‘This ancient greeting, still in use today in many cultures, was infused with new life on the evening of Easter on the lips of the risen Jesus. “Peace be with you” (John 20:19, 21) is His Word that does not merely desire peace, but truly brings about a lasting transformation in those who receive it,…
Author: Father David Rioux
Bishop Christian Riesbeck, CC’s Christmas Message 2025
At this Jubilee Year’s end, contemplating our lived graces and renewed hopes, may we place ourselves in joy and wonder of that moment of encounter with the long-awaited Messiah, He whom we seek and for whom our hearts long. May we hear Him say to each one of us personally in the depth of our…
Christmas Solemnities Schedule
The Nativity of the Lord – Vigil Mass – Wednesday, December 24 4pm – Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica 4pm – Saint Michael’s by-the-Sea Church (Miramichi Bay) 4pm – Église de l’Ascension (Beaverbrook) (la Messe française) 6pm – Saint Margaret’s Church 7pm – Saint Michael the Archangel Basilica The Nativity of the Lord – Mass…
Winter weather and Mass Attendance
With another winter upon us, we recall that daily Mass is salutary, but not obligatory, see our Catechism of the Catholic Church § 1389). Sundays and Solemnities are ordinarily obligatory, as stated in the same Catechism section and in CCC § 2185.However, some of our parish churches are on distant roads and highways, and if…
Online introduction to Youth Ministry
Are you passionate about walking with young people in their journey of faith? Do you feel called to help build vibrant parish youth groups and support diocesan youth events? We invite you to join us for an online introduction to youth ministry on Tuesday, December 9, from 6:00–7:30pm. This session is designed to help you discern…
Entering into the Advent Season
‘The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has shone… For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon His shoulders; and He is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince…
Christ the King
Jesus Christ is Lord. he possesses all power in heaven and on earth.He is far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, for the Father has put all things under His feet. Christ is Lord of the cosmos and of history. In Him human history and indeed all creation are set forth and…
Remembrance Day
Blessed are they who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labours for their good deeds go with them. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. Loving God, have mercy on Your people, and open our hearts to peace and love. Reward all who have…
Red Wednesday – November 19 day of prayer for persecuted Christians
Red Wednesday is an annual event organized by Aid to the Church in Need, dedicated to raising awareness of the persecution endured by our brothers and sisters in faith. Currently, an estimated 327 million Christians worldwide live in countries where religiouspersecution is rampant. They are at risk of being attacked, arrested, imprisoned, tortured, and,in the…
A Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration – 7pm Friday November 21
Join us for a peaceful hour of Eucharistic Adoration on the 7pm Friday November 21, the memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to help prepare our hearts for the upcoming Advent Season and to welcome the Lord, Emmanuel, “God with us.” We invite you to spend this mostly silent time in reflection,…
Celebrating All Saints and All Souls’
Families can celebrate their namesake and patron saints from the Communion of Saints and aspire after them, and All Souls’ Day is a time for families to reflect on those loved ones who are no longer with us. We can pray with and for them, share stories, and visit graves. It is also a time…
Thanksgiving Blessings
Blessed are You, Lord our God, Creator of Heaven and earth,and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.We praise You for Your glory, and thank You for Your goodness to us.We praise You for Your generous gifts and for bringing fruitful results to our labours.As we rejoice in Your kindness, we pray also for those who…
Pope Leo XIV’s Message for the 40th World Youth Day – “You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me”
‘In a message for the 40th World Youth Day Pope Leo XIV reminds young people that as Christians they have a responsibility to stand alongside those who suffer and become active artisans of peace.’ See more on the Holy Father’s message for this world youth day, November 23, 2025, on the Feast of Christ the…
Diocese of Saint John Stewardship Report – ‘Forward in Hope’
As we celebrate this Jubilee Year, the Diocese of Saint John invites you to reflect on how God has been at work among us through the faith, generosity, and mission of our parishes. Our 2024 Stewardship Report – Forward in Hope shares inspiring glory stories, financial highlights, and examples of the good work happening across…
Family Catechesis Video Series from the Canadian Catholic Bishops
Following from the Canadian Catholic Bishops’ pastoral letter on family catechesis, ‘Called to Witness and Proclaim,’ they are now offering four videos to help the family be a domestic church: Called to Witness and Proclaim (an introduction) Catechesis in the Family – highlighting how faith is handed down in daily family life—through meals, car rides,…
Fall Supper Thanksgiving
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of our Fall Supper. This wonderful event could not have happened without the dedication of our many volunteers who gave their time and energy. To all who helped in any way, and to the entire community who came out to support us, thank…
Jubilee of Catechists September 26-28
The 2025 Jubilee of Catechists is a celebration that honours, inspires, and strengthens the faith of Catholic Church Catechists. The Jubilee of Catechists will take place in Rome from Friday, September 26, to Sunday, September 28, 2025. Let us honour and celebrate our Catechists in our diocese and parishes! Offered below are a prayer and…