Are you being called?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which interested adults and mature teenagers are introduced to the Roman Catholic  faith and way of life. Classes are held on Wednesday evenings from October to Easter. Various ceremonial rites take place throughout this period, culminating in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion at Easter Vigil. St. Charles parish invites those who are not baptized, or who are baptized in a different faith tradition and wish to inquire about becoming part of the Roman Catholic Church, to participate in this process. Catholics who have been baptized but have not completed the sacraments of Confirmation and First Communion are also invited to attend. Interested persons please contact James Bowman at 204-802-4100 or jamesbowman2010@hotmail.com or the church office at 204-889-3248.

Keeping Christ in Christmas

Members of Father Allan Hall Council #8604

Have you noticed the new sign near the front entrance to the church?  It replaces an older version of “Keep Christ in Christmas”.  Members of St. Charles Knights of Columbus (Father Allan Hall Council #8604) agreed that the  previous sign was too weathered to repair so a new sign was required.  After reviewing several renditions of the nativity scene, they agreed to use “In The Hands of the Father” by American artist Roger Loveless.  The sign was constructed by Jean Aquin of Country Signs in Elie, Manitoba.  Thanks to Ron Chase and Abe Froese for construction of  the frame and installation.

Below is a commentary written by the artist Roger Loveless describing his inspiration for the painting.

In The Hands of the Father

During quiet times when I think of the Savior’s birth, I am truly humbled by its sacred nature and by the events that occurred both before and after.  I think of Mary holding the infant surrounded by the wise men and shepherds  that came from far away to honour and pay respect.

But when I think of Joseph, I think of a young man who exercised great faith in a difficult situation prior to the birth, I think of a man who loved Mary very much and was more concerned with her needs  than that of his own.

I chose to portray Joseph taking a turn nurturing the newborn infant while Mary was able to get some much needed rest.  The only earthly witnesses to this kindness are the animals found in the manger, who seem to sense the divine nature of his goodness.

“In the Hands of theFather” reflects the great responsibility that Joseph felt, but at the same time was able to draw strength from being in the hands of someone much greater than his own.

Remembrance Day 2014

Ron Labbe with daughter
Aaron Russell

On a clear and crisp November 11 morning, St. Charles parishioners gathered to remember those “who served our country in times of conflict and in times of Peace”.  

Ron Labbe did an outstanding job of incorporating the Remembrance Day service into the Tuesday morning daily Mass.  “In Flanders Fields”  written by Canadian poet Lt. Colonel John McCrae, was read by Aaron Russell, Ron’s daughter.

The presentation and laying of the veteran’s wreath was done by Retired Captain Bob Simmons and Retired Chief Warrant Officer Lynda Ann Smith.  The wreath representing the widows was laid by Polly Moore accompanied by Retired Master Corporal Simon Lemay.  A  poignant and evocative rendition of the Last Post  and Reveille was played by trumpeter Chad Desrosiers.

Thank you to all those who prepared and participated in the morning ceremony which gave us the opportunity to “stop and reflect on the courage and sacrifice made by those who paid the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf so many years ago”.

Polly Moore accompanied by 
Retired Master Corporal Simon Lemay

Retired Captain Bob Simmons and 
Retired Chief Warrant Officer Lynda Ann Smith

2014 Life Hike

The 2014 Life Hike was a huge success. The rain held off as 150 of us set out from St. Martyrs Parish in St. Vital to publicly show our support for Pro-Life issues. We managed to raise over $6000.00 for Life's Vision, the provincial pro-life educational resource centre in Manitoba. As we walked, I asked myself: Why are we pro-life? Is it because we're against abortion and euthanasia? That's part of it, obviously, but it's so much more than that. Our Lord tells us "I have come that they may have LIFE, and have it abundantly" and again, "I am the way, the truth, and the LIFE". Also consider the words of Pope Saint John Paul II: "The Gospel of life is at the heart of Jesus' message". That's why we're pro-life - because we are disciples of Jesus. He offers us life abundantly. It is our duty as Christians to proclaim the infinite dignity and worth of human life - and that's the "good news" of the Gospel. God loves us so much that He died on a cross for us. How very precious you are to God! 

Angela Bowman

"We must remember that life begins at home and we must also remember that the future of humanity passes through the family”. Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Knights of Columbus Bursary Awarded

On September 14, Knights of Columbus Father Allan Hall Council awarded a post-secondary bursary to Joseph Holtman.  Joseph was selected for his excellent academic record, dedicated volunteerism in his community and at St. Charles Parish.  The Knights of Columbus congratulates Joseph on his award.  Good luck with your Agriculture studies at the University of Manitoba!

The Grand Knight's Ball and Awards Dinner 2014

On June 7, 2014 at the “Grand Knight’s Ball”,  the Father Alan Hall Council Knights of Columbus #8604 expressed sincere gratitude to several members of St. Charles Parish and recognized their outstanding dedication and ministrations.

Berthe LaFleche has been in St. Charles parish since 1950.  Her husband Martial (Bouncer) LaFleche was  born here, lived here all his life and is resting in St. Charles cemetery.  

Berthe has volunteered at Sunday School, picnics, Fowl Suppers and various activities both at St. Charles Academy and St. Charles parish.  Responding to the receiving the award, Bertha commented,”We have a beautiful community at St. Charles and we hope to keep it that way”.

Gerry Desjardins arrived at St. Charles Parish in  1948.  Gerry has done painting as well as  maintaining and repairing the furnaces, the air exchangers, the air conditioners, kitchen appliances and light fixtures .  He worked on many construction projects: the new restrooms, the  brick garage, and an addition to the Sanctuary for a one time production of the Messiah. He continues to pour cement for sidewalks and markers in the work of maintaining and improving the St. Charles cemetery along with Ron. He has contributed to the building of the church office when it was moved from the rectory to the church and helped to rebuild the coat room, the storage room and the stage.Gerry has looked after the bar-tending duties at almost every  joyous occasion at our parish. 

Father Allan Halls Family of the Year: 

The Thibert Family

For many years the entire Thibert family has been active in the St. Charles Youth Group.  Patrick, Janelle and Celeste are qualified group leaders with the Catholic School of Evangelization.  The family is involved in the Charismatic Catholic Prayer Group and attends its many conferences and events.  Norbert, Lorraine and Janelle also serve as Ministers of Communion at St. Charles Parish.

Norbert is the financial secretary for the Knights of Columbus and does an outstanding job paying the bills and keeping the finances in good shape.  Patrick is also a member of the Knights of Columbus having the position of recorder.  He helps out regularly at the pancake breakfasts.

For many years Norbert has been on St. Charles Pastoral Council and has served as St. Charles Parish representative  on the St. Charles Catholic School Board.  Norbert is also actively involved with Baseball Manitoba as an umpire.

In addition to being a teacher, Lorraine is a musician who plays several instruments, her favourite being the drums.  Lorraine accompanies the 9:30 choir on Sunday morning and   belongs to a six piece Christian rock band called “One In Spirit”.  Her band has raised thousands of dollars for a wide variety of charitable causes.

Janelle and Celeste help with the St. Charles Parish initiative called “Children Loving Children”.   Every week the parish children drop their coins in a jar which is used to support three disadvantaged children from other parts of the world.  Janelle and Celeste pick up, sort, wrap and count the coins and return them to the counters to deposit.

Father Allan Hall's Knight of the Year: Brother Abe Froese  

(Because Abe was out of town, the award was presented to his son.)

Abe Froese is a past Grand Knight, an Altar Server and a Communion Minister.  He has been an active parishioner for many years and a valued knight.  He was involved in repairing the church bell and restructuring the support.  Abe  painted the interior of the church and painted the lines in the parking lot .  Weather a church event or Knights of Columbus function he is  one of the first ones to offer a helping hand setting up, serving or cleaning afterwards.  Being a dedicated Knight of Columbus he advanced to 4th degree and has been ICCD chairman for the past two years.

Abe is a Knight who is willing to take on any task for the betterment of all. 

2014 Winnipeg March for Life

We were blessed with a perfect day for the 2014 Winnipeg March for Life. Twelve parishioners from St. Charles joined over 800 others to publicly show their support for life, love and compassion. As we were walking along, I saw a man on the sidewalk staring at us. I was apprehensive: perhaps he didn't agree with our message - would he confront us? To my surprise and delight, he joined us.  Sometimes we can get discouraged. We wonder: are we having any effect? Are we changing hearts and minds? After seeing that man spontaneously join in our march, I can say emphatically: Yes! We are drawing people into our message of life and love. And that's why we march. We march for those who have no voice. For the unborn, for the elderly, for the sick, for women hurting from the guilt of abortion.  We march to be salt and light to a world that too often sees death as the answer to life's difficulties. Yes, it's easier to have an abortion than to raise a baby on your own. Yes, it's easier to commit suicide than to face a long and painful illness. Love costs. It requires effort. It is not always the "easy choice". But it is the choice we must make if we are to build a civilization of love. - James Bowman

St. Charles Parish Prepares For Christmas

Thank you to all the wonderful parishioners who worked so hard to prepare St. Charles church for the Christmas season.

A free digital slideshow by Smilebox

Hike For Life 2013

This years Hike for Life was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church located at the junction of Grant Avenue and Roblin Boulevard.  Hike for Life is a walk in support of Life's Vision, a pro-life non-profit educational resource centre which helps to educate others about pre-natal development, abortion, assisted suicide and euthanasia.  By supporting Life’s Vision we help them to continue their great work of promoting a culture of life here in our city and province.  This year there were approximately 120 people walking including 12 people from St. Charles Parish.   St. Charles Pro-Life Group would love to thank all those who participated from our parish.

The Year of Faith

The significance of the official logo of the Year of Faith is very simple.  The boat is the traditional symbol of the Church, and it is in movement of the waves; its mast is the cross, and the cross is the sign of the love of Christ and the sign of our faith.  And together with the sails the cross forms initials “IHS” which are Christian letters for ‘Jesus’.  The sun, behind the IHS, makes a Eucharistic host, and the Eucharist is, the centre of our lives and faith.

“The Year of Faith is intended to contribute to the renewed conversion to the Lord Jesus and to the rediscovery of faith, so that the members of the Church will be credible and joy-filled witnesses to the Risen Lord in the world today - capable of leading those many people who are seeking it to the “door of faith”.  (Taken from the Note from theCongregation for the Doctrine of the Faith)

To honor the fiftieth anniversary of the Second Vatican Council and the twentieth  anniversary of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI has announced a Year of Faith, which started October 11, 2012, and which will end on November 24, 2013.  The goal of the Year of Faith is to strengthen the faith of Catholics and draw the world to faith by their example.

10 Ways you can The Live “The year of Faith

1. Participate in Mass.  The Year of Faith is meant to promote the personal encounter with Jesus.  This occurs most immediately in the Eucharist.  Regular Mass attendance strengthens one’s faith through the Scriptures, the Creed, other prayers, sacred music, the homily, receiving Communion and being part of the faith community.
2. 2. Go to Confession.  Like going to Mass, Catholics find strength and grow deeper in their faith through participation in the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.  Confession urges people to turn back to God, expressing sorrow for falling short and open their lives to the power of God’s healing grace.  It forgives the injuries of the past and provides strength for the future.
3. Learn about the Lives of the Saints.  The saints are timeless examples of how to live a Christian life, and they provide endless hope.  Not only were they  sinners who kept trying to grow closer to God, but they also exemplify ways a person can serve God: through teaching, missionary work, charity, prayer and simply striving to please God in the ordinary actions and decisions of daily life.
4. Read the Bible daily.  Scripture offers first-hand access to the Word of God and tells the story of human salvation.  Catholics can pray the Scriptures (through lectio divina or other methods) to become more attuned to the Word of God.  Either way, the Bible is a must to grow in the Year of Faith.
5. Read the documents of Vatican Council II.  The Second Vatican Council (1962-65) ushered in a great renewal of the Church.  It impacted how Mass is celebrated, the role of the laity, how the Church understands itself and its relationship with other Christians and non-Christians.  To continue this renewal, Catholics must understand what the Council taught and how it enriches the lives of believers.
6. Study the Catechism of the Catholic Church.  Published exactly 30 years after the start of the Council, the Catechism of the Catholic Church covers the beliefs, moral teachings, prayer and sacraments of the Catholic Church in one volume.  It’s a resource for growing in understanding of the faith.
7. Volunteer in the parish.   The Year of Faith can’t be only about study and reflection.  The solid grounding of Scripture, the Council and the Catechism must be translated into action.  The parish is a great place to start, and each person’s gifts help to build up the community.  People are welcome as ministers of hospitality. liturgical musicians, lectors, catechists and in other roles in parish life.
8. Help those in need.  The Vatican urges Catholics to donate to charity and volunteer to help the poor during the Year of Faith.  This means to personally encounter Christ in the poor, marginalized and vulnerable.  Helping others brings Catholics face-to-face with Christ and creates an example for the rest of the world.
9. Invite a friend to Mass.  The Year of Faith may be global in its scope, focusing on a renewal of faith and evangelization for the whole Church, but real change occurs a the local level.  A personal invitation can make all the difference to someone who has drifted from the faith or feels alienated from the Church.  Everyone knows people like this, so everyone can extend a loving welcome.
10. Incorporate the Beatitudes into your daily life.  The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) provide a rich blueprint for Christian living.  Their wisdom can help all to be more humble, patient, just, transparent, loving, forgiving and free.  It’s precisely the example of lived faith needed to draw people to the Church in the year ahead.

Thank You to St. Charles Parish

July, 2013 the Chemin Neuf Community held its first Cana session in Winnipeg with the help of St. Charles Parish.  This was a six-day session for couples to deepen their relationship with each other and with God.  The adults spent the day at the retreat centre while the children were cared for in the church.  Ladies from the parish cooked all the meals and helped with the children.  There were five couples who participated in the session.  A couple from California, a couple from Quebec, and a priest from France came to help us with the session.  So a big THANK YOU to the parish for allowing us to use the church and for all their help serving these families and the kingdom of God!  Ted and Nancy Wood, Chemin Neuf Community. St. Charles Retreat Centre.

The Grand Knight's Ball and Awards Dinner

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.  William Arthur Ward

On June 15th, at the “Grand Knight’s Ball”,  the Father Alan Hall Council Knights of Columbus expressed sincere gratitude to several members of St. Charles Parish and recognized their outstanding dedication and ministrations.

Lorraine Lemay and Deacon Robert Gate

Deacon Robert Gate thanked Lorraine Lemay  for years of service on Pastoral Council, Liturgy Committee, RCIA adult faith formation committee, children’s Catechism committee as a teacher and later for 5 years as the coordinator of that program.  

That her love and concern reaches into the world of the broken and homeless.  Every week  Lorraine prepares, bakes, bags and freezes 9 loaves of bread.  These loaves are donated to the drop-in, Our Place - Chez Nous, and are served every Tuesday to feed the hungry street people who cross the threshold.  That’s over 360 loaves every year.

“Lorraine is the most prayerful person I have ever known, with a profound and a living spirituality.  A spirituality that is lived out in action of service to others and to her church”, said Robert as he made the presentation.

Grand Knight Chris Souce and Laurette Noakes

In June of 2012, due to a retirement, St. Charles parish was left without a Religious Education Coordinator.  After months of appeals to the parish and several personal contacts with teachers and parents, September came with as yet no replacement.  We were even uncertain as to our status with teacher availability for the coming year.

St. Charles for the first time was faced with either canceling the program or facilitating parents with a home catechism instruction.

When Laurette heard of our dilemma, she responded unselfishly and humbly with “I think I could do that.”

Laurette is a gift from God and a model of coordination and dedication. Gathering and collaborating with the teachers to amalgamate some classes, Laurette and her team were successful in providing a full and rich Catechetical Program from kindergarten to grade 8 for 75 children of our parish.  Laurette has generously offered to continue yet another year as our coordinator.

Ron and Anna Desilets and Grand Knight Chris Souce

Forty-five years ago, in 1968, Ron and Anna Desilets found a home in St. Charles Parish. Ron and Anna are, for all of us, living exemplars of Christ the servant … our Lord “who came, not to be served, but to serve and to lay down their lives for others.”

Ron has served on absolutely every council and committee of the Church imaginable, not once but several times.  Pastoral Council, finance council, building, maintenance, hospitality, cleaning and counting committee’s, as well as the men’s group.

Ron was involved in the discussions, planning, fundraising and eventual construction of a new addition to St. Charles parish which was completed in 1988.  Ron was instrumental in serving on that building committee.  

Around the time of St. Charles expansion and renovations (circa 1987), Ron took it upon himself to identify and clarify the record of burial locations as well as renovate and restore the beauty of the cemetery we enjoy today.

Additional burial plots were clearly identified and organized as well as a beautiful columbarium erected for use by parishioners.

All under the inspiration and dedication of Ron Desilets, who continues to this day, spending countless hours planting and maintaining this beautiful and holy garden of peace and rest.

Anna served on the very first ever pastoral council for St. Charles, and on several others over the years since then.  

Again, with the encouragement of Fr. Frytek in 1974, Anna became the choir director for the first Sunday choir group in St. Charles.  Anna remained director for the next 29 years until retiring in 2003.  She still, after 40 years, remains an active member of the choir and director whenever needed.

Yet once again, with the reforms of Vatican II, Anna became a member of the 1st ever Liturgy committee which I believe she has remained in unbroken service and to this very day serves as our parish coordinator of all Sunday Liturgies and liturgical celebrations throughout the year.

Anna dedicated her life as well to the protection and defense of the unborn child.  She served for 24 years in the pro-life movement from 1973 until retiring in 1997.

In that time Anna served on the board and as president of League for Life Manitoba, editor of “Pro Life News Canada”, and executive director of Alliance for Life.

In fact, on December 15th, 1985, Anna was awarded the Papal Medal of Honor (Benemerenti) by Pope John Paul II for her exceptional accomplishments and service.  She received this award for those 24 years of work in the pro-life movement and for her overall service and dedication to her beloved Church.

Grand Knight Chris Souce, Myrna, Nicholas and Nick Whitelaw
The Knights of Columbus Family of the Year

It is only through selfless giving and dedication by individuals and sharing their gifts that any organization is able to sustain itself and continue to grow.  

This family has been involved in assisting with social events - cooking, and setting up before and cleaning up after the events. They have vacuumed and cleaned our worship area and served at liturgical celebrations, weekend Masses, funerals and special solemnities like Christmas and Easter.

We, at St. Charles Parish, are blessed to have a family who exemplifies team effort  and in doing so has discovered that special treasure hidden in the field of loving service.  We are happy to announce that Nick, Myrna and Nicholas Whitelaw, are our Knights of Columbus Family of the Year.

Grand Knight Chris Souce, Marilyn and Remie Van Achte
Knight of the Year

This quiet Knight has been overseeing and cooking our Pancake Breakfasts and Rosary & Spaghetti Knight Dinners at St. Charles Parish for two years or more.  His willingness to use his gifts and abilities has strengthened the mission and ministry of this Church and the Father Alan Hall  Council.  He has been an example of servant-leadership and giving.  

We are happy to announce the  Knight of the Year - Remie Van Achte.

2013 Winnipeg March for Life

Below is a short report from Angela & James Bowman who attended The 2013 Winnipeg March for Life along with other members of St. Charles Parish.

"The 2013 Winnipeg March for Life was a huge success, with 850 people attending, a dramatic increase from last year. Being there, I sensed that support for pro life issues is becoming stronger and stronger. Although marching for a serious issue, the faces of the people there were anything but. We smiled, laughed and talked with each other as we marched down Broadway to the Legislature. What a joyous experience! It was especially heartwarming to see so many young people there. Without a doubt, the pro life movement is gaining momentum. It cannot be stopped - the culture of life will defeat the culture of death."