On Sunday, July 27, Bishop Joseph Dabrowski celebrated a joyful and deeply moving Mass at Saint Anne’s Church on Lennox Island, marking the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, and First Holy Communion for two children from the Lennox Island First Nation community – all during the Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope.
In her words of welcome, Chief Tabatha Bernard said,
“Today, we gather here on our traditional unceded Mi’kmaq territory for St. Anne’s Sunday, one of the longest running festivals and traditions in Epekwitk. Every year on the last Sunday of July, the Lennox Island Band Council hosts a special gathering that brings the community together for mass, a lobster feast, a parade, and other festivities.”
In his homily, Bishop Joseph reflected on the beauty of prayer, the enduring witness of grandparents, the elders and the joy of young hearts receiving Jesus for the first time. He called the entire day a gift – one that brought together generations in faith and love.
A powerful moment came as Bishop Joseph shared a story from his recent pilgrimage to Rome. There, he met Pope Leo XIV and presented him with a Kanien’kéha (Mohawk) Bible, a gift from Elder Harvey Satewas Gabriel, who spent 17 years translating the scriptures verse by verse. The Pope was deeply moved by this act of devotion, a symbol of reconciliation and faith that bridges cultures, languages, and centuries.
“We are so happy to hear this great news. Thank you dear Bishop for presenting the translated Bible to Pope Leo during your pilgrimage,” responded Chief Tabatha.
After the Mass, the celebration continued with a colourful community parade and a traditional lobster dinner, attended by over 400 people. It was a day of joy, prayer, culture, and shared hope – a living sign of the Gospel alive in Mi’kmaq territory and a meaningful step on the path of Truth and Reconciliation.
