Original sentence: For almost three decades the basilica was known as the church without locks as it was open 24 hours.However, in the early 1980s, the church had to close at night
Edited sentence: "This ministry is one way that we can deeply touch people's lives," he said.Albert, the first diocese in Alberta and forerunner of the present archdiocese.Archbishop Thomas Collins leads a regular vespers and Lectio Divina, prayerful reading of the Bible.Associate pastor, Father Joselito Cantal takes joy in celebrating the sacrament of Reconciliation with people.At noon it welcomes people, some of them on their lunch break from work, to take a pause and pray.Because of the primacy of this church in the archdiocese, events like the Chrism Mass and Rite of Election are annually held, with representatives from different parishes in attendance.Before the afternoon daily Mass, the people communally recite and meditate on the mysteries of the rosary while the basilica priests wait at the confessionals for repentant souls.Every Friday there is a holy hour and on first Fridays people gather for adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.For almost three decades the basilica was known as the church without locks.However, in the early 1980s, the church without locks had to close at night.It was open 24 hours providing a sacred space for worship and quiet prayers while its pews gave refuge to the tired bodies of homeless people.It was the darkest hour in its history.It welcomes two sets of worshippers.Its RCIA program is known in Western Canada.On weekdays this is the only church in the city where Mass is celebrated twice.Sister Annata Brockman's expertise in welcoming new Catholics to the Church is sought and admired by many.The basilica is also one of the few churches in Edmonton, perhaps the only one, that still rings its bell for the Angelus.The parish remains a training ground but now not only for the clergy but for lay leaders as well.Though sometimes people complain it is difficult to find parking, Sunday Masses at the basilica are almost always packed because of its beautiful liturgies.Towards the end of the day at 5:30 p.Upon entering into the church one can never fail to notice more than 60 stained glass windows, depicting the rich heritage of the Old and the New Testament as well as its connection to St.it becomes a refuge for souls wanting to thank and praise God for another day