BAPTISM & CONFIRMATION
The Christian message is for people of all ages who have embarked on different journeys with very diverse faith itineraries. It reaches them where they are, and in different ways: at the moment the Gospel is first heard, at the time of Christian initiation, and when faith matures. These are the three moments of evangelization.

Through Baptism, we become the authors of this mission of evangelization. The Holy Spirit is the motor that drives this great adventure. We all participate on different levels, witnessing through our daily lives, the way we are present to others and involved in the world, and through the communities we create in our attempts to follow Jesus.

In our COMMUNITY, beginning next Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., we have parents coming together who have asked for Baptism for their children. Please journey with us through your support and prayers.

Within our COMMUNITY, we have three candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation: Nick Lalonde, Taylor Roos, and Claudia Larocque. These young people will be celebrating this rite at St. Aloysuis, 300 de l’Abbe-Murray St., Gatineau, on Sunday, May 3rd at the 11:00 a.m. mass. The communities of OLV and St. Malachy are invited to share this faith journey by their presence at this celebration of Confirmation. The mass will be followed by a potluck lunch to which one could contribute and join in the fellowship.

MARCH 21 AND 22 – ARCHBISHOP EBACHER VISITS ST. MALACHY AND OLV
On Saturday, March 21st, Archbishop Ebacher, accompanied by Fr. Gyan, met with members of the wardens of the St. Malachy Fabrique and representatives of the Shrine, Cemetery, PPC, Liturgy, Baptism preparation and Transformation committees. Each representative introduced himself/herself and provided a brief overview on the committee’s involvement in parish activities. After the meeting, a buffet supper was served and even the wildlife (skunk) came.

Archbishop Ebacher greeted parishioners as they arrived for the 7 pm mass and presided at the Eucharistic celebration. At the conclusion of the celebration, he thanked all committee members and the choir for their involvement in the life of the parish. He urged the parishioners to support these members and to take an active part and get involved. Fellowship and refreshments with the Archbishop and parishioners followed.

On Sunday, March 22nd, the Archbishop arrived at OLV early in order to greet parishioners as they arrived for the 9 am mass and presided at the Eucharistic celebration with the assistance of Fr. Gyan. After the mass, a light meal was served to all in attendance in the OLV hall. Archbishop Ebacher spent some time with each group, enquiring about their various interests.

Following this fellowship, the wardens of the OLV Fabrique met with the Archbishop along with representatives of the PPC, Liturgy and Transformation committees. As with the meeting in Mayo, the Archbishop’s message was to continue to urge parishioners to get involved in all areas of the parish.

OLV SPRING SUPPER AND AUCTION
- to be held on Friday, May 29th in the OLV Church hall.

Tickets will go on sale Sunday, April 26th. Tickets are limited and are available from Raymond St-Jean (819) 986-6636 or from Alma (819) 986-3763. In order to expand our usual auction, we are requesting the participation of our parishioners. We are proposing that families within the Parish donate food baskets comprised of homemade preserves (i.e. jams, pickles, salsa, etc.) or other homemade family treats. Another way individuals can contribute is to donate gift certificates from local businesses or provide various gift baskets. As well, our local artists are also encouraged to participate by donating paintings or crafts. For those individuals who are willing to help our auction, would you please advise Alma of your interest and what you plan to donate no later than May 8th.

ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE TO STE-ANNE-DE-BEAUPRE & CAP–DE –LA-MADELEINE
Presided by Archbishop Terrence Prendergrast s.j., August 8-9, 2009. Info: Mike Budge at 662-224-8110.

WARDEN VACANCIES
There are Warden Positions available yet for the new term. If you wish to volunteer, please contact one of the wardens or call the office at (819) 986-3763.

CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE 2009
Just a reminder that the Buckingham Relay for Life will take place on: Friday, June 5, starting at 7:00pm Friday until 7:00 am Saturday morning at McAndrew Park.

If you would like to sponsor someone to walk in the relay, Monique Simpson will be at the Church Hall on Sunday May 3, to accept your donations. Candles will also be available at that time.

USED STAMPS
The response to the request for used stamps has been great. Please continue to donate your stamps. There is a container at the entrance of the Church and the stamps are then forwarded to Missions