From Fr. Colin
In the gospel reading for today, the specifics of Christian ethics is outlined by Jesus in the Beatitudes.
Here we have the list of how we are to act in the world and among ourselves, a list that distinguishes our actions from that of a general “do no harm” policy, or an attitude of “tolerance” which really just boils down to “if you leave me alone, then I will leave you alone.” “In the Beatitudes our Lord describes the key qualities he wishes to arouse in disciples as poverty of spirit, humility, docility to the Word of God, a spirit of penitence, hungering and thirsting after justice, mercy, and purity of heart.” “The qualities listed by Jesus are … the qualities needed for a Kingdom-centered life in the presence of God.” “If we are Christians then we hold that only the pattern of virtues disclosed in the Gospel really prepares our personalities for the vision of God.”
Thus it is that we are called to something more than just being nice to one another, more than just acting with respect. We are called to embody Christian virtues to such an extent that, not only do we prepare ourselves for the vision of God, but we present Christ himself to those around us so that they may come to see the importance and the difference inherent in living an authentic Christian life.
We are called to be witnesses, and through such grace as God provides, to allow our witness to shine forth in the hearts of others such that they too may be converted to a Kingdom-centered life.
A Parish Pastoral Visit
The Most Reverend William McGrattan, Bishop of Calgary, will be visiting our parish next weekend, February 3 - 5. He will be saying the Saturday evening mass & all Sunday morning masses this weekend.
There will be no 7:00 pm Sunday mass on this weekend. Please consider attending another weekend Mass to see the Bishop. He will be greeting parishioners after each mass.
Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast
February 5, 2023
Everyone is invited to attend our pancake breakfast in the Parish Hall after all Sunday morning masses, including the 12 noon mass, Sunday February 5, 2023. The breakfast is hosted by the Knights of Columbus & net proceeds will go to Seminarians.
St. Bonaventure Teen Girls Bible Study
Teen girls! We cordially invite you to join us on Thursday, February 9 for our new Teen Girls Bible Study. Our first study will be “The Chosen” series, doing season 1 in time for Easter. This will be a great opportunity for you to get together, make new friends & learn more about your faith.
The details are as follows:
Where: St Bonaventure Parish
Youth Room
When: Thursdays 7:00-9:00 pm
First meeting February 9
What: Study “The Chosen” Series - Season 1
February 9 – April 6
Come on out & have some fun,
God is calling you. We look forward to meeting you.
World Day for Consecrated Life
World Day for Consecrated Life is celebrated on February 2 (Feast of the Presentation of the Lord), & it is observed in parishes on the Sunday after Feb. 2. In 2023. This day will be celebrated in parishes on Feb. 4 - 5, 2023.
This form of life, embraced by Christ & made present particularly by consecrated persons, is of great importance for the Church, called in every member to live the same upward striving toward God who is All, following Christ in the light & power of the Holy Spirit. Let us pray for Consecration Life in our Diocese.
World Day of the Sick
February 11, 2023
What can I do?
- Read and share Pope Francis’s message
- Visit a loved one, friend, colleague, or stranger who is shut in, lonely or sick
- Offer gratitude to a healthcare professional or volunteer
- Organize the Horizons of Hope program in your parish
- Watch and share the video: “An experience of accompanying a loved one through palliative care”
"To the intercession of Mary, Health of the Sick, I entrust all of you who are ill; you who care for them in your families, or through your work, research and volunteer service; and those of you who are committed to weaving personal, ecclesial, and civic bonds of fraternity."
Pope Francis, 2023
The World Day of the Sick is celebrated each year on February 11, the liturgical memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes.
It is an occasion to pray for individuals who are suffering, & to find concrete ways to draw nearer to them.
The Holy Father's 2023 message is entitled: "Take care of him" - Compassion as a synodal exercise of healing. In light of the Church's synodal journey, Pope Francis invites us "to reflect on the fact that it is precisely through the experience of fragility & illness, that we can learn to walk together according to God's style of closeness, compassion & tenderness."
Western Canadian Catholic Home
School Conference
March 9-11
All parents & young adults 14+ are welcome to attend the Western Canadian Catholic Home School Conference, at Providence Renewal Centre, Edmonton. Theme: Simplicity Includes daily Mass, Adoration & Benediction as well as vendors. Early bird pricing until Feb 21st.
Info: www.wcchsc.net
Contact: Veronica 780-467-8410
Email: wcchscreg@shaw.ca
Readings for Sunday, January 29
Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time
First Reading: Zephaniah 2.3;3.12-13 I will leave in the midst of you a people humble & lowly.
Responsorial Psalm: Blessed are the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs.
Second Reading: 1 Cor 1.26-31 God chose what is weak in the world.
Gospel: Matthew 5.1-12 Blessed are the poor in spirit.
Hour of Prayer
Every Thursday after the 9:00 am Mass there will be an Hour of Prayer in the Prayer Room. Everyone is welcome. Call Marie or Chic at 403-271-8587
for more information.
