District Newsletter

This issue includes memories of Christmas when horsedrawn sleighs used to bring the faithful to Mass. St. Stephen is looked at as an example of being an authentic witness to the truth, needed so much in these days of lukewarmness. An exerpt of Bishop Fellay's letter is given introducing the necessity of a new Rosary Crusade. We look back at an interview with Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre after the 1988 Episcopal Consecrations and give news on the recent Confirmations in the Maritimes.

The upcoming celebrations of All Saints Day and All Souls Day call to mind the exceedingly comforting doctrine of the “communion of saints”. We can help the poor souls in purgatory by our prayers and sacrifices and especially by the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It is an ancient practice to pray for the dead. The poor-souls-envelopes prove our devotion to the poor souls and confort us in knowing that they are remembered in every Mass in the month of November. They, in turn, will pray for us in this valley of tears so that, with them, we may one day share the eternal joys of heaven.

During these confusing times, it is necessary to remember the purpose of the SSPX which is the Priesthood. The Society exists for the good of the Church. We are all united in this goal to transmit and promote the Catholic faith. In the current relations between Rome and the Society, Rome has made an unexpected offer of a canonical solution. There are two options on the table and it will be up to the Superior General to decide which option to choose. Regardless of our opinions we must remain united for we all seek the same goal. Let us pray for the Society and its superiors; let us live in a spirit of faith while patiently, quietly and prayerfully awaiting the outcome.

The work at St. Joseph's Centre in St. Cesaire is progressing well despite mishaps.  In September, it will be opened as headquarters of the District of Canada. There will be some changes in Toronto and Shawinigan. The Canadian and American districts will collaborate more closely in the future. The Angelus magazine will be revamped and will replace Convictions magazine. The website sspx.ca will be revamped as well to be a more effective means of apostolate. Thank-you to all our generous benefactors for their support of the work of Tradition in Canada!

Lent is a time of penance. Sacramental confession is intimately linked with making a good lent. Our Lord Jesus Christ instituted this sacrament to reconcile sinners with the Father. The world broadcasts its shameful deeds on the rooftops rather than doing real penance before God in the confessional. Let us not become desensitized to sin but rather examine ourselves and make good and frequent confessions. God's mercy will be applied to our souls and we'll grow in his grace and live in his presence. Make a good confession during lent!

God has promised an eternity of felicity to those who love him. Nevertheless many are scandalized that the good and the evil suffer equally in this life. Rather than being scandalized we should imitate Job, the Saints and the Apostles who blessed God always. Our heroes, whom the world hates are those who lived a God-fearing life and died well. During this month of November let us reflect on the last ends. Mass intentions will be placed on our altars during the month of November.