News from the Chancery - June 5, 2026

Written by the Chancery of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Victoria | Jun 5, 2026 11:20:29 PM

News from the Chancery is published each week to share information and upcoming events with the people of the Diocese of Victoria.

Dear friends, 

We have five items to share with you today:

1. Bishop Gary shares reflections on Magnifica Humanitas on CBC Radio

Pope Leo's latest encyclical on AI is making waves across the globe, raising big questions about technology, humanity, and moral responsibility. Here in our own community, Bishop Gary shared his perspective on the encyclical and what this means for us today on CBC radio's All Points West. https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-93-all-points-west/clip/16217190-pope-leo-xiv-issues-warning-global-leaders-ai

(To read the original Magnifica Humanitas encyclical go to: Encyclical Letter of His Holiness Leo XIV Magnifica Humanitas (15 May 2026))

2. Statistics Canada: 2026 Census 
The 2026 Census provides an accurate snapshot of people and communities across Canada. This information offers insight into neighbourhoods, schools, families, newcomers, and religious affiliation. Many organizations, including our Diocese, use this data to better understand local needs.  Because the religion question is asked only once every ten years, this is an important opportunity for faith communities to be properly represented. If you haven't already, we encourage you to complete your census using the information received in the mail, or visit census.gc.ca.

 
3. St. Vincent de Paul "Cram the Van to the Max" event 

Help St. Vincent de Paul fill their pantries for families during the summer months! Demand increases significantly at St. Vincent de Paul food pantry on Yates Street in Victoria, as these families visit for food assistance. To ensure the shelves are well stocked to handle the demand, they are holding a "Cram the Van to the MAX" food drive on Saturday, June 6th. Bring your canned food, boxed meals, or cash to Sacred Heart Church in Victoria.

When: June 6th, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Where: Parking lot at Sacred Heart Church in Victoria (4040 Nelthorpe Street)
 
4. The Catholic Foundation of Vancouver Island AGM

The Catholic Foundation of Vancouver Island is hosting their Annual General Meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. The trustees welcome all to attend to learn about the foundation and the work it's doing in the community.

Where: Pastoral Centre Boardroom, (4044 Nelthorpe Street Victoria, BC)

 
5. Employment Opportunities Across the Diocese

Correctional Chaplain, William Head Institution 
The Correctional Service Canada (CSC) Bridges of Canada Inc. is hiring a full-time Correctional Chaplain in the Pacific Region for 125-165 hours per month (subject to change based on monthly requirements). The Correctional Chaplain will be responsible for providing religious and spiritual services to federal offenders of all faiths residing in William Head Institution. Read the full job posting here.

Anyone interested in this paid ministry position needs a mandate letter from Bishop Gary Gordon, and can contact either the Bishop (bishop@rcdvictoria.org) or Rick Ball, the Regional Director (richard.ball@bridgesofcanada.com), for more information.


Our Lady of the Rosary Parish - Part-Time Event Hall Coordinator (Short-Term)
Our Lady of the Rosary Parish is seeking someone with marketing experience to help launch and promote their Event Hall and meeting rooms for rentals (events, weddings, community use) as a source of revenue to support parish needs. This flexible side-project role focuses on building awareness through social media, local advertising, and other marketing efforts, along with handling inquiries and coordinating bookings. Approximately 5 hours per week at $25/hour, with additional commission and earning potential based on successful bookings, for a 6 to 9 month project. Please send a resume to whann@rcdvictoria.org.