“Our record speaks for itself. Whether it’s our ESL programs, our academics, looking after our indigenous students, we’re there,” Engel said. “It’s an answer to those saying ‘Let’s get rid of Catholic education.’”

“When I see young participants in Mass or at campfire and they’re just singing at the top of their lungs praising God and being excited to do activities like that, it’s amazing,” MacQuarrie said.

“The DreamLife Lottery will support two of the busiest emergency departments in this city that see people in time of urgent need,” she said. “This includes seniors and people with mental illness, people who represent a large portion of those who walk through our doors every day.

Sacred Heart Church in Fort Simpson, N.W.T. is rising again thanks to the Archdiocese of Edmonton through its Together We Serve annual appeal, as well as donations from the local community, private donors, Catholic Missions In Canada, and the Diocese of Hamilton.

Lisa Turchansky says she could no longer sit back and watch the “dysfunction” of the Edmonton Catholic School Board play out in the media, so she decided to run for school trustee.

“Sandy brings a unique presence to any group she guides because she is fully present to the people and the place/workshop/retreat she is guiding. She is very well read and shares her insights from well-thought reflections on the material she has embraced.”

“When you look at the entire purpose of what is here, what is a common thread in everyone is the belief in God,” Alexis said. “They see people expressing their faith without fear. They express it without judgment. And that awakens people who may not believe. They didn’t come here by accident.”

Ephphatha House has new owners and a new name, but its mission will be the same. The Carmelites have taken charge of the spirituality and retreat centre, about 15 kilometres northwest of Stony Plain, and renamed it the Mount Carmel Spirituality Centre.

“I was approached by friends and colleagues who were concerned about Catholic education and the negative impact of the dissension among board members,” said Mutala. “People are saying ‘These people don’t get along. The board doesn’t get along.’ Someone needed to do something.”

“It’s been a long journey, but I can see God’s hand in what has occurred over the years,” said Glaab, who was ordained to the Order Franciscan Friars Minor on July 15 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Sherwood Park.