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Pastor’s Perspective

Solemnity of Corpus Christi: The Body We Receive, the Body We Become

Living the Mystery of Communion, Unity, and Mission in Our Parish Life

The Solemnity of Corpus Christi brings us to the heart of who we are as Church. At the center of everything stands the Eucharist—not simply our activities, plans, or programs. These are important, but they are not the source. What truly sustains a parish is not its schedule of planned initiatives, but its altar—where Christ gathers, nourishes, and sends His people.

It is around the Eucharist that the Church is gathered and renewed. Here, we are reminded that we do not build the Church by our own strength; we receive it as a gift, shaped by the presence of Christ who gives Himself entirely—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. As the Church teaches, “the Eucharist is the source and summit (fons et culmen) of the Christian life” (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 10).

In the words of St. John Paul II, “The Eucharist builds the Church and the Church makes the Eucharist.” At the altar, the community is not only nourished—it is formed. We receive the Body of Christ to become the Body of Christ. The Eucharist is not merely something we attend; it is the mystery that gives the Church her identity.

This reality shapes the life of the parish. It gathers those who were scattered. It turns strangers into brothers and sisters. It teaches us how to belong, how to follow, and how to serve. The Eucharist we celebrate is far more than a liturgical action—it is the place where Christ gathers us, transforms us, and forms us into one Body.

The final words of the Mass, “Go in peace,” come from the ancient Latin phrase Ite, missa est. Ite means “Go,” and missa est is traditionally understood as “she is sent,” referring to the Church. In simpler terms, it expresses that the whole community is being sent. That’s why the word missa gives us both the name “Mass” and the word “mission.” The liturgy doesn’t end at the dismissal—it continues in our daily lives. We are sent as one Body in Christ to carry what we have received into the world.

As we celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, let us take to heart what we truly are: not separate individuals, but members of one Body—gathered, held together, and sent in communion. The Eucharist we receive is not a private grace—it is a call to walk together, trusting the One who leads us along the path we share. In a divided world, the Church is called to be different: not perfect, but united. Let us allow the Body of Christ we receive to shape the Body of Christ we are becoming.

Fr. Fabio de Souza

541 Silvergrove Dr. NW
Calgary, Alberta T3B 4R9

Ph: (403) 286-5110
Fax: (403) 247-4339
Email: office@st-peters.ca

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The Resurrection Choir at St. Peter’s stands as a testament to the power of music and compassion. By coming together for the sole purpose of singing at Catholic funerals, choir members provide a touching and heartfelt gift to grieving families, lifting spirits and creating a sense of peace during times of loss.

For those who wish to be part of a choir but cannot make a weekly commitment, the Resurrection Choir is the perfect fit. We understand that people have busy lives and might find it challenging to commit to regular rehearsals. Therefore, we only practice before each funeral Mass, allowing members to participate when they are available.

If you want to be part of a choir that makes a difference without the pressure of a weekly commitment, we warmly welcome you.  The joy of making a positive impact on the lives of grieving families is the most rewarding aspect of being part of the Resurrection Choir.

Encounter is a new choir that began to serve St. Peters in late 2022. We would love to welcome singers and musicians of all ages to join our growing group. Our song selections are mostly traditional sprinkled with some contemporary – sourced from the Glory & Praise hymnal. 

 

Our choir has a passion for leading St Peter’s congregation in praise, the meaning of our name, Laudate.  We are a friendly and supportive group who love the liturgy, the music and the gift of blending our voices with each other and the assembly. The music we sing is diverse, from chant & traditional to contemporary. Our membership presently is mostly adults but families with children are always welcome. Many young people have grown up in our ranks! Singers and instrumentalists, with or without experience, who share our desire to praise and to serve, are invited to join us.

 

Youth Alive is a group of young singers and musicians who come together to offer praise to God.  Being a part of our choir provides kids and teens with opportunities to grow musically as individuals, while contributing to the artistry of singing together as a group.

There are also opportunities to grow into leading roles, thereby allowing for teens to build confidence, and become role models for the younger ones. We are always happy to welcome new members who share our passion for music, as well as a solid commitment to serving the parish of St Peter’s.

 

We are a group of singers and players who get up extra early to praise God with music!

There are opportunities for a variety of skill and confidence levels. Being able to read music is an asset but is not required. Instruments get the chance to shine by playing musical parts.

Choristers are encouraged to blend their voices in song and are provided with the opportunity to sing solo parts as needed. We practise every two weeks for about an hour. There is an emphasis on joy and mutual support.

Welcome to our Saturday Night Live Choir where our dedicated singers and musicians understand the importance of embracing modern musical styles while honoring our rich Catholic traditions. Our limited practice time before Mass enables those who are busy during the week, to fit both choir participation and Mass into their schedules. 

Our choir’s energy and enthusiasm radiates throughout the church as we engage the congregation in active participation. Our goal is to create an atmosphere that resonates with all generations, inviting the congregation to connect deeply with their spirituality through the power of music, igniting the fire of faith within every heart present.  We happily welcome new members!