On Monday, August 12, 2025, on the vigil of the memorial of Blessed Michael McGivney, our diocesan family gathered at St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral for a deeply moving celebration in this Jubilee Year of Hope.
Bishop Joseph Dabrowski presided at the Votive Mass in honour of Blessed McGivney, as our diocese received his relics — a precious gift that will remain in the Basilica Cathedral as a lasting sign of faith and intercession for generations to come.
In this Jubilee Year, St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral is also a designated site for pilgrims to receive the Jubilee indulgence.
A great number of Knights of Columbus, together with their families, parishioners, and priests, joined in the celebration. Following Mass, the faithful had the opportunity to venerate the relics, after which a joyful reception in the parish hall brought the community together in friendship and thanksgiving.
In his homily, Bishop Joseph reflected on Blessed McGivney’s example of hope in action. Though he lived only 38 years, Father McGivney responded to the struggles of his time with creative charity and deep faith, founding the Knights of Columbus to ensure no family would face hardship alone. He embodied the Beatitudes, trusting that God could multiply small acts of faith into a worldwide mission.
Bishop Joseph reminded the faithful that Christian hope is different from worldly hope — it does not depend on circumstances, but on God’s unchanging promises. Like Blessed McGivney, we are called to be communities where people find welcome, friendship, and purpose, with the Eucharist as the source and summit of our mission.
“As we venerate Blessed McGivney’s relics,” Bishop Joseph said, “we remember that holiness is possible for us, too. God calls us to live each day with hope, faith, and charity — and to share the Good News so that others may encounter Christ.”
Vivat Jesus! May Blessed Michael McGivney intercede for our diocese, that we may always be heralds of hope.
