An Encounter With Christ in Song and Silent Meditation

On Monday, November 23, 2020, St. Charles Parish sponsored a Taizé Worship Service hosted by the Chemin Neuf Community and live-streamed from St. Charles Retreat Centre.  The event will remain on the St. Charles Parish YouTube channel. The link is www.youtube.com/stcharleswpg

Taizé is an ecumenical Christian community in Taizé, France https://www.taize.fr/en_rubrique8.html. It was founded in 1940 by Brother Roger Schultz, a Reformed Protestant.  The community is composed of more than 100 brothers, from Catholic and Protestant traditions, who come from 30 countries across the world. 

Taizé is one of the world’s most important sites of Christian pilgrimage, with a focus on youth. Over 100,000 young people from around the world make pilgrimages to Taizé for prayer, Bible study, sharing and communal work. Through the communities ecumenical outlook, they are encouraged to live in the spirit of  kindness, simplicity and reconciliation.

Taizé worship incorporates the use of icons, music, prayers and chants from the Eastern Orthodox tradition.  The music emphasizes simple phrases, usually lines from Psalms or other pieces of scripture, repeated and sung.

Ecumenical services based on this model and music are held in many churches throughout the world.

Face Mask Project

Eva with fabric used to make masks.

On April 3, in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Annette Kohut received an alarming email from her daughter Sharon, a nurse in the maternity unit at  Wetaskiwin Hospital. The hospital is located 70 kilometres south of Edmonton, Alberta. Sharon told Annette that the nurses on her floor were running out of protective gear - scrub hats and masks. She asked Annette for assistance in obtaining these crucial items to help staff through this crisis.

Annette spoke to me. I thought this was a great undertaking and jumped at the chance to do something that would fill this desperate need. I no longer had a sewing machine so I volunteered to find a supplier and purchase the cotton and elastic to make the masks and hats, as well as to cut the material.

We had no pattern for the scrub hat. A friend’s  daughter, Andrea, a clothes designer, was asked to design and write instructions. Andrea, a young wife and mother of two small children, all self isolating at home,  spent numerous hours working on this project. In two days, on April 7,  she presented us with the pattern, instructions and two sample scrub hats.

In the meantime, Annette searched the internet for the best possible design for the masks - something effective and comfortable. She combined several patterns and settled on a design.

Annette made 36 sets of scrub hats and masks.

On April 14, after 8 days and 45 hours of sewing, Annette was able to ship her daughter 36 sets of scrub hats and masks. Sharon called her Mom when the box arrived and said, “Mom, you have no idea how much we appreciate this!”

Annette and I agreed to continue making more masks, selling them for $5 each with the profits being donated to charities. A few more volunteers were needed to assist.

We found two more helpers, excellent sewers, willing to commit to the project knowing full well they would need to pace themselves so as not to burn out.  Two friends from St. Charles parish, Lynda Ann Smith and Maddy Kotowitch, accepted the challenge.

In the last few weeks, we have used 75 meters of 100% cotton, 360 meters of elastic and miles of thread.  It takes 15 to 20 minutes of uninterrupted work to make one mask. 

When we have finally sewn all our purchased material we will have made approximately 600 masks. The proceeds from the “Mask Project” will be divided among Winnipeg Harvest and soup kitchens in Winnipeg.

I asked the team how working on this project has affected them personally:

“It was a great challenge but I’ll really be happy to get back to enjoying my afternoon nap.”  Annette Kohut

Lynda Ann receives another batch of cotton to sew into masks.

"It is always a 'fun ride' and for a 'great cause' to jump onboard with Eva and Annette when they get an idea in their heads and invite others to join in.  So many will benefit from these ideas and our collective efforts.  Knowing that part of my day was spent doing something I enjoy, sharing 'isolated time' with the gals and contributing a little something to such a good cause has helped the last few isolated weeks just fly right on by”.   Lynda Ann Smith

“When I was approached if I could help to sew some needed face masks my first thought was great - this will give me something to do for the cause.  I like to be busy.  Having this project was a good way to break up my non routine day.  As the need for more masks grew I realized that this project was more than something for me to do.  There was a genuine need for this service.  I'm happy to be able to do my little part and help out not only those who need the masks, but help a greater cause as well.  Food banks and soup kitchens are struggling to assist those who count on them.  I am thankful for this opportunity”.   Maddy Kotowich

“This project was more than something to do”. Maddy

Submitted by Eva Arsenault, St. Charles Parish in Winnipeg.

St. Charles Parish “Chili Pot of Love”

The Immaculate Conception Soup Kitchen is located at 181 Austin Street North in the North Point Douglas neighborhood of Winnipeg. It was initiated by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary over forty years ago and is open every Sunday from September to May.

Twice a year, in October and February, St. Charles Parish supplies the meal. On Sunday, February 2, the parishioners provided chili. Pat Rowan, a St. Charles parishioner, has been assisting at the Soup Kitchen for eleven years. On Sunday morning he picked up and delivered the meal - buns, bananas, milk, and chili. Pat said, “This Sunday we fed 185 people. The number was smaller than usual. There was lots left over so we made 85 small containers which people took home for later. We gave the remaining milk away to families with children.”

Thank you to the parishioners who made and donated the chili, to those who heated and delivered it and those who went to the Soup Kitchen and served it. When Pat Rowan was asked why he has been giving up his Sundays for the last eleven years, his answer was short and simple. He said, “It is our duty to help the less fortunate.”

Return Visit to Haitian Orphanage

Fellow parishioner Louise Dansereau, along with Oblate Sister Berthe O’Reilly, will be in Haiti from February 4 to March 18, 2020. This is their third visit to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage is located on 14 acres (surrounded by brick fence) near Cape-Haitian in the northern part of Haiti. The complex includes an orphanage, a school for 300 children, a medical clinic, a library and the Sisters’ residence. Haitian Diocesan priest and founder, Father Andre Sylvestre, hopes the orphanage will eventually sustain itself so there is cattle for milk and meat, and a garden for fruits and vegetables.

The orphanage is a home for 18 boys and 19 girls ranging in age from 4 to 16. Some of their parents died in the earthquake while others died from respiratory or diarrheal diseases, HIV/AIDS or violence.

While there, Louise and Berthe help the children with their studies giving special attention to those who need extra help. They also organize educational activities using the donated supplies such as puzzles, games, French books and play dough.

Louise wishes to thank all those who have donated items and funds for the orphanage. All monetary donations are given to Father Andre for the well-being of the children. Louise and Berthe pay all their own expenses – airfare, luggage, room and board.

Louise said, “Father Andre tells us that the love we give the children is worth $1 million…we are there as a presence, listening to their stories, giving attention and encouragement in their way of life so that their hearts are filled with joy and happiness”.

Our prayers are with Louise and Berthe for a successful trip and a safe return.

"Mark whatever you do for the least of my brothers, so you do onto me" Matthew 25:46.

Christmas Evergreen Workshop

On December 11 in the parish hall, thirty-four ladies gathered to make beautiful Christmas Centrepieces. Master Gardener Dodie Labbe led the workshop and supplied a variety of evergreen boughs, various kinds of embellishments and ribbons.

Thank you, Dodie Labbe, for leading the workshop. Thank you, Chad Labbe, from Shelmerdine, for generously donating the fresh evergreen boughs.

The $500 profit from the workshop will be donated to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage in Haiti. Louise Dansereau is a regular volunteer at the orphanage. Louise told us, “Father Andre will use the donation for the operation of the orphanage and the needs of the orphans”.

The workshop was sponsored by the St. Charles Ladies Association.

'Living Stations of the Cross' Returning Lent 2020

Roman soldier Myron Majcher with producer Lorraine Thibert

Years ago, St. Charles parishioners created and produced a tableau version of the Stations of the Cross which they performed on Fridays in Lent. It was very popular and had many attendees from within the parish as well as from around the city.  

The Stations of the Cross represent the path Jesus travelled on his way to the crucifixion. They involve Jesus enduring suffering, insults, moments of support, and relay the intense sacrifice that Christians believe Jesus undertook for human salvation. In the tableau version, each station is depicted with the actors posed and silent. 

Lorraine Thibert, the producer, was asked why she is spearheading this production. She said, “I decided a few years ago that when I retired I would do what I could to reinstate the Living Stations of the Cross - something that our parish had done in the past. Although it has been almost two decades, I still remember the impact of the lights coming on and seeing living beings posed in a scene. The first station depicted Pilate with his hands over a bowl, looking at a tied and beaten Jesus. It took my breath away, it made it real. Because it was a tableau style, there was time to reflect on the scene, since there was no acting to critique. I just listened to Jesus's reflections during the scene. It was very moving. I retired in January and so here we go!”

A return of this presentation is planned for Lent 2020. We are looking for volunteers to be actors as well as help behind the scenes with things like - set-up, take-down, sound, lighting, props, and make-up. 

If you would like to participate please contact Lorraine 204‐889‐ 1101 or email lthibert@mymts.net.

Community Service Award Winner

Annette Kohut was presented the Community Service Award at the St. James Assiniboia Christmas party at the Canad Inn on Tuesday, December 3. 

Annette has been a Catholic Women’s League member for the past sixteen years. 

 She has been involved with Development and Peace for many years. Her commitment to increasing the awareness of issues and challenges in third world countries is commendable. 

Janice Butler and Award Winner Annette Kohut

 Annette has been an active parishioner of St. Charles for over 40 years. She has served in many positions during this time. Presently on the Ladies Association executive, she convenes the kitchen. She was very involved with the Solidarity Socks initiative which raised over $8,000.00 over four years for Chalice Micro Financing and Dignity House. Annette is a member of the choir, a Eucharistic Minister who visits and brings communion to the shut-in parishioners and residents of Deer Lodge and Oakview Seniors Home. 

Annette has led the Faith Sharing Group at St. Charles Parish for over thirty years. She volunteers to cook meals at St. Charles Retreat Center and helps with their Cana week. She is always in service helping our seniors grocery shop and visiting them in their homes. An integral part of St. Charles Parish, she is always willing to help in any way she can.  

 Annette has fostered numerous babies and children over the years. They always could count on her to take emergencies at all hours of the night.

 Upon receiving the award Annette said, “I feel it is my privilege to serve and advocate for those who do not have a voice in this world”.

It was with gratitude for her outstanding service and dedication to Development and Peace as well as to St. Charles Parish that Annette was presented this award by St. James Assiniboia CWL president, Janice Butler.

Chalice Canada’s Top Charity For 2019

Have you ever wondered why the children of our parish drop their coins in the big glass jar on the altar during the collection at Sunday Mass? They are sponsoring three children from the Chalice sponsorship program. Between 2017 and 2018 our three sponsored children were part of over 50,000 other children sponsored through Chalice. A number of our fellow parishioners have now chosen to sponsor a child as well.

Chalice is a registered Catholic charity that supports child development, families and communities in 15 developing countries. Its core program is child sponsorship, which provides children with proper care and access to education. 

According to this years Maclean’s Magazine, Chalice is rated as Canada’s best charity for international work with a 97.5% out of 100% rating. Chalice commits 90 percent of its spending in support of programs. Father Patrick Cosgrove is the President of Chalice and its headquarters is in Bedford, NS.

Walter Kotowich is the representative for Chalice at St. Charles Parish. Our parish has been supporting the Chalice Christmas catalog for the past ten years.  Walter also encourages and supports other parishes as they establish Chalice programs. 

Walter tells us, “Two years ago, I talked with the pastor at St. Gianna’s church about Chalice. Keep in mind, St Gianna’s is a new parish with major capital expenditures. I would not be surprised if they said no. Nevertheless, the parishioners have enthusiastically embraced the needs of the poor in spite of their personal needs. Today they sponsor 12 children from Chalice! They proudly display poster size photos of all these children on the walls of their church! There are so many good people in our Catholic churches. All that's needed is someone to tell them about Chalice.”

Three Generations on the Dance Floor

Event Co-organizers Colleen Bevan and Jamie MacDonald wish to thank everyone who helped make the St. Charles Parish Harvest Dinner and Dance on November 2 such a great success. The total profit for the event was $10,363.05. This year there was a total of 220 people attending which included 10 children. The kitchen also supplied 20 take out dinners for those who could not attend. Jamie commented, “It was great that we made a lot of money but what I liked best was seeing the fellowship and people enjoying themselves”. 

Work began in August for Maddy and Walter Kotowich and their team who contacted companies to contribute either for an Advertising opportunity or to donate to the Silent Auction. The total profit from the advertising at the Dinner and Dance was $3,930.00.

The Advertising Committee also put together 12 baskets of silent auction prizes.  Contributions by individuals and companies added up to over $4,000 worth of prizes for an estimated revenue between $1,500 - $2,000. A big thank you to Maddy, Walter and their committee for all their effort.

Thank you to Chef Gerry Ellis who very generously donated his time and expertise again this year to cook all the food and organize the kitchen team resulting in a delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

Many people enjoyed the music after dinner.  Colleen Bevan said, “One of the best things I saw was families with three generations on the dance floor - dancing and having a great time”.

Thank you to the ticket printers and sellers, the event advertisers, the people who bought the groceries, the potato peelers, the kitchen workers, those who set up the hall and cleaned it up after, the food servers, the dishwashers, the music man and the bartenders. It takes a village to put on an event like this.  Also, thank you to everyone who supported the event by buying tickets.

The hall is booked to repeat this event next year on November 7 with the first planning meeting set for May. Please mark your calendars and start thinking about who you can invite to fill your table.  Why not make this an annual family tradition!

Winners of the silent auction baskets are:

Christmas Extravaganza: Kyle Vachon

Couples Night Out: Janice Butler

Dining In: Denyse Lafleche Turnbull

Relaxing: Melissa Steves

In the Kitchen: Lauchlin Fergusson 

Mix It Up: Berthe Lafleche

Lovin’ Sports: Stephen Meush

My Car: Rachelle Wojcik

And for Kids: Lauchlin Fergusson

Time For Memories: Alasdair Fergusson

Something For Everyone: Father Michael

Go Jets Go: Paulette Sullivan

The Catholic Women's League Partners With End Homelessness Winnipeg

St. James Assiniboia CWL Centenary Project

Pictured is Lucille Bruce, President and CEO End Homelessness Winnipeg, Janice Butler, Louise Dansereau and Chris Carlyle from St. James Assiniboia CWL and Betty Edel, Manager End Homelessness Winnipeg

The Catholic Women’s League is celebrating its 100th centenary in 2020. To mark this occasion the Assiniboia CWL Council has adopted a centenary project partnered with project End Homelessness Winnipeg.

End Homelessness Winnipeg is hosting a direct service event at the Convention Centre on May 14, 2020. Service providers from the public, community and private sectors come together and deliver services like dental care, foot care, replacement of ID, income tax, and housing opportunities to the homeless. The CEO of End Homelessness Winnipeg has invited CWL to partner with them in this direct service event.

Now, this is where we need your help.

We are sewing 1000 tote bags with donated fabric from members and friends. These bags will be filled with socks, brushes and combs, and water bottles. Each parish is being asked to contribute a product. We are asking St. Charles parishioners to support the project by donating 1000 new, BPA\BPS free, reusable, plastic water bottles.

We thank you for supporting our centenary project and in helping make Winnipeg a better place.