Changes in Canada's Grande Prairie Community
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November 1, 2023The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with the axiom, “the only constant in life is change.” Recently, the Grande Prairie community experienced more than its fair share of change.
This summer’s transfer of Fr. Remi Hebert and Fr. Leo English left a noticeable void in the St. Joseph’s community, both pastorally and personally. Their kind and gentle shepherding had touched countless lives, so some in the parish were feeling a bit anxious about the future.
Fortunately, the arrival of Fr. Charles Duval and Fr. Joseph Horo went a long way to allaying these concerns. That’s not to say that there haven’t been any glitches. But it’s reassuring to know that patience, good will, and a sense of humor will take care of most of them.
As pastor, Charles Duval has been busy getting a feel for the parish, which can be a little overwhelming at times. Between pastoral ministry and other commitments, it’s a jam-packed timetable. The Francophone community is particularly pleased to have a pastor who is fluent in French.
With the reopening of St. Patrick School, we now provide chaplaincy for ten Catholic schools in the city of Grande Prairie, two high schools and eight middle schools. The outreach is, at times, challenging but nevertheless very rewarding.
Joseph Horo has also been settling into life in Grande Prairie, after several years in Vancouver. He has connected well with many families in the parish, as well as the local diocesan clergy, many of whom hail from India. Of course, his first Alberta winter will be the real test!
People have expressed their appreciation of having Fr. Ed Eherer remain in the parish to offer some stability and continuity. In addition to parish activities, Ed is working on a number of workshops and retreats, as well as serving on numerous committees. He also takes time to check up on his parents (both in their 90s) who are still living in their own home in Athabasca.
Although mobility issues have limited his ability to do parish ministry, Father Rajmund Dorawa continues in a ministry of prayer,offering his daily Mass and prayers for the needs of the world. He has taken a particular interest in the current situation in Ukraine, given its proximity to his Polish homeland.
In early June, Fr. Albert Sterzer moved into Heritage Lodge, an assisted-living facility in Grande Prairie. He still attends Mass at St. Joseph’s each Sunday and is generally in good spirits. However, the transition has been somewhat challenging for him. Please keep him in your prayers.
Our weekend Mass attendance continues to rise, a good sign that we are on the road to recovery following the Covid19 lockdown. We pray that we may still hold onto the meaningful changes we made at that time: seeking the common good, caring for the most vulnerable, and a longing for faith and community.
Above all, it means staying connected to the one constant in our lives: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Heb. 13:8)