Dear Parish Family,
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, we find ourselves entering the beautiful and reflective season of Advent. Advent is a special time in our liturgical calendar—a season of waiting and preparation for the coming Christ. It invites us to pause amidst the busyness of our daily lives and prepare our hearts to receive Jesus through prayerful devotions, charity, and fellowship.
In this message, you will find information on the upcoming events, activities, devotions, and resources available at St. Ann's to enrich your Advent experience. Whether you are looking to participate in a special Mass, a family social hour, or simply find moments of quiet reflection, there is something for everyone.
In Christ,
The St. Ann Team
Upcoming Novenas
We invite you to participate in two special novenas this Advent:
Immaculate Conception Novena (Nov 29 - Dec 7)
Join us in prayer as we prepare to celebrate the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
St. Andrew Novena (Nov 30 - Dec 25)
This powerful novena leads us through the Advent season, culminating in the joyous celebration of Christmas.
More Details —>
Sunday Events
🎅 Visit with St. Nicholas - December 7
Bring the family to meet St. Nicholas on December 7. Experience treats, joy, and learning about the true spirit of generosity.
🧁 Gaudete Bake Exchange
Celebrate Gaudete Sunday with our Bake Exchange!
Get empty containers in the narthex on Nov 30 and Dec 7.
Bake some delicious Christmas treats and load the boxes up at home.
Bring your goodies to church on Dec. 14.
Pick and mix all of the delicious baked goods available into a take-home tray.
☕ Coffee Sunday & Religious Items - December 14
Join us for a festive Coffee Sunday on December 14. Browse through available religious items made by parishioners for unique gifts, crafts, and holiday cheer.
🎄 Evening of Decorating and Carolling - December 21
Our teens and young adults are invited to an evening of decorating and carolling on December 21. Let’s spread joy and warmth as we eagerly anticipate our Lord’s arrival.
Parish Advent Calendar
To help you stay organized and up-to-speed with all parish activities, we are excited to release our 2025 Advent Parish Calendar! Click here for a printable PDF.
More Advent Resources
Advent Generosity Challenge
Have you ever gotten to Christmas and realized you've prepared the tree, the gifts, and the get-togethers, but you haven't taken time to prepare your heart? This Advent, let's set our focus on preparing room for Christ in our hearts, in our lives, and in our relationships. Our challenge to you is to do that this Advent season through a spirit of radical generosity.
Sign up to receive weekly emails throughout advent with reflections and challenges, inviting you to live out this radical generosity with your family, friends, and neighbours.
Holy Heroes Advent Adventure
Holy Heroes Advent Adventure is a fun and easy way for parents to help their children grow in faith, hope, and charity, while enjoying a more peaceful Advent! There is an email for each day of Advent designed to be sent evening before to give time to review and prepare materials for the next day. Links in the emails lead to short videos, printable activities, and more!
Jesus-Centred Parenting Reflections
One of our parishioners, Andrew Nussey, is offering free weekly Jesus-Centred Parenting Reflections via email – practical, faith-filled insights for Christian family life. In addition to parents, these reflections may also benefit grandparents, educators, and others involved in raising children.
The first 3 reflections form a special Advent Saint Nicholas Series, beginning Dec. 6:
Week 1: The Saint Behind the Santa – Love That Doesn’t Keep Score
Week 2: When We Turn God into Santa – Rethinking the God We Imitate
Week 3: Reclaiming the Rod – What the Figure of St. Nicholas Teaches Us