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NEWS AND UPDATES:
MESSAGE FOR THE SEASON OF ADVENT 2024
From Most Rev. Héctor Vila Message for the Season of Advent (EN) Message pour la saison de l'Avent (FR) As we prepare for the Nativity of Our Lord, we also invite you to visit our Advent 2024 Resources webpage 
JOURNEY THROUGH ADVENT VIDEO SERIES
As we prepare for the Nativity of Our Lord, it is hoped that this year’s CCCB Journey through Advent video series will be a source of spiritual comfort, peace, and meaningful preparation for all who watch them. This year’s spiritual reflections are delivered by the Most Reverend Frank Leo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Toronto (in English), and the Most Reverend René Guay, Bishop of Chicoutimi (in French); we are grateful to them. The videos will be uploaded one at a time on a weekly basis throughout Advent each Monday in advance of the upcoming Sunday Eucharistic Celebration (25 November, 2 December, 9 December and 16 December). The series is available in both English and French on the CCCB/CECC YouTube channel. 
RED WEDNESDAY - NOV 20TH, 2024
With Red Wednesday, the international Catholic aid organization Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) draws attention to the fate of millions of persecuted, oppressed and threatened Christians worldwide. In many countries around the world, hundreds of famous cathedrals, churches, monasteries, monuments, and public buildings are illuminated in blood red around this day. For learn more about persecuted Christians around the world and to donate to the work of the ACN, please visit their website. 
BLESSED MARIE-ANNE BLONDIN BURSARY
The Diocese of Whitehorse is pleased to administer this bursary established by the Sisters of St. Ann in honour of their foundress, Blessed Marie-Anne Blondin. For more information about the Sisters of St. Ann and the life and history of Blessed Marie-Anne Blondin please visit the Sisters of Saint Anne website or the CCCB's Blessed Marie-Anne Blondin webpage. The purpose of the bursary is to offer financial assistance to lay women of the Diocese of Whitehorse for:
For more information or to request a printed application form, please contact the Diocese of Whitehorse at [email protected] or 867-667-2052. 
ALL SAINTS DAY & ALL SOULS DAY
November 1st is All Saints Day, A Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics. All Saints’ Day celebrates the feast or solemnity of all the saints in Heaven, both saints recognized by the Church as holy men and women and those who remain unknown. (Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Whitehorse at 12:10pm and 7:00pm)
November 2nd is All Souls Day, and although it isn't a Holy Day of Obligation, it is an opportunity to commemorate and pray for all our faithful departed. Please visit our new All Saints & All Souls webpage for more information and prayers about these two important liturgical days in our Church. We would also like to introduce one of our newest Canadian Saints, Sainte Marie-Léonie Paradis! 
NEW ENCYCLICAL LETTER: DILEXIT NOS
You are invited to read the Holy Father’s new encyclical letter which was released on October 24th, 2024: Dilexit nos (“He Loved Us”): On the human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus Christ. This new encyclical, focusing on devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, coincides with the ongoing celebrations commemorating the 350th anniversary of the first appearance of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque in 1673. Click here to read the letter in English and in French (PDF). You can also access the encyclical letter directly online in several languages on the Vatican website.
"TOWARDS A NARRATIVE OF HOPE"
CCCB International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care Statement and Recommendations Following the international symposium held in Toronto in May 2024, the Post-Symposium Working Group has released a Statement and Recommendations which recap key insights from the event and offer 6 recommendations that open a pathway to action. Following the release of the statement, the working group will begin a new phase of resource development and advocacy. A new resource page on the Symposium can be found on the CCCB website here. 
NEW PASTORAL APPOINTMENT
Most Rev. Héctor Vila would like to welcome Fr. Joseph Jose Kizhakethottathil to the Diocese of Whitehorse. Fr. Joseph was appointed Administrator of Catholic Church of the Apostles Mission in Faro, Yukon on October 9, 2024, and he will also be serving the faithful of St. Michael Catholic Mission in Ross River, Yukon. Fr. Joseph is a religious priest of the Missionary Society of St. Thomas the Apostle (MST) in Kerala, India. Prior to arriving in the Diocese of Whitehorse, he ministered in the Diocese of Nelson for almost fourteen years. Please keep Fr. Joseph in your prayers, as well as all our priests and lay pastoral associates who serve in the Diocese of Whitehorse. 
NEW PASTORAL LETTER!
Called to Witness and Proclaim Evangelization and Catechesis in the Family The CCCB Episcopal Commission for Evangelization and Catechesis (English Sector) is pleased to present a new pastoral letter on evangelization and catechesis in the family. Called to Witness and Proclaim is framed around the story of Jesus healing the daughter of Jairus, as related in the Gospel of Mark (5:21-43). The pastoral letter is divided into three sections: catechesis in the family, catechesis with the family, and catechesis of the family. Key to the pastoral letter's message is the analogy it draws between Jesus’ compassion for Jairus’ family and the Church's concern and desire to provide pastoral support and accompaniment to families in their situations and to partner with families in proclaiming the Good News. We invite everyone to read this letter with the hope that it will give you and your family support and encouragement. CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK
October 19th to 25th, 2024 Next event: Education as an Act of Hope workshop - Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024 at 7pm - CYO Hall (Sacred Heart Cathedral) in Whitehorse. See the poster below. All are welcome! AB/NWT/Yukon Bishops Catholic Education Letter For more Catholic Education Week materials, talk to your Yukon Catholic School principal or chaplain, or visit the ACSTA website. 
"THE QUEEN OF PEACE"
Note about the Spiritual Experience Connected with Medjugorje With the assent of His Holiness Pope Francis, granting approval for devotion linked to Medjugorje (28 August 2024), the Note was signed by Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández and Monsignor Armando Matteo, respectively Prefect and Secretary for the Doctrinal Section of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. The Note was published on Thursday, 19 September 2024 in the Bollettino of the Holy See’s Press Office, and is accessible in various languages on the Vatican’s website, including in English and French at the following URLs: In English: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/it/bollettino/pubblico/2024/09/19/0704/01411.html#en In French: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/it/bollettino/pubblico/2024/09/19/0704/01411.html#fr 
OCT. 7: DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING FOR PEACE IN THE WORLD
Bishop Héctor Vila encourages the faithful of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Whitehorse to respond to the invitation of the Holy Father Pope Francis who has called for “everyone to take part” in a Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace in the World on Monday, October 7, 2024. (Public Memo to the Faithful of the Diocese of Whitehorse) “In this dramatic hour of our history,” Pope Francis said after Mass in St Peter’s Square for the opening of the second session of the General Assembly of the Synod, “while the winds of war and the fires of violence continue to devastate entire peoples and nations,” the Christian community is reminded of its call to "put itself at the service of humanity." He invited all the synod members to accompany him on a visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on October 6, the day before the anniversary, where, he said, he would “address a heartfelt petition to the Virgin” for peace. 
CCCB 2024 PLENARY ASSEMBLY UPDATES
CCCB President's Report (2024 Septembre 23) Rapport du président CECC (le 23 septembre) * Click below to watch summaries of each day of meetings. You can also view the videos in French on the CCCB/CECC YouTube Channel. 
DIOCESE OF QUEBEC 350th ANNIVERSARY
December 8, 2023 to December 8, 2024 https://eng.diocesequebec350.ca/ “The Catholic Church of Québec is made up of millions of people who, over the past 350 years, have contributed and continue to contribute to weaving threads of solidarity at the heart of society. With their faces in mind, we wish to revisit a rich historical heritage, to better envision the challenges we face today. Let’s seize the opportunity to remember, to better understand the present and inspire the future.” – Cardinal Gérald Cyprien Lacroix, Archbishop of Québec 
Homily given by Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, Archbishop of Marseille,
Special envoy of the Holy Father for the 350th anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of Québec (Cathedral Basilica Notre-Dame de Québec, Quebec, Sunday, September 22, 2024) IN PREPARATION FOR THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025
Registration for the Fall 2024 webinar series (French & English) is now open Série d'automne : « Une grande symphonie de prière : Marie, les saints et l'Écriture » préparée par S. Catherine Aubin, O.P. Mardi 8 octobre (10h00 - 11h30 Yukon; 13h00 – 14h30 HAE) : Prier avec Marie/le Rosaire Mardi 15 octobre (10h00 - 11h30 Yukon; 13h00 – 14h30 HAE) : Prier avec les saints/Saint Dominique Mardi 22 octobre (10h00 - 11h30 Yukon; 13h00 – 14h30 HAE): La prière de Jésus/Prier avec les Psaumes Mardi 29 octobre (10h00 - 11h30 Yukon; 13h00 – 14h30 HAE) : Lectio Divina Inscrivez maintenant: https://cccb-ca.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CzdiOZHCSXWbt_OUXfwONA#/registration Fall series: "A Great Symphony of Prayer : Mary, the Saints and Scripture" with Dr. Josephine Lombardi (St. Augustine's Seminary)
Thursdays in October from 1:00 to 2:00 PM EDT (10:00 to 11:00 AM Yukon Time). Click here to register: https://cccb-ca.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Y6d9S5rIT5u1kgHCB9_IWw
PREVENTING EUTHANASIA, ENCOURAGING HOPE
With guest speaker, Ms. Amanda Achtman You are invited to these events in September at Sacred Heart Cathedral: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH "Dying to Meet You: Preventing Euthanasia, Encouraging Hope"
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH "A workshop on the Meaning and Value of Aging, "Like a Cedar" led by Amanda
For more information about the events, click on the posters below. To learn more about Ms. Achtman's work, visit www.dyingtomeetyou.com
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE CARE OF CREATION
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) invites all Catholic faithful to join in the global celebration of the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation that will take place Sunday, September 1st 2024. This year’s theme, “Hope and Act with Creation,” draws inspiration from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans (8:19-25), emphasizing the hope that stems from our faith and the active role we must play in caring for the world around us. The theme resonates with Pope Francis’ message, highlighting our responsibility as stewards of creation and our call to safeguard the environment for future generations. The CCCB hopes that this World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation will inspire a renewed commitment among all Catholics to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices in their daily lives. More information: Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development (available in French or English): Click HERE Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops: Click HERE Conférence des Évêques Catholiques du Québec: Cliquez ICI 
WELCOME TO THE SYRO-MALABAR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
Most Rev. Héctor Vila would like to extend a warm welcome to the Syro-Malabar Catholic Faithful as we mark July 22nd, 2024 as the official establishment of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Community in the Diocese of Whitehorse. Beginning August 4th, 2024, Fr. Freison Kunnumpurathu will be celebrating Holy Mass in Malayalam with the Syro-Malabar Community at Sacred Heart Cathedral the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 5:00pm. For current information on the Masses and other Syro-Malabar events, you can refer to the Sacred Heart Parish bulletin or contact the parish office. PUBLIC MEMO FROM THE BISHOP'S OFFICE WELCOMING THE SYRO-MALABAR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY (July 31, 2024) The Syro-Malabar Catholic Community has 80+ years of history in Canada. For more information about the Syro-Malabar rite, and the history and work of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Canada, we invite you to visit the Eparchy of Mississauga website at https://syromalabarcanada.com/ Click here to view photos of the July 22nd, 2024 Syro-Malabar Mass con-celebrated by Most Rev. Héctor Vila and Most Rev. Jose Kalluevelil, Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Mississauga. 
2ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE PAPAL VISIT
Message from the CCCB: Letter to the People of God Since Pope Francis’ penitential pilgrimage to Canada, the Catholic church in Canada continues to progress in its journey of reconciliation and healing with Indigenous Peoples. As we mark the second anniversary of the Papal visit, we would like to share with you a Letter to the People of God - From strong words to meaningful partnership: A renewed Catholic commitment to Indigenous reconciliation) - from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB). The letter is available in both English and French. You are also welcome to visit the CCCB website. We ask that you continue to pray for healing for our Indigenous brothers and sisters. 
FOURTH WORLD DAY FOR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY
The fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly will be celebrated this year on Sunday, 28 July 2024. Pope Francis inaugurated this World Day to be celebrated by the universal Church each July, either on or near the liturgical Memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, grandparents of Jesus, to help “treasure the spiritual and human wealth that has been handed down from generation to generation.” In his Message for the fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, Pope Francis shares this year’s theme for the Day: “Do not cast me off in my old age” (Psalm 71:9). He invites the Catholic faithful to reflect on the loneliness of the elderly, encouraging us to “take a new path” and to spend time with them, “acknowledging their unique role in the family, in society and in the Church…” Let us welcome this opportunity to ‘build something different’, reaching out to each other, both young and old, to strengthen our bonds of love and fraternity, so that no one may ever feel ‘cast off’, lonely, or discarded. More information: Decree in English: Click HERE Décret en Français: Cliquez ICI Dicastery for Laity, Family and life (available in French or English): Click HERE Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops: Click HERE Conférence des Évêques CAtholiques du Québec: Cliquez ICI YEAR OF PRAYER FALL 2024 WEBINAR SERIES
Registration is now open for the English webinar series, "A Great Symphony of Prayer : Mary, the Saints and Scripture" with Dr. Josephine Lombardi (St. Augustine's Seminary) - In Preparation for the Jubilee 2025. Thursdays in October from 1:00 to 2:00 PM EDT (10:00 to 11:00 AM Yukon Time). Click here to register. *More information is coming regarding the French webinar series 
INDIGENOUS RECONCILIATION FUND (IRF)
* Please click here for the full version of the announcement from the Diocese of Whitehorse IRF Adhoc Committee. As you may be aware, Catholic dioceses across Canada, in their continuing journey of seeking reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of Canada, have committed to contributing $30 million to facilitate further reconciliation efforts. The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will help fund local projects determined in consultation with our Indigenous brothers and sisters, in order to move forward together on the path of healing. The Catholic Diocese of Whitehorse IRF Adhoc Committee is now accepting applications for projects within Yukon and northern BC. For more information, please visit our IRF webpage at https://www.rcdw.ca/irf.html. You may also contact the local IRF committee at [email protected], or call the diocesan office at 867-667-2052. We thank everyone who contributed to the IRF during the past three years and are pleased to tell you that through your generosity, we have met our local fundraising target. If you would like to continue to contribute through the IRF at the national level, please visit irfund.ca/en/donate/ 
MONTH OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
The month of June is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, a symbol of love, communion and compassion. The devotion of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated by Catholics throughout Canada and around the world. Please visit our new Sacred Heart webpage for resources on how to celebrate this devotion. 
PREPARING FOR THE YEAR OF JUBILEE 2025
In preparation for the Jubilee in 2025, the year 2023 was dedicated to Vatican II. The CCCB Office for Evangelization and Catechesis hosted the webinar series titled, "The Four Constitutions of Vatican II," inviting the faithful to reflect on the meaning of these documents for the life of the Church today. The video recordings from this webinar series, along with reflection guides, are now available on the CCCB website and CCCB YouTube channel. UNLOCKING HOPE:
Highlights from the International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care 
NEW PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS
Most Rev. Héctor Vila would like to announce the following new appointments within the Diocese of Whitehorse. We welcome back Fr. Ain Leetma who has been appointed Associate Pastor at St. Ann Catholic Mission in Watson Lake and will be ministering to the faithful at the Northern BC Catholic Missions of St. Mary Magdalene, Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Good Hope and St. Theresa. Fr. Michael Win has been appointed Administrator at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Fort Nelson, BC and will also be serving the faithful at the nearby Catholic missions of St. Paul and Sacred Heart. Fr. Luigi Vettone has been appointed Administrator of Catholic Church of the Apostles Mission in Faro and will also be caring for St. Jude Catholic Mission in Carmacks and St. Michael Catholic Mission in Ross River. Please keep them all in your prayers. To read the full Memo for Public Release, please click here. AND OTHER CHANGES For those of you who know the seminarian Jaime and Deacon Gino from Arequipa, Peru who have been in the diocese since last November, there are some changes for them also. Jaime has now completed his missionary experience in the Diocese of Whitehorse and will be leaving us on May 31, 2024. We are grateful for his work and presence in our diocese, particularly for his witnessing of the Catholic Faith to other students at the Multicultural Centre of Yukon where he was taking English classes, and also for his support and assistance to Bishop Vila and Fr. Leo Llames while living in Whitehorse. Please keep him in your prayers as he begins the next phase of his formation. Deacon Gino who has also been residing in Whitehorse since his arrival, will now be based out of St. Ann Catholic Mission in Watson Lake. He has been assigned to assist Fr. Ain Leetma in his pastoral ministry of the missions south of Watson Lake in northern BC. We pray that God will provide Deacon Gino with an abundance of grace through his encounters with the faithful in these small missions. 
"TOWARDS A NARRATIVE OF HOPE"
CCCB International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) hosted this international symposium from May 21st to May 23rd, 2024 in Toronto. Please visit the CCCB’s webpage at https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/international-interfaith-symposium-on-palliative-care/ to read their press release (English and French) on the outcome of the discussions, and for a link to the Holy Father’s message on palliative care. 
All are invited to the special conference, Called to Love: A Christian Perspective on Human Anthropology, Bioethics & Battling Addictions, which will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024 from 9:30am to 1:30pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral, CYO Hall in Whitehorse.
The program will feature three guest speakers - Dr. Renato Versace, Fr. Francesco Donega, Mrs. Gianna Salvitti - giving each a one-hour talk with Q&A, followed by a light lunch at 12:30pm. (*Note that some of the talks will be translated simultaneously from Italian to English) This is an in-person event. However, for those of you who are unable to attend in-person, you are welcome to join by livestream Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84207453124?pwd=MXoyNkJmUU1oWmZadWpPUE1sQjQzUT09 (Meeting ID: 842 0745 3124 Passcode: 219784) For additional details, please visit our Called to Love webpage. 
NATIONAL FAMILY & LIFE WEEK
May 13 to 19, 2024 The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) warmly invites the Catholic faithful to celebrate, National Family & Life Week (NFLW) which begins on Monday, May 13th and concludes on Sunday, May 19th, 2024, the Solemnity of Pentecost. This year’s theme, “Love hopes all things,” is inspired by the words of Saint Paul, the Apostle: “[Love] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:7). Visit our Family & Life Week diocesan webpage for resources and other links. You may also go directly to the CCCB Family & Life Week webpage for daily reflections and resources available in both French and English. 
PASTORAL LETTER TO YOUNG PEOPLE
In October 2022, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) published a Pastoral Letter to Young People which was inspired by Pope Francis’ Post-Synodal Exhortation to Young People, Christus vivit. We are pleased to let you know that there is now available a User's Guide to help facilitate reflection on this pastoral letter. The CCCB’s Pastoral Letter to Young People invites young Catholics in Canada to live their faith in an extraordinary way, encouraging them to strive toward holiness, and assuring them of the steadfast support and accompaniment of their Bishops along their individual journeys of faith. You can find both the Pastoral Letter and the new User Guide, along with suggested activities, on the CCCB's webpage.
CELEBRATE CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK
Sunday, May 5th to 11th, 2024 *Click on posters to enlarge "Courage to lead"
CATHOLIC SCHOOL COUNCIL ELECTIONS
Elections will be held in all three Catholic schools in Whitehorse: St. Francis of Assisi Secondary, Christ the King Elementary, and Holy Family Elementary. *NEW! Confirmed school council candidate bios - Elections Yukon webpage Voting in person Eligible electors can vote in-person at the school holding the election on:
*For general information and for alternate voting arrangements, visit the Elections Yukon website. Who can vote in a Catholic school council election You can vote or be a candidate in a Catholic school council election if you are a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and you:
Click here to download poster PDF, or click on image for full screen view.
CALLED TO LOVE CATECHESIS
The next Session 12 of the Called to Love: Education in the Faith, and Vocation within the Family program is on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 7pm in the CYO Hall of the cathedral. The topic is Inculturation and Education for Love - Presented by JD & Claire Caudle from Sacred Heart Parish. The Called to Love program follows the Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family document released by The Pontifical Council for the Family in 1995. 
CATHOLIC SCHOOL COUNCIL ELECTIONS
*NEW! Confirmed school council candidate bios - Elections Yukon webpage The school council general election is underway and nominations opened April 15, 2024. Candidate nomination packages are available at schools with councils, from school returning officers, at the Elections Yukon’s office in Whitehorse, and online at ElectionsYukon.ca. Completed nomination forms will be accepted by school returning officers until noon on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Yukoners can be nominated or vote in a school council election if they are a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years of age, and either:
Catholics who are unregistered can contact the Catholic Diocese of Whitehorse at 867-667-2052 or [email protected] to discuss other options. Resources: RCDW Yukon Catholic Schools webpage RCDW Catholic Education webpage Catholic Education Association of Yukon THANK YOU TO THE EX CORDE FOUNDATION
The Diocese of Whitehorse gratefully acknowledges and gives thanks to God for a generous grant received from the Ex Corde Foundation of the Diocese of Hamilton. The Foundation was established by Bishop Douglas Crosby, O.M.I. in 2012. It focuses on finding ways to help parishes, organizations and communities prosper through financial support of a range of initiatives. 
The Diocese has been awarded a grant of $25,000 towards renovations of the Catholic Church of the Apostles in Faro, Yukon. This amount will greatly help the diocese initiate work on the project including demolition of the old and unused rectory part of the building, and renovation of the original and historic tongue and groove cedar log church. These renovations will eventually involve installation of a new steel roof and triple-pane windows, and adding insulation to the building envelope and attic. As it is an old structure, the church is poorly insulated and has seen minimal renovations over the years. The windows and insulation will make the church more energy-efficient and will help in significantly reducing heating costs.
We extend our gratitude to the Board members of the Ex Corde Foundation who are helping us bring this project to fruition. Let us keep them in our prayers as they continue their work. You can read more about the foundation on their website at www.excordefoundation.com. 
CALLED TO LOVE CATECHESIS
The next Session 11 of the Called to Love: Education in the Faith, and Vocation within the Family program is on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 7pm in the CYO Hall of the cathedral. Two topics will be presented:
YEAR OF PRAYER 2024
In preparation for the 2025 Holy Year of Jubilee, the CCCB is hosting two series of webinars titled “A Great Symphony of Prayer” to enable the faithful to participate meaningfully in the “Year of Prayer” leading up to the Jubilee. Available in both official languages, each webinar series will consist of four parts; one series will take place in the spring and the other in the fall. Registration for the spring series is now open.
HOLY YEAR OF JUBILEE IN 2025
The Catholic Church is celebrating a Holy Year of Jubilee in 2025. In preparation for this jubilee year, Pope Francis dedicated 2023 to the rediscovery of the four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Council, and 2024 as a year for prayer. As we enter this Year of Prayer, the diocese has prepared a Jubilee 2025 webpage on our website with resources and updates of events. You can also find information on the Vatican's Jubilee 2025 website ; and a Jubilee 2025 app (Iubilaeum25) is also available as a free download. 
LIVESTREAM AVAILABLE
of the Renewal of the Consecration of the Diocese of Whitehorse to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, Mass of the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord Sacred Heart Cathedral 8 April 2024 7:00pm (Yukon Time) Presided by Most Rev. Héctor Vila Click here for Zoom link Enter Passcode: 594663 Click here to download the Prayer of Consecration 
THE CONSECRATION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
On March 22, 2023, Pope Francis, invited Catholics to annually renew an act of consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary at the occasion of the aforementioned solemnity. In response, Bishop Vila wishes to share with you an initiative which will prove to be spiritually beneficial for our walk of faith and renewal in the Spirit: The Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is truly a grace-filled opportunity in which our Catholic diocesan family can gather together, in different ways, through this profound experience of prayer and devotion which is to take place on the Solemnity of the Annunciation of Our Lord, celebrated this year on April 8, 2024. Memo from Bishop Vila to our Brothers and Sisters in Christ (Mar 25, 2024) * * * The following resources (downloadable PDFs) may be used by the Faithful as a beautiful way to join in this consecration whether it be at church, home, school, or any other community gathering: MARIUM TRIDUUM (three-day preparation before the Consecration) MARIAN CONSECRATION RITUAL CONSECRATION RESOURCES FOR THE ANNUNCATION with more information, FAQ and links to useful articles and complementary activities. PASTORAL LETTER FOR EASTER 2024
From Most Rev. Héctor Vila to the Faithful in the diocese
*Note changes to Masses for Dease Lake, Good Hope Lake, Iskut and Telegraph Creek (March 26, 2024)
Called to Love catechesis
The next session (10) of the Called to Love: Education in the Faith, and Vocation within the Family program is on Friday, March 8th, 2024 at 7pm in the CYO Hall of the cathedral. The topic is Recommendations for Parents and Educators. The Called to Love program follows the Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family document released by The Pontifical Council for the Family in 1995. ASH WEDNESDAY MASSES
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 *Click on schedule to enlarge 
JOURNEY THROUGH LENT 2024 VIDEO SERIES
Beginning Ash Wednesday on February 14th, please join Most Rev. Stephen Hero, Bishop of Prince Albert , and the Most Rev. Mark Hagemoen, Bishop of Saskatoon who will be leading reflections in English through the CCCB Journey Through Lent video series. Reflections in French for the <<Cheminer ensemble durant le temps du Carême 2024>> will be led by Msgr. Martin Laliberté, P.M.E., P.M.E., Évêque de Trois-Rivières.
LENT 2024 RESOURCES
We invite you to visit our Lent 2024 webpage with a multitude of resources for individuals and families on how to prepare for Easter. You can read His Holiness' message for Lent 2024, download resources for your lenten journey, understand how to observe Ash Wednesday (which this year falls on Valentine's Day), as well as view Mass schedules in our diocese. 
32nd World Day of the Sick 2024
The 32nd World Day of the Sick will be celebrated this year on Sunday, February 11th, 2024. As Catholic Faithful, we are called to prayer, to accompaniment and compassion for the sick and the vulnerable in our midst, and to receiving the Anointing of the Sick during Mass if we so wish. For more information, please visit the CCCB website. You are also welcome to get acquainted with palliative care resources, such as the Horizons for Hope toolkit, on our website. Pope Francis' Message for the 32nd World Day of the Sick 2024 
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Today, January 25, 2024 marks the last day of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, an annual global ecumenical celebration. Christians around the world are invited to pray for the unity of all the baptized; to reflect together on Scripture; to participate in jointly-organized worship services; and to share in acts of outreach and fellowship. The theme for 2024 is drawn from Luke 10:27: “You shall love the Lord your God…and your neighbour as yourself.” For more info, visit https://www.cccb.ca/announcement/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity-2024/ 
Pastoral Letter on the Use of Social Media
Today, on the liturgical memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, and with the approval of the Permanent Council, the Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) releases its Pastoral Letter on the use of social media titled: “Let Your Speech Always Be Gracious.” Acknowledging the prominent role social media has come to play at an individual and societal level, this timely Pastoral Letter considers the benefits and dangers of social media from the perspective of Catholic Social Teaching. It provides tools for moral reflection and self-examination, and suggests seven commitments by which to be guided for a more ethical use of social media: - check for accuracy - seek greater perspective - value human dignity - bring curiosity into the conversation - distinguish between intention and impact - privilege “in real life” encounters - tend to our time spent online 
Called to Love catechesis
The next Session 7 of the Called to Love: Education in the Faith, and Vocation within the Family program is on Friday, January 16, 2024 at 7pm in the CYO Hall of the cathedral. The topic is Paths of Formation Within the Family: The Essential Value of a Home presented by a couple who are parents and parishioners at Sacred Heart Parish. The Called to Love program follows the Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family document released by The Pontifical Council for the Family in 1995. 
The Catholic Parent video series
The Catholic Parent is a new video series created for Catholic parents by Catholic parents and is available through Formed.org. Created through a collaboration between the Augustine Institute and Catholic Sprouts, each of the six short episodes in this stunning video series features real Catholic parents sharing their struggles and victories. Through The Catholic Parent, the Catholic families you serve will find solidarity and encouragement as they embrace their vital role as formators of their children. This series is an excellent addition to the diocese's Called to Love program happening this year. 
Not yet a Formed subscriber?
To sign up, follow these easy steps: 1. Go to Formed.org 2. Click Sign Up at the top of the page. 3. On the Create a New Account page - Find your Parish or Organization, type in 'Sacred Heart Cathedral' and select the parish in Whitehorse. 4. Enter your name and email - and you're in! *No password required 
Fifth Sunday of the Word of God
We'd like to share with you this pastoral and liturgical handbook on the Fifth Sunday of the Word of God developed by The Dicastery for Evangelization. It contains helpful suggestions for experiencing the Word of God in parishes, in families, and with young people. The theme for the fifth Sunday of the Word of God, celebrated on 21 January 2024, is “Remain in my Word.” English: http://www.evangelizatio.va/content/dam/pcpne/image/DomenicadellaParola/2024/ENG_V%20DOMENICA-SUSSIDIO.PDF French: http://www.evangelizatio.va/content/dam/pcpne/image/DomenicadellaParola/2024/FR_V%20DOMENICA-SUSSIDIO.PDF 
Catholic Education Symposium
The Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association (ACSTA) is hosting a Catholic Education Symposium: Teachers as Missionary Disciples: Forming Witnesses for Catholic Schools, which will be held in Edmonton on Friday, February 9th and Saturday the 10th. Teachers, administrators, parents, priests, school council members, etc. are invited to attend. Cost is $99 and registration deadline is February 2nd, 2024. For more information and to register, visit https://www.acsta.ab.ca/resources/symposium 
Called to Love catechesis
The Called to Love: Education in the Faith, and Vocation within the Family continues in the new year with the next Session 6 on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 7pm. The topic is, Fathers and Mothers as Educators: The Rights and Duties of Parents; The Meaning of the Parents' Duty presented by Mr. & Mrs. Allan & Leaseth Ocampo. The Called to Love program follows the Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family document released by The Pontifical Council for the Family in 1995. 
Light of Life Video Series Ends
The Light of Life video series which began in December 2020 has come to an end with the closing of the three year liturgical cycle (Years A,B,C). We would like to thank Fr. Bartek Palczewski, Fr. Antonello Murgia, Fr. Mauricio Sanjines, and Fr. Jorge Lopez for their time and devotion to this online ministry. The Diocese of Whitehorse is looking at beginning a new video series in the future. In the meantime, you may still access the former videos on our YouTube channel. 
DIOCESAN CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE
Traveling in the Yukon and Northern BC this Christmas? Join us at any of these Masses throughout the Diocese of Whitehorse. (Click here for schedule) CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM BISHOP HECTOR VILA
THE NATIVITY SCENE
An 800 Year Tradition (1223 to 2023) In celebration of the 800th anniversary of the Nativity scene, we invite all parishioners in the Diocese of Whitehorse to send us a picture of your Nativity scene to be posted in our Nativity scene photo gallery on this website. Photos may be emailed to [email protected] To learn about the beautiful history of the Nativity scene from the time of St. Francis of Assisi, please visit our Nativity scene webpage. |
ONLINE DONATIONS NOW AVAILABLE The Diocese of Whitehorse is now accepting online donations via our partner Canada Helps, which is equipped to issue instantaneous tax receipts. Your generosity enables us to serve our communities, care for those in need and accomplish the mission entrusted to us by the Lord. Click on the button above to donate online. 
Helpline: 1-855-675-8749.
It is confidential and free.
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