This weekend marks the Solemnities of All Saints (Sunday November 1) and the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (Monday November 2). That the Lord came to save all of us common labourers is what the feast of All Saints is about. The Commemoration of the Faithful Departed helps us to remember those souls who have left us, on their journey to the fullness of life.

Please review this supplemental guidance for the current level of government health and safety measures, including physical distancing, contact tracing, face coverings, receiving Holy Communion, altar serving, and singing.

We are obliged to express our strong concern and opposition to Bill C-7 (Medical Assistance in Dying) which, among other things, expands access to euthanasia and assisted suicide to those who are not dying. Please prayerfully contact your local MP. "It perplexes our collective minds that we have come so far as a society yet, at the same time, have so seriously regressed in the manner that we treat the weak, the ill, and the marginalized."

This Sunday's Word speaks of rejoicing in a place prepared for us with rich food and drink (Isaiah 25:6-10 ; Matthew 22), coinciding with the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday. Our Sunday celebration is called the Eucharist, meaning the act of thanksgiving for God's work in creation (Catechism of the Catholic Church # 1328). On this thanksgiving, may we harvest the goodness God has sown in our human families, and appreciate the fraternity which overcomes distressing isolation with dignifying charity and compassion (see Pope Francis' letter to all people of good will, Fratelli Tutti # 54).

Pray for Bishop Christian and our diocesan priests, as they gather in retreat at the Villa Madonna for the week of October 5 - 9 to pray for the people and needs of the diocese.