A Spirit-Filled Lenten Retreat at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Calgary
A Lenten retreat was organized at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Calgary, from Friday, March 22, to Sunday, March 24, 2025, under the leadership of Fr. Venil D’Souza, the pastor of St. Mark’s Church. The retreat was preached by Fr. Rudolf Valerian D’Souza, who traveled from Ontario to inspire the faithful with his powerful reflections.

Throughout the three-day retreat, Fr. Rudolf preached at all the Masses, drawing an overwhelming response from the parishioners. The retreat saw a remarkable attendance of approximately 3,000 people, reflecting the deep spiritual hunger of the faithful. St. Mark’s Church, being located near Calgary city, serves as a vibrant spiritual hub for many Asian communities, making this retreat a significant event for a diverse congregation.

The meticulous organization of the retreat was made possible by Fr. Venil D’Souza and Fr. Vijay Martin, the superior of the house, who, along with a dedicated team of volunteers, ensured the smooth execution of the program. The choir and sound system were exceptionally well arranged, adding to the prayerful atmosphere and enhancing the spiritual experience of the attendees.

This Lenten retreat was a profound moment of spiritual renewal for many families, youth, and children, providing them with an opportunity to prepare their hearts for Easter. The local bishop, Most Rev. William McGrattan, had strongly recommended such spiritual initiatives in this Jubilee Year, emphasizing their importance in deepening faith and community participation.

With hearts full of gratitude, the parish community extends its sincere appreciation to Fr. Rudolf V. D’Souza for his inspiring sermons and for making the journey from Ontario to Calgary to lead this grace-filled retreat. The event was undoubtedly a tremendous success, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.