Gratitude and Enthusiasm:
Michelle Sanche and John Dipple
Note: As of 2025, plans for the building of the Pastoral Centre are on hold.
Regina has been home to Michelle and John since late 1989. After 3 years at Holy Cross Parish, they moved into the Cathedral Area and raised their three kids while attending Holy Rosary.
Michelle has volunteered at the archdiocesan office, helping with the website, annual report and Arch weekly report. John volunteers on the Archdiocesan Finance Council and Holy Rosary Finance Council. In August of 2019 they agreed to be among the co-chairs of the Rebuilding Our Church Campaign.
When it comes to faith, above all they are grateful for God’s abundant grace and mercy. To them the church is an important reminder that they belong to God and to others, both inside and outside of the faith community. They have beloved grown children in both places! They also value the church’s vital role in the areas of spiritual growth, sacraments, education, ministry to the sick and dying, justice, youth, and more.
They both believe strongly that despite difficult times, the Catholic church in southern Saskatchewan has a hopeful future, and they want to invest in that future. Their vision is of a church that is welcoming to all, a restored cathedral, and archdiocesan services that strengthen all parishes and communities.
Why did they decide to support the campaign, financially and with their volunteer time? Primarily because they know the importance, see the needs and want to be part of the solutions. In John’s words: “I wasn’t born into the church but I felt called to join. God has placed us both here, and we can’t take for granted that someone else will step up and take care of things. Now it’s our turn.” Michelle adds: “This is the giant step forward our cathedral and archdiocese need now, and this is our chance to work together to make it happen.”
The 3 areas of the project they are most looking forward to seeing are: a cathedral that is restored and ready to serve for years to come, accessible spaces for those with mobility challenges, and a permanent pastoral hub from which Archbishop Don and team can do their essential ministry work. Because church is so much more than buildings, they are also hoping that this shared effort will engage and connect more parishioners all across the archdiocese.
To those considering a pledge or donation, they suggest: “Don’t give out of a sense of obligation or burden; instead, give out of joy and gratitude for the gifts, challenges and opportunities of our church. Since making our pledge, we’ve found that our gratitude and enthusiasm have increased so much more than we could have expected.”
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