Former NHL referee laces up in Rome

Kerry Fraser puts away whistle, discovers Vatican City

Kerry Fraser, who holds the NHL record for most games called, is vacationing in the Eternal City.
(@kfraserthecall / Kerry Fraser's Twitter Feed)

Toronto Maple Leaf fans still heartbroken from their team's 1993 playoff run take note: former NHL referee Kerry Fraser is a convert to Catholicism and far away from Maple Leaf Gardens.

With the hockey season over, he's brought his laconic wit to Twitter with this comment from the Roman Colosseum:

"Glad I didn't work in original Le Colisée! Legend has it they were a tough crowd?"

(For younger fans of the frozen game: before the Quebec City franchise moved to Colorado in 1995, "les Nords" or Nordiques, used to play in Le Colisée.)

"Burnaby Joe" Sakic, in an undated photo, waits to take a face-off as Nordiques captain.
(hrboards.hockeysfuture.com)

Follow Kerry Fraser's trip through Rome and Vatican City through the B.C. Catholic Twitter account: @BCCatholic.

And read an article that explains why the ref converted to Catholicism here.

Educators unite in anti-bullying efforts

Online Reporting Tool an asset to Bully Free Schools campaign

Faith Ford stars in a scene from the TV movie "Field of Vision." The movie explores the theme of bullying in schools and how standing up for what's right pays off, despite the difficulties of doing so. CNS photo / courtesy Field of Vision.

The Catholic Independent Schools of British Columbia (CISBC) have formally joined the province's Ministry of Education in its efforts to end bullying in B.C. schools. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Other stories recently posted to the website include:

Jason Kenney launches petition to support John Paul II Day

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney has launched a petition in support of a bill now before the senate to establish Pope John Paul II Day. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Despite setbacks, Vatican Bank undergoing important evolution

News that Vatican Financial Intelligence Authority has been admitted to a global network of financial oversight agencies proves that the Vatican is threading an international and multilateral path to adhere to international standards. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.

WYD officials calm fears over protests in Brazil

Brazilian prelate claims: 'Protesters themselves are insisting there be no violence'

Photo credit: catholicseeking.blogspot.com

While recent protests in Brazil have gained much publicity, the World Youth Day organization and Brazil's police force are positive this year's celebration will be peaceful and calm.

Photo credit: newsinfo.inquirer.net

"There will not be any safety issues, whether for the Pope or for those in attendance, as we are studying everything down to the smallest details," Domenico Giani, Commander of the Vatican Gendarmerie Police Force, said. The protests began when prices increased for public transport, later growing into a call for better public service from the government and an end to corruption.

Operation centres, patrols, and over 1,000 agents will be distributed across several venues. Archbishop Joao Tempesta Orani of Rio de Janerio commented to the press last month, saying that he has been assured by public authorities that the protests will not affect World Youth Day.

The Secretary General of Brazil’s Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Bishop Leonardo Steiner, has expressed optimism that calm will reign among participants at recent protests, some of which have turned violent, in Brazil. Pope Francis is due to preside at World Youth Day Rio celebrations in the South American nation from July 23-28. 

The Brazilian prelate told Vatican Radio “the protesters themselves are insisting that there be no violence.”

Read the full article on the Vatican Radio website.

WYD coordinator prepares for arrival of Canadian pilgrims in Rio

 New centre to welcome English-speaking pilgrims in Rio

A letter from Msgr. Patrick Powers, the General Secretary of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), has announced that Father Thomas Rosica, CSB, will assist the CCCB as the World Youth Day (WYD) 2013 coordinator. Father Rosica is the CEO of Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation. In 2011, he coordinated the Canadian delegation to Madrid's WYD, and over the last year he has represented the CCCB at WYD meetings in Rome and Rio.

Father Rosica has informed the CCCB that there will be a Welcome Centre for English-speaking pilgrims at Vivo Rio, a performing arts facility in the eastern Flamengo area of Rio. The letter says the Centre will feature:

Experiences of prayer and worship, music, media and videos, motivational speakers, cultural presentations, and networking activities.

The letter adds:

The Canadian government representation in Rio has worked closely with Father Rosica over the past months in preparing for WYD 2013 and the arrival and care of Canadian pilgrims.

St. Joseph included in Eucharistic Prayers

Pope Francis's decree further highlights the importance of the Holy Family's protector

Statue of St. Joseph and the Christ Child. CNS Photo / Ambria Hammel, Catholic Sun.

Under Pope Francis's authority, the Holy See has decreed the inclusion of St. Joseph in the Eucharistic Prayers of the Mass. 

Published on June 19, the Decree "Paternas vices," or "Fatherly care," states the name of St. Joseph will be used in Eucharistic Prayers II, III, and IV after the name of the Virgin Mary.

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has posted the full details on their website.

Samba with the Pope

World Youth Day in Rio: 'Go and make disciples of all nations'

BCC file photo.

Thousands of Canadian youth will be among those gathering for Pope Francis's first World Youth Day in his papacy. Pilgrims will also be given a chance to visit Brazil's dioceses prior to the highly anticipated celebration.

Also part of Canada's delegation are eight bishops, including Archbishop Richard Smith (President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) and Archbishop of Edmonton), and Father Thomas Rosica, CSB, (CEO of Salt & Light Television and CCCB's World Youth Day 2013 delegation coordinator).


The Vivo Rio Welcome Centre (performing arts facility in the eastern area of Flamengo) will be the epicentre of WYD's programming, and there will be several activities around the city.  The centre will also be the venue for the Canadian delegation's national meeting. In addition to engaging with volunteers and youth, Pope Francis will preside at various celebrations such as the welcoming ceremony, celebrate Mass, visit hospitals and young prisoners, and meet with Brazil's leaders.

Join millions of young pilgrims from different continents for this year's World Youth Day in Rio July 23-28.

Young pilgrims from all over the world are expected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, July 23-28, 2013, to participate in the 28th World Youth Day (WYD). This will be the first WYD in the papacy of Pope Francis who will travel to Brazil, July 22-29, on his first apostolic voyage outside Italy since his election. 

Over a thousand Canadian young pilgrims are planning to attend this international gathering. Its theme is "Go and Make Disciples of All Nations". Following the example of the 2011 WYD in Madrid, the Canadian pilgrims will again gather for a national celebration. This will be on July 25 at the Vivo Rio Welcome Centre. From July 16 to 20, Canadian youth pilgrims will have the opportunity to visit the dioceses of Brazil as part of a missionary week. 

For full article, visit the CCCB website.
To live-stream the event, visit the Salt and Light website for their special feature.

Petition calls for Blessed John Paul II Day

Minister of Immigration garners support for Bill C-266

Pope John Paul II (now Blessed) speaks at a 1987 teleconference. The pontiff is approved for canonization and may also be celebrated in Canada by "Pope John Paul II Day" if Bill C-266 passes. (Photo: CNS)

An act to mark April 2 as Pope John Paul II Day in Canada passed the House of Commons June 12 and will now be considered by the Senate. Honourable Jason Kenney urges Canadians to show their support of the bill through an online petition.

Blessed Pope John Paul II was a champion of freedom in the face of tyranny and promoted universal values of human rights and democracy. He was an inspiration to many and it is unfortunate that nearly half of the NDP Caucus, including their leader, voted against this bill to honour a modern day hero.

He states that Blessed Pope John Paul II was "not only a religious figure, but also a profoundly important civic leader who built lasting relationships with other faith groups."

The Vatican recently announced that the famous pope is approved for canonization. No date has been set for that celebration.

Kenney's petition can be found here.

Alberta priest almost drowns, saves lives

'God is with us in good times and bad,' says High River's Father Edward Hospet

An interior shot of St. Francis de Sales Church in High River July 3. Taylor Weaver / High River Times.

June 20 started as a normal day for many citizens in High River, Alta., including Father Edward Hospet, pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish. By the afternoon, however, he'd almost drowned, been rescued, then fought to help save others from the worst flood in more than a century. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.



Other stories recently posted to the site include the following:

St. Paul's Hospital opens sacred space

Decorated with colours and patterns significant to aboriginal peoples, the All Nations Sacred Space at St. Paul's Hospital gives consideration to a distinct aspect of wellbeing. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.



Lawsuit seeks to uncover influences on HHS mandate policy

The Diocese of Pittsburgh has filed a lawsuit charging that the federal government created illegal barriers to its request for information about lobbyist influence on the HHS contraception mandate. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.

Papal encyclical by four hands

Faith: a pathway to God

Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, holds a copy of Pope Francis's first encyclical, "Lumen Fidei" ("The Light of Faith"), during a news conference for its release at the Vatican July 5. CNS photo / Paul Haring.

Father Thomas Rosica, CSB, shared his insight on Pope Francis's first encyclical, "Lumen Fidei," describing how the encyclical is a reflection on the gift and meaning of faith. "Lumen Fidei" is the last of three papal teachings on the three theological virtues. The first two, on hope and love, were written by Pope Benedict XVI. This last document was started by Pope Benedict XVI, but completed by Pope Francis. "Lumen Fidei" explains that faith is a light of guidance which paves a pathway to God.

The "Light of Faith" by Four Hands:

In order to begin to understand the magnitude of Pope Francis's first Encyclical, "Lumen Fidei," we must take into consideration a scene in the Vatican Gardens early this morning which preceded the unveiling of this great papal teaching prepared by "four hands." Pope Francis went to the Vatican Gardens to bless a new statue of St. Michael the Archangel and to consecrate the Vatican to the Archangel's protection. To the delight of hundreds of employees of the Vatican City State, he was accompanied by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who joined Pope Francis in the blessing. It was a fitting, simple gesture to begin an historic day at the Vatican and for the Church. St. Michael was blessed by four hands.

Later this morning in the Vatican Press Centre, Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops; Archbishop Gerhard Müller, Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith; and Archbishop Rino Fisichella, President of the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization; presented Pope Francis’s first encyclical letter, “Lumen Fidei,” the final document of a trilogy of papal teachings long desired by Pope Benedict XVI.  Benedict had written the first two documents on hope (Spe Salvi, 2007) and love (Deus Caritas Est, 2005), but his resignation in February left the task unfinished.  Today the circle is complete.  While many are claiming today’s work a “first” in recent Church history, in fact Pope Benedict’s first encyclical, “Deus Caritas Est,” was thought to have been based on a draft encyclical John Paul II had been planning to issue prior to his death in 2005.

Complete encyclical available here.

'Lumen Fidei': a summary

Pope Francis's first encyclical: 'fantastic' in summary

To encourage and motivate people to read through and learn more about the Catholic faith, Kevin Cotter has organized a concise summary of Pope Francis's first encyclical, outlining each of its four chapters, and giving us several notable quotes. It begins with a reflection on salvation history – the story of God's people – which builds into a focus on the relationship between faith and truth. The third chapter explains the community's reception of its faith, which leads us to accept the Eucharist and the other sacraments. Finally, Pope Francis's encyclical proclaims that faith is the foundation of our society, marriage, and family. As Cotter writes, "Faith should provide us with joy."

Summary of the introduction: The encyclical starts with what the ancients put their faith in and proceeds to move directly to what our culture believes about faith – that it is something for the blind, those driven by emotion. But, at the same time, our culture is discovering that reason is not enough. Confusion has set in on what is good and evil, right and wrong. Faith in Jesus and love in Him gives us a new vision to see the world. 

Summary of Chapter 1: Chapter 1 reviews Salvation History—the story of God's people—to see faith throughout history. It begins with Abraham, who St. Paul often quotes and uses as an example in the New Testament. It is noted that God speaks and acts towards Abraham as one in a relationship, not as a god who is far away. Our faith in Him calls us to make a step forward—to go on a journey with Him, just like Abraham. In this journey, our relationships with God are not just about our faith in Him, but in His faith in us! We can jeopardize this relationship with idolatry. The story of Israel points to the temptation of idolatry—to worship that which we make with our own hands. Finally, the story of faith finds its summation in Jesus. He is the fulfillment of all of God's promises and at the same time shows us why we can trust Him—He died for us! Because He came into our reality, we can now truly see reality. God is not something beyond us; He is someone who acts in the here and now.

For full summary, visit the FOCUS Blog .

For Pope Francis's full encyclical, visit bccatholic.ca.

Calgary diocese pulls together during catastrophe

Pastoral centre, cathedral, and St. Mary's High School evacuated

St. Mary's High School, seen from the opposite bank of the Elbow River June 24. Bishop Fred Henry of Calgary said the building was flooded to a "total of three feet." Sister Theresa Smith, FCJ / Special to The B.C. Catholic.

The largest floods since before Alberta joined Confederation in 1905 have forced the Diocese of Calgary's workers, parishioners, and students to evacuate the diocesan pastoral centre, St. Mary's Cathedral, and St. Mary's High School. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Other stories recently posted to the website include:

Pro-life movement continues to gain momentum

After 25 years with no law against abortion, one activist believes change is on the horizon. Reflecting on the recent actions of pro-life activists, Mike Schouten, executive director of the weneedaLAW.ca campaign, is hopeful that change is coming. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.



Former Popes John Paul II and John XXIII to be canonized

Pope Francis has approved the cause for canonization of two previous Popes, Blessed John Paul II and Blessed John XXIII. The announcement was made on July 5, the same day as Pope Francis's first encyclical, "The Light of Faith," was released. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.

God keep our land, glorious and free!

Archbishop Miller: 'Ours is a land of ample opportunities, vast resources'

Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB, (middle), after a Mass inside the John Paul II Pastoral Centre.
The prelate hopes the archdiocesan faithful remember that 'as Canadians, we have much to be thankful for.'
(Alistair Burns / The B.C. Catholic.)

Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB, has released a message for Canada Day:

On this Canada Day, I join with you in celebrating the great nation in which we are blessed to live.

“He shall rule from sea to sea,” says Psalm 72: “From Sea to Sea” a mari usque ad mare is Canada’s motto.  On this July 1, I invite you to pray for Canada and all who live here, from sea to sea.

As Canadians we have much to be thankful for.  Ours is a land of ample opportunities, vast resources and a high quality of life.

We are especially thankful for the freedoms that Canada offers, in particular religious liberty, which enables us to practice our religion freely and openly.  It is recognized as a fundamental freedom in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Let us pray for our legislators and jurists, that they may be inspired by the first words of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: “Whereas Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the supremacy of God and the rule of law.”

As we thank God for the gift of Canada, we must keep foremost in mind our less fortunate brothers and sisters, in our country and around the world.  May we work to bring about the justice and peace for which they yearn, so that the day may come when we can truly say, “The rulers of the earth belong to God…who reigns over all” (Psalm 47).

New papal encyclical released July 5

Cardinal Marc Ouellet to unveil Lumen Fidei

(Photo credit: Vatican.va.)

An encyclical that was begun by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and finished by Pope Francis in recent months will be coming out very soon. 

Cardinal Marc Ouellet will show off the first copies of Lumen Fidei, which means “The Light of Faith," at a press conference July 5.

Calgary prelate gives tips on how to behave

Bishop Fred Henry teaches Mass etiquette

Bishop Fred Henry of Calgary wonders if "we aren't losing some of that reverence for God."
(Photo credit: Diocese of Calgary.)

Before the catastrophic floods recently shut down the Diocese of Calgary's pastoral centre, Bishop Fred Henry released a fun blog post on "Church Etiquette." Here's a taste:

I sometimes wonder if we aren't losing some of that reverence for God and for one another. How should we behave at Mass?

We come together to celebrate the Eucharist, the partaking of the body and blood of Christ. Reverence is called for. Are we taking a far too casual attitude toward this holy celebration?

Dorothy Pilarski, a Catholic blogger, has offered a number of points worth pondering. Here is an abbreviated list (with a few of Bishop Henry's own added comments):

1. Remember you have entered into the house of God for the purpose of prayer, adoration, and reflection. Now is not the time to talk to your friends. 

(Gathering areas or vestibules are good places for this), but in church talk to God (pray and prepare to celebrate the Eucharist). Please do not bring in any cups of coffee!

2. Turn off cell phones. 

3. Dress with dignity for Mass. It seems that many women, many girls in this day and age have a need to always have a 'sexy' (or hot) look. Mass is not a cocktail party. Mass is not a hockey game. 

Come dressed with decorum, an aura of dignity.  I don't think that we need a rigid dress code but if torn jeans are not acceptable at a golf club, why at church?The same would apply to men's muscle shirts - they just don't cut it.

However, whenever addressing the issue of attire, one must always add a cautionary note - While we do owe our Lord our best, the Mass isn't a fashion show.

Read the full blog post here.

Mariachi band serenades outgoing pastor of St. Pius X

Msgr. Pedro Lopez-Gallo will continue to be judicial vicar of archdiocese, B.C. Catholic columnist

Msgr. Pedro Lopez-Gallo (wearing sombrero) says farewell to his parishioners at St. Pius X in North Vancouver June 9. Born in Mexico, he decided to bring a mariachi band to liven up a party in his honour. Photo submitted.

Many who had been baptized, confirmed, or married by Msgr. Pedro Lopez-Gallo gave him a heartfelt farewell June 9. Their priest, the pastor of St. Pius X Parish since August 1986, will retire from parish ministry in July. In a poignant nod to his Mexican roots, a mariachi band serenaded the sombrero-wearing monsignor during a post-Mass party. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Other stories recently posted to the website include:

Artist's faith grows through Benedict XVI portrait

A British artist who has painted the British royal family and Margaret Thatcher in person says his Christian faith "deepened" after completing a portrait of Benedict XVI. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Bishop urges SSVP to help the poor and fight causes of poverty

Continue to help the poor but also find ways to fight the causes of poverty Gatineau Archbishop Paul-Andre Durocher told members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Ottawa June 28. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.

Beatification of Archbishop Andrey Sheptytsky may be completed in 2015

Metropolitan Sheptytsky led Ukrainian Church through two world wars

The Religious Information Service of Ukraine reported July 1 about the beatification of Metropolitan Archbishop Andrey Sheptytsky, OSBM, of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC).  Metropolitan Andrey was the Metropolitan Archbishop of Lviv from 1901 until his death in 1944, and during that time he led the Ukrainian Church through two world wars. The cause for beatification of Metropolitan Andrey is expected to be completed in two years.

“Therefore, I think, that the process of his beatification will be completed by 2015. I expect that in two years we will be praising him as Blessed Metropolitan Andrey,” stated Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head of the UGCC during a pilgrimage to Stradch, Ukraine.

Full story available here.

Archbishops sign declaration of reconciliation

Polish and Ukrainian Catholics commemorate the anniversary of Volyn


Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Ukraine (left) and Archbishop Jozef Michalik (right) of Poland signed joint declaration of reconciliation.



The Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk paid an official visit to the Republic of Poland to sign a declaration of reconciliation with the leader of the Polish Roman Catholic Episcopate, Archbishop Jozef Michalik. On June 27 the two archbishops participated in a memorial service to mark the 70th anniversary of the Volyn massacres.

“We are aware that only the truth can set us free, the truth, which does not beautify and does not omit, which does not pass over in silence, but leads to forgiveness,” today's statement reads.

“As leader of the Polish Episcopate, I carry the request for forgiveness from our Ukrainian brothers,” Archbishop Michalik stressed.

Full story available on the Religious Information Service of Ukraine.

Praying for an end to abortion

Taking of innocent life a violation of God's law

 Pro-life Mass and Prayer Vigil – Holy Family  Parish, Sechelt, September 2009.

As harm continues to be inflicted on human beings, pro-lifers will continue to protest and speak for those who can't raise their own voices. Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB, gave a homily to encourage the people to defend life  at the first Saturday Mass, Jan. 5, 2013:

Like the first fratricide (when Cain murdered Abel), every murder, every deliberate taking of innocent human life, is a violation of the spiritual relationship uniting humankind in one great family.

St. Luke's Parish will respond to abortion with prayer on Saturday, July 6. A Mass will be said at 9 a.m. in the Church, 20285 Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge, and will be followed by a peaceful and prayerful vigil for unborn children and their parents. The vigil will be at Ridge Meadows Hospital, where the rosary will be prayed.

More information available here.

Catholic priest beheaded in Syria

Government condemns killing, whether by gun or knife

Father Raymond Moussalli, a Syrian priest, prays with Iraqi children for peace in Iraq and Syria during Mass at a Chaldean Catholic church in Amman, Jordan. CNS photo / Ali Jarekji, Reuters.

"Canada is appalled by reports of the beheading of Roman Catholic priest Father Francois Murad, a Franciscan friar, and others near Gassanieh in northern Syria," said Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird in a July 1 statement. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


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Religious freedom groups worried over final HHS mandate

Despite assurances from the Obama administration that the finalized version of the contraception mandate accounts for freedom of conscience, some religious liberty advocates are still concerned. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Perogy sales fund church upkeep

From dumplings on a plate to fixtures on a roof, citizens of New Westminster have helped to pay for the upkeep of a Ukrainian Cathedral by eating perogies. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.

Burnaby club takes gold in provincial tournament

Under-14 girls team's win earns them a place in the Western Canadian Volleyball Championship

Coaches Chris Phillips (left) and Lisa Tam (right, back row) pose with their team after winning gold medals at a provincial tournament in May. Fred Winters (front right), captain of Canada's men's volleyball team, joins in. Photo submitted.

Wanting to play volleyball with their friends, five girls from St. Thomas More Collegiate tried out with Action Elite Volleyball. By pure coincidence nine of the 11 players were Catholics, seven of them currently attending Catholic schools. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


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Traditionalists indicate definitive break with Catholic Church

On the 25th anniversary of the illicit ordination of four bishops by traditionalist Bishop Marcel Lefebvre, the Society of Saint Pius X indicated a definitive break in talks with the Catholic Church. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


Society of Saint Vincent de Paul a powerful tool of evangelism: president

As the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) focuses on justice as well as charity, faith formation and evangelization are key, said international president general Michael Thio. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.