St. Marys Catholic Church

Though it is difficult to comprehend the full extent of the pandemic on Canadian society, Bishops
easily recognize, nevertheless, the common experiences that have touched all regions:
communities in lockdown; overwhelmed healthcare providers and institutions; struggling
businesses; and the mental, emotional and physical toll on families, friends and neighbours.
This past spring, the Church in Canada entered into a period of deep sorrow when results from
investigations into gravesites at former Indian Residential Schools were shared. As Bishops, we
saw ever more clearly the pain and suffering of the past, and renewed our pledge to continue
walking side by side with Indigenous Peoples in the present, seeking greater healing and
reconciliation for the future.
As we remain steadfast in responding to the impact of the pandemic upon our communities of
faith and the healing and reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples across the land, your prayers,
gestures of kindness and generosity are invaluable, heartfelt and true sources of consolation,
comfort and renewed encouragement in the pursuit of the Church’s pastoral mission.
We will have more to say on this important work in the days and weeks ahead, particularly as the
Plenary Assembly of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops meets for its annual meeting
next week. In the meantime, to ensure that the Church’s operational, spiritual, and programming
needs are met, we will be proceeding with the annual Collection for the Needs of the Church in
Canada on 25 and 26 September 2021.
This annual charitable initiative assists the Bishops in their ministry of accompanying, teaching,
guiding, sanctifying and caring for the Church in Canada. We appreciate any commitments that
you are able to make.

Please note: Due to a funeral on Tuesday September 7th, 2021, the 9:30 am Mass that morning will be cancelled. If you know of anyone who usually attends but does not have internet, please let them know.

On Sunday September 26th, we will be celebrating the Feast Day of our Parish. Archbishop Mulhall has let us know that he will be able to be here that day to celebrate with us. He will be presiding over the 11 am Sunday Mass.

We invite you to attend this Mass and welcome the Archbishop on his first visit to Carleton Place in that role.

Please note:  There will be three Masses as usual that weekend- Sat 5 pm, and Sun 9 and 11 am.