Some photos of the procession of the Blessed Sacrament in the streets of Azilda. It was a testimony of faith from my parishioners and encourages me to continue to innovate to be in relationship with them....
Virtual National March for Life Set to Go from May 10-14, 2020: As per the recommendations of government officials and public health experts, the 2020 National March for Life in Ottawa and the pro-life rally on Parliament Hill on May 14 have been cancelled....
Please be aware, there have been “phishing” e-mails claiming to originate from parish priests or even the Bishop. The following is a sample of a phishing e-mail received by our staff, and a link to the Government of Canada GetCyberSafe website....
Statement from the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada on the release of national modelling on the COVID-19 epidemic in Canada: “Today, the Government of Canada released national-level modelling on the COVID-19 epidemic in Canada. The modelling attempts to show how the epidemic might unfold over the coming months based on our knowledge of how the virus behaves and the potential impact of public health measures...."
The new wage subsidy (CEWS) program is meant to assist parishes with maintaining employment and meeting their payroll obligations. The program will provide immediate assistance to ensure our economy is best positioned to become strong again....
As do many other people, I wish to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts and sacrifices being put forward by our first responders, health and spiritual care teams and all other healthcare workers in our hospitals, nursing homes and home care settings....
Starting today, Interfaith Healthcare Association of Manitoba (IHCAM) & Catholic Health Association of Manitoba (CHAM) will be posting daily prayers on their respective FaceBook accounts to bring faith, hope, and protection to all.
During this period of abundant information and social distancing for the common good, CCBI will post messages that are meant for timely reflection and consideration. We hope they may answer your questions, alleviate worry and be of some practical use. Advice to be prepared for serious illnesses or even for death can be helpful at all times, and perhaps especially right now. As Catholics, there are spiritual and practical matters to organize, and most involve making arrangements and having discussions with other people, usually members of our family. In that spirit, here is our first message to you.
To support workers and help businesses keep their employees, the government has proposed legislation to establish the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). This taxable benefit would provide $2,000 a month for up to four months for workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CERB would be a simpler and more accessible combination of the previously announced Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit.
The COVID-19 crisis that we are currently experiencing helps us better understand the fear and insecurity that are a regular part of life for so many of our brothers and sisters in the global south. During each Lenten Season we express our support to these brothers and sisters by contributing to the Share Lent campaign of Development & Peace – Caritas Canada....
For the purposes of this order, businesses include any-for-profit, non-profit or other entity providing the goods and services described herein. This does not preclude the provision of work and services by entities not on this list either online, by telephone or by mail/delivery. Note that teleworking and online commerce are permitted at all times for all businesses....
The Apostolic Penitentiary issues a Decree granting special plenary indulgences for those suffering from the coronavirus pandemic, if specific conditions are met....
Jesus calls us to be as present as possible to people in these circumstances. During this time they may feel abandoned or isolated. Let us remember the very clear words of Jesus when he taught us the Corporal Works of Mercy: "I was naked, and you clothed me. I was sick, and you took care of me. I was in prison, and you visited me." Matthew 25:26 ...
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, with rapid daily changes. I urge you to follow all guidelines and directives provided by our governments and our public health authorities. This situation compels us to make difficult but necessary pastoral decisions, in line with government orders and directives and in solidarity with all Canadians, in a serious attempt to slow down the spread of this threatening disease.
Attached is a communication from Canada Life the benefits carrier for the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario. The information titled Groupline advises that COVID-19 claims will continue to be handled on a case by case basis. The communique speaks to several areas of interest such as travel, Short term disability, and El sickness benefits. ...
"Today, the Government of Ontario announced that it is taking decisive action by making an order declaring an emergency under s 7.0.1 (1) the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. In doing so, Ontario is using every power possible to continue to protect the health and safety of all individuals and families." (News Release from the Office of the Premier, Ontario Enacts Declaration of Emergency to Protect the Public, March 17, 2020, 9:13 A.M.). ...
Following government announcements of several preventive measures to stem the spread of COVID-19, I wish to contribute to this common public health effort and act in solidarity with the civil authorities. Consequently, I am announcing the immediate adoption of the following directives. Until further notice: - All Masses, weekday and weekends, as well as Sunday liturgies of the Word are cancelled. - The churches remain accessible for personal visits during usual mass times. ...
