Mount Carmel Parish was established in 1932 in the heart of the Flat Lake community, a rural settlement within the Municipal District of Bonnyville in northeastern Alberta. The parish was born from the deep faith of early settlers, many of whom were Polish immigrants who arrived in the region before World War II, seeking new beginnings and bringing with them a rich Catholic tradition.
The historic Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church quickly became the spiritual and cultural centre of the Flat Lake community. With an adjacent cemetery that holds the memories of generations past, the church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of our founding families.
Operating under the Diocese of St. Paul — one of Alberta's historic dioceses with roots tracing back to 1896 when missionary Albert Lacombe established the Métis colony of St-Paul-des-Métis — our parish carries forward a tradition of service, devotion, and pastoral care that spans nearly a century.
Mount Carmel Parish Flat Lake is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to serving our parishioners and the wider Flat Lake community through faith services, pastoral care, and community support. Rooted in a tradition of faith and fellowship since 1932, we strive to nurture spiritual growth, foster compassion, and strengthen the bonds that unite our rural Alberta community.
These values are the pillars of our parish life, guiding everything we do as a faith community.
Placing God at the centre of all we do, nurturing our relationship with Christ through prayer, sacraments, and Scripture.
Building strong bonds of fellowship and mutual support, welcoming all into our parish family with open arms.
Reaching out to those in need, following Christ's example of selfless service in our local community and beyond.
Extending mercy, kindness, and understanding to all, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized in our midst.
Honouring the legacy of our founding families and preserving the cultural and spiritual traditions passed down through generations.
Our parish is led by a dedicated team of clergy and lay leaders who work tirelessly to serve the spiritual and communal needs of our parishioners. Under the pastoral direction of the Diocese of St. Paul, Mount Carmel Parish benefits from committed leadership rooted in Catholic teaching and tradition.
The Parish Pastoral Council works alongside our clergy to plan parish activities, oversee faith formation programs, manage community outreach initiatives, and ensure the smooth operation of all parish affairs.
The Finance Committee maintains transparent stewardship of parish funds, ensuring that donations and contributions are used responsibly for the benefit of the entire community.
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Nestled in the gently rolling farmlands of northeastern Alberta, the Flat Lake community is a peaceful, close-knit rural settlement where families have farmed and worshipped together for generations. The beauty of the Canadian prairies and the warmth of its people make this a truly special place to call home.
Our parishioners come from multi-generational farming families, newcomers to the area, and residents of surrounding communities who have found a spiritual home at Mount Carmel. Together, we form a vibrant tapestry of faith, culture, and shared purpose.
As a cornerstone of the Flat Lake community, Mount Carmel Parish continues to play a vital role in bringing people together — through worship, celebration, and acts of service that strengthen the bonds between neighbours.
Whether you've been here for generations or you're just discovering us, we invite you to become an active part of our parish family.
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