2026 marks the 10th year anniversary of Fr. Joe Durkacz administrating to St. Stephen of Hungary Church.
On August 23rd, we celebrate our King Saint Stephen. In the entrance procession, we will carry a relic of St. Stephen and a “New Bread” tied with a ribbon in our national tricolour. The celebration of the new bread has been associated with the feast of King St. Stephen for centuries. In fact, the whole month of August has been called the “Month of the New Bread”. Our scouts will take part in uniform in the entrance procession on this celebratory occasion.
* Following the Mass, we will have our parish luncheon in our parish hall. We thank our volunteers for their work in preparing the hall for the occasion! We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate Saint Stephen together, as our first king, our first saint and the namesake of our parish, which is a living faith community of mutual respect and acceptance. So enjoy the meal and each other’s company!
* Also on this occasion and for a decade now, Fr. Joe Durkacz has kept his eyes keenly on the circumstances of our parish, making effective decisions, working quietly in the background. Fortunately for us, Rose Berrie, Father's administrative assistant, was also part of this arrangement and has been working diligently for the benefit of our parish with the same dedication. For both of them, this assignment is in addition to the many tasks and responsibilities to their own local parish (Saints Peter and Paul). We ask the good Lord to continue to bless them with many graces and further resilience.
Father Joe expressed his gratitude for the kind recognition and gift as well as Rose. They were pleased that we continue to think of them and pray for them.
Thank you so much for the appreciation you have shown me in the 10 years of working as the bookkeeper/administrative assistant for your parish. I am sorry to have missed your beautilful gathering. The pictures I have seen were lovely and such a beautiful crowd. You have always been kind and generous as well as welcoming and I look forward to continuing this wonderful position for you.
Sincerely, Rose Berrie
