News and Events

Celebration of Religious LIfe

Each year on February 2, the Roman Catholic Church remembers those who have responded to the call of religious life.

This year, the 120^th anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of Prince Albert, our Bishop, the Most Rev. Albert Thévenot, M. Afr., wished to recognize each religious community that has served the Diocese in the past and to celebrate the service they have so graciously given over the years.

During January, a display of photographs depicting the work of the various religious communities was set up at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for public viewing. The display was then moved to the basement of Sacred Heart Cathedral in February.

The Mass of Appreciation was celebrated on February 2^nd, 7:00 pm at the Cathedral. Our Bishop welcomed the representatives of the various religious communities attending the Mass. Among them were the Most Rev. Sylvain Lavoie, an Oblate of Mary Immaculate from The Pas (MB), the Most Rev. Goulet, a Sulpician from Montreal, and Abbot Peter Novekosky, a Benedictine from Muenster.

In speaking to both men and women religious, Bishop Thévenot spoke of the hardships endured by these early settlers and the steadfast commitment they would have needed to teach, preach and care for the ill and needy in those circumstances. He ended his homily with the words, “Thank you is a small word, but it is expressed with a lot of love.’

A special blessing was given to the religious present, a number of whom presently work in the Diocese. After the Prayers of the Faithful, men and women representing their religious communities presented a rose, which was placed in a vase at the foot of the altar.

After the Eucharist, refreshments were served in the Cathedral basement, amid much laughter and lively conversation. The entire celebration was permeated with a joy that will remain in our hearts and memories for a long time.