Surrey: News from OLGC

By Fr. Samson David Antony, SDB

This past July was full of festivities and holidays at Our Lady of Good Counsel (OLGC), which began with Canada Day. After a long discernment, the Frazer Health Authority allowed religious institutes to open to full capacity with minimal restrictions.

On Sunday, July 4, we Salesians began our annual retreat in the Mary Help of Christians Hall at 7.00 pm PT. We participated in virtual conferences from New Rochelle, NY, which were preached by Fr. Joseph Thannikkal, SDB.

From Monday, July 5 through Saturday, July 10, we held our regular retreat-timetable, which included daily Eucharistic celebrations for the people with specific themes and schedules. Fr. George began the week with the theme of the Holy Spirit, followed by Fr. John and “Social Justice and Peace” the following day. I took Wednesday, which was centered on vocation, and Fr. George helped us focus on deceased Salesians on Thursday. The last two days were with Fr. Junji, who focused on Salesian Holiness, and Fr. George, who focused on Mary.

On Tuesday, July 13, Abp. Michael Miller, DD came to our parish to confirm 40 children at 7.00 pm PT. It was a great experience for both the parishioners and the confirmed children to celebrate the Holy Eucharist with the Sacrament of Confirmation in full church capacity after a long period of restrictions due to Covid-19.

Parish activities were also fully opened, beginning with youth Mass on Saturday, July 3. The following day, we opened more Sunday Masses in the church, as well as in the gym with alternative Mass times. People were so glad to reenter the church.

On Thursday, July 15, the parish celebrated World Grandparents Day. The 11:15 am PT Mass was specially solemnized for grandparents. After the Mass, greetings and snacks were given to about 300 grandparents of the parish in the gym.

From Monday, July 5 through Friday, July 16, two of our school teachers organized summer camp in our gym. Then, from Wednesday, July 21 through Friday, July 23, the youth group animated the youth seminar from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm PT. Under the leadership of Mrs. Beth Reyes, the group gave orientation for summer vacation and preparation for future career choices.