Summer barbecue held for clergy in diocese of Saskatoon

Catholic Saskatoon News

Sports, games, visiting, and a barbecue feast were again part of an annual summer barbecue for clergy July 7 in the Roman Catholic diocese of Saskatoon.

A game of soccer among priests, youth and volunteers is another regular highlight at the annual event.

Soccer is part of the clergy barbecue hosted on an acreage north of Saskatoon. (Photo by Rita Flaman Jarrett, Catholic Pastoral Centre)

Enjoying time in the shade, while others play soccer in the heat. (Photo by Rita Flaman Jarrett, Catholic Pastoral Centre)

The barbecue with all the fixings is prepared by parish volunteers, with support from the Knights of Columbus. (Photo by Jacqueline Saretsky, Catholic Pastoral Centre)

Organized and presented by parishioners from Martensville and Langham, with support from the Knights of Columbus, the day included words of thanks to clergy by MC Kevin Higgins.

MC Kevin Higgins thanked clergy for all they do to proclaim Jesus Christ and God’s Kingdom as they serve the People of God in the diocese of Saskatoon. (Photo by Jacqueline Saretsky, Catholic Pastoral Centre)

Birthdays and anniversaries were also acknowledged during the program – all those being celebrated in the month of July as well as the significant milestones that will be marked throughout 2026.

Priests celebrating milestone anniversaries this year include:

15 years – Fr. Geoffrey Young and Fr. Matthew Ramsay (June 10, 2011)
20 years – Fr. Peter Olisa (July 15, 2006)
25 years – Fr. Michael Magaji (Oct. 20, 2001)
25 years – Fr. Bruce McAllister (Oct. 20, 2001)
30 years – Fr. Demetrius Wasylyniuk, OSB (June 29, 1996)
40 years – Fr. Les Paquin and Fr. Stefano Penna (May 9, 1986)
55 years – Fr. Ron Griffin, CSB (May 9, 1971)
60 years – Fr. Bill Stang, OMI (Oct. 20, 1966)

Bishop Mark Hagemoen expressed his appreciation to the clergy for their dedication and service, and also thanked the volunteers, Catholic Pastoral Centre staff, and all those who organize and support the event to foster fraternity and fellowship.

Bishop Mark Hagemoen expresses thanks during the barbecue dinner. (Photo by Jacqueline Saretsky, Catholic Pastoral Centre)

Fr. Prosper Abotsi, Fr. Dennis Phaneuf, and Fr. Michael Magaji were among those recognized for milestone celebrations this year. (Photo by Jacqueline Saretsky, Catholic Pastoral Centre)

Fr. Peter Ebidero (right), pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Martensville and St. Mark Parish in Langham, stands with some of the youth who volunteered at the annual clergy barbecue July 7. (Photo by Jacqueline Saretsky, Catholic Pastoral Centre)