Roman Catholic Bishop of Kamloops

Overview

The Roman Catholic Bishop of Kamloops is a non-profit organization operating within the Catholic Church in Canada. It is associated with the Kamloops diocese, which encompasses various parishes, including Our Lady of the Mountains in Whistler.

Our Lady of the Mountains Parish

Our Lady of the Mountains, located in Whistler, British Columbia, is a key parish under the Roman Catholic Bishop of Kamloops. Established in 1992, it serves the local community as well as a significant number of tourists and seasonal visitors to Whistler.

History

Catholic services in Whistler began in a non-denominational 60-seat Skier’s Chapel built in 1968 at the base of Whistler Mountain in Creekside. By the 1990s, the Catholic community had grown enough to necessitate the creation of a full-time parish. Our Lady of the Mountains was officially formed in the early 1990s, with the first full-time priest appointed in 1992. The initial plans for a dedicated church were adapted into a multi-purpose building that could host both religious services and community events, reflecting the unique needs of the community[1][5].

Expansion Efforts

In recent years, Our Lady of the Mountains has embarked on an expansion project aimed at enhancing its facilities. The project, supported by significant fundraising efforts, seeks to better serve both the local community and visitors by creating a more dedicated space for religious activities. The expansion goals include raising $5 million to enhance the church and its role in the community[4][5].

Community Role

The church plays a crucial role in Whistler beyond religious services. It acts as a community hub, hosting various events and activities. The location of Whistler within a popular resort area means that the parish must also cater to the spiritual needs of millions of tourists annually[5].

Affiliation and Structure

Our Lady of the Mountains is part of the Kamloops diocese, which covers a broad geographic area in British Columbia. Despite its association with Vancouver through proximity, the parish is recognized as a distinct entity under the Kamloops diocese[5].

Business Registration

The Roman Catholic Bishop of Kamloops is registered as a non-profit organization with the relevant authorities under a specific business registration number. This registration underscores its legal status as a Canadian entity operating primarily for religious and charitable purposes.

Conclusion

The Roman Catholic Bishop of Kamloops, through its associated parishes like Our Lady of the Mountains, plays a significant role in the spiritual and community life of its region. The ongoing expansion efforts at Our Lady of the Mountains highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of these non-profit religious institutions in Canada.