Please read this important update from the office of the Vicar General, offering information on the health of the Archbishop and other clergy in our archdiocese, as well as information related to other clergy, seminary and pastoral assignments.
January 15, 2025
Dear brothers, sisters, and faithful of the archdiocese.
A quick update on members of the clergy, pastoral workers and seminarian:
Archbishop Pettipas remains in Grande Prairie hospital since December 28th, being treated for excruciating pain in his legs which makes it difficult for him to walk. Various tests have been taken. He has received a ‘cortisone’ injection in his lower back and will receive another in the near future. We keep him our prayer for strength and healing.
Rev. Julien Benedict Mary is also admitted to the Grande Prairie hospital with swelling in his neck and throat. A minor exploratory surgery has taken place and there is an infection that is being treated. He will likely remain in hospital for a few more days. We send our prayers for a quick recovery.
Rev. Cyril Joseph remains in his home country, India recovering from a surgery on his foot and the amputation of three toes. He is healing and receiving therapy and will be fitted with a prosthesis. We continue to pray for Father’s recovery.
Rev. Gerald Mendoza is dealing with some health issues and is receiving medical care. We pray for remedy and healing and fortitude for Fr. Gerald.
Rev. Louis Saldanha is needing more care as his cognitive health declines with dementia. For him and his family care-givers, we pray for patience in caring. Fr. Louis returned to his home in India a few years ago.
In January, a number of our clergy have gone for their annual vacation. We pray for their good health and safety and a energized and joyful return in February.
Rev. Raj Koppula is moved from Joussard to Red Earth Creek prior to leaving for his vacation. We pray for his future ministry there and growth of a faith community there and in surrounding areas.
We welcome two new priests to the archdiocese. Rev. Fr. Sunny Memana arrived from India November 14th. He has been assigned to the parish of St. Ann, Joussard, St. Rose of Lima, Driftpile and Our Lady of Fatima in Sucker Creek. As he begins his ministry in the archdiocese, we wish him well and support him with our prayer.
Rev. Fr. Joseph Choji arrived in Grande Prairie from Nigeria on Saturday January 11, 2025 We did not allow him time to land that we had him say Mass at Saint Patrick’s in Rio Grande and St. Mary’s in Beaverlodge on Sunday the 12th. Welcome Fr. Choji! We pray you had a few restful days thus far this week.
Let us pray for Paul Edo-Aranmude on the Little Red River Cree Nation providing lay-services to the three communities there while Fr. Andy is on Vacation.
Let us pray also for Rudy Jerome Mallannao who has also been providing lay-services in Guy and McLennan and elsewhere.
Let us not forget to pray for vocations to the priesthood and to the religious life. We pray for Thomas Wollis as he continues his studies in theology at St. Joseph Seminary, Edmonton.
Finally, let us continue to pray for strength and solace for Rev. Emmanuel Ekanem as he returns from Nigeria from attending the funerals of his brother, sister-in-law and two nieces and to comfort and support his mother and other family members. May the risen Lord be your consolation!
Cordially in Christ,
Msgr Charles Lavoie PH
Vicar General/Chancellor