Diocesan Communiqué – January 24, 2024

January 26, 2024

In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul II instituted a day for women and men in consecrated life. This global celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. This Feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day candles may be blessed, symbolizing Christ, who is the light of the world. So, those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Jesus Christ to all peoples. In the Church, the religious sisters, brothers, and priests stand as a rich testimony to the blessings and grace God bestows upon those who have embraced the consecrated life. In our diocese, we have been blessed with religious communities who have dedicated their lives in ministry, prayer and community to the Church and have been part of our diocese for over 150 years. This year, in a spirit of gratitude for their presence, ministry and apostolate in the diocese, we want to acknowledge that commitment in a Diocesan Celebration of Consecrated Life, Friday February 2, 2024. Bishop Joseph will celebrate a Mass at Holy Redeemer Church at 7:00 pm. All the faithful are invited to join us. This celebration will give the entire diocese an opportunity to offer gratitude for the fidelity and joy religious live out, even in the midst of hardships and life’s many challenges. Also, it will give us an opportunity to express our appreciation for the witness of their lives, their prayers, and their work on behalf of the Body of Christ here in the Diocese of Charlottetown.  We are also invited in a special way to pray for vocations to the consecrated life so that religious communities will continue to be the bright light that they are to all of us.

Join the “Embrace Discovery” online Pre-Lenten Retreat for men on Wednesday February 7, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hosted by Dr. Wayne Short, the retreat will explore self-care through active listening, silent reflection, and sharing. Suggested fee $20.00, For registration contact Sister Joan at drjoancsm@gmail.com. For other queries and the retreat guide, contact Wayne at mcast709@gmail.com

Dr. Joan Campbell, CSM is offering a Lenten Scripture Series on Zoom entitled “Living Discipleship.” The four sessions include: the Call, the Values, the Mission, and the Destiny of Disciples. Zoom sessions are from 6:30 to 7:45 pm on Wednesday February 21 & 28 and then on March 20 & 27. Suggested Fee $25. To register contact Sister Joan at drjoancsm@gmail.com.

Steubenville Atlantic is coming! Talks, friends, fun! Join youth from across the Maritimes at Steubenville Atlantic, a dynamic youth conference hosted at Dalhousie University, July 5-7. This year’s theme is Illuminate (Jn 1:5)! Registration is open for youth in grades 9-12. The cost $250. For more information contact your parish group leader, or visit https://youth.dioceseofcharlottetown.com/steubenville-atlantic/

Have you been experiencing problems dealing with anxiety, loss, depression, separation, parenting or relationship issues? Free counselling services are available through a project sponsored by The Living Well. If you would like to speak to a qualified social worker about these issues you can contact us through e-mail  20tlwp23@gmail.com  or call 902 330-2028. All inquiries will be confidential.

Come to Assumption Parish Centre at 145 Stratford Road in Stratford on Saturday, January 27, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm for a Huge Flea Market/ Bake Sale! Good used small appliances, small pieces of furniture, clothing, books, puzzles, toys, household or garage items, home-baked goods. Tickets on silent auctions and lotteries.  Proceeds in support of Assumption Parish.  Tea & coffee available.  Free admission. Everyone is welcome. Storm date is February 3.


The Blessed Virgin Mary; Mother of God

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje with Spiritual Director Father Mark Cherry  May 18th to May 30th, 2024; Space and time are limited, please book as soon as possible to ensure you secure your seat – Package Price – 3499.00 CAD per person, tax incl. from Halifax Int. Airport (single supplement $300.00 if space is available) ($600 non-refundable Deposit Due January 24th, 2024, with balance due April 8th, 2024)  Package includes return airfare from Halifax, NS, ground travel to and from airport in Europe, hotel accommodations and much more! For itinerary details, please call Group Leader Rhonda-Lynn Clarke at 1 902 448 3660. To make your deposit and secure your seat with us please call, Karen Withers at Maritime Travel 1 902 435 0220 Before January 24th, 2024.