Diocese News
Nelson CWL Diocesan Bursary
A Bursary of $500 will be awarded to 2 students who have completed 1 year or more in a recognized Post Secondary School program and are intending to take further academic studies or trades training on a full time basis. Who can apply? A student who shows leadership skills and concerns for the community and is a daughter/son or granddaughter/grandson of a CWL member of good standing for at least 2 years within the Diocese of Nelson. Or the student…
Funeral for Father Jim Ratcliffe
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Nelson, British Columbia, has lost a beloved priest with the peaceful passing of Reverend James “Jim” Ratcliffe of Kelowna on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Sun Pointe Village. Father Jim’s obituary can be found on the Springfield website. A prayer service will be held at Immaculate Conception Church on Wednesday evening, February 11, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Immaculate Conception Church.…
Catholic Mountain Star
Please find attached the Fall 2025 issue of the Catholic Mountain Star.
Bishop Gregory Update
We wish to provide an update on the health of our beloved Bishop Gregory Bittman. While the recovery process has been longer and more complex than expected, Bishop Gregory remains deeply rooted in faith and prayer. He continues to draw strength from the love and prayer support of the diocesan family.
Letter from Bishop Bittman Re: Additional Surgery
As you know, in December 2024 I had major surgery at Vancouver General Hospital. Once again, I am facing another surgery within the next four to six weeks for the same condition.
Pilgrimage Tour to Marian Sites in Portugal, Spain, and France
St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Revelstoke invites you to join then for a 12-day Pilgrimage Tour in April 2026 to Marian sites in Portugal, Spain, and France. Please contact the Tour coordinator Tamaralea Nelles for details and to register. She can be reached by email or 778-490-0018.
World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
A message from HIS HOLINESS POPE LEO XIV for World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on 27 July 2025.
The Election of Pope Leo XIV
The 266th Successor of Saint Peter, and 267th Pope Pope Leo XIV was born in Chicago, Illinois, on 14 September 1955. As a member of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.), in which he held various leadership positions, he dedicated many years of service to the Augustinian missions in Peru as a priest and seminary professor. He was eventually appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, by Pope Francis. As a Bishop of the Church in Peru, he served as Vice President…
Surgery Follow-up and Thank You
I am grateful to God and I am very grateful for your prayers. Please read my letter for an update. Gregory J BittmanBishop of Nelson
Job Posting: Accounting Assistant
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Nelson Accounting Assistant The Diocesan Office, situated in Kelowna, BC is seeking an Accounting Assistant to provide support to our Financial Services team. Located in the beautiful Okanagan and Kootenay regions of British Columbia, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Nelson ministers to approximately 78,000 Catholics through 31 parishes and 10 mission parishes. This is a full time position working 35 hours per week. This position pays $24 to $28/hour depending on qualifications. Reporting to the…