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Our Lady of Fátima (May 13)

Faith Activities

Our Lady of Fátima is a Catholic title for the Virgin Mary, based on a series of apparitions reported by three shepherd children in Fátima, Portugal, in 1917. These apparitions led to the construction of the Sanctuary of Fátima, a major pilgrimage site for Catholics worldwide.  Key aspects of the Fátima apparitions: The Children:Lúcia dos Santos and her cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto, who were tending sheep near the village of Fátima, reported seeing the Virgin Mary.  Apparitions:The children claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary appear on the 13th day of each month from May to October 1917, with the final apparition on October 13th being accompanied by what was called the “Miracle of the Sun”.  Messages and Secrets:The Virgin Mary, known as Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Fátima, entrusted the children with three secrets, two of which were later revealed. The third secret, initially sealed until 1960, was officially released by Pope John Paul II in 2000. 

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Remembering Pope Francis

News & Events

“Education is not about knowing things or taking lessons but about being able to use three lingos: those of the head, the heart, and the hands… learning so that you can think about what you feel and do, can feel what you think and do, and can do what you feel and think. Unity within a person.” —Pope Francis Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, passed away on April 21, 2025—Easter Monday—at 88. He was the first Latin American pope and a powerful voice for compassion, inclusion, and reform. Pope Francis leaves a legacy of hope and transformation after 12 years of service to the Catholic Church, Catholics, and so many others who were fortunate enough to be touched by his words and actions worldwide. A dedicated Catholic, Pope Francis strongly supported the Church’s need to grow and evolve. He believed that “The Church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven, and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel.” Hope was of importance to him, and he never stopped believing that goodness and positivity was waiting for us to embrace: “Let us be lights of hope! Let us maintain a positive outlook on reality.” He was the first to take the name Francis, in honor of Francis of Assisi, the Italian saint known for his love of nature and the poor. Pope Francis was humble; he opted to stay in the simple apartments at Casa Santa Marta instead of moving into the Papal apartments at the Vatican, for example. And at the center of his messaging were the poor and the marginalized: “Openness to God makes us open towards the marginalized of this world, and gives us the courage to leave the confines of our own security and comfort to become bruised, hurting and dirty as we joyfully approach the suffering other in a spirit of solidarity.” In addition to redefining the role of the Church on the importance of social justice, his views on the environment and of our responsibility as stewards to protect it were also of significance: “As stewards of God’s creation, we are called to make the earth a beautiful garden for the human family. When we destroy our forests, ravage our soil, and pollute our seas, we betray that noble calling.” Pope Francis consistently emphasized the irreplaceable role of parents as the primary educators of their children. He reminded us that “children are the most precious gift you have received,” urging parents to approach their educational mission with commitment and generosity . In his address to the Italian Parents Association, he highlighted the importance of collaboration between families and schools, stating that “communication and collaboration… must never be lacking” to build a strong educational community . (Pope Francis “Dear parents, children are the most precious gift you have received.” to Families FULL TEXT, Pope to Parents: Work together with schools – Vatican News) As we honor Pope Francis’ legacy, let us renew our commitment to the educational mission he so passionately supported. May we continue to work together—parents, educators, and communities—to create environments where children can grow in faith, wisdom, and love. In doing so, we fulfill our shared calling to raise a generation that reflects the light and hope of Christ in the world. (Pope to Parents: Work together with schools – Vatican News) As we remember and give thanks for the life of Pope Francis, may we follow in his example to advocate for issues like poverty and environmental protection, engage with people of different faiths and perspectives, reject discriminatory language, and foster a spirit of reconciliation within our country. Let us pray for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul and for the strength and guidance to carry forward his vision for Catholic education. May his example inspire us to live lives of service, compassion, and unwavering faith. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

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The Power Of One Stories

News & Events

OAPCE 86; Coming Together as One, in Catholic Education. Coming together with the common goal of preserving Catholic values and beliefs in Catholic education. Watch and listen to inspiring testimonials from some of the parents that made the individual effort to make positive changes that benefitted themselves, their family and in some cases an entire Catholic community! Be ready to be inspired!

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Important Election Day Message

News & Events

Today is another integral election in Canadian History.  Please do not forget to go out and vote!  For your information: Churches in Canada express concern over two recommendations from the Standing Committee on Finance proposing the revocation of tax exemption status of pro life and faith based charities which would have a significant impact on Canadian society. This has yet to be voted upon, however dependent upon who will become the new party and party leader these recommendations on charitable status may become a reality – please read the article here:  The letter sent from the Canadian Conference of Bishops to the current Government: “Hear the pleading of the Foster Father of Our Lord and give grace to the citizens of this land so that they will choose leaders according to the Sacred Heart of Thy Son, that His glory may be made manifest, lest we be given the leaders we deserve.”

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Easter Message 2025

Bishop Message

OAPCE 2025 Easter message from the Liaison Bishop ✠ Yvan Mathieu, SM Dear members of the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE), As we enter Holy Week, there are many events in our world that could invite us to despair. At the level of the global economy, the war on trades has many of us anxious and worried. Many run the risk of losing their jobs or their long-term investments. I hope and pray that your personal lives are doing better. But I know by experience that, as the school year’s end is drawing near, we are all very busy and we run the risk of not having quality time to celebrate the events that are at the center of our faith life as Catholics: the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ our Lord. In all of this, we can find reassurance in the experience of the disciples on Easter morning.  First Mary Magdalene. Her encounter with Jesus had changed her life. From that time on, she followed him. Together with the Beloved disciple and Mary, the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene stood at the foot of the Cross (see John 19:25). She saw Jesus die on that Cross. Together with the other women who had come with him from Galilee, she “saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments” (Luke 23:55-56). “Early on the first day of the week [that is on Easter morning], while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him’.” (John 20:1-2) Impossible for her to see in the empty tomb a sign of the Resurrection. Her report put the two apostles in movement. “Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself.” (John 20:3-7) Like Mary Magdalene, Peter was unable to see in the empty tomb a sign of the Resurrection. However, the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed.” (John 20:8) Just like Mary Magdalene and the two disciples, we are among those who follow Jesus in our daily lives. Just like those three, we are running Catholics, busy with the preoccupations and duties of our lives. We have our share of suffering and mourning. Because of that, we “run” the risk of arriving in church out of breath on Easter morning. Will we be able to see the signs of the Resurrection of Christ? will we be looking “for the living among the dead”? (Luke 24:5) The beloved disciple went into the empty tomb, “he saw and believed.” (John 20:8) Not because he ran faster than Peter, but because he was guided by Christ’s love. My prayer for you and your families this Easter is that we may stop running. If we want to encounter the risen Lord in our life, it is important to find some time to give to God. This will allow him to rekindle the light of Christ in our heart. Guided by the light of the Resurrection we will be able to contemplate how much God loves us. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” (John 3:16)  Because we are loved, we will see God’s presence in our lives and believe in the Resurrection. May the love we receive and the love we give, most especially to our children, become signs of the Resurrection of our Lord. For us but also for those who seek the light of Christ in our world. “Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35) Let us be once again “pilgrims of Hope.” A happy and holy Easter. ✠ Yvan Mathieu, SM

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Make Room

OAPCE Book Nook

A Child’s Guide to Lent and Easter” by Laura Alary, is a beautifully illustrated book that invites children to explore Lent through activities like cleaning, baking, and sharing. It fosters acts of justice and kindness, broadening understanding of Lent as preparation for Easter.

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When God Made You

OAPCE Book Nook

“When God Made You” by Matthew Paul Turner is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that celebrates the uniqueness and individuality of every child. The story emphasizes that each person is created with a purpose and is loved deeply by God. Through rhythmic and poetic language, the book conveys the message that every child is special, valuable, and has a unique role in the world. It’s a wonderful read for children and parents, encouraging self-acceptance and appreciation of one’s own gifts.

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St. Catherine of Siena

Faith Activities

Catherine of Siena is known for her writings on mysticism and spiritual guidance, as well as her efforts to promote Church unity in the fourteenth century. We celebrate the feast of St. Catherine of Siena on April 29, the anniversary of her death. St. Catherine of Siena was a very special person who lived a long time ago in Italy. She was born on March 25, 1347, and became famous for her kindness, wisdom, and strong faith. Catherine was known for helping the poor and sick people in her town. She often gave them food, took care of them, and made them feel better. She also worked hard to bring peace between people who were fighting. She even wrote letters to important leaders, asking them to stop wars and be kind to each other. Catherine had special experiences called “visions,” where she felt very close to God. These visions helped her understand how to help others and live a good life. St. Catherine of Siena is important because she showed that one person can make a big difference in the world by being kind, brave, and caring. She is also a saint, which means she is recognized by the Catholic Church as someone who lived a very holy life. Fun Fact: Catherine was one of 25 children in her family! Even though she had a big family, she always found time to help others and pray.

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How Catholic Education Enhances Faith Formation for Children

Blog, News & Events

Catholic education has long been a topic of debate, often focusing on its funding and place within public education systems. However, there is no denying the significant impact Catholic education has on the faith formation of children. It provides them with a strong religious foundation, instills the values and teachings of the Catholic Church, and nurtures a sense of community. “Catholic education has been instrumental in nurturing my child’s faith. The incorporation of religious studies throughout their education has enriched their understanding of Catholic values and helped cultivate a strong sense of belonging within the community.” – Jennifer Pilzecker, OAPCE Niagara Director. “We must remain vigilant in protecting the gift of Catholic education in an increasingly secular society, ensuring that we do not succumb to the influence of fleeting social trends.” One of the key ways in which Catholic education enhances faith formation for children is through its integration of religious education into the curriculum. In Catholic schools, students have the unique opportunity to learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church and actively participate in religious rituals and practices. This not only deepens their understanding of their faith but also fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity with others who share their beliefs. “Working in a faith-filled environment allows me to not only educate my students academically but also guide them in developing their relationship with God. I consider it a privilege to be able to support their faith formation along with their academic growth.” – A. Madonna, OAPCE Simcoe Muskoka Director, Educator Catholic schools also provide a faith-filled environment where children can grow in their relationship with God. The presence of dedicated teachers and staff who are committed to their own faith journey serves as a positive role model for students. These educators not only teach academic subjects but also nurture the spiritual lives of their students, guiding them to develop a personal relationship with God and encouraging them to live out their faith in their daily lives. Furthermore, Catholic education promotes moral values and ethical behavior. Catholic schools actively cultivate a culture of respect, compassion, and social justice. Students are taught to treat others with kindness and dignity, promoting inclusivity and acceptance. They are also encouraged to be conscious of their responsibility to care for those less fortunate and work towards creating a more just society. Through service projects and community outreach programs, students actively engage in acts of charity, solidifying their commitment to living out the Gospel values they learn in school. “I firmly believe that Catholic education, supported by the active involvement of parents through organizations like OAPCE, provides a unique and valuable opportunity for children to develop a strong faith foundation alongside their academic journey. Our partnership with OAPCE allows us to work collaboratively in ensuring that the needs of students in Catholic schools are met and that their faith formation is nurtured in a holistic manner.” – Most Rev. Bishop Mathieu, OAPCE Liaison Bishop, Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario. The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) plays a vital role in supporting and enhancing the faith formation of children in Catholic schools. Recognized by the Ministry of Education, OAPCE works closely with other stakeholders such as Bishops, Principals, Trustees, and Teachers to ensure a holistic approach to supporting Catholic education. This partnership strengthens the connection between school, home, and parish, fostering unity and shared purpose in nurturing the faith of children. OAPCE also provides valuable opportunities for parents to get involved in their child’s education and faith formation. Through its network of local OAPCE representatives and regional committee meetings, parents have a platform to voice their concerns and engage with like-minded individuals. These meetings provide a supportive network for parents, allowing them to connect with others in their local Catholic education community. By fostering this sense of community and collaboration, OAPCE further enhances the faith formation of children by creating an environment where parents actively participate in their child’s education and faith journey. “OAPCE hosts regional committee meetings where parents can come together to share best practices, exchange ideas, and get to know other parents in their regions”- quotes R. Takeaway, OAPCE Dufferin Peel Director,  “as well as providing guest speakers such as Dr. Josephine Lombardi and Teresa Hartnett who help with our Faith formation as Adults, which in turn inspires us as parents to our children.” In addition to advocating for Catholic education at the provincial level, OAPCE ensures that the parent voice is heard and considered in decision-making processes that impact Catholic education. Through its involvement in various Ministry of Education initiatives and working tables, OAPCE plays a crucial role in promoting parent involvement and fostering a strong partnership between parents and the Ministry. “Our organization is dedicated to empowering parents and guardians in supporting the faith formation of children in Catholic schools. Through advocacy, information sharing, and community-building initiatives, we aim to enhance the partnership between parents and the Ministry of Education for the benefit of all students.” – J. Perri, Co-Executive Director, OAPCE. In conclusion, while Catholic education may be controversial to some, it undeniably plays a pivotal role in the faith formation of children. It provides them with a solid religious foundation, promotes moral values, and creates a faith-filled environment. Through the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE), parents and guardians have a voice in supporting and promoting Catholic education. OAPCE’s advocacy efforts, information sharing, and community-building initiatives contribute to the enhancement of faith formation in children attending Catholic schools in Ontario.

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