Marian Centre
Edmonton, Alberta
In 1955, men were coming into Edmonton from all over Canada looking for employment. Many found themselves without work, and in need of food and clothing. Archbishop John H. MacDonald responded to their needs by inviting the Madonna House Apostolate to come to the city to serve the poor of the Archdiocese of Edmonton. The first staff worker was sent to begin Marian Centre by begging, and the people of Edmonton responded overwhelmingly with funds, material, and volunteer help. A building was located and renovated. Eventually another was built.
At Marian Centre we try to build a family of love, witnessing to a Gospel way of life in our Little Mandate. Our first priority is to offer friendship and hospitality to all who come. We serve a simple lunch and provide clothing and household items in emergencies. There is no charge for the meals or clothing, no questions asked, no judgements made. It is our privilege to serve Christ in the poor, for he said, “Whatever you do for the least of my people, you do for me.”
Prayer is at the heart of our life here. Without prayer we would have no love to give; we could not go on serving from day to day. Our chapel, where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved, is the center of the house. We are called to feed not only the physically hungry, but the spiritually hungry; to clothe not only the body, but every aspect of life with the light of the Gospel.
We have several rooms called poustinias set aside for solitude, prayer, and fasting. These are available for people to spend 24 hours alone with God.
We also have a lending library. With interested friends, we read and discuss Scripture or the spirituality of Madonna House. We also share liturgies.
Marian Centre receives no support from the government or grants of any kind. We welcome volunteers to join us in the many jobs that need to be done each day and we also welcome donations of food or men's warm clothing. If you would like to help, please call us and we will arrange a time for you to come. Above all, we count on your prayers.
