Diocese On-line Marriage Preparation Course

https://www.rcdvictoria.org/marriage-prep

​​

June 11, 2026

1. Invitation: World Youth Day Seoul 2027 Pilgrimage

We are excited to begin exploring interest from people across our diocese wanting to attend World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul, South Korea! If you or anyone you know are interested in learning more about this potentially life changing pilgrimage, please fill out this form below:

RCD Victoria goes to Seoul! – Fill out form

2.  Knowledge-Sharing Symposium on the Doctrine of Discovery

On May 26-29 a symposium was held in Edmonton by the CCCB with support of the Pontifical Committee for Historical Sciences, and Vatican's Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. The aim was to examine the historical and legal consequences of colonization for Indigenous Peoples, and the Catholic Church’s involvement in that colonization in the 15th and 16th centuries. Read the media release about the event at https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/knowledge-sharing-symposium-on-the-doctrine-of-discovery/

3. Grief to Grace Retreat

Grief to Grace is hosting their next retreat in Canada on September 22 – 27 in Kelowna.  This is a program rooted in our Catholic faith. Designed to express the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, it is an integrated healing process of the body, mind, and spirit using the principles of trauma-informed care. It helps those who have endured abuse to find healing for neglect, abandonment, physical, emotional, sexual, clerical, and spiritual abuse, whether in childhood, adolescence, or as an adult. The deadline for the intake process is June 15.

For more info visit: www.grieftogracecanada.org

Email: grieftogracekelowna@gmail.com

Or confidential call at: 250-808-6403

4. Our Lady of the Rosary 50/50 Raffle Fundraiser

Our Lady of the Rosary Parish is excited to launch their own online 50/50 raffle fundraiser to support their new childcare and early learning facility. This centre will nurture children, support families, and serve our growing community for generations to come, while helping address gaps created by recent changes to provincial ELCC capital funding.

• Ticket sales end: June 30, 2026 (PDT)

• Draw date: July 4, 2026 (PDT)

Get your ticket starting May 8th here: https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/oltrp

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.

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.

​

June 4, 2026

1. Bishop Gary shares reflections on Magnifica Humanitas on CBC Radio

Pope Leo's latest encyclical on AI is making waves across the globe, raising big questions about technology, humanity, and moral responsibility. Here in our own community, Bishop Gary shared his perspective on the encyclical and what this means for us today on CBC radio's All Points West. https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-93-all-points-west/clip/16217190-pope-leo-xiv-issues-warning-global-leaders-ai

(To read the original Magnifica Humanitas encyclical go to: Encyclical Letter of His Holiness Leo XIV Magnifica Humanitas (15 May 2026))

2. Statistics Canada: 2026 Census

The 2026 Census provides an accurate snapshot of people and communities across Canada. This information offers insight into neighbourhoods, schools, families, newcomers, and religious affiliation. Many organizations, including our Diocese, use this data to better understand local needs.  Because the religion question is asked only once every ten years, this is an important opportunity for faith communities to be properly represented.
 

Parishes are invited to help by encouraging their communities to complete the census, sharing Statistics Canada’s social media posts in Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn andX and/or displaying the attached poster on parish bulletin boards. Complete your census using the information received in the mail, or visit census.gc.ca
 

3.   Employment 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 Rick Ball, the Regional Director (richard.ball@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.

​

4. The Catholic Foundation of Vancouver Island AGM

The Catholic Foundation of Vancouver Island is hosting their Annual General Meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

The trustees welcome all to attend to learn about the foundation and the work it's doing in the community. 

Where: Pastoral Centre Boardroom, (4044 Nelthorpe Street Victoria, BC)

​

May 28, 2026

1. Pope Leo XIV’s First Encyclical Letter: Magnifica Humanitas

   Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical Letter, Magnifica Humanitas, was released this week. It focuses on safeguarding the human person in the time of artificial intelligence. The letter is dated 15 May, to commemorate the 135th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s Encyclical Letter, Rerum Novarum. 

    

   See the Canadian Council of Catholic Bishops full media release, including a link to the encyclical, and a collection of resources on the topic of artificial intelligence here: 

   https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/pope-leo-xivs-first-encyclical-letter-magnifica-humanitas/

    

2. Holy Family Notre Dame - Silent Auction for St. Peters Cemetery

   Holy Family Notre Dame is holding a silent auction in support of St. Peter’s Cemetery in Port Alberni; bidding is open from May 22 to June 1. There are a variety of items to bid on, including some beautiful handmade wood pieces, as well as a large amount of jewelry.  Payment can be made via EFT or credit card (service fee applies), and shipping of items is available. Access the auction at https://new.biddingowl.com/stpeterscemetery  Please contact Rebecca at 250-723-8912 or hfnd@rcdvictoria.org with any questions.

    

3. St. Vincent de Paul "Cram the Van to the Max" event

   With the school year ending in June, most breakfast and lunch programs for children stop.  This makes it especially challenging for those in need over the summer months. Demand increases significantly at St. Vincent de Paul food pantry on Yates Street in Victoria, as these families visit for food assistance. To ensure the shelves are well stocked to handle this increased demand, they are holding a "Cram the Van to the MAX" event on 2 Saturdays from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm:

    

   May 30th at the Sticky Wicket in Victoria (919 Douglas Street)

   June 6th in the parking lot at Sacred Heart Church in Victoria (4040 Nelthorpe Street)

​

May 22, 2026

1. Bursaries and Awards Applications Open

   Applications are now being accepted for bursaries and awards offered by the Diocese of Victoria to outstanding students and educators.  The deadline for applications is July 15th.  More information and application forms are available at the following links:

    

   The Jawl Bundon LLP Bursary ($2500): for a grade 12 Catholic student who has been accepted to a post-secondary institution.  Preference will be given to Indigenous students, and to students who live outside of Greater Victoria and Nanaimo.

   https://www.rcdvictoria.org/jawl-bundon-bursary

    

   The Char Deslippe Memorial Award​ ($500): for a teacher working in Island Catholic Schools or a parish catechist serving in children, youth or adult ministry.

   https://www.rcdvictoria.org/char-deslippe-award

    

2. Grief to Grace Retreat

   Grief to Grace is hosting their next retreat in Canada on September 22 – 27 in Kelowna.  This is a program rooted in our Catholic faith. Designed to express the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, it is an integrated healing process of the body, mind, and spirit using the principles of trauma-informed care. It helps those who have endured abuse to find healing for neglect, abandonment, physical, emotional, sexual, clerical, and spiritual abuse, whether in childhood, adolescence, or as an adult. The deadline for the intake process is June 15.

    

   For more info visit: www.grieftogracecanada.org

   Email: grieftogracekelowna@gmail.com

   Or confidential call at: 250-808-6403

    

3. Katesismong Pilipino (KP) – Flores de Mayo Filipino Mass

   Filipino Catechism of the Catholic Church here in Victoria are inviting the Diocese community to their 2nd Quarter Filipino Mass on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 6:00 PM, at Holy Cross Catholic Church.

    

   This Eucharistic celebration forms part of Flores de Mayo (“Flowers of May”), a beloved Filipino devotion celebrated throughout the month of May in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a meaningful expression of faith that brings together families and communities in prayer, cultural tradition, and Marian devotion.

   ​

4. Invitation: World Youth Day Seoul 2027 Pilgrimage

   We are excited to begin exploring interest in forming a group from across our diocese to attend World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul, South Korea! World Youth Day (WYD) is a powerful international gathering of young Catholics, offering an opportunity for prayer, cultural exchange, and a meaningful encounter with Christ and the universal Church alongside the Holy Father. It is often a life-changing experience that deepens faith and builds lasting friendships.

At this early stage, we are reaching out to parishes to gauge interest from youth, families, and leaders who may wish to participate in this pilgrimage. Please see attached preliminary travel proposals that include youth hostel accommodation for:

-7 nights in Seoul with roundtrip transfers

-9 nights in Seoul with roundtrip transfers and a full-day tour

Please note: Expressing interest at this stage is not a commitment. If you have anyone interested, email Fr. Joseph Thomas who is organizing at: jthomas@rcdvictoria.org

(See Proposals attached)

5.   KAIROS Blanket Exercise at Sacred Heart Parish

In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, the Catholic Women's League of Sacred Heart Parish is pleased to announce the KAIROS Blanket Exercise in the Parish Hall on Saturday, May 23rd from 9:30-12noon. The blanket exercise is a powerful interactive and experiential activity that walks people through 500 years of historic and current relationships between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in Canada. This educational exercise guided by trained facilitators is great for members of parish councils and finance councils to deepen their learning.

After a coffee and goodies break, ​the session will conclude with a debriefing, conducted as a “talking circle”. If you have any questions and to register, contact Margie Noonan at margielnoonan@gmail.com

​

May 14, 2026

1. CCCB Letter to the Holy Father on the First Anniversary of His Pontificate

The CCCB President sent a letter to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of the first anniversary of his pontificate. Through this letter, the CCCB President conveyed the heartfelt greetings of the Bishops of Canada, as well as the assurance of their prayers and of the unwavering solidarity of the Church in Canada as the Holy Father carries out his Petrine ministry in the service of the Universal Church. Read the letter here: https://www.cccb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-05-08-Letter-from-CCCB-President-to-Pope-Leo-XIV-First-Anniversary.pdf

2. Invitation: World Youth Day Seoul 2027 Pilgrimage

We are excited to begin exploring interest in forming a group from across our diocese to attend World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul, South Korea! World Youth Day (WYD) is a powerful international gathering of young Catholics, offering an opportunity for prayer, cultural exchange, and a meaningful encounter with Christ and the universal Church alongside the Holy Father. It is often a life-changing experience that deepens faith and builds lasting friendships.

At this early stage, we are reaching out to parishes to gauge interest from youth, families, and leaders who may wish to participate in this pilgrimage. Please see attached preliminary travel proposals that include youth hostel accommodations for:

-7 nights in Seoul with roundtrip transfers
-9 nights in Seoul with roundtrip transfers and a full-day tour

Please note: Expressing interest at this stage is simply to help with planning and does not commit you to the trip. If you have anyone interested, email Fr. Joseph Thomas who is organizing at: jthomas@rcdvictoria.org ​

3. Development and Peace - Caritas Canada: Share Lent Campaign Update

The folks at Development and Peace - Caritas Canada want to share their heartfelt thank you for all the faithful who learnt about, connected with, felt for and, most significantly, gave generously to support their campaign to build a world of justice and peace. See the thank you video here: https://youtu.be/TGoCY0zt084

4. Family and Life Week 2026

National Family and Life Week (NFLW) takes places this year from May 10-17, centring on the theme “I am with you always” (cf. Matthew 28:20). Families and communities are encouraged to take time during the week to celebrate their own families, express gratitude, and share meaningful moments with loved ones across generations. See more at:https://www.cccb.ca/faith-moral-issues/family-and-life/national-family-and-life-week/ 

​

April 30, 2026

1. Our Lady of the Rosary Parish is excited to announce our online 50/50 Raffle fundraiser through Rafflebox. We are raising funds to support the construction of the Early Learning and Childcare centre that will nature children, support families and serve our growing community for generations. Here is the URL - https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/oltrp but please note the raffle does not open until May 8, 2026. Tickets sales end on June 30 and draw date is on July 4, 2026. You need to be in BC at time of purchase, but you don’t need to be a resident. Thank you for your support. Please forward to family and friends.

2.  Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish in Esquimalt is now accepting applications for a part-time Administrative Assistant.  Resumes must be received by Friday, May 8.  The full job posting is available online at https://www.rcdvictoria.org/employment.

​

April 23, 2026

1. Oblates of Mary Immaculate Bicentennial

   The Oblates of Mary Immaculate are inviting people of our Diocese to support them in marking the Oblate Bicentennial (1826–2026) on May 21, the feast of St. Eugene de Mazenod. The Oblates played a key role in the early faith history of the Diocese and Canada. A festive Gala Event fundraiser will be held to celebrate this milestone to benefit the Star of the North Retreat Centre, as well as a developing a new retreat house in their mission in Kenya. Those interested in supporting can register by May 7 at: https://www.starofthenorth.ca/

1. March For Life – Knights of Columbus

   The Knights of Columbus are inviting the community to their March for LIFE & Dinner on May 14th. The event begins at the 12:00pm Mass at St. Andrews Cathedral, continues with a march to the BC Legislature, and ends with a ticketed dinner and guest speaker. For more information and to register, go to: m4lvictoria.ca

   (Poster is attached that you may share with your community)

    

2. The Chosen is coming to Canadian TV audiences

   Salt + Light TV will be airing The Chosen beginning Sunday, May 3 in both French and English. The internationally acclaimed series starring Jonathan Roumie brings the life of Jesus from the pages of Scripture to the TV screen in a deeply moving historical drama. For specific airtimes, see: slmedia.org/blog/about-the-chosen

    

3. The Year of St. Francis

   The Vatican has recently announced that 2026 will be the Year of St. Francis, as this year marks eight centuries since the death of St. Francis of Assisi. During this special year, Catholics are encouraged to make pilgrimage to places of worship dedicated to St. Francis. Read our blog post for more information: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/news/the-year-of-st.-francis

​

April 16, 2026

1. Registration is now open 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
    

2. St. Mark’s College at UBC is now accepting applications for bursaries and awards offered for people within the Diocese of Victoria. Applications are being accepted for the following on a rolling basis.  

   • The Blessed Marie Anne Blondin Bursary ($1,500): for a lay woman who is accepted or enrolled in a program or course for ministry in the Church, such as religious education, social justice, liturgy, social action, care of the sick, etc. Candidates must be able to demonstrate financial needs

   • Formation for Catholic Ministry Award ($3,330): for a schoolteacher, or parish or diocesan lay leader in the diocese of Victoria wanting to pursue theological education to deepen their understanding of the faith and better be able to teach it and/or deepen ones spiritual life.

     ​

     More information and application forms are available at: https://stmarkscollege.ca/scholarships-and-financial-aid/#GraduateScholarships

​

3. Father Mike Favero wishes to share an update with the people of the Diocese about a change in his health.  The cancer in his lymph nodes has come back for the second time. He is hoping to start chemotherapy soon. He will have to curtail many activities as his immune system is now compromised. He thanks you in advance for all your prayers and support with his illness.​

​

April 2, 2026

1. Bishop Gary Gordon has written a message to the people of the Diocese of Victoria for the occasion of Easter 2026. The message may be read online at:https://www.rcdvictoria.org/news/bishop-gary-gordons-message-for-easter-2026

2. Would you like to help restore an important Garry Oak ecosystem? On April 12 and running every 2nd and 4th Sunday from 1–4 pm, all are invited to come rain or shine to build community and help remove invasive species from our property on the slopes of Christmas Hill. Please meet in the Sacred Heart parking lot (4044 Nelthorpe Street, Victoria). For more information and to sign up, email jseale1234@gmail.com or visit: https://garry-oak-ecosystem-restoration-2026.eventbrite.ca​

​

March 19, 2026

Rachel’s Vineyard on Vancouver Island is offering a safe and confidential retreat from September 11-13, 2026, for women and men seeking healing and peace after abortion. To learn more or register, please email  rachelsvineyardvancouverisland@gmail.com.​​

​

February 19, 2026

1) The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops is hosting a series of videos for Lent titled Journey Through Lent. This series is meant to offer spiritual inspiration and guidance on how to prepare well for the Easter season. New videos will be released each week, you can watch the series here: https://www.cccb.ca/evangelization-catechesis-catholic-education/video-resources/journey-through-lent/​

​

February 5, 2026

1) Bishop Gary Gordon has written a Pastoral Letter to the people of the Diocese announcing the questions for the 2026 Diocesan Permanent Pastoral Synod cycle and inviting all to participate. The Bishop encourages the faithful to reflect, pray, and engage in this important process. Please find his letter here: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/news/bishops-february-dpps-2026-pastoral-letter 

2) Bishop Gary Gordon has shared a Message of Gratitude for the 2025 Bishop’s Appeal, thanking the faithful for their prayers, generosity, and love for the Church. Through this collective support, the Appeal not only reached its $900,000 goal but was blessed with over $1,000,000 in gifts. Please find his message here: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/news/bishop-gary-gordons-message-of-gratitude-for-the-2025-bishops-appeal 

​

January 29, 2026

1) Pope Leo XIV has released a message for the 34th World Day of the Sick, which will be celebrated on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. His message offers a reflection on the theme “The compassion of the Samaritan: loving by bearing another’s pain.”

Read Pope Leo’s message here: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/messages/sick/documents/20260113-messaggio-giornata-malato.html

​

2) Find resources for World Day of the Sick from the Canadian Catholic Conference of Bishop’s here: https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/pope-leos-message-for-the-34th-world-day-of-the-sick-11-february-2026/   ​

December 11, 2025

1) In celebration of the Jubilee of Hope declared by Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV gifted 62 cultural artifacts from the Vatican Museums’ Anima Mundi collection to the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, for immediate transfer to Indigenous communities in Canada. Learn more about the return of these artifacts: https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/vatican-artifacts-return-to-canada/ ​

​

November 13, 2025

1) The Diocese of Victoria Health Care Committee has released two resources for families before and after a loved one dies and enters eternal life. A limited number of copies will soon be available at your parish offices upon request. Digital and downloadable copies of the A Catholic Perspective: What Family Members Need to Know Before and After a Loved One Enters Eternal Life resources are available on the Diocesan website here: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/care-of-the-dying ​

​

October 23, 2025

1) Rachel’s Vineyard on Vancouver Island offers safe and confidential retreats for women and men seeking healing and peace after abortion. To learn more, please email rachelsvineyardvancouverisland@gmail.com or visit https://www.rachelsvineyardvanisland.org/ ​

​​

October 16, 2025

1) On 9 October 2025, Pope Leo XIV released his first Apostolic Exhortation, Dilexi te (“I have loved you”), a reflection on the Church’s call to care for the poor. In this document, Pope Leo XIV invites the faithful to recognize the love of Christ made visible through love for the poor—by caring for the sick, opposing slavery, defending women who face exclusion and violence, ensuring access to education, accompanying migrants, practicing generous charity, and working for equality in all its forms. Read the full Dilexi te here: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/apost_exhortations/documents/20251004-dilexi-te.html 

Read Pope Leo XIV’s accompanying letter to the Bishops of the world here: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/10/09/251009i.html ​​​​​

​​

May 8, 2025

We rejoice in the announcement of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, who has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church as the Successor of St. Peter. 

Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, the Chicago-born prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis, was elected the 267th pope on May 8, 2025. He now takes on the sacred responsibility of shepherding the faithful around the world.

Please keep Pope Leo XIV in your prayers as he begins his ministry, asking the Holy Spirit to guide him with wisdom, compassion, and courage. May his papacy be blessed with peace and unity for the Church and the world.​

​

February 20, 2025

1) The Catholic Bishops of British Columbia have released a Pastoral Letter on Catholic Schools that highlights Catholic education's key role in evangelization and whole-person formation. It calls for Catholic schools to maintain their identity, integrate faith with learning, and work with families, educators, and pastors to build a Christ-centred community serving both students and society. The letter may be read online at: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/news/pastoral-letter-on-catholic-schools

2) The Vatican has released Antiqua et Nova, a document on the relationship between artificial intelligence and human intelligence. It highlights the distinction between AI and human intelligence and calls for ethical guidelines to ensure AI respects human dignity and serves the common good. To read the full document, please visit:https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_ddf_doc_20250128_antiqua-et-nova_en.html ​

​

February 13, 2025

The national Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) has released Sacred Fire Stories, a powerful new video highlighting inspiring stories of hope from IRF-funded projects. Watch the video here to see the meaningful impact the IRF is making in Indigenous communities: https://irfund.ca/en/welcome/ 

The first project featured is from our own Diocese—the Michif Language Revitalization Circle (MLRC), which supports Métis in reclaiming self-identity through learning the Michif language. As a reminder, the next application deadline for the local Indigenous Reconciliation Fund is coming up on February 15. For more information and the application package, please visit https://www.rcdvictoria.org/irf or call 250-800-3167​​

​​​

August 17th, 2023

1) A post has just been added to the Diocesan website with photos from our delegation’s pilgrimage to World Youth Day 2023.  The post can be viewed at https://www.rcdvictoria.org/diocesanblog/world-youth-day-2023.

​

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has released four Pastoral Letters – to the First Nations, the Métis, the Inuit, and the People of God. The Bishops of Canada decided to write these letters after being updated on discussions with Indigenous partners during their plenary meeting last September.  They outline a set of specific commitments which are meant to guide local reconciliation.

These letters can be viewed at: https://www.cccb.ca/indigenous-peoples/that-we-may-walk-together-series-of-pastoral-letters-2023/

​​

Working Towards Freedom: Study guide on human trafficking now available

“Working Toward Freedom” is a new study guide created in response to a call to mission: to reduce the harms of human trafficking in our local communities and uphold the dignity of every child of God.

The guide was developed jointly by the Diocese of Victoria, the Archdiocese of Vancouver, and the Diocese of Saskatchewan. Based on the CCCB's recent Pastoral Letter on Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation in Canada, it delves deeper into the letter and animates it in each specific community's context.  Through prayer and education, the guide leads participants to become more aware of the human trafficking that is occurring in our midst, and helps them learn how to bring to light situations where people may be in danger.  The authors of the guide are Evelyn Vollet, Sr. Nancy Brown, Barbara Renaud, Myron Rogal and Annette Turgeon.

The guide will be launched this month with a one-hour webinar.  All are invited to join and learn more about the guide, either on Thursday, November 24 at 9:00 am PST, or on Saturday, November 26 at 10:00 am PST.  The webinar will provide an overview of each section and recommendations on how to use the guide.  The webinar is free, but advance registration is required at https://form.jotform.com/222704961965262.

Pope Francis describes the Church’s mission as a permanent state that calls us to go to the peripheries of society.  No one is exempt from being able to do something about this horrific crime taking place within our communities.  For more information, please contact Annette Turgeon at tcrmi1@telus.net.

​

April 1, 2022

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a statement welcoming the apology made by Pope Francis today in Rome to Indigenous Peoples.  The statement can be read at https://www.rcdvictoria.org/indigenous/canadas-catholic-bishops-welcome-popes-apology-to-indigenous-peoples

​

​

Canadian Reporting System for Sexual Abuse or Cover-Up by a Catholic Bishop

On Thursday, May 6, 2021, the Bishops of Canada launched a national, bilingual service for reporting situations of sexual abuse either committed or covered-up by a Bishop.  This service furthers their commitment to responsibility, accountability and transparency in matters of clergy sexual abuse and their commitment to facilitate healing and justice for victims-survivors.

Individuals can access the reporting system online (BishopReportingSystem.ca) or by calling toll-free 1-866-892-3737 from anywhere in Canada, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year.

The reporting system was developed by ClearView Strategic Partners, a Canadian provider of an independent reporting platform.  ClearView’s technology benefits anyone wanting to make such a report by providing them with a secure and confidential platform, allowing them to remain anonymous if they so choose, and ensuring all communications are documented and preserved.

The Catholic Bishops of Canada condemn the sin and crime of sexual abuse in the strongest possible terms. No one should ever have to endure the pain, humiliation, and long-term suffering it causes, nor should anyone have to doubt that serious consequences await a perpetrator of sexual abuse or cover-up. With this reporting system, the Bishops make themselves accountable to live with integrity and to address reports of sexual abuse according to Church and civil law. The Church grieves with victim-survivors and profoundly regrets the tremendous harm caused. The Bishops of Canada wish to reach out and accompany victims-survivors along the path that restores justice and promotes healing.

Reports of current or historical sexual abuse by any other member of the Diocese of Victoria (clergy, religious, employees or volunteers) may be made by calling 1-800-968-3146.  This number connects to an independent reporting service which can assist in contacting the appropriate authorities and help access counselling services. For more information about Responsible Ministry and Safe Environment in the Diocese of Victoria, please visit https://www.rcdvictoria.org/responsible-ministry.

Thank you for your prayers and the support you provide to victim-survivors in the ongoing work of healing.

​

​

1. Oblates of Mary Immaculate Bicentennial
    
   The Oblates of Mary Immaculate are inviting people of our Diocese to support them in marking the Oblate Bicentennial (1826–2026) on May 21, the feast of St. Eugene de Mazenod. The Oblates played a key role in the early faith history of the Diocese and Canada. A festive Gala Event fundraiser will be held to celebrate this milestone to benefit the Star of the North Retreat Centre, as well as a developing a new retreat house in their mission in Kenya. Those interested in supporting can register by May 7 at: https://www.starofthenorth.ca/

1. March For Life – Knights of Columbus
   The Knights of Columbus are inviting the community to their March for LIFE & Dinner on May 14th. The event begins at the 12:00pm Mass at St. Andrews Cathedral, continues with a march to the BC Legislature, and ends with a ticketed dinner and guest speaker. For more information and to register, go to: m4lvictoria.ca
   (Poster is attached that you may share with your community)
    
2. The Chosen is coming to Canadian TV audiences
   Salt + Light TV will be airing The Chosen beginning Sunday, May 3 in both French and English. The internationally acclaimed series starring Jonathan Roumie brings the life of Jesus from the pages of Scripture to the TV screen in a deeply moving historical drama. For specific airtimes, see: slmedia.org/blog/about-the-chosen
    
3. The Year of St. Francis
   The Vatican has recently announced that 2026 will be the Year of St. Francis, as this year marks eight centuries since the death of St. Francis of Assisi. During this special year, Catholics are encouraged to make pilgrimage to places of worship dedicated to St. Francis. Read our blog post for more information: https://www.rcdvictoria.org/news/the-year-of-st.-francis