Tomorrow, Wednesday May 7th, 133 Cardinals from across the world gather for a conclave (from the Latin cum clavis, meaning "with key") to elect a new Pope. This time, which mirrors the time spent by the disciples in the Upper Room awaiting the Holy Spirit, is marked by constant prayer and discernment for God’s will. However, it’s not just up to the Cardinals to pray. All the faithful are invited to invoke the Holy Spirit “so that we may elect a worthy pastor of the entire flock of Christ.” Therefore, please add the Cardinals, the new Pope, and the whole church to your prayers in the coming days. And, keep an eye out for white smoke.
This weekend is mother’s day. As we remember Pope Francis, let us invoke his prayer for mother’s last year at this time:
“Let us recall with gratitude and affection all mothers, those who are still with us and those who have gone to Heaven. Let us entrust them to Mary, the mother of Jesus.”
May the Blessed Virgin Mary, who truly knows the ups and downs of motherhood, intercede for all mothers this weekend.
May 11-18: National Family and Life Week
“Abound in hope!” This powerful message from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans is the theme for National Family and Life Week 2025, which begins on Sunday, May 11th, and concludes on Sunday, May 18th. As we journey together as “Pilgrims of Hope” in this Jubilee Year, let us reflect on the gift of hope God gives us through our families.
Last week almost 80 teenagers gathered at Saint Benedict Parish for our second Steubenville Night of Worship! Registration for Steubenville Atlantic is still open for a few more weeks, be sure to register with your group as soon as possible! All of the information for Steubenville Registration can be found on our website steubenville.ca .
Year End Celebration for Diploma in New Evangelization and EQUIP Program
This week marks the end of the year for the Diploma in the New Evangelization and the diocesan EQUIP program. Participants in the EQUIP program take part in small groups and retreats in order to be formed in the faith and trained to engage in the mission of the church at the parish level, while also taking courses to provide a solid theological foundation and education. EQUIP participants from across the diocese came together and celebrated their year-end retreat this past weekend as they reflected on the themes of Pilgrims of Hope, based on the theme of our current Jubilee Year.
The Christian Medical and Dental Association – Canada (CMDA) continues to offer education and awareness in regards to MAiD and it’s negative impact on our healthcare system and healthcare workers. To continue their efforts CMDA is designating May 18 as Dignity Sunday in Nova Scotia. And invite people to take action. CMDA shares it’s latest initiative:
