (Vicar General and Pastor) at Holy Redeemer Parish on Easter Vigil 2022 I was so excited when the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception began daily noon Mass, Adoration, and Reconciliation! I would go whenever I could and finally became a parishioner
A catechist at the Cathedral invited me to teach Confirmation class and to help with the Cathedral’s first ALPHA program for adults in fall 2024. I was incredibly grateful for these opportunities because it opened doors for me to serve others, to learn, and to deepen my faith. After ALPHA, I had the opportunity to co-lead a CCO Discovery faith study group and to be on the BETA (RCIA) team. There is always something new to learn and bring me closer to Christ! I saw how God calls, works, and touches everyone’s heart uniquely I saw everyone respond to Him in their own way as well, but in the end, everyone experienced the love of Jesus!
At the Cathedral Maranatha Prayer Group, I grew deeper in my faith during the Life in The Spirit seminar and my first experience of Baptism in the Holy Spirit That moment was a turning point when I felt a deeper connection by the Spirit with Mother Mary, something I have been longing for!
I attended two retreats at the Villa Madonna; both had a significant impact in my faith journey. On the Annual Catechist Retreat I learned about the Beatitudes and how to apply these to my life and serving the Church. The Enkindle Retreat gave me guidance and courage on how to give testimony on my faith journey
I thank Jesus for His call and trust in me Serving the church has helped me find purpose in my life and the assurance that only serving Him with love can bring true joy to my heart
Other Offices
Thanks to the work in the archives department a relic of the True Cross was found and restored to be venerated during this Jubilee year.
ARCHIVES
Through careful stewardship of documents, photographs, and artifacts, our diocesan Archives Office ensures that diocesan records, stories of faith, ministry, and community life are safeguarded for future generations, inspiring and informing the Church’s ongoing mission
HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY
The Diocese has prioritized and invested in chaplaincy support across all major hospitals, with dedicated priests volunteering their time in addition to regular pastoral duties to guarantee 24-hour availability. Through this ministry, Christ’s compassion and presence are brought to patients, families, and hospital staff, reflecting the Church’s call to care for the most vulnerable
CATECHESIS
Through catechesis, the Diocese of Saint John empowers families to become vibrant communities of faith. With the guidance of committed catechists and religious education coordinators, and an innovative Family Catechesis model being piloted in parishes, parents are equipped to share the joy of the Gospel with their children, helping form disciples who will carry Christ’s light into the future
CHANCERY OFFICE
The Chancery Office provides administrative support, guidance, and coordination that enable the Church to operate effectively and serve the faithful. By assisting parishes, clergy, and diocesan ministries, the Chancery ensures that the mission of proclaiming the Gospel, fostering discipleship, and caring for the community is carried out with excellence and fidelity
FR. AARON KNOX
HOSPITAL CHAPLAIN
The communications department of the Diocese of Saint John saw a notable increase in digital evangelization in 2024. With massive growth in social media reach, the introduction of a diocesan email newsletter and the development of Evangelii Gaudium our diocesan digital magazine.
Chrism Mass - Prayer for Priests Video Reel
202,000
Communication is not only the transmission of information, but it is also the creation of a culture, of human and digital environments that become spaces for dialogue and discussion. In looking at how technology is developing, this mission becomes ever more necessary.
~ Pope Leo XIV
Address to Representatives of the Media, May 12, 2025
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception:
The Maternal Heart of the Diocese of Saint John
BISHOP RIESBECK
SEATED IN HIS CATHEDRA AT THE CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
A longstanding Catholic tradition calls the universal Church mater et magistra mother and teacher This applies also to the local church. A cathedral is so named because it houses the bishop’s “chair,” or cathedra. In ancient times, a teacher sat to instruct, a custom reflected today in terms like “chair” of a department or board The cathedra symbolizes the bishop’s teaching and governing authority But the cathedral is also the mother church of the diocese, for as the bishop teaches, he also nourishes the faithful, born through Baptism and entrusted to his care Just as the See of Rome is mother and teacher to her daughter dioceses, the cathedral is the mother church to all diocesan parishes. As the bishop’s principal place of ministry, the cathedral nurtures, guides, and protects the faith of the whole diocesan family.
For nearly 170 years, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception has stood as the mother church of the Diocese of Saint John a sacred place where all the faithful are at home The Cathedral, a visible symbol of our unity, is where we gather for some of the most significant moments in our spiritual life as a diocesan family: ordinations, diocesan pilgrimage, and the annual Chrism Mass. Here, the Church's mission of forming and sending forth disciples is vividly lived out.
Today, the Cathedral is experiencing a quiet but powerful transformation It is becoming more than a historic site; it is emerging anew as a temple of mercy a place of welcome, healing, and spiritual renewal for all Rooted in the Gospel and nourished by the Eucharist, the Cathedral serves as a sanctuary in the heart of the city, offering living witness to the compassion of Christ.
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: The Maternal Heart of the Diocese
of Saint John
As the Cathedral undergoes restoration, we are reminded that the Church is ever being renewed brick by brick, soul by soul. Located in one of Saint John’s poorest neighbourhoods, the Cathedral lives out Catholic social teaching by caring for society's most vulnerable. In every way, the Cathedral is a home for the people of the diocese a place to be nourished, to grow, and to be sent forth as joyful witnesses of the Gospel
Regional Jubilee Missions
I was fortunate to attend the Jubilee Mission hosted by Bishop Riesbeck on June 2nd to 4th On the second day, Bishop Riesbeck focused on prayers for healing He taught us how to do intercessory prayer over another person for any ailments that person may have by following the TBA method: Thanksgiving, Blessing and Asking our Lord We then practiced on me I had a person on each side praying over me for healing for my knees During the prayers, I felt tingling in my knees and the upper parts of my legs. Then I had a warm feeling in my knees followed by a cool one. I had a sensation of peace that poured out on me. Since then my knees have been so much better.
On Sunday, June 8th, I was speaking with two parishioners from St Dunstan Church who also attended the mission I mentioned about pain I had in my shoulders that I could not raise my arms over my head because of the pain and that I forgot to ask prayers for healing in my shoulders at the mission One parishioner said, “Can we pray over you and do intercessory prayer?” I said, “Yes of course - wonderful!.” So we were standing together and they both put their hands on my shoulders and asked the Holy Spirit to come over me especially as it was Pentecost They did the TBA format prayers and at one point I felt like I was going to fall sideways I had so much energy pouring over me Later that afternoon, we were doing service for a reception at church I raised my arms over my hand to grab something and realized I had no pain at all oly Spirit and Bishop Riesbeck for teaching us this miraculous way of praying It God Bless!
Every brick, every corner of our Cathedral bears witness to lives transformed by prayer, service, and the presence of Christ. With your support, the Cathedral will continue to shine as a beacon of faith, hope, and charity for generations to come.
Today, we invite you to collaborate us through your prayers, your generosity, and your partnership in ensuring that this holy place remains a source of inspiration and encounter with God for another 170 years. Join us in this extraordinary mission!
Diocesan Revenue
2024 DIOCESE OF SAINT JOHN REVENUE SOURCES
Thank you for your support!
It is our faith that gives us strength. It is our faith that enables us to see the light of Jesus Christ in our lives and to understand how important it is to live our faith. Not only on Sundays, not only during a pilgrimage, but each and every day so that we will be filled with the hope that only Jesus Christ can give us and that all of us together will continue to walk united as brothers and sisters to praise our God; to recognize that everything we have and everything we are is a gift from God, and to place those gifts at the service of others ” (Pope Leo
Diocesan Expense
INFIRM AND RETIRED CLERGY
Through your generous support, the Diocese of Saint John provides assistance to our infirm and retired clergy, who have faithfully served the Church throughout their lives This support ensures that those who dedicated themselves to the mission of Christ are cared for with dignity, compassion, and gratitude, reflecting our commitment as a diocesan family to honor and sustain those who have shepherded God’s people
BUILDINGS AND PROPERTIES
Your contributions help the Diocese of Saint John preserve and sustain the buildings that serve as the heart of our mission Well maintained churches and diocesan properties allow us to continue proclaiming the Gospel, forming disciples, and serving our communities with excellence and love.
A DIOCESE ON MISSION
The Diocese of Saint John is alive with the Spirit, sustained by committed clergy, dedicated staff and volunteers, and the faithful who generously give of their time, talent, and treasure Through lay-led apostolates, vibrant youth and young adult ministries, and countless acts of service, our Church continues to proclaim the Gospel in word and deed. As faithful Christian stewards, we embrace the responsibility of caring for these gifts, ensuring they are used wisely to nurture faith, serve our communities, and bear fruit for generations to come
Diocesan clergy at the annual priest’s retreat. A time of renewal and fraternity
DIOCESE OF SAINT JOHN CLERGY
OF SAINT JOHN
Diocesan Act of Entrustment
We come before you Mary, Mother of the Church and our mother, Asking you to place under your protective mantle
This local church of the Diocese of Saint John.
Like you, the Church's first and most perfect member
We, too, stand at the foot of the cross As witnesses to what human sinfulness Is capable of inflicting on the body of Christ.
With you, we also know the joy of the Resurrection
Obtain for us new ardor and courage
In bearing witness to Christ
And to his victory over sin and death. Watch over us all, Clergy, consecrated and laity
With maternal care,
So that as members of one family of faith Our bonds of communion may grow stronger, Our love for one another grow deeper, The practice of our faith more devout, And our witness to Christ more heroic For the sake of our mission
To be salt and light for the world
We entrust ourselves to you, Mary, Mother of God And Star of the New Evangelization.
Amen
PHONE : (506) 653-6800