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 six items to share with you today:
We have seven items to share with you today:
1. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Next Wednesday, September 30, marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As we continue the legacy of Pope Francis’ Penitential Pilgrimage across Canada, we are reminded of the Holy Father's hope that “Christians and civil society in this land may grow in the ability to accept and respect the identity and the experience of Indigenous Peoples.” This hope invites Catholics across Canada to listen with open hearts, honor the stories of Survivors and their families, and walk together on the path of truth, healing, and reconciliation.
The Diocese of Victoria is proud to sponsor the South Island Powwow, a free community event that offers an opportunity to recognize and honour Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation. Through traditional song and dance, all will be part of a celebration of Indigenous cultures, resilience, and community. The Powwow will take place at Royal Athletic Park (1014 Caledonia Ave, Victoria) on September 30, and all are warmly welcome to attend. Info at: https://songheesnation.ca/south-island-powwow
2. CCCB Collection for the Needs of the Church in Canada
The Collection for the Needs of the Church in Canada will take place this weekend. This collection helps support the mission of our diocese and joins the gifts of Catholics across the country in supporting the shared work of the Bishops of Canada - from providing catechetical resources for families, young people and parishes, to promoting respect for human life and the dignity of every human person, and accompanying migrants and refugees. Your gift helps strengthen the Church here at home and supports its mission across Canada. Please give prayerfully and generously next weekend. To donate online visit cccb.ca/donate
3. 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees
September 27th marks the 112th World Day of Migrants ad Refugees. The day invites the faithful to reflect on this year's theme, “Even just one of these children" (Matthew 18:10). In his message, Pope Leo XIV highlights the particular vulnerability of children and youth affected by migration and displacement, and calls on Christians to welcome, protect, and accompany them with compassion and solidarity. To read the Holy Father's message on this day go to: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/messages/migration/documents/20260811-world-migrants-day-2026.html
4. CNEWA Canada Webinar: Hope in Action: Children in Need – Stories of Hope, Education and Resilience
This October 1st, join Catholic Near East Welfare Association of Canada for a free special online webinar focused on Children in Need — exploring the importance of education, the challenges children and families face amid conflict & economic hardship, and the extraordinary ways local communities continue to nurture hope and create opportunities for young people in some of the world's most challenging regions. See details for registration here: https://cnewa.org/ca/events/cnewa-canada-webinar-hope-in-actionchildren-in-need-stories-of-hope-education-and-resilience/?mc_cid=4debec9eeb&mc_eid=674850498b
To celebrate National Seniors Day, Mount St. Mary Hospital is inviting local senior artists to exhibit their original artwork alongside residents at a community art show on Friday, October 2. Artists are encouraged to submit work in any medium, including painting, drawing, photography, fibre arts, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, and mixed media. Contact Diana Volonakis from Mount St. Mary at 250-480-3138 for info. See poster here
St. Patrick’s Catholic Women’s League is holding their Fantastic Fall Bazaar on Saturday, October 3, 2025, from 9:30 am–2:00 pm at St. Patrick’s Church (2060 Haultain Street, Victoria). Come and experience all the fun of a CWL bazaar with a large variety of kiosks, a quality silent auction, tombola raffle, and so much more. All proceeds will support CWL charities. See poster here
7. St. Francis of Assisi Dinner and Presentation
All are invited to a special Mass in commemoration of the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis. The Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, October 4th at 4:00 pm at St. Patrick’s Parish in Victoria (2060 Haultain). Bishop Gary will preside. Mass will be followed by dinner and a presentation on St. Francis of Assisi - Space is limited for this part of the evening, so you must register in advance at http://www.rcdvictoria.org/StFrancis800
.png)