WORLD DAY OF THE SICK - The ministry of Jesus to the sick is central to the life of the Church. Pope John Paul II in announcing this day stated; “I consider most appropriate, indeed, the bestowal upon the entire ecclesial community of an initiative which, as already practised in some nations and regions, has brought forth precious pastoral fruit.” Each year this observance occurs on Feb. 11, the memorial of our Lady of Lourdes. This day highlights the healing ministry of the Church. It reminds us that service to the sick and suffering cannot be neglected. It recognizes the great efforts of doctors, nurses, health care institutions and pastoral care givers to restore health to those afflicted with illness and disease. In recognition of this day, Holy Cross Parish will celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick at the 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Masses on Sun., Feb. 11. If you or someone you know wishes to receive the sacrament, plan to attend one of these Masses next Sunday. 

CONFIRMATION PARENT/CANDIDATE MEETING #3 – will take place on Feb. 6,  7:30 p.m. at St. Dominic School.

YOUTH SKI/SNOWBOARD DAY – Holy Cross and Resurrection Parishes are hosting this event for grades 6 – 8 youth at Mission Ridge on Sat., Feb. 17, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. 

• The day includes: provision of a lift ticket, ski/snowboard equipment and a 1-hour ski or snowboard lesson. Following the lesson, participants can ski/snowboard until 4 p.m. Lunch is not provided. 
• Cost: $21.40 for ski equipment package or $27.82 for snowboard package. Those with their own equipment: $12.84. Adults accompanying youth can ski at these rates and participate in the lesson. Transportation will be provided by volunteers. HELP!
• There is a Safe Skiing Presentation (mandatory) on Feb. 16, 7 – 9 p.m. at St. Gabriel School. All participants must sign a liability release.
• Ecumenical Aspect: Youth groups from other Christian faiths in the immediate community will be invited to participate.
• For more information or to register call Michelle: 546-3328.

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION LUNCHEON & ANNUAL MEETING – Sunday, Feb. 18, 12 Noon. Everyone is welcome. Copies of the Annual Report are available for pick up. 
 
 

Dear Friends in Christ:

We are all aware of the challenges facing our parishes today. Not the least of these challenges is the shortage of clergy and the dwindling numbers in church attendance.

I believe this is the right time for a major review of the issues facing the Archdiocese. We need a clear statement of our vision as a people of God. At the outset of this review, I am inviting your input. To accomplish this very difficult task requires all of us to think about what our vision is for the church 25 years from now. In order to initiate this process, I have established a Visioning Steering Committee. This committee is to be composed of clergy, religious and lay people representing the rural and urban demographics of the Archdiocese. Over the next two years, this committee will lead a process of reflection and dialogue involving everyone from parishes, through deanery, to Archdiocesan councils and groups.

As we begin this process, I am asking for your concerns and suggestions, either through your parish councils or directly to the visioning committee. These ideas should look to the needs of our church in the future, providing suggestions on how we can better have a joyful, hope-filled Christian life in the years to come.

May God bless you all.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Peter J. Mallon
Archbishop of Regina

P.S. The next meeting of the Visioning Steering Committee will be in early March. Please write or e-mail your suggestions to:

The Visioning Committee
Diocesan Centre
445 Broad Street N.
Regina, SK S4R 2X8

Fax: 352-6313 E-mail: chancery@archregina.sk.ca

ASH WEDNESDAY

If you priest doesn’t measure up, simply send this letter to six other parishes that are tired of their priest too. Then bundle up your priest and send him to the church at the top of the list. Then remove that church, and add your own to the bottom. In one week you will receive 1643 priests, and one of them should be perfect.

This letter must be passed on within 15 days. Have faith in this matter – one church broke the chain and got its old priest back in less than 3 months!!!

MILLER HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION NIGHT - Parents of present grade 8 students who will be entering grade 9 next year are invited to attend an information meeting and facilities tour on Tues., Feb. 13, at 7:00 p.m. at Miller. The goal of the meeting is to provide parents/guardians with information on the high school programs available at Miller. 

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM – St. Dominic School will possibly be integrating a Preschool program for 3 – 4 year olds at the school. If your child is 3 or 4 years old, you are welcome to register for the program. Registrations will be taken at the school office between 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. school days. You will need to bring your child’s birth certificate and Saskatchewan Health Card.

WHIST DRIVE – Feb. 4, 7:00 p.m. St. Charles Parish. (1171 Broder Street) 

CATHOLIC FAMILY SERVICES ANNUAL FUNDRAISING DINNER – Fri., Feb. 16, Delta Hotel, featuring entertainment by Dick and the Dickettes, a local comedy act. Tickets are $65. Tables of 8 & 10 are available. Call: 525-0521.
Catholic Family Services needs your support!

VALENTINE’S DANCE – Canadian Martyrs Parish, Feb. 17, Cocktails: 6 p.m., Supper 7 p.m., Dance 8:30 p.m. $12.50 per person. For tickets call Pat: 949-3289 or Frank: 545-7908.