Remembrance Day – November 11, 2021

Decorative ImageOn November 11th, we remember in thanksgiving those who made and who continue to make the supreme sacrifice for us in time of war. We pray that the offering of their lives may not have been in vain. Today we dedicate ourselves to the cause of justice, freedom and peace, and for the wisdom and strength to build a better world. May we keep all those who are overseas in our prayers, that they may return home safely

Come & See – Day Retreat – November 20, 2021

Decorative ImageThe Office of Vocations will host a Come & See – Day Retreat for men 18 years and older, at St. Augustine’s Seminary on Saturday, November 20 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This day retreat offers men a way to discern a possible call to priesthood at our seminary. We encourage you to promote this retreat in your parish and during your livestream Masses. Thank you in advance for your generosity as we work together to build a culture of vocations. REGISTER: www.vocationstoronto.ca. EMAIL: vocations@archtoronto.org

Thank You Very Much for Your Generosity to SHARELIFE!   

Decorative ImageThank you to all who supported ShareLife this year. The parish has exceeded its goal of $42,000 thanks to your generosity. To date, we have raised slightly over $42,000.

Those who still wish to donate to ShareLife may do so by donating at the church, mailing your donation to the parish office (659 Markham Street, Toronto, Ontario M6G 2M1) or through the archdiocesan website’s “Donate Now” portal at: www.archtoronto.org.  

First Confession, First Communion & Confirmation Prep for 2021 ~ 2022

Decorative ImageIt’s that time of year to begin registrations for this year’s Sacramental Preparation Programme.  We are accepting registrations for ALL children, in both Public and Catholic schools, wishing to prepare for the celebration of the Sacraments of First Reconciliation, Holy Eucharist and Confirmation next spring.

First Communion: Children in grade two or older are invited to celebrate the Sacraments of First Confession and First Communion.  Parents interested in enrolling their children in this programme are invited to attend one of the two scheduled meetings – Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 2–3 pm or Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at 7-8 pm.  The meeting will take place in the main Church.

Confirmation:  Children in grade seven or older are invited to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation.  Parents AND their children interested in enrolling in this programme are invited to attend one of the two scheduled meetings – Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 2-3 pm or Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 7-8 pm.  The meeting will take place in the main Church.

All Sacramental Preparation Classes must be attended by both Catholic and Public school children. Please inquire at the Parish Office, contact Fr. Michael at 416-534-4219, ext. 211 or visit us online at www. religioused.stpeterstoronto.ca, for further details and information about this year’s programme.

Like Christ, the Poor Widow Gave All She Had!

Decorative ImageAs you might imagine, as a Catholic priest, I do not get too many Valentine cards; so, when I do, I remember them. As memorable as all the cards that I receive are, the Valentine card that I will always remember is the card that I received this past Valentine’s Day.

Our parish offers a meal on Monday evenings from November to March. This Winter Welcome Table meal is for those who might not otherwise be able to afford a warm meal. Normally, it is served indoors as a sit-down meal, but recently we have had to serve it as a take-out meal as a result of COVID 19. Over the years those of us who volunteer with this program have gotten to know the “regulars.” Those who come are always grateful for what they receive. They are almost always kind and considerate. On many occasions they will want to take something to someone else who is in need and unable to come. They wish to share as they receive. Last year, one of the men who attended would often bring extra food that he had come across or found on sale so that it could be shared with others. Continue reading