Dear Friend…(Christmas 2023)

Warm greetings in this Advent season! As the days grow shorter and Christmas approaches, we reflect on the deeper meaning of this special time. Advent marks the start of a new liturgical year, Cycle B, with a focus on the Gospel of Mark. It’s a season of waiting, growth, and hope, centered on themes of…

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New Bishop Goes Live

The Catholic Diocese of Fairbanks received a new bishop on Thursday, October 12, with the ordination of the Rev. Steven Maekawa, OP, as the seventh bishop of the diocese. Hundreds of Catholic faithful from around Alaska gathered at Fairbanks’ Carlson Center to attend the ordination Mass. Maekawa was appointed Bishop of Fairbanks in July. He…

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Celebrating Exceptional Achievements

The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) honored remarkable Alaska Native individuals and families at the President’s Awards ceremony, held on Friday, October 20. These awards recognize outstanding achievements across various fields that exemplify Alaska Native values and dedication Native values and dedication to public service. Two of the esteemed awards found their way to Nome.…

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Recipe: A Christmas Treat For Your Dog

This recipe is Annie’s favorite treat for Christmas and makes about 3 dozen servings. Ingredients: Directions:1. Mix everything together until it’s well blended.2. Make small balls and drop them on parchment paper.3. Flatten the balls out and then bake at 350 degrees for about 35 minutes.4. Store in the freezer and take out a few…

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Preserving Indigenous Language through Social Media

In the vast landscapes of Alaska, over 20 Alaska Native languages has been handed down through generations. Yet, the last century has seen a decline in fluent speakers due to the impacts of colonization. In Nome, one woman is leveraging the power of social media to breathe new life into the Inupiaq language. Gail Smithhisler,…

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Dear Friend…(November 2023)

Throughout the month of November and especially on All Souls’ Day, we remember and celebrate those who have passed away by praying for all the departed, those close to us and those unknown. Who among us hasn’t longed for a deeper experience of God, especially during times of suffering, doubt, pain, and loneliness? Thanks to…

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Koyuk Covenant Church Reborn, a Story of Faith and Dedication

In the village of Koyuk, located in Western Alaska, a heartwarming celebration took place over the weekend of October 7th. The community rejoiced as they witnessed the grand re-opening of their sole church, which had been forced to close due to severe damage from Typhoon Merbok last fall. The reconstruction of the church, completed entirely…

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Western Alaskans Remember Typhoon Merbok a Year Later

One year after the remnants of Typhoon Merbok hit Western Alaska, residents look back on the havoc that struck the state. The storm made landfall on September 17, 2022, and devastated more than 1300 miles of coastline, roughly the distance from Miami to New York City. While thankfully no one lost their lives, more than…

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