Stronger together rising much needed funds
The Foundation of St. Joseph Seminary & Newman Theological College exist to ensure that funds are available for our two institutions training ordained and lay leaders from the Catholic community.
Every year the Foundation relies on the support of many volunteers to organise and deliver on its different fundraising activities. From various annual events to different campaigns, our volunteers ensure that we can deliver on these experiences for our donors and supporters!
When COVID-19 presented us with its challenges and many events had to be canceled, our volunteers did not stop surprising us. Coming with smaller numbers, whatever restrictions allowed us. They showed up, worked hard and helped carry the mission of the Foundation. Joined by the many staff of the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton – June, Marg, Gladys and Mary… Thank you for your dedication and continued support during these challenging times, you are a great example to follow!
During COVID-19 the need for generosity, support and commitment rose more that ever. Members of the Newman Golf Committee recognized that need and continued to offer their gifts of time, talent and treasure to each other and to us at the Foundation. At a time where many organization seam to struggle financially, these volunteers stepped up and raised more than ever during the 29th Annual Newman Golf Classic.
With many government restrictions and pandemic protocols in place, the 2021 Newman Golf Classic was still an amazing success for all involved. This year we celebrated some of our most dedicated volunteers and supporters, Rev. Michael McCaffery and Ave Spratt, whom we lost over the last year.
Michel Norris, Lianne Shaigec, Sal Corea, Jason West and the Foundation staff and volunteers – Thank you for your continued contributions and commitment.
It was a different year and we all felt it, but as always it was an amazing day thanks to our volunteers who came and helped us run a successful event – pandemic edition. Our heartfelt Thank you for coming again and helping us!
And to those we have not seen for some time now, please be assured we are thanking God you are in our lives and looking forward seeing you again soon.
Helping to rebuild Sacred Heart Church of the First People
In August 2020, fire at the Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples caused a significate damage in the sanctuary. Immediately after, the parish along with the Archdiocese of Edmonton took the opportunity to rebuild and profile the national Indigenous Catholic Parish. After over a year now, plans are unfolding to continue journeying together to build a loving and welcoming Christian community of inclusivity, equality and wellness – welcoming all as brothers and sisters in the Lord, in a Catholic context of the culture and spirituality of the First Peoples.
Many parishes and parishioners joined this important inactive, including Wally Streit, joyful and humble retired senior banker, member of Knights of Columbus at St. Thomas More Parish. “Father Susai Jesu asked that I be part of the S.H.A.R.P. committee and co-ordinate fundraising with the Knights of Columbus. How do you say ‘No’ to Father Susai OMI, who together with Father Mark Bloom OMI, exemplify Charity?”
Despite the present challenges that the pandemic presents, including financial struggles, Wally believes that the cause is deserving and the NEED IS GREAT. “If God gives me strength I hope my efforts will contribute to the successful restoration of this beautiful National Indigenous Church (…) that serves the Inner City, the Indigenous people and Eritrean community”.