By Michael LeBlanc, DPCC Regional Coordinator for Saskatchewan & Keewatin-Le Pas

The yearly assembly for Development and Peace – Caritas Canada (DPCC) for the dioceses in Saskatchewan and northern Manitoba took place on May 1-3, 2026 near Saskatoon — a faith-filled and fun weekend.

Participants  from across the four Roman Catholic dioceses of Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Keewatin-Le Pas met to share meals and accommodation at Salvation Army Beaver Creek Camp – a space specifically chosen for its central location in the region.

Just over forty people, including DPCC members, staff, National Council members (DPCC board of directors), and guests, spent the weekend together, sharing stories, learning, and building community.

The weekend together began Friday evening, May 1, when DPCC Programs Officer Camilo Coral shared what it was like to select programs to support by role-playing the selection process in small groups. He also gave concrete examples from the field and his project areas of Ukraine, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.

On Saturday morning May 2, Bernice Daratha opened the day with centring prayer, Bishop Mark Hagemoen brought words of welcome and encouragement, and Regional Coordinator Michael LeBlanc gave a reflection on Catholic Social Teaching and the dynamic structure of DPCC.

Bernice Daratha leads those gathered in an opening prayer. (Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

Times of reflection were also experiential; participants journeyed through reconciliation guided by Brenda Arakaza from Returning to Spirit, entered into the plight of the Palestinian people through an exercise by JustPeace ecumenical group, and finally were guided through a reflection on mining by youth representative Sam Medernach who built on a D&P Schools activity to demonstrate the devastation wreaked upon cookie ?homesteads” because of “mining” for chocolate chips.

Participants were guided through a reflection on mining by youth representative Sam Medernach who built on a D&P Schools activity. (Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

A “Before and After” glimpse into a mock playdough homestead that was “mined” for the chocolate chips beneath. This activity represents the real world plight of many people whose lands are endangered due to mining and other heavy industries. (Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

(Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

The weekend was capped off by a synodal reflections on DPCC’s future both locally and nationally, guided by staff and members.

Sessions during the DPCC Regional Assembly considered next steps. (Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

The Regional Assembly sits at the crossroads of reflection on Catholic Social Teaching and concrete plans for justice activities. Development and Peace members were affirmed in their daily work within the geographic bounds of their dioceses, but also heard how their efforts have effects far beyond, into the world and the future.

Perhaps the best activity to sum up a busy weekend was a simple toque raffle organized by Donna Aldous that raised funds to help fight hunger in Palestine, Sudan, and Somalia through Grow Hope Saskatchewan in this new growing season.

Photos

Fr. Lawrence DeMong, OSB, and Fr. Isaac Atta Mensah prepare to celebrate Mass at the Regional Assembly. (Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

(Photo by Michael LeBlanc)

“May the seeds we sow for justice in our communities flourish this year and every year!”

For more information about Development and Peace Carital Canada, see the website at: or contact Michael LeBlanc, Regional Coordinator for Saskatchewan & Keewatin-Le Pas. mleblanc@devp.org (306) 205-2334.

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Catholic Saskatoon News is supported by gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon: dscf.ca