THE CATHOLIC PARISH OF OUR LADY OF VICTORY is a Canadian nonprofit organization operating as a Roman Catholic parish within the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton. It serves a diverse community in central Alberta and is part of the larger ecclesiastical province governed by the Archdiocese.

History and Background

The parish, registered under the business number 119220721RR0001, traces its establishment to the early 20th century, with roots in the region surrounding Edmonton, Alberta. One notable branch of the parish was established in February 1931 in Thorsby, approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Edmonton. This location caters to multiple communities including Warburg, St Frances, Breton, and the north shore of Pigeon Lake. The parish reflects a longstanding commitment to serving rural and smaller communities outside Edmonton.

Administration and Clergy

Our Lady of Victory Parish in Thorsby is administered from St Maria Goretti Parish in Devon, Alberta. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton. As of August 2022, the parish priest is Father Luan Vu, who provides spiritual leadership and community pastoral care.

Community and Services

The parish operates as part of the Archdiocese of Edmonton's network of Catholic communities, which includes collaborative efforts with educational and social initiatives. It fosters community engagement through regular masses, pastoral planning, and support programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the parish advised community members experiencing symptoms to stay home, illustrating its commitment to public health and community well-being.

Relation to the Archdiocese of Edmonton

The Archdiocese of Edmonton, established originally as the Diocese of St Albert in 1871 and promoted to a metropolitan archdiocese in 1912, oversees the Catholic parishes in the region, including Our Lady of Victory. The Archdiocese has a significant historical presence and hosts various parishes, schools, and charitable organizations. It has been involved in broader church activities, including supporting Indigenous reconciliation efforts.

Cultural and Spiritual Role

Our Lady of Victory Parish embodies the Catholic faith tradition in Alberta, servicing both spiritual needs and communal cohesion for its parishioners. It is part of the Archdiocese's commitment to maintaining vibrant Catholic communities through worship, education, and outreach in both urban and rural settings.

This overview presents THE CATHOLIC PARISH OF OUR LADY OF VICTORY as a committed Roman Catholic community institution within central Alberta, integrated into the ecclesiastical framework of the Archdiocese of Edmonton, with a notable historical background and ongoing pastoral mission.