Dear Friends,

The Golden Anniversary of the presence of Opus Dei in Canada makes this month of June very special. In the words of a classic hymn, this anniversary is the moment to "count your many blessings, name them one by one. And it will surprise you, what the Lord hath done." 

For weeks now we have been coaxing the “old-timers” to tell us once again their stories. Their tales delight us and at the same time fill us with admiration for the marvels that God has done through the generosity of those who started the apostolic work in Canada on June 7, 1957. The growth of the Work in Canada since then would not have been possible without the unfailing support of many cooperators and friends.

Last September many Canadians had the joy of seeing and hearing our Prelate, Bishop Javier Echevarria, who spent nine unforgettable days in this country. Next week the Prelate celebrates his 75th birthday. It is moving to imagine that moment a half-century ago when St. Josemaria set in motion the beginnings of Opus Dei in Canada. At that time the 25 year-old Javier Echevarria was already collaborating closely with Opus Dei's founder. He told us last September how much St. Josemaria loved and prayed for Canada. We saw for ourselves to what extent Bishop Echevarria shares those sentiments. The celebration of our Golden Anniversary will naturally include our fervent prayers for the Prelate's 75th birthday on June 14th.

Even as we look back over the past, we are mesmerized by what lies ahead, and not just here in Canada. Russia is very much in our prayers. Later this month a handful of members of Opus Dei will travel to Moscow to establish the first centre of the Prelature in that vast land. In the next few years, others will move to Vietnam, Rumania and Bulgaria to begin serving souls in those countries. Thus, our celebration includes looking to the future with immense hope.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming Masses we will hold across the country to celebrate the feast of St. Josemaria later this month.

With prayerful warm regards,

Msgr. Frederick Dolan.

Vicar of Opus Dei for Canada