In recent weeks there has been a sharp increase in the amount of fake/scam emails being received by parishioners throughout the archdiocese. These emails – usually sent from Gmail accounts operated by scammers – appear to be from a priest and often request the purchase of gift cards or electronic payments. Please exercise caution should you receive an email like this and contact the parish via telephone to validate its authenticity.
Bulletin – December 1, 2024
November 30th, 2024
CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2024
ADVENT INDIVIDUAL CONFESSION
Wednesday, December 18th
from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
CHRISTMAS EVE, NATIVITY OF OUR LORD
Tuesday, December 24th̶
5:00 PM Family Mass
8:00 PM Mass
12:00 AM Midnight Mass
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office open – 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
CHRISTMAS DAY, NATIVITY OF OUR LORD
Wednesday, December 25th
10:30 AM Mass
12:30 PM Mass
No 8:30 or 9:00 AM Mass
BOXING DAY
Thursday, December 26th
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office Closed
NEW YEAR’S EVE, MARY THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
Tuesday, December 31st
5:00 PM Vigil Mass
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office open ̶ 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
NEW YEAR’S DAY, MARY THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
Wednesday, January 1st
10:30 AM Mass
12:30 PM Mass
No 8:30 or 9:00 AM Mass
PARKING
While parking at ground level is limited to 51 spaces, there is plenty of space in the underground parking lot. Please follow the instructions of the attendants. Do not park in front of the Church since this is a fire route and must be kept clear. Additional parking is available on the east side of Elkhorn Public School and in the bus loop. Again, please follow the instructions of the attendant. The school requests that we do not park on the grass. Many thanks to the Principal of Elkhorn Public School for allowing Us the use of the school property.
YOUTH GROUP STREET PATROL & CROCHETING FOR A CAUSE – THANK YOU!
Thank you to all parishioners who took part in Crocheting for a Cause these past two months – almost 50 scarves were made! 30 youth and young adults went downtown last Sunday to distribute these crocheted scarves to individuals in need. Thank you as well to the parishioners who donated hats, socks, and dental hygiene products. This initiative was a great success and we look forward to having more collaborative activities in the future.
MINISTERS OF HOSPITALITY
We are in need of more Ministers of Hospitality. This ministry is performed by men, women and older students who welcome and usher those in attendance at Mass and other liturgies. They are responsible for collecting the Offertory, and communion processions. They also attend to special needs as required. If you are interested in becoming a Minister of Hospitality, please email hospitality@stgabrielsparish.ca or call the parish office at 416 221-8866.
ANNOUNCED MASSES
December 2nd to December 8th, 2024
MONDAY – DR. EUGENE JUWAH ✞ – Requested by Prescilla Juwah
TUESDAY – FADIE AMIN – Requested by his Father & Mother
WEDNESDAY – LYDIA McGRANN – Requested by Ron & Anne Ackber
THURSDAY – MARGARET DIDIODATO ✞ – Requested by her Family
FRIDAY – PAT BRISTOL-CLARKE – Requested by Karen Crichton
SATURDAY – DR. EUGENE JUWAH ✞ – Requested by Prescilla Juwah
SUNDAY – 8:30 AM – FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE PARISH
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – MARIA LUISA & ELMER CABACUNGAN – Requested by their Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – STEPHEN & BERNADETTE HIGGINS ✞ – Requested by Agnes
THE GIVING TREE
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
During Advent, the St. Gabriel Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul will have a Giving Tree in the Gathering Space. The tree will be decorated with gift stars.
We invite you to take a star, buy a Walmart or Canadian Tire gift card for about $50 and bring it with the star attached to the Parish Office.
Rosalie Hall
At this time of the year, we are also thinking of the young mothers and babies of Rosalie Hall. If you wish to help, you may choose a “Christmas Stocking” from the tree to purchase pyjamas or undershirts for little ones, age 6 months to 5 years. Sweaters or hoodies would also be very welcome.
Unwrapped items with the original stocking tag attached can be left in the box provided near the giving tree no later than Sunday, December 15th. Toys or books for these little ones would also be appreciated.
For the Moms, we are suggesting gift cards from Tim Horton’s, Walmart or McDonald’s. These can be placed in the cards provided and brought to the Office. Thank you for your continued generosity.
GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE CASSEROLES
Thank you to the volunteers who prepared 49 casseroles for November. For December, your prepared frozen casseroles will be collected at all the Masses on the weekend of December 28th/29th to be delivered to the Good Shepherd Centre.
You may pick up a copy of a casserole recipe and a pan from the Parish Office. Three recipes are also available on St. Gabriel’s parish website. Please remember to mark the label on the pan lid with the name of the casserole.
More volunteers are urgently needed to help feed the hungry in our city. For more information, please contact Irene Albrecht at 416 221-2791.
SHARELIFE
ShareLife-funded agencies turn no one away
NEW: Your gift will double in value! From November 1st until year end, your contribution to our parish’s ShareLife campaign will be matched by an anonymous donor up to a total of $500,000.
Did you know no one is turned away from ShareLife-funded agencies due to inability to pay? This is all thanks to your compassionate and generous heart. Through your support, ShareLife agencies are helping the most vulnerable in our community and around the world. Thank you for living the Gospel!
Please give at the parish using a ShareLife envelope, online through our parish website, or at sharelife.org/donate
FRIARS STUDENT WRITING CONTEST 2025
November 11th, 2024 to January 13th, 2025
Theme: “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26)
High school students aged 13 to 19 from the Catholic School Boards in the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in this annual event, which honours the global Week of Prayer for Christian Unity taking place from January 18 to 25.
Write a five-hundred-word essay that explores the 2025 theme. Great prizes await the top three submissions.
Students are encouraged to explore the resources at https://bit.ly/3zOVHly to gain insight into the meaning and purpose of the theme. They should also refer to the focus question available on the poster at https://bit.ly/3XCGGgo. Entries are to be submitted at https://www.catholicregister.org/writingaward.
Email ecumenical@archtoronto.org or call 416-934-3400 ext. 527 with any questions, or for more information.
NEWMAN CENTRE ADVENT DINNER & DANCE
Thursday, December 05, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM Newman Centre Catholic Mission
Celebrate the Joy of Advent at the Newman Centre! Join them for a cozy and festive evening at the Annual Advent Dinner & Dance! Connect with friends, reflect on the spirit of the season and enjoy a delicious meal together followed by dancing! There will be prizes too!
Please contact Marie Frassica at 416-979-2468 ext. 230 or email: office.administrator@newmantoronto.com
For more information, go to https://www.newmantoronto.com/
To register go to https://bit.ly/4exqUIQ
STOCKINGS BY THE TREE
Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM
St. Gabriel’s Parish, North York.
Unwrap the spirit of the season with the Seraphim & Cherubim Chorus! We invite you to our 14th annual “Stockings by the Tree” concert, packed with festive cheer, beloved carols, and surprises.
Experience a night of timeless carols, Broadway hits, Disney classics, and unexpected favorites as we celebrate the magic of Christmas together. Join us on Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM.
Advanced tickets available at seraphimandcherubim.ca.
GLORIA! ST. MICHAEL’S CHOIR SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Saturday, December 14th at 7:00 PM
Massey Hall
St. Michael’s Choir School presents GLORIA! A magical blend of secular and sacred choral repertoire to usher in this Christmas season. A Toronto holiday tradition, this is the Choir School’s 59th annual Christmas concert, packed with exceptional works including Vivaldi’s Gloria, Carol of the Bells, and The Star Carol. With close to 300 voices, 5 choirs consisting of students, and alumni, taking the stage, this year’s programme is sure to be one of the best yet!
Tickets are now available at www.masseyhall.com. Please use Promo Code: STARLIGHT.
For more information, please call 416-397-6367.
FINANCE CORNER
Please consider giving your offertory by picking up Envelopes, enrolling in Pre-Authorized Giving (PAG), or Donate Now (through the Archdiocese of Toronto website).
One of the most financially sound ways to support the Archdiocese of Toronto is a gift of securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds).
To donate securities, go to archtoronto.org and download the“How to Gift Securities Info Sheet” and “Letter of Direction.”
For more information, contact our office at development@archtoronto.org.
TRIVIA
What type of car would Jesus drive?
A Christler.
Bulletin – November 24, 2024
November 23rd, 2024
CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2024
ADVENT INDIVIDUAL CONFESSION
Wednesday, December 18th
from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
CHRISTMAS EVE, NATIVITY OF OUR LORD
Tuesday, December 24th̶
5:00 PM Family Mass
8:00 PM Mass
12:00 AM Midnight Mass
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office open – 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
CHRISTMAS DAY, NATIVITY OF OUR LORD
Wednesday, December 25th
10:30 AM Mass
12:30 PM Mass
No 8:30 or 9:00 AM Mass
BOXING DAY
Thursday, December 26th
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office Closed
NEW YEAR’S EVE, MARY THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
Tuesday, December 31st
5:00 PM Vigil Mass
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office open ̶ 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
NEW YEAR’S DAY, MARY THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
Wednesday, January 1st
10:30 AM Mass
12:30 PM Mass
No 8:30 or 9:00 AM Mass
PARKING
While parking at ground level is limited to 51 spaces, there is plenty of space in the underground parking lot. Please follow the instructions of the attendants. Do not park in front of the Church since this is a fire route and must be kept clear. Additional parking is available on the east side of Elkhorn Public School and in the bus loop. Again, please follow the instructions of the attendant. The school requests that we do not park on the grass. Many thanks to the Principal of Elkhorn Public School for allowing Us the use of the school property.
NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH OF ALL SOULS
BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE
You are invited to write the names of your deceased relatives and friends in the Book. of Remembrance on the altar. They will be remembered at all the Masses celebrated in November.
WALL OF REMEMBRANCE
Our Wall of Remembrance is dedicated to all those Members of our Faith Community who have gone home to God this year. Please continue to pray for them. A candle will be lit before each Mass in remembrance of them.
YOUTH MINISTRY – STREET PATROL
Sunday November 24th
This Sunday, November 24th, our parish youth ministry will be going downtown to distribute meals and crocheted scarves/shawls to individuals in need. All youth Grades 7 to 12 and Young Adults are welcome to participate. Please contact youth@stgabrielsparish.ca for more information and to sign up.
FAIRTRADE COFFEE IS BACK!
This Weekend, November 23rd/24th
The Social Justice Committee will be resuming the sale of Fairtrade coffee for $7 a bag starting this weekend, November 23rd/24th. Only coffee will be sold for now and we will look into selling teas and chocolate in the New Year.
Thank you for your support for this endeavor in the past and we look forward to your continued support.
ANNOUNCED MASSES
November 25th to December 1st, 2024
MONDAY – FRANKIE LEONCE ✞ – Requested by Karen Crichton
TUESDAY – PAULA WILKIE ✞ – Requested by Karen Crichton
WEDNESDAY – DR. EUGENE JUWAH ✞ – Requested by Prescilla Juwah
THURSDAY – JOYCE & CATHY DRAB ✞ – Requested by their Family
FRIDAY – CHIARA INTINI ✞ – Requested by the Annibale & Oakie Families
SATURDAY – GIUSEPPINA & ORESTE SMERIGLIO ✞ – Requested by Lina Giannotta
SUNDAY – 8:30 AM – FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE PARISH
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – GEORGE EGERTON HALE ✞ – Requested by his Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – CHIARA INTINI ✞ – Requested by Carmina & Aldo Filice
PARISH ADVENT RETREAT
November 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
There will be a Parish Advent Retreat on November 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. The theme is Maranatha: Longing with Advent Hearts. The retreat will be guided by Sr. Ann Delaney, CSJ. Light refreshments will be served. You are welcome to bring your own lunch.
Registration is required by Wednesday, November 27. To register, contact the parish office at 416-221-8866 or by email with “Parish Advent Retreat” in the subject line.
SHARELIFE
We are blessed to announce that a generous parishioner within our archdiocese, deeply moved by the vital work of ShareLife agencies, has pledged to match every gift to the ShareLife campaign up to $500,000 from November 1st through December 31st, 2024. This opportunity arrives at a critical time, empowering you to double the impact of your year-end gift, which provides a lifeline to 40+ agencies within our community. Your contribution to ShareLife will be matched dollar-for-dollar!
“Please join me in making a sacrificial gift to the 2024 ShareLife Parish Campaign. Thank you for living the Gospel generously and wholeheartedly.” Archbishop Francis Leo
THE GIVING TREE
Sunday, December 1st to Sunday, December 15th
St. Vincent de Paul
During Advent, the Society of St Vincent de Paul, St. Gabriel Conference, will have a Giving Tree in the Gathering Space. The tree will be decorated with gift stars.
We invite you to take a star, buy a Walmart or Canadian Tire gift card for about $50 and bring it with the star attachedto the Parish Office.
Rosalie Hall
At this time of the year, we are also thinking of the young mothers and babies of Rosalie Hall. If you wish to help, you may choose a “Christmas Stocking” from the tree to purchase pyjamas or undershirts for little ones, age 6 months to 5 years.Sweaters or hoodies would also be very welcome.
Unwrapped items with the original stocking tag attached can be left in the box provided near the giving tree no later than Sunday, December 15th. Toys or books for these little ones would also be appreciated.
For the Moms, we are suggesting gift cards from Tim Horton’s, Walmart or MacDonald’s. These can be placed in the cards provided and brought to the Office. Thank you for your continued generosity.
WORLD YOUTH DAY MASS
Sunday, November 24th at 2:00 PM
St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica
To commemorate World Youth Day, Archbishop Francis Leo will celebrate Mass on Sunday, November 24th at 2:00 PM at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica.
The theme for this year’s World Youth Day is Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary (Is40:31), which focuses on the importance of hope. Archbishop Leo encourages all between the ages 19 and 39 to join him for the celebration of the Eucharist and the social following Mass.
FRIARS STUDENT WRITING CONTEST 2025
November 11th, 2024 to January 13th, 2025
Theme: “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26)
High school students aged 13 to 19 from the Catholic School Boards in the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in this annual event, which honours the global Week of Prayer for Christian Unity taking place from January 18 to 25.
Write a five-hundred-word essay that explores the 2025 theme. Great prizes await the top three submissions.
Students are encouraged to explore the resources at https://bit.ly/3zOVHly to gain insight into the meaning and purpose of the theme. They should also refer to the focus question available on the poster at https://bit.ly/3XCGGgo. Entries are to be submitted at https://www.catholicregister.org/writingaward.
Email ecumenical@archtoronto.org or call 416-934-3400 ext. 527 with any questions, or for more information.
TRIVIA
What is the name of the Solemnity we finish the liturgical year on, before a new year begins with the first Sunday of Advent?
CHRISTMAS AT THE ABBEY
Poinsettias for sale
Friends of Loretto Abbey presents Christmas at the Abbey offering poinsettias, plants, planters, outdoor greenery and ornaments in many colours and sizes.
Please visit our website: https://christmas-at-the-abbey.myshopify.com/ to place an order.
Sale ends November 27th. Pick up is December 5th at Loretto Abbey.
All profits benefit the needs of Loretto Abbey CSS. Thank you for your support!
STOCKINGS BY THE TREE
Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM
St. Gabriel’s Parish, North York.
Unwrap the spirit of the season with the Seraphim & Cherubim Chorus! We invite you to our 14th annual “Stockings by the Tree” concert, packed with festive cheer, beloved carols, and surprises.
Experience a night of timeless carols, Broadway hits, Disney classics, and unexpected favorites as we celebrate the magic of Christmas together. Join us on Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM.
Advanced tickets available at seraphimandcherubim.ca.
GLORIA! ST. MICHAEL’S CHOIR SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Saturday, December 14th at 7:00 PM
Massey Hall
St. Michael’s Choir School presents GLORIA! A magical blend of secular and sacred choral repertoire to usher in this Christmas season. A Toronto holiday tradition, this is the Choir School’s 59th annual Christmas concert, packed with exceptional works including Vivaldi’s Gloria, Carol of the Bells, and The Star Carol. With close to 300 voices, 5 choirs consisting of students, and alumni, taking the stage, this year’s programme is sure to be one of the best yet!
Tickets are now available at www.masseyhall.com. Please use Promo Code: STARLIGHT.
For more information, please call 416-397-6367.
FINANCE CORNER
Please consider giving your offertory by picking up Envelopes, enrolling in Pre-Authorized Giving (PAG), or Donate Now (through the Archdiocese of Toronto website).
One of the most financially sound ways to support the Archdiocese of Toronto is a gift of securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds).
To donate securities, go to archtoronto.org and download the“How to Gift Securities Info Sheet” and “Letter of Direction.”
For more information, contact our office at development@archtoronto.org.
Bulletin – November 17, 2024
November 16th, 2024
NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH OF ALL SOULS
BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE
A Book of Remembrance has been placed on the altar for the month of November. You are invited to write the names of your deceased relatives and friends in the book. They will be remembered at all the Masses celebrated in November.
WALL OF REMEMBRANCE
Our Wall of Remembrance is dedicated to all those Members of our Faith Community who have gone home to God this year. Please continue to pray for them. A candle will be lit before each Mass in remembrance of them.
YOUTH MINISTRY – STREET PATROL
Sunday November 24th
On Sunday November 24th, our parish youth ministry will be going downtown to distribute meals and crocheted scarves/shawls to individuals in need. All youth Grades 7 to 12 and Young Adults are welcome to participate. Please contact youth@stgabrielsparish.ca for more information and to sign up.
FAIRTRADE COFFEE IS COMING BACK!
November 23rd/24th
The Social Justice Committee will be resuming the sale of Fairtrade coffee starting the weekend of November 23rd/24th. Only coffee will be sold for now and we will look into selling teas and chocolate in the New Year.
Thank you for your support for this endeavor in the past and we look forward to your continued support.
THANK YOU FROM THE STUDENTS AT ST. JOSEPH’S MORROW PARK HIGH SCHOOL
Thank you to all parishioners who supported our bake sale last weekend. We were able to raise $1,000 for our 2-week service trip to the Philippines with the TCDSB next month. All support and donations received are gratefully appreciated!
ANNOUNCED MASSES
November 11th to November 17th
MONDAY – ELLEN, SARAH & WILLIAM LAFFEY ✞ – Requested by the Family
TUESDAY – TINA INTINI ✞ – Requested by her Family
WEDNESDAY – MILAN SVETEK ✞ – Requested by Mathilda Rak
THURSDAY – VEDA BRISTOL ✞ – Requested by Karen Crichton
FRIDAY – BETTY & STANLEY KEE – Requested by their Family
SATURDAY – NADINE CORNELIO – Requested by Mark DesRoches
SUNDAY – 8:30 AM – FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE PARISH
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – KAZ SWIDERSKI ✞ – Requested by Irene Swiderski & Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – ELEUTERIA SORIASO ✞ – Requested by Elsa Soriaso
PARISH ADVENT RETREAT – SAVE THE DATE!
November 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
There will be a Parish Advent Retreat on November 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
The theme is Maranatha: Longing with Advent Hearts.
The retreat will be guided by Sr. Ann Delaney, CSJ.
Registration is required by Wednesday, November 27.
To register, contact the parish office at 416-221-8866 or by email at stgabrielsparish.ca with “Parish Advent Retreat” in the subject line.
SHEPHERDS’ TRUST
November 16th /17th
There will be a second collection for The Shepherds’ Trust at all the Masses on the weekend of November 16th/17th. The mission of The Shepherds’ Trust is to help support elderly and disabled priests. Many of them do not have sufficient financial resources to lead a dignified life after many years of ministry.
Your generous gift will help our priests, who have devoted their life to serving us in our communities, to maintain a modest but active and independent lifestyle in their retirement years. For priests who are ill or otherwise infirm, the Shepherd’s Trust supports many of them with access to nursing home facilities and medical care. Thank you for your support and God bless you.
2024 WORLD DAY OF THE POOR
How Can We Live as Friends of the Poor?
This Sunday, November 17th is World Day of the Poor in the Catholic Church.
Living as friends of the poor is what our parish conference of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is trying to do for our most vulnerable neighbours. If you want to learn more and join our mission, or learn more about the work of the Society and how you can help, please visit www.SSVPToronto.ca. To contact us directly, please email office@stgabrielsparish.ca and your enquiry will be forwarded to us.
CARING FOR THE NEEDY IN OUR CITY
Food Collection for the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall
Rosalie Hall is an accredited children’s mental health facility focused on the needs of pregnant and parenting youth ages 12-25, their children, and their families. They offer prenatal supports for both Moms and Dads including prenatal classes, nutrition, and help to find a child care provider.
After the birth, they provide parenting classes, staff to help with the transition to parenthood and a school program where parents can finish high school and be close to their baby in the Early Learning Child Care Centre. They also provide a food cupboard, baby supplies and Live In services.
Good Shepherd provides hot meals and shelter for the homeless in our city as well as a chance to start again through the Resettlement or DARE Programs.
Your food donations are very important as numbers of people in need continue to increase.
Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired.
SHARELIFE
We are blessed to announce that a generous parishioner within our archdiocese, deeply moved by the vital work of ShareLife agencies, has pledged to match every gift to the ShareLife campaign up to $500,000 from November 1st through December 31st, 2024. This opportunity arrives at a critical time, empowering you to double the impact of your year-end gift, which provides a lifeline to 40+ agencies within our community. Your contribution to ShareLife will be matched dollar-for-dollar!
“Please join me in making a sacrificial gift to the 2024 ShareLife Parish Campaign. Thank you for living the Gospel generously and wholeheartedly.” Archbishop Francis Leo
URGENT APPEAL FOR SUPPORT IN LEBANON
With the support of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), Aid to the Church in Need Canada (ACN), Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) Canada, and Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada (DPCC) are launching an appeal for prayers and generosity to support the most urgent needs of people in Lebanon, following the bombardments in the country that have already claimed hundreds of innocent lives.
To donate or for more information, please contact the organizations as follows:
Aid to the Church in Need Canada (ACN) website and phone number: https://acn-canada.org/, Toll-free 1-800-585-6333 ext. 228, donation page: https://acn-canada.org/attacks-on-lebanon-affecting-everyone/?form=Lebanon
CNEWA Canada website and phone number: https://cnewa.org/ca/, Toll-free: 1-866-322-4441
Development and Peace — Caritas Canada (DPCC) website and phone number: https://devp.org/en/, Toll-free: 1-888-234-8533
TRIVIA
Why did the number six want a rematch against five and seven?
To get even with the odds.
FRIARS STUDENT WRITING CONTEST 2025
November 11th, 2024 to January 13th, 2025
Theme: “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26)
High school students aged 13 to 19 from the Catholic School Boards in the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in this annual event, which honours the global Week of Prayer for Christian Unity taking place from January 18 to 25.
Write a five-hundred-word essay that explores the 2025 theme. Great prizes await the top three submissions.
Students are encouraged to explore the resources at https://bit.ly/3zOVHly to gain insight into the meaning and purpose of the theme. They should also refer to the focus question available on the poster at https://bit.ly/3XCGGgo. Entries are to be submitted at https://www.catholicregister.org/writingaward.
Email ecumenical@archtoronto.org or call 416-934-3400 ext. 527 with any questions, or for more information.
CHRISTMAS AT THE ABBEY
Poinsettias for sale
Friends of Loretto Abbey presents Christmas at the Abbey offering poinsettias, plants, planters, outdoor greenery and ornaments in many colours and sizes.
Please visit our website: https://christmas-at-the-abbey.myshopify.com/ to place an order.
Sale ends November 27th. Pick up is December 5th at Loretto Abbey.
All profits benefit the needs of Loretto Abbey CSS. Thank you for your support!
STOCKINGS BY THE TREE
Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM
St. Gabriel’s Parish, North York.
Unwrap the spirit of the season with the Seraphim & Cherubim Chorus! We invite you to our 14th annual “Stockings by the Tree” concert, packed with festive cheer, beloved carols, and surprises.
Experience a night of timeless carols, Broadway hits, Disney classics, and unexpected favorites as we celebrate the magic of Christmas together. Join us on Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM.
Advanced tickets available at seraphimandcherubim.ca.
GLORIA! ST. MICHAEL’S CHOIR SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Saturday, December 14th at 7:00 PM
Massey Hall
St. Michael’s Choir School presents GLORIA! A magical blend of secular and sacred choral repertoire to usher in this Christmas season. A Toronto holiday tradition, this is the Choir School’s 59th annual Christmas concert, packed with exceptional works including Vivaldi’s Gloria, Carol of the Bells, and The Star Carol. With close to 300 voices, 5 choirs consisting of students, and alumni, taking the stage, this year’s programme is sure to be one of the best yet!
Tickets are now available at www.masseyhall.com. Please use Promo Code: STARLIGHT.
For more information, please call 416-397-6367.
FINANCE CORNER
Please consider giving your offertory by picking up Envelopes, enrolling in Pre-Authorized Giving (PAG), or Donate Now (through the Archdiocese of Toronto website).
One of the most financially sound ways to support the Archdiocese of Toronto is a gift of securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds).
To donate securities, go to archtoronto.org and download the“How to Gift Securities Info Sheet” and “Letter of Direction.”
For more information, contact our office at development@archtoronto.org.
Bulletin – November 10, 2024
November 9th, 2024
LEST WE FORGET
Monday, November 11th is Remembrance Day, a day to remember all who have served, and continue to serve in our armed forces, especially those who have died and those wounded in battle. We pray for healing and peace; that one day, all peoples will lay down their arms and embrace one another as brothers and sisters in one human family.
NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH OF ALL SOULS
BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE
A Book of Remembrance has been placed on the altar for the month of November. You are invited to write the names of your deceased relatives and friends in the book. They will be remembered at all the Masses celebrated in November.
WALL OF REMEMBRANCE
Our Wall of Remembrance is dedicated to all those Members of our Faith Community who have gone home to God this year. Please continue to pray for them. A candle will be lit before each Mass in remembrance of them.
St. Gabriel’s Social Justice Ministry presents
An evening of stimulation, inspiration and discussion with Bishop Denis Croteau OMI (via Zoom)
Wednesday, November 13th at 7:30 PM – Gabriel Room
Bishop Croteau will speak about his missionary work in the North and how Indigenous lives have evolved. As a missionary priest, he visited the camps of the Tlicho people by dog team in winter. He was later called to be Bishop of the Mackenzie-Fort Smith Diocese, a position he held for another twenty-one years. Learn more about the challenges and endeavors he faced in his ministry to the people in Northern Canada.
YOUTH MINISTRY – STREET PATROL
Sunday November 24th
On Sunday November 24th, our parish youth ministry will be going downtown to distribute meals and crocheted scarves/shawls to individuals in need. All youth Grades 7 to 12 and Young Adults are welcome to participate. Please contact youth@stgabrielsparish.ca for more information and to sign up.
FAIRTRADE COFFEE IS COMING BACK!
November 23rd/24th
The Social Justice Committee will be resuming the sale of Fairtrade coffee starting the weekend of November 23rd/24th. Only coffee will be sold for now and we will look into selling teas and chocolate in the New Year.
Thank you for your support for this endeavor in the past and we look forward to your continued support.
PARISH ADVENT RETREAT – SAVE THE DATE!
November 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
There will be a Parish Advent Retreat on November 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
The theme is Maranatha: Longing with Advent Hearts.
The retreat will be guided by Sr. Ann Delaney, CSJ.
Registration is required by Wednesday, November 27.
More details to follow.
ANNOUNCED MASSES
November 11th to November 17th
MONDAY – KAREN SANTOS ✞ – Requested by the Mababangloob Family
TUESDAY – JOHN F. CUSACK & FR. PAUL CUSACK CP ✞ – Requested by Dianne Cusack Martin
WEDNESDAY – BELLISARI & INTINI FAMILIES ✞ – Requested by the Families
THURSDAY – CHOONG YUEN WONG ✞ – Requested by Wai Chin & Paul Hwang
FRIDAY – TONINO DIDIODATO ✞ – Requested by the Family
SATURDAY – MARYANN FUNG ✞ – Requested by her Family
SUNDAY – 8:30 AM – FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE PARISH
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – BENITO TOMAIUOLI ✞ – Requested by his Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – SIMON GALVEZ PRINCIPIO ✞ – Requested by Marcy Principio, Children & Grandchildren
SHEPHERDS’ TRUST
November 16th /17th
There will be a second collection for The Shepherds’ Trust at all the Masses on the weekend of November 16th/17th. The mission of The Shepherds’ Trust is to help support elderly and disabled priests. Many of them do not have sufficient financial resources to lead a dignified life after many years of ministry.
Your generous gift will help our priests, who have devoted their life to serving us in our communities, to maintain a modest but active and independent lifestyle in their retirement years. For priests who are ill or otherwise infirm, the Shepherd’s Trust supports many of them with access to nursing home facilities and medical care. Thank you for your support and God bless you.
2024 WORLD DAY OF THE POOR
How Can We Live as Friends of the Poor?
November 17th is World Day of the Poor in the Catholic Church. In his Message for the 2024 World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis says: “We are called in every circumstance to be friends of the poor, following in the footsteps of Jesus who always began by showing solidarity when dealing with the least among us.”
Living as friends of the poor is what our parish conference of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is trying to do for our most vulnerable neighbours. If you want to learn more and join our mission, or learn more about the work of the Society and how you can help, please visit www.SSVPToronto.ca. To contact us directly, please email office@stgabrielsparish.ca and your enquiry will be forwarded to us.
URGENT APPEAL FOR SUPPORT IN LEBANON
With the support of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), Aid to the Church in Need Canada (ACN), Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) Canada, and Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada (DPCC) are launching an appeal for prayers and generosity to support the most urgent needs of people in Lebanon, following the bombardments in the country that have already claimed hundreds of innocent lives.
To donate or for more information, please contact the organizations as follows:
Aid to the Church in Need Canada (ACN) website and phone number: https://acn-canada.org/, Toll-free 1-800-585-6333 ext. 228, donation page: https://acn-canada.org/attacks-on-lebanon-affecting-everyone/?form=Lebanon
CNEWA Canada website and phone number: https://cnewa.org/ca/, Toll-free: 1-866-322-4441
Development and Peace — Caritas Canada (DPCC) website and phone number: https://devp.org/en/, Toll-free: 1-888-234-8533
SHARELIFE
We are blessed to announce that a generous parishioner within our archdiocese, deeply moved by the vital work of ShareLife agencies, has pledged to match every gift to the ShareLife campaign up to $500,000 from November 1st through December 31st, 2024. This opportunity arrives at a critical time, empowering you to double the impact of your year-end gift, which provides a lifeline to 40+ agencies within our community. Your contribution to ShareLife will be matched dollar-for-dollar!
“Please join me in making a sacrificial gift to the 2024 ShareLife Parish Campaign. Thank you for living the Gospel generously and wholeheartedly.” Archbishop Francis Leo
CARING FOR THE NEEDY IN OUR CITY
Food Collection for the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall
Following our parish Thanksgiving Food Drive,Rosalie Hall’s Executive Director Jane Kenny wrote to us:
“We are continuously moved by the overwhelming generosity of your community. Your collective efforts are making a real difference, addressing both the urgent, practical needs of young families and planting seeds of hope that uplift those facing challenging times.”
Good Shepherd provides hot meals and shelter for the homeless in our city as well as a chance to start again through the Resettlement or DARE Programs.
Your food donations are very important as numbers of people in need continue to increase.
Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired.
TRIVIA
Why should you never lose your rosary?
Because you’ll end up searching for decades.
PALLIATIVE CARE WORKSHOP PART II
November 16th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Join us in the Gabriel room on November 16th, 2024 for the second of 3 sessions on topics related to Palliative Care.
Dr. Ann Li-Hsu, MD, will discuss preparation of documents such as Advance Directives for Health Care; Durable Power of Attorney for Finance; and most importantly, any questions that participants will submit in advance or during the session itself.
She will offer a general overview of the medical care with language understandable for lay persons and will share that the definition of palliative care has changed. Palliative care is practiced as active care.
This second session will focus on answering questions regarding Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning. All are welcome. There is no cost for the sessions.
For more information and to register, please contact StGabrielBereavement@gmail.com
STOCKINGS BY THE TREE
Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM
St. Gabriel’s Parish, North York.
Unwrap the spirit of the season with the Seraphim & Cherubim Chorus! We invite you to our 14th annual “Stockings by the Tree” concert, packed with festive cheer, beloved carols, and surprises.
Experience a night of timeless carols, Broadway hits, Disney classics, and unexpected favorites as we celebrate the magic of Christmas together. Join us on Thursday, December 7th at 7:30 PM.
Advanced tickets available at seraphimandcherubim.ca.
FINANCE CORNER
Please consider giving your offertory by picking up Envelopes, enrolling in Pre-Authorized Giving (PAG), or Donate Now (through the Archdiocese of Toronto website).
One of the most financially sound ways to support the Archdiocese of Toronto is a gift of securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds). When you donate stocks, mutual funds and other publicly traded securities to a registered charity, you pay no capital gains tax and receive a tax receipt for the full amount of the gift. It means a great tax break for you and more significant support of your parish and various archdiocesan charities such as ShareLife, St. Augustine’s Seminary, The Shepherds’ Trust and many others.
To donate securities, go to archtoronto.org and download the“How to Gift Securities Info Sheet” and “Letter of Direction.”
For more information, contact our office at development@archtoronto.org.
Bulletin – November 3, 2024
November 2nd, 2024
NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH OF ALL SOULS
BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE
A Book of Remembrance has been placed on the altar for the month of November. You are invited to write the names of your deceased relatives and friends in the book. They will be remembered at all the Masses celebrated in November.
WALL OF REMEMBRANCE
Our Wall of Remembrance is dedicated to all those Members of our Faith Community who have gone home to God this year. Please continue to pray for them. A candle will be lit before each Mass in remembrance of them.
ANNOUNCED MASSES
November 4th to November 10th
MONDAY – JOHN & CATHERINE HIGGINS ✞ – Requested by the Family
TUESDAY – LYDIA McGRANN – Requested by Ron & Anne Ackber
WEDNESDAY – STANLEY KEE ✞ – Requested by Betty Kee & Family
THURSDAY – WILLIAM & JULIET MURPHY ✞ – Requested by Marietta Carriere
FRIDAY – THE DESTITUTE, THE SICK & THE DYING – Requested by Lydia McGrann
SATURDAY – HOLY SOULS ✞ – Requested by Mark DesRoches
SUNDAY – 8:30 AM – FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE PARISH
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – GEORGE EGERTON HALE ✞ – Requested by his Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – EAMON GAUGHAN ✞ – Requested by His Family
CARING FOR THE NEEDY IN OUR CITY
Food Collection for the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall
Rosalie Hall assists young parents and their children to realize their potential. The food we donate from our parish often replenishes their empty food bank.
Good Shepherd provides hot meals and shelter for the homeless in our city as well as a chance to start again through the Resettlement or DARE Programs.
Your food donations are very important as numbers of people in need continue to increase.
Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired.
SHARELIFE
Answer the call to compassion
100,000 people in Toronto are expected to turn to food charities for the first time in 2024. Through our parish’s support, ShareLife, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto, and a generous anonymous donor are committing $750,000 to fund food banks and meal programs throughout the Archdiocese. Reaching our parish campaign goal will help to make these grants possible. Our suggested goal is $195,500. Please help combat hunger at sharelife.org/donate or by giving at our parish using a ShareLife envelope. Thank you for your compassion.
GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE CASSEROLES
Thank you to the volunteers who prepared 48 casseroles for October. For November, your prepared frozen casseroles will be collected at all the Masses on the weekend of November 23rd/24th to be delivered to the Good Shepherd Centre.
You may pick up a copy of a casserole recipe and a pan from the Parish Office. Three recipes are also available on St. Gabriel’s website. Please remember to mark the label on the pan lid with the name of the casserole.
More volunteers are urgently needed to help feed the hungry in our city. For more information, please contact Irene Albrecht at 416 221-2791.
BIBLE & BEER: “Beauty and the Beast: Being Rich in Beautiful Things”
Tuesday, November 5th from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
St. Patrick’s Church, 137 McCaul St., Toronto
Come and explore the example of the widow. What is important: Having or being? Is it important to be seen rich in beauty or rich in being? Fr. Paul Hansen C.Ss.R., Redemptorist Biblical Justice Consultancy, will be our Presenter.
Join us for this an informal “bible study.” We will reflect on the words of scripture as they relate the liturgical season of the year to the experience of our lives and journey of faith. We will gather for one hour of input and reflection and continue the conversation across the street at the pub in a friendly social atmosphere.
Register at https://bit.ly/Bible-Beer-Nov-5
For more information, go to www.ignite-canada.ca
SEARCH ME, O GOD: A MUSICAL EXPLORATION OF THE PSALMS
Online Thursday, November 7th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
An Online Event Recommended by the Office for Promoting Christian Unity and Religious Relations with Judaism
This interactive event showcases live performances of new psalm-inspired compositions, inviting both Jews and Christians to explore the depth and beauty of the psalms. Enjoy works by award-winning Jewish and Christian composers, performed by acclaimed violinist Yonah Zur and hosted by Deus Ex Musica founder Delvyn Case.
To register go to https://bccte.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tMZnjzVQT9O4c3ksRZRvRw#/registration
PROJECT RACHEL RETREAT
Friday, November 8th to Sunday, November 10th 2024
Women suffering after an abortion need support. If this is your pain or the grief of someone you know, consider the upcoming Project Rachel retreat at St. Mary’s Refuge, from Friday, November 8th to Sunday, November 10th. For more information email ProjectRachel@stmarysrefuge.org or call the confidential phone line at 289 691 6840.
PHILIPPINES SERVICE TRIP – BAKE SALE
November 9th and 10th – After all Masses
Two students from St. Joseph’s Morrow Park High School will be going on a 2-week service trip to the Philippines with the TCDSB. They will be helping to build houses for families in need, doing neighbourhood clean ups, and volunteering at orphanages. They will be having a bake sale after all the masses on November 9th and 10th to raise funds for their trip. Donations are most welcome. Please see the poster on the bulletin board for more details.
CROCHETING FOR A CAUSE
Sunday, November 10th, 2024 after the 12:30 PM Mass
Gabriel Room
The next crocheting session will be held on Sunday November 10th after the 12:30 Mass. Those who attended the first session in October are welcome to bring in their finished shawl/scarf or can continue working on it at this session.
Contact our Youth Minister at 416-221-8866 ext.227 for more details or to sign up.
UNPACKING THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY
Sunday, November 10th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM
St. Michael’s College School Centre for the Arts –
1515 Bathurst St.
Join them for a panel discussion to help unpack the Synod on Synodality. The three-year process of listening and dialogue, undertaken between 2021 and 2024, has garnered participation from Catholics worldwide.
Moderated by Dr. Josephine Lombardi, panelists include: Sr. Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ, undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, Archbishop J. Michael Miller CSB of Vancouver, theologians Dr. Moira McQueen and Sr. Gill Goulding, CJ.
Limited tickets available – they are free but must be reserved by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/synod.
Palliative Care Workshop Part II
November 16th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Join us in the Gabriel room on November 16th, 2024 for the second of 3 sessions on topics related to Palliative Care.
Dr. Ann Li-Hsu, MD, will discuss preparation of documents such as Advance Directives for Health Care; Durable Power of Attorney for Finance; and most importantly, any questions that participants will submit in advance or during the session itself.
She will offer a general overview of the medical care with language understandable for lay persons and will share that the definition of palliative care has changed. Palliative care is practiced as active care.
This second session will focus on answering questions regarding Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning. All are welcome. There is no cost for the sessions.
For more information and to register, please contact StGabrielBereavement@gmail.com
SHEPHERDS’ TRUST COLLECTION
November 16th/17th
There will be a second collection on November 16th/17th, for The Shepherds’ Trust. The mission of the Shepherds’ Trust is to help ensure that elderly and disabled priests are provided with sufficient financial resources to lead a dignified life after many years of ministry. Your generous gift will help our priests to maintain a modest but active and independent lifestyle in their retirement years. For priests who are ill or otherwise infirm, the Trust ensures they have access to nursing home facilities and medical care. Thank you for your support of this important work.
THE GARDEN SHED
The Garden Ministry is celebrating harvest season! We have picked our blueberries and red currants and transformed them into delicious baked goods. We invite you to taste the fruits of our labour by donating towards our raffle (one ticket for $2 or 3 for $5).
Raffle tickets will be available 30 minutes prior to each mass this weekend, November 2nd and 3rd. A winner will be announced at the end of each mass. We will also have seeds and rose/lavender sachets for sale at $2 a packet.
Thank you in advance for supporting our Garden Ministry!
FINANCE CORNER
Please consider giving your offertory by picking up Envelopes, enrolling in Pre-Authorized Giving (PAG), or Donate Now (through the Archdiocese of Toronto website).
One of the most financially sound ways to support the Archdiocese of Toronto is a gift of securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds). When you donate stocks, mutual funds and other publicly traded securities to a registered charity, you pay no capital gains tax and receive a tax receipt for the full amount of the gift. It means a great tax break for you and more significant support of your parish and various archdiocesan charities such as ShareLife, St. Augustine’s Seminary, The Shepherds’ Trust and many others.
To donate securities, go to archtoronto.org and download the
“How to Gift Securities Info Sheet” and “Letter of Direction.”
For more information, contact our office at development@archtoronto.org.
TRIVIA
What do you call an angry carrot?
A steamed veggie