We know the rest of the story. We know that the stone has been rolled away. The tomb is empty. And that changes everything. The power of the resurrection breaks into the darkest places of our lives, again and again, offering a hope that “does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.” (Romans 5:5)

Nous connaissons la suite de l'histoire. Nous savons que la pierre a été roulée. Le tombeau est vide. Et cela change tout. La puissance de la résurrection fait irruption dans les endroits les plus sombres de nos vies, encore et encore, offrant un espoir qui « ne déçoit pas, puisque l’amour de Dieu a été répandu dans nos cœurs par l’Esprit Saint qui nous a été donné. » (Romains 5,5)

As of January 1, 2025, the Board has approved 216 projects from across Canada, including nine from our diocese. I am very grateful for the work of our dedicated local IRF committee, whose report is included with this letter to provide information about the exciting projects that have been funded in our diocese. To assist in this important work, the Diocese of Saint John takes up a special collection for the IRF annually at the Lord’s Day Masses on the last weekend of January. Your generous financial support of the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund will be part of our action plan moving forward to support various initiatives for healing and reconciliation involving our Indigenous brothers and sisters. You may contribute to this fundraising appeal using the special collection envelopes in your boxed sets at Masses for the weekend of January 25-26.