It is essential that Christians support one another on our pathway to heaven.
That’s the message Archbishop Richard Smith received, and conveyed, during his pastoral visit to the parish community of Sacred Heart in Red Deer from Dec. 8-10.
“In the winter months we tend naturally to look out for one another by helping people in need keep driveways plowed and sidewalks clear,” Archbishop Smith said during his homily Dec. 10.
“If someone gets stuck in a snowdrift, we rally to get the vehicle out. These images describe well what I have witnessed this weekend in the parish.”
The Archbishop met with more than 74 young men who are a part of a group of altar servers who pray the rosary together, virtually, every night, engage in Bible study, seek faith formation, play sports as well as serving at Mass.
He also visited Villa Marie, a senior care centre in Red Deer, with staff who are “wonderfully attentive” to the elderly in the local community.
Red Deer Catholic School Division hosted Archbishop Smith for its annual Faith Day Dec. 8 at St. Joseph High School. Archbishop Smith celebrated Mass for the district-wide gathering of school staff and students, as they gathered for a time of fellowship and faith formation.
Archbishop Smith said the Catholic community in Red Deer is helping one another clear the way for Christ, especially as the season of Advent continues to unfold.
“I am greatly encouraged and deeply edified by the various ways you are helping one another to travel both safely and joyfully along the road of discipleship.”
To read the Archbishop’s full homily from his visit to Red Deer, see here.
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