Parish Briefings Archive

Parish Briefings for September 16, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

THANKSGIVING APPEAL ENVELOPES

We’re a bit behind, so there’s a tight deadline for Thanksgiving Appeal envelopes. If you need some, please fill out the form at this link by end of day on Thursday, Sept 18. The cost is about $0.13 each.

Family of Parishes Pastoral Council and Finance Council Day - POSTPONED

The gatherings for parish Pastoral & Finance Councils scheduled for September 27 in London and October 18 in Comber have been postponed until spring 2026. Anyone who had registered has already received a notification. More information on the new dates will be shared in the future.

Clarification on Vulnerable Sector Checks
As a follow-up to our recent update on Vulnerable Sector Checks (VSCs), we want to clarify who is required to obtain one.

A VSC is only required for:

• Volunteers working directly with youth, such as in youth ministry, Sunday school, or sacramental preparation.
• Individuals working alone with vulnerable adults, including those who are infirm or developmentally disabled.

Exceptions:

• No VSC is required if parents are present with their own children.
• Volunteers whose role only occasionally brings them into contact with youth, such as a regular choir director or sacristan.

The OPP has clarified that a VSC is necessary only when the role involves more than simply interacting with, or being in the vicinity of, vulnerable persons. If this threshold is not met, the OPP will not process the request.  Please contact Claire Bondy at cbondy@dol.ca if you have any further questions.

Beyond Publisher: New Paths for Parish Bulletins Webinar Series

As Microsoft Publisher is phased out, we are pleased to offer a series of workshops introducing parish secretaries and communications staff to two new programs designed to support bulletin preparation and parish communications. These sessions will be guided by your input and evolving needs, ensuring the training is relevant and practical. Our goal is that by June, you will feel confident and equipped to use one of these programs to effectively share the Good News within your Families of Parishes.  Details and registration link can be found here.

Update your Bookmarks – New URL for London South

The London South Catholic Family of Parishes has changed their URL. Please use www.londonsouthcatholic.com to access their website. The domain name “www.londonsouthcatholic.ca” no longer works.

Seminarian Posters and Prayer Cards

One of the traditions in the Vocations Office is the printing and distributing of our seminarian prayer cards and poster. These are currently being designed and will be distributed directly to each of the Family of Parishes by mail. The same number of posters and prayer cards will be distributed as in the previous year. If you did not receive these, or would like to modify the amount sent to your Family of Parishes, please send an e-mail directly to the Vocations Office at vocations@dol.ca.

Jeremiah Day - Saturday, October 4, 2025 from 10am to 3pm
The story of the prophet Jeremiah tells us that it is never too early to think about God’s plan for us. This is a day for young men (grades 8 to 12) to grow closer to God and to visit our seminary. The activities include a tour of St. Peter’s Seminary, Mass, lunch, time for prayer and an indoor sports activity in the afternoon. You can find both the registration and poster at https://dolpriest.ca/discernwithothers.

Come and See Weekend - Friday, November 21st to Sunday, November 23rd, 2025
St. Peter's Seminary is holding a discernment retreat for men 17 years old and older, who are baptized Catholics and are considering a call to the priesthood. This weekend offers a firsthand experience of the life of a seminarian, provides spiritual help for discernment and offers the opportunity to meet current seminarians and faculty of St. Peter's Seminary. Please extend a personal invitation to young men in your parish, and have him contact Fr. Rob Renaud directly at r.renaud@dol.ca or 519-432-1824 ext. 204 to register.

Development and Peace – Caritas Canada: Act for Debt Justice
Today, 3.4 billion people live in countries that spend more on debt payments than on healthcare or education. Join in calling for the cancellation and restructuring of unjust and unsustainable debt, and for action to address its root causes. Get informed — your can attend a local workshop in London, Chatham, or Windsor-Essex: register at this link. (Note: this is not a fundraising campaign, but seeks to raise awareness and encourage people to sign a petition. A printable poster is at this link.)

Job Opportunity
The Elgin Roman Catholic Family of Parishes is seeking a Part-time Handyperson. The details are at this link.

REMINDERS

"Come and see" with the Capuchin Franciscans

Come and see what life is like as a Capuchin Franciscan. This day is for single men, aged 18+, who are discerning their calling in life. If you feel drawn to a life of fraternity, outreach to those in need and prayer, Capuchin Franciscan life may be for you! We will pray together, learn about discernment and hear from Capuchin brothers about their way of life. You are welcome to join them on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at St. Francis Friary, 9169 W. Ridge Line, Blenheim. To confirm your attendance or for more information, please contact:

Br. Michael Mascarenhas, Vocation Director at (226) 238-4747 or email michaelanthony.m@gmail.com.  

Huron Perth Crossroads Anniversary Event

St. Patrick’s Parish in Dublin will be celebrating its 125^th anniversary on Sunday, October 5th, 2025. A printable poster is at this link. All are welcome at this event.

Veritas Lecture Series

The Veritas Lecture Series is returning for the 2025-2026 Academic Year at King’s University College. The first presentation is “Not the Right Thing To Do, the Only Thing To Do: How Indigenous Education Will Save the World” by Dr. Nigaan Sinclair on Monday, September 22.This is the

President’s Lecture and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Dr. Sinclair is Anishinaabe from Peguis First Nation and an award-winning writer and professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba. More information is available at this link and a printable poster for the full series of speakers is at this link.t

Faithcation 2025

Everyone 18 years of age and older is invited to FAITHCATION 2025 taking place at the Holy Family Retreat House in Oxley from Friday night on September 26 to Sunday, September 28. The theme of this year’s retreat is PILGRIMS OF HOPE - THE LEGACY OF POPE FRANCIS.  Come to relax, pray, and reflect on the gift of being faithful disciples in our world today. For more information, please contact Fr. John Jasica at jjasica@dol.ca. A poster is available at this link and you can register at this link.

An Outdoor Jubilee Concert

The Kent Lambton Roman Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting an outdoor Jubilee concert at Our Lady Help of Christians church in Wallaceburg (422 Elgin Street) on Friday, October 3. There is an elementary school concert from 12:45 to 2:15 and an Evening Concert from 6:00 to 8:30. More information is on a  printable flyer is at this link. We are Pilgrims of Hope!

Laudato Si’: Chapter Three - The Human Roots of the Ecological Crisis

As we continue to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the encyclical letter Laudato Si', we examine The Human Roots of the Ecological Crisis. This month's Laudato Si' Action Plan offered a summary of the 'globalization of the technocratic paradigm.’ We live in a culture deeply characterized and shaped by technology which has its pros and cons. This month's summary examines this technological paradigm.  The summary and other Laudato Si' Action Plans can be found at this link.

Save the Date – The Bishop’s 75th

Join us in celebrating Bishop Fabbro’s 75th birthday with a special evening of joy, gratitude, and shared mission. In honour of this milestone, this event will replace the annual Windsor Bishop’s Dinner for this year only, and will support ministries close to Bishop Fabbro’s heart.

- Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor. Ticket and sponsorship information is coming soon. Visit www.dol.ca/bishop75 for updates.

Parish Briefings for September 9, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

For parish teams and others being asked about the Church’s position on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, you can refer and/or direct people to the statement put out by the CCCB on August 25 in English and French.

Laudato Si’: Chapter Three - The Human Roots of the Ecological Crisis

As we continue to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the encyclical letter Laudato Si', we examine The Human Roots of the Ecological Crisis. This month's Laudato Si' Action Plan offered a summary of the 'globalization of the technocratic paradigm.’ We live in a culture deeply characterized and shaped by technology which has its pros and cons. This month's summary examines this technological paradigm.  The summary and other Laudato Si' Action Plans can be found at this link.

Save A Family Plan Appeal

Now celebrating its 60^th year, Save A Family Plan has launched its “Health, Hope & Hygiene” campaign, with the goal of building 60 sanitary toilets for impoverished families in India.  Thanks to the generous support a two long-time donors in Kingston, Ontario, all donations before Oct. 9 will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $20,000. Parishes are asked to share this link in their bulletins and social media: www.safp.org/health-hope-hygiene.

"Come and see" with the Capuchin Franciscans

Come and see what life is like as a Capuchin Franciscan. This day is for single men, aged 18+, who are discerning their calling in life. If you feel drawn to a life of fraternity, outreach to those in need and prayer, Capuchin Franciscan life may be for you! We will pray together, learn about discernment and hear from Capuchin brothers about their way of life. You are welcome to join them on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at St. Francis Friary, 9169 W. Ridge Line, Blenheim. To confirm your attendance or for more information, please contact:

Br. Michael Mascarenhas, Vocation Director at (226) 238-4747 or email michaelanthony.m@gmail.com.  

Veritas Lecture Series

The Veritas Lecture Series is returning for the 2025-2026 Academic Year at King’s University College. The first presentation is “Not the Right Thing To Do, the Only Thing To Do: How Indigenous Education Will Save the World” by Dr. Nigaan Sinclair on Monday, September 22.This is the

President’s Lecture and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Dr. Sinclair is Anishinaabe from Peguis First Nation and an award-winning writer and professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba. More information is available at this link and a printable poster for the full series of speakers is at this link.

REMINDERS

Huron Perth Crossroads Anniversary Event

St. Patrick’s Parish in Dublin will be celebrating its 125^th anniversary on Sunday, October 5th, 2025. A printable poster is at this link. All are welcome at this event.

REMINDER - Family of Parishes Pastoral Council and Finance Council Day - Registration Open

Registration is now open for our Fall Gathering for Pastoral & Finance Councils — a day of spiritual reflection, practical resources, networking, and lunch. Choose from Saturday, September 27 in London or Saturday, October 18 in Comber. This free event is open to all council members, with each Family of Parishes encouraged to send at least one representative from each council. Details and registration are at this link.

John McDermott Concert in Support of St. Joseph’s, Stratford

From Avon-Thames Catholic Family of Parishes: “Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of music, soul, and pure energy - John McDermott is taking the stage at St. Joseph's Parish in Stratford, Ontario on Saturday, September 20th at 2:30 p.m. for a unique, one-show-only experience that promises to delight and inspire! Known for blending traditional Celtic and folk roots with a classical touch, John McDermott’s heartfelt ballads and rich, emotional vocals bring timeless Irish and Scottish classics like “Danny Boy” to life. With sincerity and grace, he’s set to light up the church and unite the audience for an afternoon of celebration and connection. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this is a concert you won’t want to miss.” More details are available at this link and a printable flyer (.png) is available at this link.

Catholic Central High School 75th Reunion

September 20, 2025. Afternoon Mass 12:00 – 1:00 pm at St. Peter’s Basilica

School Open House 1:00 – 3:00 pm at CCH

CCH 75th Anniversary Reunion Parties (tickets for both events are open to all alumni)

1950s-1980s 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm J-AAR Expo Centre

1990s to 2020’s 5:30 to 9:00 pm

Montana’s BBQ & Bar

For more information about the Alumni Party events, including food and ticket information, please visit:

Catholic Central High School Alumni on Facebook or Catholic Central Secondary Friends on Facebook

Information is also available by emailing: cch75alumnievent@gmail.com (50s-80s) or s_legresley@hotmail.com (90s-2020s)

Faithcation 2025

Everyone 18 years of age and older is invited to FAITHCATION 2025 taking place at the Holy Family Retreat House in Oxley from Friday night on September 26 to Sunday, September 28. The theme of this year’s retreat is PILGRIMS OF HOPE - THE LEGACY OF POPE FRANCIS.  Come to relax, pray, and reflect on the gift of being faithful disciples in our world today. For more information, please contact Fr. John Jasica at jjasica@dol.ca. A poster is available at this link and you can register at this link.

An Outdoor Jubilee Concert

The Kent Lambton Roman Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting an outdoor Jubilee concert at Our Lady Help of Christians church in Wallaceburg (422 Elgin Street) on Friday, October 3. There is an elementary school concert from 12:45 to 2:15 and an Evening Concert from 6:00 to 8:30. More information is on a  printable flyer is at this link. We are Pilgrims of Hope!

Season of Creation 2025 – Peace with Creation

Each year, the Vatican Secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development invites us to join all Christians for a worldwide celebration of prayer and action to protect our common home and all people who share it. This year, the theme for the Season of Creation is Peace with Creation. Catholics are encouraged to take part in the annual Season of Creation (September 1 - October 4),  A summary brochure of the guide has been prepared by the Diocese at this link to assist us in this celebration and highlight ways individuals or parishes can participate. You can also learn more at https://seasonofcreation.org/.  

Save the Date – The Bishop’s 75th

Join us in celebrating Bishop Fabbro’s 75th birthday with a special evening of joy, gratitude, and shared mission. In honour of this milestone, this event will replace the annual Windsor Bishop’s Dinner for this year only, and will support ministries close to Bishop Fabbro’s heart.

- Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor. Ticket and sponsorship information is coming soon. Visit www.dol.ca/bishop75 for updates.

Parish Briefings for September 2, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

Huron Perth Crossroads Events

The Huron Perth Crossroads Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting a Jubilee Rosary Rally this Saturday, September 6 starting with Mass at 10:00 a.m. For more information contact Karen Doyle kdoyle@dol.ca or see the flyer available at this link. As well, St. Patrick’s Parish in Dublin will be celebrating its 125^th anniversary on Sunday, October 5th, 2025. A printable poster is at this link. All are welcome at both events.

Assumption University - New Course (starts this week)

Assumption University is offering a new online and synchronous course called "Catholicism and Marginalization." It explores how the Church is trying to be more inclusive to groups often felt without a voice, such as women, the elderly, youth, and racialized and LGBTQ+ communities. Individuals can apply to take the course at this link. There are no international fees or ancillary fees at Assumption. The course meets once per week on Thursdays from 6:00-8:50 beginning September 4th. Dr. Heejung Cho will be the professor. More information is at this link

Job Opportunities

The Windsor Lake St. Clair Catholic Family of Parishes is seeking a part-time cook, the Lake Huron Catholic Family of Parishes is hiring a part-time housekeeper and the Central Essex Catholic Family of Parishes is hiring a part-time business manager. The details are at dol.ca/employment.

REMINDERS

REMINDER - Family of Parishes Pastoral Council and Finance Council Day - Registration Open

Registration is now open for our Fall Gathering for Pastoral & Finance Councils — a day of spiritual reflection, practical resources, networking, and lunch. Choose from Saturday, September 27 in London or Saturday, October 18 in Comber. This free event is open to all council members, with each Family of Parishes encouraged to send at least one representative from each council. Details and registration are at this link.

ORDO Orders

Please place your 2025-2026 Ordo orders at this link by the end of the day on Monday, September 8. They are available in French and English and the cost is the same as last year, $17.00.

John McDermott Concert in Support of St. Joseph’s, Stratford

From Avon-Thames Catholic Family of Parishes: “Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of music, soul, and pure energy - John McDermott is taking the stage at St. Joseph's Parish in Stratford, Ontario on Saturday, September 20th at 2:30 p.m. for a unique, one-show-only experience that promises to delight and inspire! Known for blending traditional Celtic and folk roots with a classical touch, John McDermott’s heartfelt ballads and rich, emotional vocals bring timeless Irish and Scottish classics like “Danny Boy” to life. With sincerity and grace, he’s set to light up the church and unite the audience for an afternoon of celebration and connection. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this is a concert you won’t want to miss.” More details are available at this link and a printable flyer (.png) is available at this link.

Catholic Central High School 75th Reunion

September 20, 2025. Afternoon Mass 12:00 – 1:00 pm at St. Peter’s Basilica

School Open House 1:00 – 3:00 pm at CCH

CCH 75th Anniversary Reunion Parties (tickets for both events are open to all alumni)

1950s-1980s 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm J-AAR Expo Centre

1990s to 2020’s 5:30 to 9:00 pm

Montana’s BBQ & Bar

For more information about the Alumni Party events, including food and ticket information, please visit:

Catholic Central High School Alumni on Facebook or Catholic Central Secondary Friends on Facebook

Information is also available by emailing: cch75alumnievent@gmail.com (50s-80s) or s_legresley@hotmail.com (90s-2020s)

Faithcation 2025

Everyone 18 years of age and older is invited to FAITHCATION 2025 taking place at the Holy Family Retreat House in Oxley from Friday night on September 26 to Sunday, September 28. The theme of this year’s retreat is PILGRIMS OF HOPE - THE LEGACY OF POPE FRANCIS.  Come to relax, pray, and reflect on the gift of being faithful disciples in our world today. For more information, please contact Fr. John Jasica at jjasica@dol.ca. A poster is available at this link and you can register at this link.

An Outdoor Jubilee Concert

The Kent Lambton Roman Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting an outdoor Jubilee concert at Our Lady Help of Christians church in Wallaceburg (422 Elgin Street) on Friday, October 3rd. There is an elementary school concert from 12:45 to 2:15 and an Evening Concert from 6:00 to 8:30. More information is on a  printable flyer is at this link. We are Pilgrims of Hope!

Season of Creation 2025 – Peace with Creation

Each year, the Vatican Secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development invites us to join all Christians for a worldwide celebration of prayer and action to protect our common home and all people who share it. This year, the theme for the Season of Creation is Peace with Creation. Catholics are encouraged to take part in the annual Season of Creation (September 1 - October 4),  A summary brochure of the guide has been prepared by the Diocese at this link to assist us in this celebration and highlight ways individuals or parishes can participate. You can also learn more at https://seasonofcreation.org/.  

Laudato Si’: Chapter Two - The Gospel of Creation (part 2)

As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the encyclical letter Laudato Si', we continue to offer chapter summaries. Last month's Laudato Si' Action Plan offered a summary of the first part of Chapter Two - The Gospel of Creation. This month's Laudato Si’ Action Plan offers the second part of the summary of Chapter Two - The Gospel of Creation. You can find the summary and other Laudato Si' Action Plans at this link. 

Save the Date – The Bishop’s 75th

Join us in celebrating Bishop Fabbro’s 75th birthday with a special evening of joy, gratitude, and shared mission. In honour of this milestone, this event will replace the annual Windsor Bishop’s Dinner for this year only, and will support ministries close to Bishop Fabbro’s heart.

- Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor. Ticket and sponsorship information is coming soon. Visit www.dol.ca/bishop75 for updates.

Parish Briefings for August 26, 2025

FOR YOUR INFORMATION & BULLETINS

REMINDER - Family of Parishes Pastoral Council and Finance Council Day - Registration Open

Registration is now open for our Fall Gathering for Pastoral & Finance Councils — a day of spiritual reflection, practical resources, networking, and lunch. Choose from Saturday, September 27 in London or Saturday, October 18 in Comber. This free event is open to all council members, with each Family of Parishes encouraged to send at least one representative from each council. Details and registration are at this link.

ORDO Orders

Please place your 2025-2026 Ordo orders at this link by the end of the day on Monday, September 8. They are available in French and English and the cost is the same as last year, $17.00.

John McDermott Concert in Support of St. Joseph’s, Stratford

From Avon-Thames Catholic Family of Parishes: “Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of music, soul, and pure energy - John McDermott is taking the stage at St. Joseph's Parish in Stratford, Ontario on Saturday, September 20th at 2:30 p.m. for a unique, one-show-only experience that promises to delight and inspire! Known for blending traditional Celtic and folk roots with a classical touch, John McDermott’s heartfelt ballads and rich, emotional vocals bring timeless Irish and Scottish classics like “Danny Boy” to life. With sincerity and grace, he’s set to light up the church and unite the audience for an afternoon of celebration and connection. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this is a concert you won’t want to miss.” More details are available at this link and a printable flyer (.png) is available at this link.

Job Opportunity at Save A Family Plan

Save A Family Plan, located at St. Peter's Seminary in London, is currently seeking to fill the full-time permanent position of Donor Relations Coordinator, Family Development Program. The ideal candidate will be an organized and detail-oriented individual with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Experience working in a not-for-profit and a post-secondary education is preferred.  Strong administrative and time-management skills are required. Some experience using custom computer systems (DDMS) is preferred. Details are available at this link.

Catholic Central High School 75th Reunion

September 20, 2025. Afternoon Mass 12:00 – 1:00 pm at St. Peter’s Basilica

School Open House 1:00 – 3:00 pm at CCH

CCH 75th Anniversary Reunion Parties (tickets for both events are open to all alumni)

1950s-1980s 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm J-AAR Expo Centre

1990s to 2020’s 5:30 to 9:00 pm

Montana’s BBQ & Bar

For more information about the Alumni Party events, including food and ticket information, please visit:

Catholic Central High School Alumni on Facebook or Catholic Central Secondary Friends on Facebook

Information is also available by emailing: cch75alumnievent@gmail.com (50s-80s) or s_legresley@hotmail.com (90s-2020s)

REMINDERS

An Outdoor Jubilee Concert

The Kent Lambton Roman Catholic Family of Parishes is hosting an outdoor Jubilee concert at Our Lady Help of Christians church in Wallaceburg (422 Elgin Street) on Friday, October 3rd. There is an elementary school concert from 12:45 to 2:15 and an Evening Concert from 6:00 to 8:30. More information is on a  printable flyer is at this link. We are Pilgrims of Hope!

Season of Creation 2025 – Peace with Creation

Each year, the Vatican Secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development invites us to join all Christians for a worldwide celebration of prayer and action to protect our common home and all people who share it. This year, the theme for the Season of Creation is Peace with Creation. Catholics are encouraged to take part in the annual Season of Creation (September 1 - October 4),  A summary brochure of the guide has been prepared by the Diocese at this link to assist us in this celebration and highlight ways individuals or parishes can participate. You can also learn more at https://seasonofcreation.org/.  

Laudato Si’: Chapter Two - The Gospel of Creation (part 2)

As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the encyclical letter Laudato Si', we continue to offer chapter summaries. Last month's Laudato Si' Action Plan offered a summary of the first part of Chapter Two - The Gospel of Creation. This month's Laudato Si’ Action Plan offers the second part of the summary of Chapter Two - The Gospel of Creation. You can find the summary and other Laudato Si' Action Plans at this link. 

Faithcation 2025

Everyone 18 years of age and older is invited to FAITHCATION 2025 taking place at the Holy Family Retreat House in Oxley from Friday night on September 26 to Sunday, September 28. The theme of this year’s retreat is PILGRIMS OF HOPE - THE LEGACY OF POPE FRANCIS.  Come to relax, pray, and reflect on the gift of being faithful disciples in our world today. For more information, please contact Fr. John Jasica at jjasica@dol.ca. A poster is available at this link and you can register at this link.

Save the Date – The Bishop’s 75th

Join us in celebrating Bishop Fabbro’s 75th birthday with a special evening of joy, gratitude, and shared mission. In honour of this milestone, this event will replace the annual Windsor Bishop’s Dinner for this year only, and will support ministries close to Bishop Fabbro’s heart.

- Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor. Ticket and sponsorship information is coming soon. Visit www.dol.ca/bishop75 for updates.