To the parishioners of St. Philip Neri Parish, sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints –

"Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”.

All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle. (St. Francis of Assisi)

Change is the only constant in life!

From the moment we are conceived, each one of us is in a “process of change”, preparing ourselves for death. But then, even death is the beginning of “something new” – eternal life!

On our tombstone, there will be two numbers – the first number indicating the year of our birth, the second number indicating the year of our death. But what is most important is the dash in between the two numbers. The dash is the story of our life – the constant and persistent changes to grow and develop and mature into the person that God has designed us to be.

The Scriptures describe how we are made in the image and likeness of God. As followers of Jesus Christ, somehow then, the dash should/must reflect this to be true. How we learn and live each day of our life should/must reflect the inherent qualities of God in our life.

This past week, on January 25^th, we celebrated the feast day of the conversion of St. Paul. Paul (also known as Saul) was a devout Jew who lived in the time when Jesus was physically present in the world. The biggest “change” that Jesus gave to all of humanity – to all of creation – was the gift of eternal life. Resurrection is the gift that not even death has any power or control over the goodness and love of God.

Saul, in his devotedness as a “good Jew”, had taken upon himself to be a champion against the “people of the Way”. He had regressed to be a cruel and determined murderer. He had connections “in high places” who gave him the names of people who were just trying to follow their hearts – to live a good life in the Jesus they believed to be the Messiah and Saviour. Saul perceived “the Way of Christ” to be a threat to the Jewish “status quo” of religion and politics. He somehow believed that he was to be the champion, the hero to stop this movement.

There was, however, a dramatic moment that changed his life. In the Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 9, we read: “Now as Saul was approaching Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? …’ I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Ironically, in the experience, Saul was rendered blind, as if to say, Can’t you see what you are doing? It took the touch of Ananias, a member of The Way, to help Saul regain his sight – (to see) and believe and live a new reality in his life. He encountered the power of love and forgiveness – in the very people he was persecuting.

This change is also reflected in the insight of St. Alphonsus Liguori, “True charity consists in doing good to those who do us evil, and thus winning them over.”

For Saul, there was a Passover – from power to meekness, from hatred to blessedness. In the words and encouragement of Jesus, “Blessed are the meek, they will inherit the earth!” In this “change”, St. Paul became the champion of God’s care and love for us. May we – each of us – hear the affirming words of Jesus who describes us as “blessed”, when we are poor in spirit, when we mourn over those still plagued and trapped in violence, when we are meek, when we hunger and thirst for righteousness. When we are merciful, forgiving, and pure of heart, living as children of God.

This is the change – our Passover – that we too are invited to live. It’s a challenge, but we don’t have to do it all alone. The promise of the Spirit will all-ways empower us to do what is right, reflecting the image and likeness of God to all we encounter. With St. Paul, we too can say, “When I am weak, then I am strong” … because God is good, all the time.

Our thought for the week, from St. Dominic Savio, “Whatever you do, whatever your skills, whatever your age – you can live your life for the glory of God. Let this inspire you to take action today. Even the smallest act for God can make huge changes in someone’s life.”

So … Wherever you go, go with God. Whenever you go, go make a difference.

Be the change you want to see in life!

Praise be Jesus Christ … and Mary Immaculate

St. Philip Neri … pray for us

St. Eugene de Mazenod … pray for us

St. Kateri Tekakwitha … pray for us

Fr. Mike Dechant OMI

Something from the Parish

Fr. Bill is in need of some help with the setting up, serving, and cleaning up after the Alpha meetings that are being hosted here in our Welcome Area.  This little "Alpha team" of volunteers would be needed for approximately ten Monday evenings between now and the beginning of June. Many hands make light work!  Please contact Fr. Mike if you are able and willing to help out in this important little ministry!

A Prayer for Ukraine

God of peace and justice, we pray for the people of Ukraine today. We pray for peace and the laying down of weapons. We pray for all those who fear for tomorrow, that your spirit of comfort would draw near to them. We pray for those with power over war or peace, for wisdom, discernment and compassion to guide their decisions. Above all, we pray for all your precious children at risk and in fear that you would hold and protect them. We pray in the name of Jesus the Prince of Peace. Amen.

Hi Everyone!

Well, January came in like a lamb and sure seems to be going out like a lion!  Yikes!  The mild weather was indeed wonderful while it lasted.  And now, after the freezing rain and strong winds, we brace for that crazy "Siberian Express" that arrives this weekend ... and on to February we go!  Hang on to your toques, everyone!  At least the frigid weather is only supposed to last for about a week - nothing we can't handle, as tough, "seasoned" Saskatchewanians.  

Now let's see what's new for you at St. Philip Neri and what remains below as reminders:

• The 2022 Income Tax Receipts are now available for pick-up in the Welcome Area.  Grab yours as soon as you can so we don't have to mail any out!
• Our Truth and Reconciliation Discussion Group is having their next gathering THIS Thursday, Feb. 2 in the Welcome Area.  More details are below and newcomers are always welcome.
• NEXT Sunday, Feb. 5 is a Special Collection Sunday - this one is the annual collection for the Needs of the Canadian Church.  Please check below for more details.  
• Dig out the skates - and you might have to bundle up!  The St. Philip Neri Knights of Columbus is hosting a Family Skating Party for all our Parish famllies NEXT Sunday, Feb. 5.  There will be tons of hot chocolate and hot dogs for all!  See all the details below and plan to attend!  
• The following weekend, on Feb. 11 & 12, after both weekend Masses, our Knights of Columbus are busy again, this time serving us up a delicious bowl of homemade "Soup and a Bun"!  Please see the rest of the details below.  The K of C are working hard to build up our Parish community by bringing us together for some fun and fellowship, so be sure to plan to stay after Mass to join us!  
• It's back!  Save the date!  The Annual Knights of Columbus "In Support of Life" Gala Charity Event, will be held on Sat. February 25, in person, in the Cathedral of the Holy Family Hall.  You can find all the details below.  You don't want to miss this one!
• For the month of February, we are collecting jam and rice for the Friendship Inn. Let's keep filling our bin for them!  More details are below. 
• The next Bereavement Support gathering will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 7.  Anyone can join at any time - we would love to have you.  Please see more details below.  
• Freedom Fridays continue every Friday evening in the Welcome Area, beginning at 6 pm.  Everyone is welcome to join in this informal little potluck supper to share in some great food, fellowship and fun!  First-timers are more than welcome!
• Check out this week's Church Chuckle!  You'll have to "scroll" down to find it!
• As far as Diocesan events go, remember that THIS Sunday, Jan. 29 is the Day of Prayer for Reverence for Life.  Please check out the details below and be sure to read Bishop Mark's beautiful letter by clicking on the purple button. 
• Another reminder, that Thursday, Feb. 2 is World Day of Consecrated Life. Check out the details below regarding Adoration and a special Mass to honour those who have said "yes" to consecrated life.
• There is a Share Lent Event called "Stand for the Land", coming up at St. Anne's Parish THIS Thursday, Feb. 2.  More details are below.
  
• Here is another interesting event, called "A Journey into Exile", being hosted at Holy Spirit Parish, on Tuesday, Feb. 7.  This interactive activity sheds light on the "challenges and hopes of refugees".  Learn more about this event by scrolling down below.
• World Day of the Sick is coming up on Sat. February 11, on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. There is lots more information and links to some great resources located below.
• Burnt Thicket Theatre is presenting a fascinating new performance called "Evergreen", that will run from Feb. 2-12, down at the Remai Arts Centre.  Check below for all the details.  
• The Catholic Pastoral Centre is looking for rosaries for the Prison Ministry. If you have some metal-chain rosaries that you would like to donate, find out how to do so below.
• The Saskatchewan Knights of Columbus Vocations Endowment fund supports the education and development of seminarians.  Learn more about it down below,  as well as an important fund-raiser coming up in February!
• Don' forget that Serena Saskatchewan is having their annual Gala Fundraiser THIS Sat. Feb. 4.  This sounds like a great time, in support of a great organization!  Scroll down to check out all the fun details!
• A final reminder that Time Out For Moms is back for their winter session, which runs from Feb. 1 to Mar. 8.  Read all about it, down below, in pink.
• A reminder about this wonderful opportunity for women - the ARISE Women's Retreat on Feb. 11 & 12, which will include a number of inspirational speakers.  More information and how to register, is located below.    
• Another final reminder - that the "World Famous Dueling Pianos" is returning to Saskatoon THIS Fri. Feb. 3! You won't want to miss this very entertaining evening - brought to us by Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools.  The details remain below. 
• Finally, a reminder about the SEARCH weekend retreat that is coming up on Feb. 24-26 for students in Grades 10-12.  This experience can be life-changing!  Scroll down below for the details, in blue.

Have a great weekend everyone!  The NFL playoffs continue this Sunday as we find out who will be taking to the field on SuperBowl Sunday in a couple of weeks!  We will also be finding out which one of our many skilled women's curling teams will win the SK Provincials and represent us at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Kamloops in mid-February! It looks like this might just be a good weekend to stay inside and watch some sports or a good movie or two ... where it's cozy and toasty warm!  You will definitely have to bundle up if you're headed outside!  Stay warm and safe, and talk to you next week - when I know it will be warmer!  

Brrrrrr Blessings, 

Marlene

Truth and Reconciliation Discussion Group

Thursday, February 2

Please join us THIS Thursday, Feb. 2, at 7:00 pm in the Welcome Area of the church for the next meeting of the Truth and Reconciliation Discussion Group. 

Our focus for 2023 remains on education and learning, and on the foundation of hard truths, heartfelt reflection and respectful conversation that reconciliation begins with. You don’t need to have participated before, and if you have not done the readings in advance, just come along. We will be discussing Chapter 8 of Listening to Indigenous Voices. Everyone welcome!

Thank you, Thank you!

The St. Philip Neri Parish Refugee Committee would like to send a big THANK YOU to everyone who participated in the Chili Supper fundraiser to celebrate the arrival of Yvonne Byendimbwa and her grandchildren to the safe embrace of their family and friends in St. Mary’s Parish. We have been partnering with St Mary’s to make this dream a reality and it was great to finally be able to celebrate it!

Annual Collection for the "Needs of the Canadian Church"

Sunday, February 5

Each year, and with the generosity of Catholic faithful from coast to coast to coast, the Catholic Bishops of Canada continue their work on relations with Indigenous peoples, on important doctrinal and ethical questions, on ecumenical initiatives and interreligious dialogue, on international relations, on evangelization, faith education and catechesis, on questions of social justice, on responsible ministry, and on the development of a culture of life and family. In addition to their national Conference of Canadian Catholic Bishops, the Bishops of Canada also meet in four regional assemblies (Atlantic, Quebec, Ontario and Western). The CCCB and the regional assemblies include the Catholic Bishops of the Latin Church, as well as the Eparchial Bishops of the Eastern Catholic Churches.

Thank you for your support of the Needs of the Canadian Church, and please continue to pray:

• For all the Bishops of Canada, our shepherds, may they continue to follow the path toward true and deep commitment to renewing, strengthening and reconciling relationships with Indigenous Peoples across the land,

• For the members of the Church in Canada who are called to serve the most vulnerable in our communities – the elderly, the sick, the poor and the marginalized, including Indigenous Peoples – may they be guided by the gifts of wisdom, knowledge and love received from the Holy Spirit to help them in fulfilling their mission to do God’s work. 

Note:  There is a yellow envelope in your envelope box for this Special Collection and there are additional white Special Collection envelopes at the entrance of the church for those who donate by PAG and would like to donate to the Needs of the Canadian Church.  

St. Philip Neri Family Skating Party!

Sunday, February 5

The St. Philip Neri Knights of Columbus are happy to invite all our Parish families to a Family Skating Party, on Sunday, February 5, from 1 - 3 pm, out back on the St. Philip School outdoor skating rink!  Pack up the kids and bring them over!  In addition to two hours of fun on the ice, hot chocolate and hot dogs will also be provided for all!  

This event is free of charge, courtesy of the St. Philip Neri Knights of Columbus.  Come on out and support our Parish events!  Even if you don't skate, come out and join us for some fresh air and socializing!  

K of C "Soup & a Bun!"

Sat. Feb. 11 & Sun. Feb. 12

The St. Philip Neri Knights of Columbus are a busy group!  On the weekend of February 11 & 12, after both Masses, they will be serving you up a delicious bowl homemade soup and a bun, right here in our Welcome Area! 

The temperatures are supposed to dip in February, so a hot bowl of soup might be just what we all need!  And with this event being so close to Valentine's Day, that special day when we celebrate the love in our lives, you can bring your special someone for a lovely bowl of soup and a bun!  Everyone is welcome to join us!  

A free-will offering will be gratefully accepted, with all proceeds going towards "In Support of Life".  See you there!  

Parish Liturgical Ministries

Liturgical Ministries: There are just over one hundred people involved in liturgical ministries at the Parish and that does not include anyone who has signed up for outreach ministries. Presently, there are two Masses which include those ministers that we see such as the Lectors, but there are also others who work “behind the scenes”, for example, on kitchen laundry and altar linens. If you have any questions about the liturgical ministries, please contact Shirley in the Parish Office.

Sacrament of Baptism: Congratulations to Yuanyu and Cassie on the Baptism of their little boy, Finn, and also congratulations to Travis and Lexie on the Baptism of their little girl, Sumira. The next date for the celebration of Baptism is Sunday, April 30. Pre-registration is necessary.

Sacrament of First Communion: Information about the preparation for children to celebrate their First Communion will be available within the next few weeks. Those who have already completed their First Reconciliation will be contacted by email soon. The contact person for more information is Shirley, our Pastoral Associate.

Sacrament of Confirmation: Please watch the Parish Newsletter for information about registering for this Sacrament, for those who are in Grade 6 and over.

Sad News: Steve Rice, a long time parishioner, has passed away and the Vigil of Prayer will be on Sunday, January 29, at 7:30 pm, and the Mass of Resurrection on Monday, January 30, at 10:30 am, both here at St. Philip Neri Parish. Please keep Steve's wife, Cathy, and their family and friends in your prayers. May Steve rest in peace at the eternal banquet of our Lord.

Children’s Liturgy: There is a need for a few small stackable “kindergarten” size chairs if someone would like to donate them to the Parish. Also, if anyone has any puppets of Jesus, Mary, Joseph, or the Apostles, and would like to donate them, those would be great for our sessions. Please contact Shirley for more information.

Annual Knights of Columbus "In Support of Life" Charity Event

Saturday, February 25

SAVE THE DATE! The Saskatoon Knights of Columbus will be hosting their annual "In Support of Life" fundraiser event, IN PERSON once again, on Saturday, Feb. 25, in the Cathedral of the Holy Family Hall.  

Cocktails will begin at 5:30 pm, followed by supper at 6:30 pm.  There will be a terrific Silent Auction again, which will close at 9 pm, as well as the always-exciting 50/50 raffle (if all the tickets are sold, the winner will be awarded $2,500!). Gala event tickets may be purchased at the Parish Office for $40 each.  

Note:  If you can't attend the Gala event, donations to "In Support of Life" are also much appreciated, and may also be dropped off at the Parish Office, with tax receipts, if desired, to follow.  Donations up to $2000 will be matched by an anonymous donor, so this is a great way to make your donation be even more valuable!  Cash and cheques are accepted, with cheques being made out to "K of C In support of Life". 

For all the details on this wonderful Gala fund-raising event, please call Louis Roth at (306) 249-2764 or Murray Geenen (306) 244-6196.

February Food Collection

For the Friendship Inn

Let's go St. Philip Neri!  For the month of February, we are collecting jam and rice for the Friendship Inn. The Donation Bin remains in the Welcome Area, just inside the front doors of the church, on the right.  Let's fill it up!

In addition, there is always a need for other non-perishables. Please be sure to check "best before" dates. Thanks for your support!

St. Philip Neri Refugee Committee

Furniture & Household Items Needed

Are you downsizing or just doing some fall house-cleaning and de-cluttering?  We have just the place for the items you no longer want or need.  The Refugee Committee is once again asking for furniture, kitchen and other household items to replenish their stock as they prepare for the future arrival of more refugee families.  Please call Denise Debrau, at (306) 291-1675 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a pick-up of your donated items. Thank you so much for your ongoing support of our refugee familiies!  

St. Philip Neri Parish Bereavement Support

Tuesday, February 7, 1-3:00 pm

Please know that there is support offered here at the Parish. If you would like a place to gather and talk with others who have lost a loved one, please come out to our next gathering on Tuesday, February 7, from 1 to 3:00 pm, here in the church's Sunroom. We look forward to walking with you in faith! No registration fee or sign up are required. Please just feel comfortable in coming to join us. For more information, please call Deb, our Parish Nurse, at the Parish.

Golden Age Card Players

The Golden Age Group at St. Philip Neri meets regularly to play cards, every second Wedesday, from 1:30-4:00 pm in the Welcome Area. 

Their next card-playing session will be on Wednesday, February 8. The cost is $2 per day.  The group happily welcomes any new players to join them for some fun, friendly competition!  For more information, please call the president, Sylvia Godbout, at (306) 374-9085. 

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Every Monday evening (except for long weekends), from 6 pm to 10 pm, and also every second Thursday of the month, from 9 am to 6 pm, people are invited to pray with the Blessed Sacrament in the main area of the church. 

The upcoming Adoration schedule: 

• Monday evenings:  January 30, February 6, 13, 20, and 27 (from 6 pm-10 pm) 
• The next full day Adoration will be on Thursday, Feb. 9, from 9 am - 6 pm.

Special Collections 2023

For those parishioners who make their regular parish donations by PAG (pre-authorized giving), they often don't know when the Special Collections are because they don't have coloured envelopes to remind them.  So that we all know, here are the Special Collections coming up for the next few months:

February 5:  Needs of the Canadian Church

March 26:  Share Lent (Development & Peace)

April 6:  Holy Thursday (Needs of the Local Poor)

April 7:  Good Friday (Needs of the Church in the Holy Land)

April 9:  Easter Offering

Note:  Additional "Special Offering" envelopes can always be found in the Welcome Area at the entrance of the church. 

Freedom Fridays!

Every Friday at 6 pm

Join your fellow parishioners as well as Fr. Mike and Fr. Bill, every Friday evening, beginning at 6 pm, in the Welcome Area, for an always-delicious pot-luck supper, great casual conversations and always a few good laughs!  Throw in a main dish, a side dish, some munchies or a dessert, and of course, yourself, and join us every Friday for a wonderful way to wind down the work week!  Newbies are most welcome to join us - a great way to meet some awesome new parishioner friends!  

Diocesan Prayer Intention

Day of Prayer for Reverence for Life January 29, 2023

Almighty God, giver of all that is good, we thank you for the precious gift of human life: for life in the womb, coming from your creative power; for the life of children, making us glad with their freshness and promise; for the life of young people, hoping for a better world; for the life of people who are disabled, teaching us that every life has value; for the life of the elderly, witnessing to the ageless values of patience and wisdom. Like Blessed Mary, may we always say “yes” to Your gift. Help us to realize the sacredness of human life and to respect and cherish it from conception to its natural end, and bring us at last, O Father, to the fullness of eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN

Day of Prayer for Reverence for Life SUNDAY

THIS Sunday, January 29

Sunday, January 29 has been set aside for the annual Day of Prayer for Reverence for Life Sunday.  In his words, Bishop Mark says that this day provides "our faith communities with an opportunity for prayers, reflection and discussion about the value of the precious gift of human life."  But he says so much more. 

In preparation for this important Day of Prayer, you may find the rest of Bishop Mark's informational and inspirational letter by clicking on the button below:

World Day of Consecrated Life

Thursday, February 2

 On the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, when our universal Church marks the World Day of Consecrated Life, all are invited to celebrate and pray in solidarity with the consecrated women and men of our Diocese. On Thursday, Feb. 2, there will be Eucharistic Adoration at the Cathedral of the Holy Family at 11:15 am to pray for vocations in our Diocese, followed by Mass, celebrated, at 12:15 pm, with Bishop Mark Hagemoen presiding. Join in person at the Cathedral on February 2, or pray live or later via live-stream video at https://saskatoonmass.com or by clicking on the button below. After Mass, there will be a lunch and social – please RSVP to Sr. April Mireau, at (306) 531-9937 or aprilmireau@gmailcom, if you plan on attending the lunch. We thank God for the witness and service of consecrated men and women around the world and in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon!

Pope Saint John Paul II instituted this day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life in 1997. The Feast of the Presentation is also known as Candlemass Day - a day on which candles are traditionally blessed, symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Jesus Christ in our world.

"Share Lent" Event

Thursday, February 2

Let us “Stand for the Land” in solidarity with our sisters and brothers who are defending their territories in the Global South by protecting their lands and waters, the environment, and human life. 

All are welcome to attend the campaign presentation/workshop by Mike LeBlanc, our Diocesan Development and Peace-Caritas Canada Animator, to be held on Thursday, Feb. 2, from 7 - 9 pm, at St. Anne Parish, 217 Lenore Dr. Pastors, parish reps, young adults, and anyone interested in this global issue are welcome to attend. Can’t make this time or place? An online workshop will take place on Monday, Feb. 13, from 7 - 9 pm, on Zoom. For more information, please email mleblanc@devp.org or click on the button below: 

"A Journey into Exile" Event

Tuesday, February 7

"A Journey into Exile" Event will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 7:00 pm at Holy Spirit Parish. This is a simulation exercise aims to raise awareness about the reality of refugees around the world seeking safety, security, and a better life in a new country. 

This immersive and interactive activity designed for ages 14 and up will enable you to gain first-hand experience with the challenges and hopes of refugees. There is no charge to attend, however space is limited, so please register at: https://form.jotform.com/230224198607253. 

For more information, please contact Myron Rogal: mrogal@rcdos.ca or call (306) 659-5841.

World Day of the Sick

Saturday, February 11

Each year, on February 11, the Catholic Church marks the World Day of the Sick on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. This is a time to offer prayers for those who suffer from illness and for their caregivers.

• A collection of resources, materials, videos for children, youth, parents and educators about the World Day of the Sick can be found online at: https://www.chabc.bc.ca/resources-for-schools/
• Prayer for the Sick (Source: Holy Family Parish, St. Albert Alberta) - Father of goodness and love, hear our prayers for the sick members of our community and for all who are in need. Amid mental and physical suffering may they find consolation in your healing presence. Show your mercy as you close wounds, cure illness, make broken bodies whole and free downcast spirits. May these special people find lasting health and deliverance, and so join us in thanking you for all your gifts.

• Pope Francis’ Message for the 2023 World Day of the Sick can be found online at https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/sick/documents/20230110-giornata-malato.html
• 2022 World Day of the Sick Prayer Service (by Catholic Health Association of the US) can be found online at: https://www.chausa.org/prayers/cha-prayer-library/prayer/2022-world-day-of-the-sick-prayer

Experience EVERGREEN from Burnt Thicket Theatre

Feb. 2-12, live in Saskatoon

During the late shift at this rural diner, an inquisitive customer divines information far too close to home for the ex-pastor behind the counter. Two strangers wrestle with seeming coincidences that urge them to choose between the familiarity of their own isolation or the risk of being loved. 

This wonderful show runs from Feb. 2-12 at The BackStage Stage, at The Remai Arts Centre, at 100 Spadina Cr E. Tickets: Pay-What-You-Choose.  A video trailer may be seen at burntthicket.com or by clicking on the button below.  You may also call (306) 384-7727 for more information. 

(Note: Audience Advisory: some strong language, PG-13)

Rosaries Requested for Prison Ministry

The Diocesan Office of Restorative Ministry is seeking donations of sturdy rosaries (on metal chains) for prayer with those who are in prison. Donations can be dropped off here in our Parish Office OR dropped off/sent to the Catholic Pastoral Centre, Second Floor, Cathedral of the Holy Family, 123 Nelson Road, Saskatoon, S7S 1H1. Office hours: 9 am to noon, 1 am to 4:30 pm weekdays), or contact Dianne Anderson at (306) 242-1500. 

SK Knights of Columbus Vocations Endowment

The Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan have partnered with the Sask K of C Charitable Foundation to create the Sask K of C Vocations Endowment. Every year the earnings from this Endowment will be disbursed equally to each seminarian throughout all Saskatchewan dioceses and eparchy. These funds will help defray the estimated $30,000 per year it costs to educate each seminarian. During the month of February, local Knights of Columbus councils will participate with parishes in a fund-raising campaign in support of this Vocation Endowment fund. More detail on the campaign can be found on video by clicking on the button below.

Thank you for your support of the education and development of seminarians through prayer and financial assistance.

Serena Annual Gala Fundraiser

Saturday, Feb. 4

Serena Saskatchewan, a natural family planning service, invites you to its Annual Gala Fundraiser on Saturday, February 4. A delicious meal shared with friends at Sami’s Sunrise Grill, (418A 47th St E), drinks to make you merry (cash bar available), musical entertainment (youth string quartet and harpist), door prizes, 50-50 draw = a delightful evening out! 

Order your tickets by Sunday, January 29. Thank you for supporting Serena! 

For those who can or cannot attend: For  every $50 you donate (above and beyond the meal) that is received between December 2 and February 6, we will enter your name into a draw to win 1 of 3 $50 Skip the Dishes gift cards! Tax receipts will be issued for your donation. For more details and to book your tickets, simply click on the button below:

Time Out for Moms

Winter Session: Feb. 1 - Mar. 8

Time Out For Moms - TOFM - winter session will be held Wednesday mornings for five weeks from Feb. 1 to March 8. Registration is underway until Jan. 25; register early to guarantee a spot. All mothers are welcome to attend this series featuring Catholic faith, fellowship, child care, coffee, nourishment, prayer, enrichment, and joy. For more details and to register, visit: www.tofm.ca

URGENT request: TOFM needs more board members: Without getting another 3-5 people to help, the winter session will not be able to continue. Please email tofmsaskatoonsk@gmail.com for more information. In addition, TOFM welcomes volunteers to serve in the childcare rooms. If you are interested or would like more information please visit the website www.tofm.ca or email tofmsaskatoonsk@gmail.com. (A current criminal record check is required as well as diocesan safeguard training which TOFM can provide.)

Arise: Seen, Know, Loved Women's Retreat

Sat. Feb. 11 & Sun. Feb. 12

“Arise: Seen Known Loved” retreat for women Feb. 11-12 - Arise Catholic Movement invites all women from high school age and up to their next women's retreat, Arise: Seen. Known. Loved. to be held Feb. 11 and 12 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, 123 Nelson Road. 

Inspired by the scripture "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” Isaiah 43, the retreat will consist of one day of speaker sessions as well as sacraments, followed by a half day of workshops diving deeper into the practical ways we are called to See, Know and Love those women around us. Keynotes include Christy Dupuis, Sister Mary Margaret Hope, SV, and Debbie and Rachel Herbeck. Every woman deserves to know that we have a God who, without fail, sees, knows, and loves us. Will you come and enter into this truth with us? 

For more info on the retreat and registration prices or to register for the retreat, visit: https://arisecatholicmovement.ca/, or click on the button below:

"World Famous Dueling Pianos" - FINAL Reminder!

Friday, February 3

Don't forget about this one!  Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Foundation presents the annual “World Famous Dueling Pianos” event on Friday, Feb. 3, at the Sheraton Cavalier Hotel! Doors open at 7:00 pm, with the entertainment beginning at 8:00 pm. This fund-raising event supports Catholic education in Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools. Tickets for the Dueling Pianos event can be purchased by calling the GSCS Foundation at (306) 659-7003 or by emailing catholicschoolsfoundation@gscs.ca."

SEARCH returns!

Registration is now open for students in Grades 10-12 to attend the next Search weekend live-in retreat in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, to be held Feb. 24-26, 2023 at E.D. Feehan Catholic School. Youth attending a Search retreat are able to meet, make friends, have meaningful discussions and learn more about what it means to be a Christian. Small groups, music, activities, prayer time, and important talks given by other young people are just a few of the things that make the retreat great. Attending Search is a great way to deepen a close, personal relationship with God, make friends and forge lasting memories. Cost for the entire weekend is $100. Find more information and registration at https://saskatoonsearch.ca/

Another Adoration Opportunity

A Holy Hour for the Feminine Heart

Take time away to refresh your soul and spend time with new friends. All women are invited to a monthly Holy Hour followed by refreshments and fellowship, held at 7 pm on the first Thursday of every month at Holy Spirit Parish. The evening includes adoration, a short Gospel reflection led by Fr. Joseph Salihu, quiet prayer, benediction, and rosary.  It's not too late to join in on this inspirational opportunity! 

CWL Clothing Depot

Ongoing Needs

The CWL Clothing Depot is requesting donations of warm coats and jackets, sweaters, gloves, mitts, toques, socks, underwear, sheets, towels, personal hygiene items, and household and kitchen items. 

Donations help our sisters and brothers in our community who are struggling to make ends meet. Donations can be dropped off between 10 am and 2 pm Monday to Friday, at 619-20th Street West (rear entrance of Friendship Inn). Please ring the back doorbell when delivering items. Volunteers are always welcome at the CWL Clothing Depot! Please call Bea for more information, at (306) 242-5042.

Donations may also be dropped off here at St. Philip Neri Parish, in the large bin on the LEFT hand side (under the coat rack), as you come into the Welcome Area. 

Delicious Monthly Pancake Breakfast - THIS Sunday!

St. Joseph's Hall on Broadway

Everyone is welcome to join the K of C Chapter #11429 - San Lorenzo Ruiz - for their delicious monthly Sunday morning pancake breakfasts, held in St. Joseph's Parish Hall, on Broadway Ave. & 8th Street. These yummy breakfasts will be served on Sundays, from 10 am to 1 pm, on the following dates: 

Feb. 19, Mar. 19, April 23, and May 28.  

The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children 5-15 years.  Breakfasts consists of pancakes (with syrup or whipped cream & berries!), sausages, scrambled eggs, toast, coffee and juice. Come on over and join us!  Everyone is welcome!

Filipino Catholic Community of Saskatoon

Next Monthly Mass - Sun. Feb. 19

The Filipino Catholic Community of Saskatoon gathers on the third Sunday of every month to celebrate Mass at St. Paul Co-Cathedral, 720 Spadina Cr. E., with the next celebration to be held on Sunday, February 19, at 5:00 pm. Future Mass dates are March 19, April 16, May 21, and June 18.   

The Filipino Catholic community also holds a weekly Novena in English every Friday at 5:30 pm, at St. Paul Co-Cathedral. Everyone is welcome. 

Catholic Saskatoon NEWS

Our Diocese has an online news portal featuring local, national and international Catholic news. Go to “Catholic Saskatoon News” at https://news.rcdos.ca to check out the latest coverage, or to sign up to receive headline updates via e-mail. The Diocese also has a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/saskatoonrcdiocese and can be found on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SaskatoonCath.

Weekly Diocesan Bulletin

Get the latest fall news from around the Saskatoon Diocese!

Find out what's going on around the Diocese, including upcoming events, new learning opportunities to help you grow in your faith,  and other interesting information and announcements.

St. Philip Neri Masses are live-streamed, every Saturday at 5 pm

 If you aren’t able to attend Mass in person, you may watch it LIVE on YouTube.

To find us on YouTube, click on St Philip Neri YouTube Channel or go to our website, stphilipneriparish.ca and get to our channel from there.

NOTE:  If you are hard of hearing or would like to have the Live-Streamed Services "with text", please click the “cc”/ “Closed Caption” icon/button at the bottom right on your computer screen, below the live-streamed service.  You will be able to see the words of the speaker!

We have left past Masses up on our channel for you to watch, or you can tune in to our next upcoming LIVE Masses on the dates and times below:

Upcoming Live-Streams: 

Saturday, January 28 - 5:00 pm (Fr. Mike)

Saturday, February 4 - 5:00 pm (Fr. Mike)