events

Diocesan Workshops And Events (December 2019)

Parenting Tip of the Month – For Catholics, Christmas is about so much more than gifts: it is the promise, through the birth of Jesus, of goodness and light coming into our lives. Do your children know this is the focus of Christmas? Advent and Christmas are perfect times to highlight the “reason for the season”. Read stories about the Advent wreath so they understand what each candle symbolizes; read the story of the Nativity (more than once!); be sure the tree is adorned with symbols of the faith; read family Advent reflections daily during Advent; attend Mass and reflect on the readings each week, including Christmas Day. Faith sets a foundation on which to stand and Christmas is a perfect time to bring Christ into your family activities!

Marriage Tip of the Month – At Christmas we gather with love ones to share gifts, eat great food and build joyful memories. Sometimes we get caught up on the glitter and glam of the season and forget to take time as a couple to decide how much money, time and energy we can expend during the season. This year why not sit down in advance and decide how much you can do as a couple/family. Weave into your plans time for the two of you to take a quiet moment with each other. During Advent and Christmas, take time to pray and share important faith moments with each other. Trying these initiatives could make this Christmas your best yet!

Healing After an Abortion: It Is Possible – Caring hearts are available to help you deal with the difficult feelings that often come after an abortion. At Project Rachel we offer a confidential service allowing people to work through their feelings and find hope and healing. Please contact us at 905-526-1999 or toll free at 1-888-385-3850.

Friday Night Support Group for Persons Separated or Divorced – Would it help you to have people around you to understand what you’re going through? Would you like to hear some ideas that will encourage you and help you to develop new ways of coping with the stresses in your life? The Hamilton Diocesan Support Group meets the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month and they can help! No need to register just come and join us at the Chancery Office at 700 King St. West, Hamilton from 7 – 9 p.m. For more information call the Family Ministry Office at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249. There is NO COST, but great learning, caring and support!

CCYMN Hope Comes Home Conference – The Canadian Youth Ministry Conference is being hosted Friday, February 21^st to Sunday, February 23^rd, 2020 in Hamilton. Through keynote addresses, workshops and prayerful collaboration with one another, we look forward to unpacking the fruits of the Synod, and finding ways of applying the Apostolic Exhortation- Christus Vivit to day-to-day ministerial and Parish life. We invite anyone working alongside young people to join us, including priests, religious, youth ministers, youth ministry volunteers, teachers, chaplaincy leaders and teams, and individuals working for catholic service agencies. There are bursaries available for those wishing to attend but may not be able to due to financial constraint. For more information about the conference, to register, or apply for a bursary please visit www.hopecomeshome.com. If you have any questions please contact Nicole McCowell, Interim Director of Youth Ministry, at nmccowell@hamiltondiocese.com or 905-528-7988 ext.2245.

Diocesan Workshops And Events (October 2019)

Retrouvaille – Stress in Your Marriage? – Are you feeling bored, disillusioned, frustrated, or angry in your marriage? Are you wondering how to change the situation, or how to communicate with your spouse about it? Retrouvaille is a program designed to help with any problem in a marriage – large or small. Retrouvaille can help- our next weekend program is being held October 25, 2019. For confidential information about the program, or to register please call 905-664-5212 or email: Teamrecine@gmail.com or visit www.retrouvaille.org.

“Grief Relief” Has someone you cared about died? Are you grieving the loss of the person’s presence in your life? Are you wondering if these feelings are normal? You are not alone! “Grief Relief” – is a 6 week educational and support series dealing with grief. Being held on Thursdays – October 24, 31 and November 7, 14, 21, 28, 2019 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish – 715 Centre Rd. Waterdown. Facilitated by Mrs. Debbie Mazzaferro R.N. and Dr. Wendy Hofman. There is no cost to participate. All are welcome to attend all or any sessions you can. To register call 905-528-7988 ext. 2249 or on line at www.hamiltondiocese.com.

Pathways to Growth: Focusing on Healing After Separation and Divorce. Difficult times can be challenging to everyone, but they can also provide us with opportunities to grow and find new supports. Are you separated or divorced? Has life thrown a curve ball at you that you never expected? Are you feeling challenged in your everyday living? Join us on Tuesday, November 5 from 7 -9 p.m. at St. Michael Parish, Waterloo to learn pathways to growth during this time. All are welcome. For information contact: 905-528-7988 ext. 2250 or 905-528-7988 ext. 2241. Healing is possible – join us!

Parenting Tip 116 – Helping our children to become less focused on themselves and more interested in their neighbour is an essential role of every parent and caregiver. Children do not often think of others before themselves in the early years of their lives, so from a young age be sure to set clear limits on their behaviour and the “things” they get, so they don’t become entitled; praise them whenever you witness an unselfish act, no matter how small; model unselfish behaviour both within and outside the home by sharing time, goods and talents. Children thrive in relationships, show less anger and aggression and feel good about themselves when they look outward, not inward. Jesus himself taught that next to loving God, loving neighbour is our most important role in this world.

Marriage Tip 96 – It is important every now and then that spouses deliberately consider the needs and/or desires of their partner over their own, even if it may not be their first choice of action. Acknowledging a spouse in this manner, in a variety of different circumstances, tells them that you are listening when they express their feelings/desires, puts their needs above your own and makes them feel both cared for and listened to by the one they love. When both remember to act in this manner, couples feel closer, see less anger in their relationship and experience the satisfying feelings of being cared for.

For Parishes with Fall Confirmation

Some Parishes celebrate Confirmation in the fall. If your child does not attend Catholic School, please contact the Parish office as soon as possible so we can assist you. The Catechetical Correspondence Courses from the Diocese of Hamilton may be right for you. For more information on the Correspondence Courses, visit the website www.hamiltondiocese.com or call 905-528-7988, ext. 2238.

Ministers of the Word Formation Days

All new ministers who have been invited to proclaim the Word of God to their brothers and sisters during the Sunday Eucharist and other liturgical celebrations of the Christian community are invited to participate in one of two workshops. This workshop will also prove beneficial for those who proclaim the Scriptures as catechists.

Saturday, October 5, 2019 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. St. Anthony Daniel Parish, Kitchener.

Saturday, October 19, 2019 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Waterdown.

Ministers of Holy Communion Formation Days

This workshop is for all new extraordinary ministers of Communion who have been invited to exercise this ministry of charity during the celebration of the Sunday Eucharist, or with the sick and elderly in hospitals or homes.

Saturday, November 2, 2019 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. St. Augustine Parish, Dundas.

Saturday, November 9, 2019 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. St. Louis Parish, Waterloo.

Catechetical Correspondence Courses

Programs available for children from Kindergarten through to High School not currently receiving religious instruction. Preparation for First Communion and Confirmation for children not in Catholic Schools also available. Families work through the programs at home. Contact Monica in the Catechesis Office at 905-528-7988, ext. 2238 or check out our website at www.hamiltondiocese.com and click on the Catechesis Office for more information, printable registration forms or to register online.

Registration for Online Faith Formation programs for adults is now available. These programs are offered through the Diocese of Hamilton in partnership with Dayton University in Ohio. Each course costs $50. Information sessions will take place throughout the Diocese in the coming weeks. To learn more about the Online Learning Portal, please visit the website, https://www.hamiltondioceselearns.com/ or contact ddayler@hamiltondiocese.com or 905-528-7988 ext. 2226.

Hope Comes Home Conference: The National Youth Ministry Conference is being hosted Friday February 21st-Sunday February 23rd, 2020 in Hamilton. Registration for the Hope Comes Home Conference is now open! Through keynote addresses, workshops and prayerful collaboration with one another, we look forward to unpacking the fruits of the Synod, and finding ways of applying the Apostolic Exhortation- Christus Vivit into day-to-day ministerial and Parish life. Saturday evening Mass will be celebrated with His Eminence Cardinal Gerald La Croix, Primate of Canada, and one of the Synod Fathers for the Synod on Youth, Faith and Vocational Discernment. For more information and to register, please visit www.hopecomeshome.com or contact nvaughan@hamiltondiocese.com or 905-528-7988 ext. 2245.

Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies. There are still spaces available for the October start in the online certificate program for Youth Ministry Studies, offered in partnership between the Diocese of Hamilton and Dayton University. We invite anyone working in ministry with youth who is looking for a current and comprehensive learning opportunity to join the cohort. Participants will learn and pray alongside other youth ministers across the Diocese of Hamilton. For more information about the Certificate studies or auditing courses please visit www.hamiltondioceselearns.com or contact cmines@hamiltondiocese.com.

Diocesan Workshops And Events (June 2019)

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd – Level 1 Foundations Course Certificate program is being offered at Sacré Coeur Parish in Georgetown by the Archdiocese of Toronto and Diocese of Hamilton. This course presents the orientation to the key issues fundamental to this ministry with children in early childhood. This course is designed for those who are interested or already involved in caring for the spiritual lives of children. Part A begins Sept. 28 to May 30^th 2020. If you have questions or are interested in The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd programs and atriums, please call Anne Jamieson, 905-528-7988 ext. 2251 or visit:https://www.archtoronto.org/catechesis-good-shepherd. Online registration is available at:https://hamiltondiocese.com/offices/catechesis/good-shepherd.php.

Is your child in Grade 6? Did you know we celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation in Grade 7 in the Diocese of Hamilton? Confirmations at our Parish are normally celebrated in the Fall of each year. Because it will come quickly upon us, we want you to be ready in advance. If your child does not attend Catholic School, please contact the Parish office as soon as possible so we can assist you. The Catechetical Correspondence Courses from the Diocese of Hamilton may be right for you. For more information on the Correspondence Courses, visit the website www.hamiltondiocese.com or call Monica Verin at 905-528-7988, ext. 2238.

Parenting Tip 113

As summer approaches life tends to become a little more relaxed. Longer days mean bedtimes become less specific, warmer days mean our food and drink consumption changes and, hopefully, we take full advantage of these lovely days by spending more time with our children. This summer, be specific and plan what you would like to accomplish with your children: more reading together, more time hiking, more family game nights, more time spent preparing and cooking as a family, etc. Time spent together creates confident, healthy children; when we include daily prayer with our family, life is golden! From: Teresa Hartnett, Family Ministry Office, 905-528-7988 ext. 2250.

Marriage Tip 93

It has been established that an attitude of gratitude improves our health, but can it be beneficial for our spouse as well? Praise, sharing traits in your spouse you are thankful for, holding on to criticism and sharing compliments, thanking your spouse for the small (and large) moments you share – these are but a few ways you can show your spouse gratitude. When we take these actions to heart our spouse feels better physically, mentally and emotionally. A win-win for both partners! From: Teresa Hartnett, Family Ministry Office, 905-528-7988 ext. 2250.

Are you caring for a loved one? Are they in need of palliative care? Do you have questions? A committee of experts, in various related fields, came together to answer possible questions that are often raised at this difficult time in a person’s life. Find the answers to important questions at https://hamiltondiocese.com/palliative.care, or for further assistance call Teresa at 905-528-7988 ext. 2250.

Healing After an Abortion: It is Possible

Caring hearts are available to help you deal with the difficult feelings that often come after an abortion. At Project Rachel we offer a confidential service allowing people to work through their feelings and find hope and healing. Please contact us at 905-526-1999 or toll free at 1-888-385-3850.

DIOCESAN WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS (January 2019)

Annual Bible Sunday – The Second Annual Bible Sunday will be observed in Hamilton Diocese on Sunday, February 3, 2019. The focus of this year’s observance is “Listening to God’s Word at Mass”. Two special presentations on the Gospel of Luke will be offered by Fr. Michael Patella, O.S.B. St. Michael Parish, Waterloo (2:00 – 3:30 p.m.) and the Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King, Hamilton (7:00 – 8:30 p.m.). Plan to attend one of these presentations which will outline what to listen for during this Year of Luke.

Catechesis Connections: Catechist Formation – The next session for Catechesis Connections will take place in Guelph at St. Joseph’s Parish. The schedule will be 2 Saturday sessions 9:30 – 3pm March 30^th and April 13^th 2019. With the help of a new book by Daniella Zsupan-Jerome, “Evangelization & Catechesis: Echoing the Good News Through the Documents of the Church”, we consider the connection between catechesis and evangelization. Short chapters, great stories and helpful reflection, for anyone who is engaged in sharing their faith at home or in the parish. The cost for this program is $35 and includes the book. Online registration is available, https://hamiltondiocese.com/events/catechesis-connections or contact Monica.

Catechetical Correspondence Courses Programs available for children from Kindergarten through to High School not currently receiving religious instruction. Preparation for First Communion and Confirmation for children not in Catholic Schools also available. Families work through the programs at home. Contact Monica in the Catechesis Office at 905-528-7988, ext. 2238 or check out our website at www.hamiltondiocese.com and click on the Catechesis Office for more information, printable registration forms or to register online.

Seeking the Sacred – is the theme for a new afternoon program for seniors starting Tuesday January 29^th 2019 at the chancery office. This program follows the book, The Soul’s Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred, by Christine Valters Paintner. Sr. Mary Heather MacKinnon will lead you through 12 practices intended to give practical ways to deepen our relationship with God. Each chapter includes guided spiritual activities such as Lectio Divina, photography, walking, writing and more. The cost for this seven session program is $35 and includes the book. Space is limited, please register by January 25^th 2019 with Monica at mverin@hamiltondiocese.com or by phone, 905 528 7988 ext. 2238.

Are You Separated and/or Divorced? LEARNING TO COPE (Level 1) is a ten week support program offered in both Hamilton and Kitchener starting Tuesday, March 19 and running from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm. The locations are as follows:

In Hamilton: At the Diocesan Chancery Office, 700 King St. W, Hamilton
In Kitchener: St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 49 Blueridge Avenue, Kitchener 519-745-7301

The program is for persons experiencing difficulties as a result of a separation or divorce. For more information, please contact the Family Ministry Office at (905) 528-7988, ext. 2249. Cost: $35. Have you already completed level 1, 2 or 3? Join the next level and continue the journey toward healing, as well as connect with others experiencing the same change in their lives. Invite others to join you, or pass this on to someone who may need this support. Find out more on line at: www.hamiltondiocese.com under the start date below Upcoming Events.

Stress in Your Marriage? Retrouvaille is a program for married couples that feel bored, frustrated or angry in their marriage. This program has helped countless couples experiencing marital difficulty. For confidential information about or to register for the program beginning with a weekend on March 15, 2019, call 905-664-5212 or email hamiltonretrouvaille1@cogeco.ca or visit the website at www.retrouvaille.org.

Healthy Relationships Share Common Skills – Come and Learn More! “Keys to Loving Relationships” is a ten week video-based program that all people (married, dating, or single) can use to develop the skills needed to have a truly meaningful relationship with a spouse, family member or friend. Learn how to become a better “me” in all your relationships! The program is offered in both Kitchener and Hamilton as follows:

In Kitchener: St. Mark’s Parish, 55 Driftwood Drive, Kitchener (519-571-9200), Tuesday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. Jan. 22 – Mar. 19, 2019
In Hamilton: Diocesan Chancery Office, 700 King ST. W., Hamilton,
Thursday evenings from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. March 21 – May 30, 2019

The cost is $45.00. For more information or to register, please call the Family Ministry Office at (905) 528-7988 ext. 2249 or register at: www.hamiltondiocese.com under the start date below Upcoming Events.

There is Hope after an Abortion – Are you struggling with an abortion decision – either your own, or someone else’s? Do you feel alone, emotional, or angry? Project Rachel is a ministry of healing for any person suffering pain or problems from an abortion experience. This confidential service allows people to work through their feelings and find hope and healing. Please contact us at 905-526-1999 or toll free at 1-888-385-3850.

Diocesan Workshops And Events (October 2018)

MINISTERS OF THE WORD Workshops sponsored by the Liturgy Office take place on Saturday, October 20, 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kitchener, and on Saturday, November 3, 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Burlington. See the Liturgy Office website for more information or call the Liturgy Office at 905-528-7988 ext. 2236.

GATHERED TO SING The Liturgy Office will be hosting a workshop for all parish choir directors and members of parish choirs on Monday, October 29 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at St. Augustine Parish in Dundas. New music from the forthcoming national hymnal, Music for Catholic Worship and other resources will be explored. See the Liturgy Office website for details or call the Liturgy Office at 905-528-7988 ext. 2236.

CATECHESIS CONNECTIONS Are you a catechist? Do you help pass on the faith to others? Join us as we consider the connection between evangelization and catechesis with the help of a new book by Daniella Zsupan-Jerome, “Evangelization & Catechesis: Echoing the Good News Through the Documents of the Church”. Short chapters, great stories, helpful reflection! Wednesday evenings Oct. 10, 24, Nov. 7, 14 & 21, 7 – 8:30pm at St. Gregory’s Parish, Cambridge. Cost is $35, and includes the text. Please register by Oct. 3^rd. Online registration available. For information visit www.hamiltondiocese.com or call Monica at 905 528 7988 ext. 2238.

CATECHETICAL CORRESPONDENCE COURSES Programs are available for children from Kindergarten through to High School not currently receiving religious instruction. Preparation for First Communion and Confirmation for children not in Catholic Schools is also available. Families work through the programs at home. Contact Monica in the Catechesis Office at 905-528-7988, ext. 2238. Visit www.hamiltondiocese.com and click on the Catechesis Office for more information, printable registration forms or to register online.

THE REEL JUSTICE FILM FESTIVAL The Reel Justice Film Festival is back, starting with a screening of the film Romero. Oscar Romero was martyred in 1980 for his passionate stand against social injustice and oppression in his country. He will be canonized on Oct. 14, 2018, the first Salvadoran saint. Reel Justice is a partnership between Development & Peace and the Bishop Farrell Library & Archives, showcasing films with a social justice message. Join us at the Chancery Office, Hamilton on October 19, 2018 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

GRIEF RELIEF Are you grieving the loss of the person’s presence in your life? Are you wondering if these feelings are normal? You are not alone! “Grief Relief” is a six week series dealing with grief, offered on Tuesdays from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. at St. Patrick Parish, Burlington from Sept. 25 to Oct. 30, or at the Chancery Office, Hamilton from October 23rd to November 27th from 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. Facilitator: Karen Hulley, RP. You are free to attend any or all sessions as you are able. To register call the Family Ministry Office: 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or go to www.hamiltondiocese.com

DIOCESAN FAMILY FORUM Do you have ideas on how to support families in our Diocese? We want to hear from you! “The family is the community in which, from childhood, one can learn moral values, begin to honor God, and make good use of freedom. Family life is an initiation into life in society. (CCC #2207)” Join us on October 20^th.Call Lena at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or go to www.hamiltondiocese.com .

STRESS IN YOUR MARRIAGE? Retrouvaille is a program for married couples that feel bored, frustrated or angry in their marriage. This program has helped countless couples experiencing marital difficulty. For confidential information about or to register for the program beginning with a weekend on October 12, 2018, call 905-664-5212 or email hamiltonretrouvaille1@cogeco.ca or visit the website at www.retrouvaille.org.

Impact on Young Minds – Video Games & Social Media, Healthy or Harmful? How do you keep your children safe in this age of 24 hour connection? All parents, caregivers, and grandparents, even youth themselves, are welcome to attend a presentation on Thursday, Nov. 8^th from 7 – 9 p.m. by Brian Janes (registered psychotherapist). This workshop at the Chancery Office, Hamilton, will look at the impact of video games and social media on the developing brain, provide an overview of some of the social dangers present on the web and suggest guidelines and boundaries to help children’s access to screen time remain healthy. To register call Lena at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or visit www.hamiltondiocese.com.

Grandchildren Grow Up: Beyond Toys to Real Life Issues We live in a rapidly changing world where children are experiencing and hearing about issues often beyond what adults know! Let’s talk about some of them, including same-sex attraction, gender identity, healthy sexuality and how to help our grandchildren navigate the “stuff” of their lives. Present or future grandparents, and other interested people are welcome to attend. This presentation will be given by Teresa Hartnett at Holy Rosary Parish, Burlington, on Wednesday, Nov. 7th from 1:30 – 3:30 pm. To register call Lena at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or go to www.hamiltondiocese.com

Marriage is Good for Your Health – Part Two! Back by popular demand, we are offering another Saturday to share time with your spouse! Take some time for your marriage relationship and spend a day learning about The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. This is part two of the program, created by Dr. John Gotman, but if you missed the first session you will still learn lots as we look at the principles in more detail. The enrichment day will be facilitated by Mrs. Teresa Hartnett and Dr. Wendy Hofman on Saturday, Nov. 10th from 10 – 4 p.m. at the Chancery Office, 700 King St. W. The cost for the program is $50 per couple and includes lunch. Register by calling 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or on the Diocesan website: www.hamiltondiocese.com

Friday Night Support Group for Persons Separated or Divorced

Would it help you to have people around you to understand what you’re going through? Would you like to hear some ideas that will encourage you and help you to develop new ways of coping with the stresses in your life? The Hamilton Diocesan Support Group meets the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month. No need to register; just come and join us at the Chancery Office, Hamilton from 7 – 9 p.m. For more information call the Family Ministry Office at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249. There is NO COST.

PARENTING TIP 108 Children learn about life and themselves from every interaction they have with others, but the most profound impact comes from family. A study published by Psychology Press titled, Social Understanding and Social Lives, argues that the quality, as well as the quantity of conversations adults have with their children concerning thoughts and feelings, helps children’s social understanding to grow. As parents we have the ability to help our children identify, cope with and manage their thoughts and feelings. We do this by helping them recognize thoughts and feelings as they arise and then by providing them with ways to manage their inner selves. This leads to children healthy in mind, body and spirit – so talk it through, your kids are listening! (From Family Ministry Office, 905-528-7988 ext. 2250)

MARRIAGE TIP 88 The fall harvest is a result of work undertaken throughout the spring and summer. Watering, nourishing, protecting from insects and the weather all contribute to a healthy yield. Why then do we sometimes forget that relationships too need to be cared for? Do we nourish, protect and nurture our spouses? Care for them gently and speak softly? As St. Francis de Sales said, “The worst way of speaking is to speak too much. Therefore speak little and well, speak little and gently, speak little and charitably, speak little and amiably.” A harvest of love can fill every relationship, but it takes commitment and purposeful work to keep our love strong. (From Family Ministry Office, 905-528-7988 ext. 2250)

Diocese Of Hamilton: Workshops And Events (September 2018)

DIOCESAN WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS
September 2018

Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist workshops will take place on Saturday, September 22^nd at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Waterdown, and on Saturday, September 29^th at Holy Rosary Parish, Guelph. Both workshops are from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For registration information, see the Liturgy Office website https://hamiltondiocese.com/offices/liturgy/ or call the Office (905) 528-7988 ext. 2236.

Ministers of the Word workshops will take place on Saturday, October 29^th at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Kitchener, and on Saturday, November 3^rd at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, Burlington. Both workshops are from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For registration information, see the Liturgy Office website https://hamiltondiocese.com/offices/liturgy/ or call the Office (905) 528-7988 ext. 2236.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word workshops for all who celebrate the liturgy of the word with children during the Sunday celebration of the Eucharist will take place at St. Anne Parish, Kitchener on Tuesday, September 25^th and at St. Francis Xavier Parish, Stoney Creek, on Wednesday, September 26^th. Both workshops are from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. For registration information, see the Liturgy Office website https://hamiltondiocese.com/offices/liturgy/ or call the Office (905) 528-7988 ext. 2236.

Seniors Study Session: Creation Spirituality. This seven week course offered by Sister Mary Heather MacKinnon SSND, D.Min will offer participants an opportunity to understand and find ways to practice a Christian vision of Earth Centered Spirituality. The course will draw on scripture, poetry, ancient prayers, and the lives of the saints and prophets. The course will be held at St. Aloysius Parish, Kitchener, on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Sept. 11, 18, 25, Oct. 2, 16, 23, 30. Cost is $35.00 including text. To register please contact Monica at 905-528-7988 ext. 2238. Online registration is available on the website, www.hamiltondiocese.com.

Grandparents Day: Waiting, Watching, Walking… in Faith

Are you a Grandparent or a Senior who wants to learn more about their faith and how to pass it on to younger generations? Join us for a special celebration in time for National Grandparents Day. Saturday, Sept. 8^th from 9:00 am. to 12:30 pm. at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Waterdown. The morning begins with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Crosby, followed by light refreshments. Then sit back and enjoy special presentations from Elissa Lolino, playwright, actress & catechist, and Phil Small, author, poet, educator & grandparent. Anne Jamieson will help unpack the “Waiting”! There is no charge for this event. Your RSVP allows us to plan for the hospitality but walk-ins the day of are most welcome. There will be faith resources for sale at the event. Register by contacting Monica at 905-528-7988 ext. 2238. For online registration visit www.hamiltondiocese.com.

Catechetical Correspondence Courses

Programs are available for children from Kindergarten through to High School who are not currently receiving religious instruction. Preparation for First Communion and Confirmation for children not in Catholic Schools is also available. Families work through the programs at home. Contact Monica in the Catechesis Office at 905-528-7988, ext. 2238 or check out our website at www.hamiltondiocese.com and click on the Catechesis Office for more information, printable registration forms or to register online.

Catechesis Connections

Are you a catechist? Do you help pass on the Faith to others? In your Parish? In Sacramental Prep? At home? Join us as we consider the connection between evangelization and catechesis with the help of a new book by Daniella Zsupan-Jerome, “Evangelization & Catechesis: Echoing the Good News Through the Documents of the Church”. Short chapters, great stories, helpful reflection! Wednesday evenings Oct. 10, 24, Nov. 7, 14 & 21, from 7:00 to 8:30pm at St. Gregory Parish, Cambridge. Cost: $35, includes text. Online registration is available at www.hamiltondiocese.com or call Monica at 905 528 7988 ext. 2238.

Grief Relief

Has someone you cared about died? Are you grieving the loss of the person’s presence in your life? Are you wondering if these feelings are normal? You are not alone! “Grief Relief” – is a six week educational and support series dealing with grief, offered on Tuesdays, October 23^rd to November 27^that the Chancery Office, Hamilton, from 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. Facilitator: Karen Hulley, RP. You are free to attend all sessions, or any one or more as you are able. To register call the Family Ministry Office: 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or go to www.hamiltondiocese.com.

Certificate for Grief Program

A certification program will be offered on Wednesday, September 26^th and Thursday, September 27^th at the Chancery Office, Hamilton, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. International grief trainer and counsellor, Dr. Bill Webster, will present the material and provide a certificate of completion for those who participate in both days of the course. The cost of the program is $90 per day (includes lunch). Contact the Family Ministry Office for more information (905) 528-7988 ext. 2249.

Stress in Your Marriage?

Retrouvaille is a program for married couples that feel bored, frustrated or angry in their marriage. This program has helped countless couples experiencing marital difficulty. For confidential information about or to register for the program beginning with a weekend on October 12, 2018, call 905-664-5212 or email hamiltonretrouvaille1@cogeco.ca or visit the website at www.retrouvaille.org.

Programs for Divorced and Separated Persons

Our Diocesan Levels programs are designed to accompany women and men suffering after a divorce or separation. Beginning with Level One, which helps them to cope with the situation, and moving to Levels Two through Four, we journey with individuals who need healing to feel whole again. The program is offered in both Kitchener and Hamilton. More information is found on the Diocesan website: https://hamiltondiocese.com/offices/family-ministry/divorce-separation.php.

World Mental Health Day

The Family Ministry Office will host a day of learning intended to assist people in offering needed support. Mark your calendars for October 10, 2018. For more information, contact the Family Ministry Office (905) 528-7988 ext. 2249.

Faith Begins in the Family

Bring your news and views to a gathering on October 20, 2018, sponsored by the Family Ministry Office. All are invited to provide input, practical advice on how we can create strong family ministry and how we can help parents and children thrive and grow in their faith, connect to the church community, and invigorate parish life. Contact the Family Ministry Office (905) 528-7988 ext. 2249 for more information or visit the Family Ministry website: https://hamiltondiocese.com/offices/family-ministry/amoris-laetitia/