P ♰ C

Connecting Catholics in parishes across Vancouver Island

recent posts

  • News from the Chancery

    Dear friends,

    We have five items to share with you today:

    1. Graduation Mass and Commissioning Ceremony 2026
      In this final week of celebrating our high school graduates, we highlight the Graduation Mass and Commissioning Ceremony held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral. See reflections from the day here: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/diocesanblog/graduation-mass-and-commissioning-ceremony-2026
    2. Diocesan Family Camp this August
      Calling all families across the Diocese! Join us for the 12th Annual Diocese of Victoria Family Camp and Conference. Families are invited to gather for a fun, faith-filled weekend of fellowship, play, and prayer taking place August 20-23 at beautiful Nanoose Bay Camp.
      Details are at: 12thAnnualVictoriaDioceseFamilyCampandConference.eventbrite.ca
    3. Support Earthquake Victims in Venezuela
      Many of you are familiar with the catastrophic earthquakes that have hit Venezuela. Following Wednesday’s devastating earthquakes, Development and Peace – Caritas Canada has launched an emergency appeal, calling on Canadians to give generously to help the Venezuelan people. To learn about the work being done and how to donate, please see: https://devp.org/en/venezuela-earthquakes-you-can-help-now/
    4. Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Vancouver Island: Hearts for Homes Gala
      The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Vancouver Island warmly invites you to the Hearts for Homes Gala — an evening of compassion, community, and impact in support of affordable housing on Vancouver Island. Join them on October 3 at the Union Club of Victoria (805 Gordon Street, Victoria, BC) for a memorable evening featuring a three-course dinner, musical entertainment, guest speakers, and silent and live auctions. For tickets https://www.hibid.ca/events/hearts-for-homes
    5. Job Opportunities Across the Diocese

      Correctional Chaplain, William Head Institution
      The Correctional Service Canada (CSC) Bridges of Canada Inc. is hiring a full-time Correctional Chaplain in the Pacific Region for 125-165 hours per month (subject to change based on monthly requirements). The Correctional Chaplain will be responsible for providing religious and spiritual services to federal offenders of all faiths residing in William Head Institution. Read the full job posting here. Anyone interested in this paid ministry position needs a mandate letter from Bishop Gary Gordon and can contact either the Bishop (bishop@rcdvictoria.org) or Tapiwa Gusha (tgusha@bridgesofcanada.com), for more information.

    Many thanks,

    Communications Office
    Diocese of Victoria

  • The Real Yoke

    The Real Yoke

    by Jean Allen

    “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls.” In Jesus’s time, a yoke meant the teachings of a particular rabbi. Jesus is inviting us to be followers of his teachings and he is still dealing with being of equal weight and value as him. If you follow his precepts and truly make them an integral part of your heart’s journey, you will also become as gentle and as humble in heart as he was – and still is.

    His promise is this: if you really do learn from him, you will find the beautiful rest that comes from being gentle and humble in heart.

    Why is that restful? It is because when we are not gentle or humble, we are defensive, aggressive, anxious, possessive and ego driven. We are always looking for everything to go the way we think they should go and have anger issues when they don’t. We need to be recognized as being right. We need validation and respect from others. We need, we need, we need…

    What an exhausting way to live! However, simply refraining from outward actions that would indicate this neediness isn’t what will bring us rest. Part of Jesus’s yoke is understanding how absolutely loved we are by him and the Father and knowing in our depths that forgiveness and compassion have been gifted to us without measure. It is in grasping that part of Jesus’s yoke that we find the ultimate rest because we are not seeking to demand from the world, which includes our spiritual community, that which we can only find in Jesus.

    Did you get that? We can only find love, respect, dignity and purpose in Jesus. Finding it all there makes you gentle. It makes you humble.

    What an amazing yoke!

  • Support Earthquake Victims in Venezuela

    [amplifying a post from the Chancery]

    Dear friends,

    Many of you are familiar with the catastrophic earthquakes that have hit Venezuela. Following Wednesday’s devastating earthquakes, Development and Peace – Caritas Canada has launched an emergency appeal, calling on Canadians to give generously to help the Venezuelan people.

    To learn about the work being done and how to donate, please see: https://devp.org/en/venezuela-earthquakes-you-can-help-now/

    Many thanks,

    Communications Office
    Diocese of Victoria

  • Hearts for Homes Gala

    Hearts for Homes Gala

    We need your support!

    The right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right for everyone in Canada.

    Our Society on Vancouver Island passionately supports this right by offering affordable, supportive and transitional housing solutions that meet the unique needs of our community. By offering affordable and transitional housing, we help people move beyond obstacles, fostering hope and empowering them to create a better future for themselves and their loved ones.

    To support our housing initiatives, on October 3, 2026 we will be hosting the Hearts for Homes Gala at the Union Club of Victoria (805 Gordon Street, Victoria). It will be a memorable evening featuring a three-course dinner, musical entertainment, guest speakers, and silent and live auctions.

    Our fundraising goal for the Gala is $200,000.

    To purchase a ticket (or a few) for the October 3rd event or donate towards the goal, click the link. Click here If you would like to become a sponsor for the event, or know of someone who might like to be a sponsor to support this fundraising goal.

    Access to affordable housing provides more than just a roof over someone’s head – it offers a pathway to stability, dignity and opportunity.  Immense gratitude for all your efforts to support our housing initiatives!

    With blessings,

    Ron Johnson
    President, Vancouver Island Particular Council
    Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
    ssvp.vipc@gmail.com
    ssvpvancouverisland.ca

  • Kingdom Scales

    Kingdom Scales

    by Jean Allen

    “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me;” The Greek word for ‘worthy’ in this text is ‘axios’ and axios translates generally into what we expect: ‘fitting or suitable’. But another definition that fits this text even better is: “of equal weight or value’.

    Are you of equal weight or value as Jesus? If you immediately say, “Of course not!” then I ask you, “Why not?” We are absolutely called to have an equal weight with Jesus. Paul tells us in Corinthians that we have the mind of Christ in order to see things from his perspective and in Philippians he says, “In your minds you must be the same as Christ Jesus.” Just before that, he says, “Always consider the other person to be better than yourself, so that nobody thinks of his own interest first, but everybody thinks of other people’s interests instead.”

    Being of equal weight or value as Jesus means not thinking of your own interests first. Jesus isn’t talking about rejecting your families and becoming a lonely, self-flagellating individual in order to be worthy of his love. He’s asking us to be of equal weight and value as him. Jesus didn’t allow the members of his family, the ones who thought he was crazy mad, to hold him back from his mission but we know he loved and cared about his Mother, Mary. Jesus didn’t seek a comfortable lifestyle and surround himself with material goods but he did surround himself with those who loved and supported his mission. He didn’t seek out crosses to bear; he sought out those who were already bearing heavy crosses and tried to alleviate their burdens.

    He simply asks that we share his mind and his heart. Anything less than that makes us of unequal weight, just people involved in stuff that does not further the Kingdom and not people who share in his perspective, a perspective of love and compassion. When we share in his mind and heart, those we touch and who touch us back receive more than we give; they receive the rewards of prophets and righteous people…no matter who they are.

    It’s the Kingdom economy.

  • From the Chancery

    From last week (yikes):
    Dear friends,

    We have six items to share with you today:

    1. Celebrating our St. Andrews High School Grads this June
      June is a big month in our Catholic schools as we reach the end of the school year. We want to take some time to specifically recognize our Grade 12 graduates at St. Andrews Regional High School who are fulfilling the milestone of completing high school and embarking on a new chapter with Catholic school as their foundation. Over the next three weeks we are going to spotlight the graduating class and the importance of Catholic Schools in our community.

      This week: Hear from three students of diverse backgrounds as they reflect on the value of Catholic education in their lives.
      See link here: https://sarhscircuit.wordpress.com/2026/06/09/2026-grads-are-grateful-for-st-andrews/
    2. Bishop Gary Speaking on Synodality in the Diocese of Victoria
      How is the Church called to listen, discern, and walk together today? In this 2026 Sherlock Lecture during the annual conference for Canadian Catholic Campus Ministry in Vancouver, Bishop Gary Gordon shares the Diocese of Victoria’s experience of building a Permanent Pastoral Synod—an ongoing process rooted in communion, participation, and mission. If you are still trying to understand what the Permanent Pastoral Synod (“On The Way Together”) is and why it’s important, listening to this talk will be very informative.
      See link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uNzTR8wIDA
    3. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at Our Lady Queen of Peace
      Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish would like to send a warm invitation to all the people of our Diocese to participate in the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, happening every Friday from 1-2pm at their parish. They hope everyone will join them for this time of prayer and adoration.
    4. CCCB Statement on the 10th Anniversary of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide (“MAID”)
      Please see the statement from the CCCB that marks the 10th anniversary of the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide in Canada. In its statement, the CCCB reiterates its opposition to euthanasia and assisted suicide, while calling for renewed commitment to authentic palliative care across the country. The statement also summarizes key statistics and raises concerns about the continued expansion of “MAID” legislation and its impact on vulnerable Canadians. See statement here: https://www.cccb.ca/letter/statement-by-the-standing-committee-for-family-and-life-to-the-catholic-faithful-in-canada-and-all-people-of-good-will-voicing-concern-and-calling-for-prayers-on-the-10th-anniversary-of-euthanasia-and/
    5. Holy Spirit Festival at Our Lady of Fatima Parish
      All are invited to Our Lady of Fatima Parish on Sunday, June 21st for the Holy Spirit Festival. Mass will be at 12:00 noon (in Portuguese), and then a procession around the parking lot. Following the procession, there will be a gathering in the hall for traditional Portuguese food, bouncy castle and face painting for children, performance by our folklore group, Folclore Alegre de Victoria, and then music by Os Primos (The Cousins).
    6. Job Opportunities Across the Diocese

    Parish Administrative Assistant, St Francis Xavier Parish
    St Francis Xavier Parish in Mill Bay is looking for a parish administrative assistant. Approximately 18 hrs a week. The successful candidate will be a flexible, goal-oriented team player, with computer expertise, willingness to learn, and understanding of the whole Church as the Body of Christ.
    Detailed job description available here.  Salary Range: $19.56 – 32.50/hr
    To apply, please send a cover letter along with your resume/CV to sfx@rcdvictoria.org.
    Deadline for applications June 30, 2026.

    Correctional Chaplain, William Head Institution
    The Correctional Service Canada (CSC) Bridges of Canada Inc. is hiring a full-time Correctional Chaplain in the Pacific Region for 125-165 hours per month (subject to change based on monthly requirements). The Correctional Chaplain will be responsible for providing religious and spiritual services to federal offenders of all faiths residing in William Head Institution. Read the full job posting here.
    Anyone interested in this paid ministry position needs a mandate letter from Bishop Gary Gordon and can contact either the Bishop (bishop@rcdvictoria.org) or Tapiwa Gusha (tgusha@bridgesofcanada.com), for more information.

    Our Lady of the Rosary Parish – Part-Time Event Hall Coordinator (Short-Term)
    Our Lady of the Rosary Parish is seeking someone with marketing experience to help launch and promote their Event Hall and meeting rooms for rentals (events, weddings, community use) as a source of revenue to support parish needs. This flexible side-project role focuses on building awareness through social media, local advertising, and other marketing efforts, along with handling inquiries and coordinating bookings. Approximately 5 hours per week at $25/hour, with additional commission and earning potential based on successful bookings, for a 6 to 9 month project. Please send a resume to whann@rcdvictoria.org.

    Many thanks,

    Communications Office
    Diocese of Victoria

  • Volunteers Needed

    The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul’s Thrift Store at 2784 Claude Road in Langford is in urgent need of volunteers. Duties include sorting donations, pricing items and stocking the shelves By volunteering you are directly supporting local community programs such as food assistance, advocacy, women’s and seniors programs. Volunteering is fun and stress free, suitable for all in our community – including young adults.

    To learn more please contact Norma Bogart at 250.727.0007, extension 3224 or email Norma at nbogart@svdpvictoria.com.

    Please join us in creating a more compassionate society – one volunteer hour at a time.

    Susan Nawrocki
    Secretary, Vancouver Island Particular Council
    Society of Saint Vincent de Paul

  • Times and Seasons

    Times and Seasons

    by Jean Allen

    Last week we heard about Jesus sending his apostles out to heal the sick and raise the dead etc. The Gospel for this week is a continuation of his instructions and it would seem he was not only instructing them as to what to do in the mission he had just given them but also in their whole lifelong missions as apostles. Just previously to this week’s text, Jesus was telling them that they would be “handed over to local councils and be flogged in the synagogues on my account”. We know that in this present mission that didn’t happen – at least it was not recorded. The apostles came back flying high from their successes. But we do know that, in their lifetimes, they were brought before the authorities and were flogged, stoned and crucified.

    When these things occurred, they no doubt remembered Jesus’s words of instruction about how things would go for them but, at the same time, they would have now been baptized in the Holy Spirit and empowered by him. When Jesus initially spoke the words, they may have created consternation and some fear within the apostles but, when filled with the power of the Spirit, the words would have been comforting and enabling. The apostles would have felt the presence of Jesus within them and felt emboldened and re-commissioned and they would have known that they were indeed in the powerful hands of the living God.

    It is critical in the spiritual life to not feel that every single word spoken by a priest or read from the Gospels pertains to us immediately. The scripture says that for everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven. The main thing to realize is who is in control – and it’s not you. Yes, there may be times when your spiritual walk is dangerous or creates great suffering but it’s not your responsibility to decide when those times will or might be.

    Wait for the season and grace will be yours.

  • Starting Small

    Starting Small

    by Jean Allen

    Are you ever afraid Jesus will ask you to do something you’re not ready for? The disciples may have been a little dismayed that Jesus was sending them out to cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers and cast out demons. Easy stuff, right? Jesus had anointed them with the authority to do those things but they must have felt overwhelmed to be given this authority. At the very least, they must have worried about the Jews they encountered asking, “Who do you guys think you are??” Their worst fears probably centered around trying to do these things, completely failing and looking like idiots.

    Jesus would have known their fears and he would have known he was giving them no small task. But he did take into consideration that they were neophyte labourers in this metaphorical harvest. In the text he says, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans but go, rather, to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” These instructions weren’t instructions indicating exclusivity; they were the mercy of Jesus. We know from later texts that Jesus did, indeed, include the Samaritans and Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation, so why did he seem so exclusive in today’s reading.

    Jesus knew his disciples would be nervous and overwhelmed by the task he set them so he didn’t want to have them face extra difficulties. The Samaritans were viewed by the Jews as racially impure and had religious differences as to where God’s Temple should be: Mount Gerizim vs Jerusalem. There were many points of conflict and sending the disciples into the midst of religious controversy that even scribes and Pharisees could not settle was beyond them. The disciples were uneducated, simple men. Jesus had a way of cutting through peripheral religious issues to reach a person, Samaritan or Gentile, but this was beyond his disciples. Later, yes, but not now.

    Jesus knows what we can handle even if we don’t.
  • Poor Circulation?

    Poor Circulation?

    by Jean Allen

    “Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” (Second reading, 1 Corinthians)

    Participation in the Body and Blood of Christ was never meant to remain only a ‘me and Jesus’ moment. It beautifully starts out that way as we give thanks to the Lord for this intimate communion with him, but then it is imperative that we become aware of his Body all around us: those who are also partaking alongside of us. We need to realize every time we go to Mass that the bread we are eating is forming us into one body and that through this whole body flows the rich, lifegiving blood of Christ.

    It is quite possible that there are areas within the body where the blood circulation is hindered by a clotted vein. That clot starts to form when the ‘me and Jesus’ moment becomes the be all and end all of someone’s life in the Church. That clot grows bigger when the intention is to receive the Eucharist and then get out of the Church as fast as possible without any pesky interaction with anyone else. It’s not just creating poor circulation in the one who holds those intentions; it is creating poor circulation in the whole body.

    We are all immensely grateful for the gift of the Eucharist but we need to place it in context with the life of Jesus. When he was alive, his drive was to share his beautiful life with everyone he met. When he spent time alone with his Father, he always came back to the community more invigorated and with more to give. His communion with God was not for him alone.

    It doesn’t take much. It might be a warm smile. It could be a thank you. A hug is sometimes very healing, even when it’s from a stranger. I brought my daughter-in-law from Calgary to Mass and a friend of mine, whom she didn’t know, gave her a big hug. My daughter-in-law couldn’t get over how friendly people were. For her, it was a most joyful Mass.

    The blood was freely circulating!