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St. James Parish
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September 2020
Dear Parishioners:
Welcome back! I hope you are enjoying a wonderful summer. Also, I hope you are relaxed and recharged.
I am Fr. Vincent TuanHa, your new parish priest. As I begin my ministry with you as your new pastor, I am reminded of those beautiful words our Lord spoke to the disciples on the night of the Last Supper: “I am among you as one who serves.” (Lk. 22:27). Jesus spoke those words after the institution of the Sacrament of the Eucharist to remind the disciples that their ministry and vocation are always at the service of the Eucharist and, by extension, also to the People of God gathered around the Eucharist.
It is with great joy and humility that I assume the office and responsibility of pastor of St. James and St. Michael’s Parish.
I follow a long line of dedicated pastors who have served this parish for many years of their priestly life. I am grateful to them for their service and dedication to their ministry. They have laid the foundation upon which I stand and continue the mission of Jesus Christ – to build and proclaim the Kingdom of God in this part of the diocese of Calgary.
As we move forward together, let us remember the words of Jesus to the synagogue official in the gospel of Mark: “Do not be afraid, just have faith.” (Mk. 5:36c)
During this COVID-19 pandemic, there is uncertainty about the future, much to worry about, many elements that may bring us down or make us weary but that let us hold on to the words of the Lord. Let us not be afraid. Let us keep the faith.
After an initial time at the parish and through interactions with parishioners, I am introducing the new Mass and Confession schedules that I feel will be helpful to the community.
SACRAMENT OF THE EUCHARIST / MASS
ST. JAMES, OKOTOKS
Weekdays: Monday, Wednesday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m.
Tuesday: 7:00 pm
Weekends: Saturday: 5:00 p.m.; Sunday: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.
ST. MICHAEL, BLACK DIAMOND
Weekdays: Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 a.m.
Weekends: Saturday: 5:00 p.m.; Sunday: 9:00 a.m.
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION
ST. JAMES, OKOTOKS
Tuesdays: 6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. (before the 7:00 p.m. Mass)
Saturdays: after the 9:00 a.m. Mass till 11:00 a.m.
And/or By appointment
ST. MICHAEL, BLACK DIAMOND
Fridays: after the 9:00 a.m. Mass till 10:30 a.m.
And/or By appointment
This new schedule will take effect on October 1st, 2020.
I look forward to many years of ministry with you and serving you along with the dedicated staff of the parish. As your pastor, I promise you my love, prayers and the constant invitation to be holy. I ask for your prayers, and I hope to earn your support and trust.
May God bless you all.
Fr. Vincent TuanHa