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Dear Parishioners, 

Last week we talked about the Finance Council and the Pastoral Council of our parishes, and we also held the meetings of both councils as announced. Now I would like to address another important topic: the difference between a Parish-based group and a Non-Parish-based group (NPBO).

It is important to understand this distinction, especially when it comes to ministries, organizations, and insurance. I want to share some clear guidance so that we can all work together with transparency and peace.

Parish-based Groups: are ministries and organizations that are truly a part of the parish. They are under the authority of the pastor, their finances are managed through the parish books, and they use the parish’s tax-exempt status (choir rehearsals, oratory, religious education). Because they belong to the parish, they are covered under the parish and diocesan insurance program.

Non-Parish-based Groups: other Catholic groups, while very valuable, are independent of the parish. They may meet at the Church with permission, but they remain separate organizations. For this reason, the Diocese requires them to: 1- Sign a Facility Use Agreement with the parish. 2- Provide their own Certificate of Insurance. 3- Cover their own Safe Environment program, especially if minors or vulnerable adults are involved.

Parishes must clearly distinguish Parish-based groups from NPBOs (K of C, CWL, private functions) and avoid terms like “sponsored /endorsed /affiliated /chartered,” and do not let NPBOs use the formal parish name in their title. This distinction helps protect both the parish and the organizations themselves, and it avoids any confusion about responsibility or liability.

Working Together: I am deeply grateful for the many ways our parishioners serve the Church – whether through parish ministries or through Catholic organizations that gather here. Each group plays an important role in building up the Body of Christ. Following these diocesan policies ensures that all our activities are conducted in good order, with charity, and with accountability.

Let us ask our Blessed Mother to work together joyfully for the glory of God and the good of our parish family.

In Christ,      

Fr. Gaston Giacinti, IVE

WEEKLY NEWS

Next week we will publish the annual financial statement.

Holy communion for the homebound

If you know a parishioner or a family member who is unable to come to Holy Mass on Sundays because they are homebound, please let us know, so we can visit with him and bring Holy Communion and Anointing of the Sick. Remember that lay people (who are not Eucharistic Ministers) are NOT allowed to bring Holy Communion to their relatives by themselves. Please contact Sr. Krolowa at 705 977 6279.

50-50 draw is back!

We are starting back the 50-50 draw on every second weekend of the month. If you would like to help with this ministry, please contact:

For Saturdays: Debora D’Altoe at the back of the Church on Saturdays or call 705 957 3430.

For Sundays: Dan Finnegan at the back of the Church on Sundays or call 705-768-5545.

RCIA – Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Information and introduction class Wed. Oct 1^st at 6pm at Sacred Heart Basement. 

This process, through which adults become fully initiated members of our Catholic faith community, will begin again this fall. If you, or someone you know, is interested in learning more about the Catholic faith and the possibility of becoming a Catholic, please contact M. Almah. The process involves a weekly commitment to formation sessions and participation at Sunday Mass. It is open to any unbaptized adults, those baptized in other Christian churches, and Catholics who desire to complete their initiation. Please contact M. Almah 249 688 0930

religiouseducation@stjohnpeterborough.ca

Sacramental Preparation Program 2025-2026

First Reconciliation grades 2-12 (October-January), First Holy Communion grades 2 -12 (February- May), Confirmation grades 7-12 (October – May) 

Pre-registration form below

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/12tAa6ZDHl2VOXhB_OW-jivE30Xq9ZL3pZYyrkaVMM6c/edit?usp=drivesdk

DIOCESAN &O THER NEWS:

Décor Presentation The Cathedral CWL is hosting a Fall Décor Presentation on Wed, Sept. 24th from 2-3pm at the Knights of Columbus hall across from the Cathedral.  Vicki from Griffen’s Greenhouse will be sharing ideas for Fall/Thanksgiving.  The cost is FREE.  Light refreshments will be provided as well as a draw for a door prize.  Everyone welcome!

Indoor Garage Sale The Cathedral CWL will be hosting an indoor Garage Sale on Sat, Sept. 27th from 10:00am – 2:00pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall across from the church.  Everyone welcome!  If you would like a spot in the hall with an 8ft table to sell things, the cost is $30.  Please contact Patricia at 1-647-545-3078 for more info.

The Misfits concert in aid of Church for stolen electronic equipment’s Fund-raising appeal through free will offering. KofC and Parishioners at St. Anne Church launched a fundraising drive to replace stolen items. The Misfits will be performing music in the church at 859 Barnardo Ave, on Sat. Sept. 13th at 7-9 pm. Admission is free.

Pilgrimage to the Martyr’s Shrine

Saturday September 20 is the Pilgrimage to the Martyr’s Shrine. Our parishes will go along with the Cathedral bus. Please for more information, please call the Cathedral Office 705 745 4681. For those driving to the Martyr Shrine—Saturday September 20, 2025 Regular Admission $10.00 per person in vehicle. Free Admission: Youth (0-18 years)* Support Persons (accompanying those with disability)* Indigenous Persons (Status Card)* Canadian Veterans (Veteran’s Service Card)*