From the Pastor's Desk: This Sunday’s readings invite us to reflect on the dignity of our freedom and the choices we make each day. The Book of Sirach reminds us that God places before us life and death, good and evil, and allows us the freedom to choose. Stewardship begins with that choice, the decision to live as sons and daughters of the King rather than settling for something less.
Using the familiar story of Cinderella as a metaphor, we are reminded how easy it is to forget our true identity. Cinderella lived among ashes, unaware of her royal dignity. In a similar way, we can reduce our faith to routine or external observance, forgetting that we are called to something greater. In the Gospel, Jesus challenges us to go beyond simply “checking the boxes” and instead allow God to transform our hearts.
World Marriage Day provides a powerful example of stewardship lived as a vocation. Marriage is not merely a social arrangement, but a sacred calling freely chosen and renewed each day. In the ordinary sacrifices of married and family life, in patience, forgiveness, and fidelity, husbands and wives live out a daily “yes” to God.
Like Cinderella responding to her invitation, we are invited to embrace our true identity and enter the “dance” of discipleship. The choice is ours. If we choose wisely, we will discover the joy and blessings God has prepared for those who love Him.
Sacrament of Confirmation, (updated) February 20 , at St. Francis de Sales Parish, for all our candidates. Please pray for them, as this is a big step in the growth and development of every Catholic! At Confirmation, we affirm our commitment to God and the Church and receive a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This sacrament deepens our faith, brings us into a deeper friendship with Jesus, and strengthens us to share his love with others.
Coffee Sunday at St. Columban! Please join us for refreshments after the 10:30 am Mass at St. Columban Parish on Sunday, February 15th, 2026. This gathering will give us a chance to welcome Father John home from his weeks in Nigeria, and to enjoy fellowship and goodies before the Lenten season begins! Parishioners from St. Columban and St. Francis de Sales are invited to join us. Hope to see you then!
Stations of the Cross, led by the youth of our parishes. During Lent, starting February 27th, we invite the youth of both our parishes (ages 12–17) to lead the Stations of the Cross every Friday at 6:30 PM at St. Francis de Sales Parish. Altar servers will assist with serving, and other youth will take turns reading the Stations. This is a wonderful opportunity for our young people to deepen their faith, serve their parish community, and take an active role in the Church. Our youth are the future of our Church, let’s encourage them to grow as leaders, disciples, and witnesses of Christ. If your child is interested, please contact Carmel Prince: carmel.prince@hotmail.ca (647-897-5299).
Archbishop's Special Collection (February 21/22). On the First Sunday of Lent, we invite your contribution to the Diocesan & Missionary Works special collection, which supports the Archbishop’s Fund for Mission Advancement. This fund helps Archbishop Damphousse respond quickly and generously to real needs and to opportunities that support the mission of the Church, especially here in the Archdiocese of Ottawa–Cornwall. Most of what is given stays right here in our diocese, supporting evangelization, youth and family ministry, Catholic education and campus ministry, and other charitable works close to home. Thanks to your generosity, more than $60,000 was raised last year. This year, our goal is $100,000. Thank you for being a part of the mission!
