Dear Friends,

Seventy years ago, on October 22, 1952, three Carmelite Sisters and a Novice arrived by train in Kitchener from Cleveland, Ohio at the request of Bishop Ryan. The photo above was taken the day of their arrival at St. Mary's General Hospital, where the Sisters of St. Joseph's provided them with a place to stay for a few months. Bishop Ryan wanted the Carmelites to establish a new monastery in his diocese, which would be the first English-speaking one in Canada, and he believed that our community would support their cloistered life of prayer.

Some local citizens were the original benefactors and soon after a Committee for the Carmelite Sisters was formed to ensure their earthly needs were met. Each year on the anniversary of their arrival, the Committee seeks new donors and reminds past supporters to consider a donation. The goal of the Committee is to raise $100,000 annually to contribute towards the operating costs of the Monastery in St. Agatha, the residence of 16 Sisters. Here, they maintain a strict daily routine and grow most of their food for their vegetarian diet. Their needs are considered minimal; however, they rely on the community for support towards these ongoing expenses.

You are invited to participate in the annual tradition to support the Carmel of St. Joseph and please extend this invitation to your family members and friends.

On Monday October 24, 2022, Most Reverend Wayne Lobsinger, Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Hamilton, celebrated Mass at St. Mary's Church in Kitchener. After Mass, each attendee was given a special dinner from Tiny Home Takeout. This charity has received nationwide recognition for serving chef-prepared meals, cooked with care and served with dignity regardless of economic standing. The commercial-grade kitchen facility in the lower level of St. Mary's Church is run by Chef Amy Cyr with a robust team of volunteers. The full description can be viewed at www.tinyhometakeout.com.

We ask for your generosity to support the Sisters. A tax receipt for your full donation will be issued. Please consider contributing what you have in the past.

You are welcome to make your donation by the following options:

• https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/carmel-of-st-joseph/

• mail a cheque payable to "The Carmel of St. Joseph" using the enclosed envelope with RSVP card

• e-transfer to donation@thecarmel.ca

In gratitude for your ongoing support, Committee for the Carmelite Sisters

An Ancient Prayer to St. Joseph

Oh, St. Joseph, whose protection

is so great, so strong, so prompt

before the throne of God,

I place in you all my interest and desires.

Oh, St. Joseph, do assist me

by your powerful intercession,

and obtain for me from your divine Son

all spiritual blessings,

through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

So that, having engaged here below your heavenly power,

I may offer my thanksgiving and homage

to the most loving of Fathers.

Oh, St. Joseph, I never weary contemplating you,

and Jesus asleep in your arms;

I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart.

Press Him close in my name and kiss His fine head for me

and ask Him to return the kiss

when I draw my dying breath.

Oh St. Joseph, hear my prayers and grant my petition.

Amen.