Bulletin – October 16, 2022

October 16th, 2022

UPDATING OUR PARISH RECORDS

At this time, we would like to update our Parish records.

If you have changed your address, telephone number or email address, please let us know. Thank you for your cooperation.

MAKE SURE YOU ARE COUNTED!

Cardinal Collins has requested that a weekend Mass attendance count be conducted annually in all parishes and missions of the Archdiocese. This year the attendance count will continue on the weekends of October 15th/16th and 22nd/23rd.

The purpose of this very important count is to have a more accurate assessment of the number of people attending Mass on a weekend.

When you come in for Mass, you may notice a few “counters” clicking on tally counters at the doors of the church. The counters will be doing their jobs in a way as discreetly and non-intrusively as possible.

THE MILK BAG MAT WEAVING GROUP IS BACK!

Wednesday, October 19th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM

New members are welcome to join them as they weave sleeping mats for street friends in Toronto and needy in other nations. The group gathers in the gathering space the third Wed of the month from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. For those collecting milk bags please make sure the bags are dry and kept flat. For more details contact Sharon at sharongusz@gmail.com

PARENT MEETINGS FOR THE SACRAMENTS

The Parent Meeting for those parents whose children will be confirmed in the spring will be on October 19th at 7:30 PM.

The Parent Meeting for those parents whose children will receive their First Communion in the spring will be on October 27th at 7:30 PM. Both meetings will be held here at the Church.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

October 17th to October 23rd

MONDAY – ANDREW HUI ✞ – Requested by Howa Hui
TUESDAY – GIOVANNI, MARIN & FRANK PUGLIESE ✞ – Requested by the Family
WEDNESDAY – ELAIN, KITTY, EILEEN & MAY CHIU – Requested by May Chiu
THURSDAY – DUO PAO SHAN ✞ – Requested by Y.L. Kok
FRIDAY – KENG OWYONG ✞ – Requested by Helen Owyong
SATURDAY – LUCILLE YEUNG – Requested by the Yeung Family
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – JOACHIM CHUN & YUEN FUNG ✞ – Requested by the Fung Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – KOK SHING WING ✞ – Requested by Y.L. Kok

ALTAR SERVERS

The Altar Server Ministry invites children, 10 and above, who are interested in learning how to serve at Mass, to please email stgabrielsaltarservers@gmail.com with details of the Mass at which they would like to serve.

Ukrainian Crisis Update

Are you able to host a Ukrainian Family?

When hearing reports of the war in Ukraine, and the millions of Ukrainians that have been forced to flee their homeland, many have asked what they can do to help. Over 80,000 Ukrainians have already arrived to Canada through a special visa program created by Immigration Canada. An additional 500,000 have applied to the program and are expected to arrive in the coming months.

Many are arriving to Toronto and are without family here in Canada to help them. Among those will be some who are vulnerable to human trafficking, particularly seniors, single women, and women with children. There is an immediate need for families to host for a period of between one and six months some of those who have arrived. If you would like to learn more about hosting a Ukrainian family, please go to Archdiocese of Toronto – Ukrainian Crisis (archtoronto.org) and register for a virtual information session.

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF – PAKISTAN FLOODS

Devastating floods in Pakistan have displaced hundreds of thousands, at one point leaving a third of the country inundated with water. More than 1,500 people have died following record rainfall with 33 million throughout the country affected by this disaster.

Since June, Pakistan has experienced three times more rainfall than an average monsoon season. Flooding and landslides have destroyed homes, crops, health centres, roads and bridges.

There is an elevated risk of the spread of malaria, dengue fever and other diseases. Priorities include clean water, shelter and health care for those directly affected by this tragic situation.

The Archdiocese of Toronto will channel donations through Catholic partners (including Caritas Canada – Development and Peace as well as the Archdiocese of Karachi) to support relief efforts underway. Please note that these organizations are not subject to the government matching funds program.

Those wishing to help may do so in the following ways:

  • Online through the Archdiocese of Toronto website – www.archtoronto.org
  • By phone through the Development Office
  • Through the parish, making cheques payable to: St. Gabriel’s Parish – Pakistan Floods – Humanitarian Relief

THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE

For the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall

Thank you for your generous support of Rosalie Hall and the Good Shepherd Centre during our Thanksgiving Food Drive. Your response was overwhelming! Both these organizations are extremely appreciative.

WORLD MISSION SUNDAY

October 22ND/23RD

There will be a second collection on the weekend of October 22nd/23rd for World Mission Sunday.

This is a worldwide collection for the missionary Church and it is our opportunity to assist at-need Catholic communities around the globe. Our offerings are combined with those of other Catholics around the world and distributed to missions and dioceses.

We are called to share from our abundance with those who are less fortunate and lack the basic essentials to know, love and praise God. Thank you for your support of this important work.

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS 2022 – CAST YOUR VOTE!

October 24th, 2022

A municipal election will be held on Monday, October 24th, 2022. All Catholics are strongly encouraged to exercise their democratic right to vote. To help learn more about the candidates for Catholic School Board Trustee, Cardinal Collins has given permission for these candidates to distribute literature to parishioners departing Mass on weekends from October 11/12 through October 22/23. We hope you’ll take the time to get to know those seeking elected office for this important role.

To ensure your vote for Catholic School Board Trustee, at the polling booth, verify that you are registered as a separate school supporter. If your support status is incorrect ask for an Application to Amend Voters’ List. This form may be completed and submitted at the polling station. Thank you for your interest and involvement in this fall’s municipal election!

ESTATE PLANNING FOR THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY

October 29th from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM

St. Paul’s Basilica

Are you Caribbean or of Caribbean descent? If so, join us for this free special event at the historic St. Paul’s Basilica in Toronto, on Saturday, October 29th, 2022. Come and learn about the importance of a Will, Powers of Attorney & Estate Planning as well as Catholic teachings and traditions around burials and cremation. This day offers lots more!

A Light Breakfast

A musical interlude featuring members of Our Lady of Good Counsel Caribbean Music Ministry

A tour of the beautiful St. Paul’s Basilica; the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Toronto

To register or receive further information, send us an email to: development@archtoronto.org or call us at 416-934-3400 ext. 561/519 with the following information: Full Name and Parish.

*Space is limited so please register early!

WALKING TOGETHER: Highlights of the Papal Visit

October 25th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Blessed Trinity Parish

Head over to Blessed Trinity Parish for an evening with Deacon Pedro Guevara-Mann from Salt and Light Media, from 6:30pm-8:00pm on October 25th where he will walk us through the highlights of the papal visit and the road ahead for reconciliation between the Catholic Church and the indigenous people.

To register for this free event, please visit https://forms.gle/RYegiXXBw3pEyLUr6 or email btcatechesis@gmail.com. Visit https://slmedia.org/s/yrvNh5bq/walking-together to watch the original documentary – ‘Walking Together’.

THE GARDEN SHED

BLUEBERRY CRISP RAFFLE

Thank you to everyone who participated in this weekend’s blueberry crisp raffle to raise funds for the work of the Garden Ministry. Congratulations to the winners!

Extra hands would be welcome on Saturday, October 22nd from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon to help put the garden to bed: cutting back plants, mulching, covering boxes, stowing hoses and cages, etc.

For more information, please email sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

MATURING ADULT MINISTRY

LIFE STORY WRITING PROGRAMME: REFLECTION ON EXPERIENCE Small Group: 6-12 persons

Dates: October 13th, 20th, 27th, November 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, December 1st from 1:30 to 3:30 PM

Participants will be guided in reflecting on each decade of life

The cost: $20:00 for workbook to be paid at first session

Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ

Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

SMALL GROUP BOOK STUDY: 6-12 persons

Tuesdays – October 18th, 25th, November 1st, 22nd, 29th

From 1:30 to 3:00 P.M.

Book Title: Conscious Living, Conscious Aging by Ron Pevny.

Books will be available at the first session: Cost $20:00.

Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ

Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

Bulletin – October 9, 2022

October 8th, 2022

THANKSGIVING DAY

A Reading from St. Paul’s Letter to the Colossians (3.12-15)

As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.

A THANKSGIVING PRAYER

O, heavenly Father:
We thank thee for food and
remember the hungry.
We thank thee for health and remember the sick.
We thank thee for friends and remember the friendless.
We thank thee for freedom and remember the enslaved.
May these remembrances stir us to service,
that thy gifts to us may be used for others. Amen.

Monday, October 10th is Thanksgiving Day

There will be no 9:00 AM Mass and the Parish Office will be closed. Happy Thanksgiving!

ANNOUNCED MASSES

October 10th to October 16th

MONDAY – THANKSGIVING – No 9:00 AM Mass
TUESDAY – BERTRAN CHIU & FAMILY – Requested by the Chiu Sisters
WEDNESDAY – NEI FUNG YUNG ✞ – Requested by Y.L. Kok
THURSDAY – DELPHINE OAKIE ✞ – Requested by the Family
FRIDAY – SEEHIM CHIU, PAULINE FUNG CHIU & CELINE CHIU ✞ – Requested by the Family
SATURDAY – KWAI FUN KO ✞ – Requested by Lucille Yeung
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – BRUNO CORTESE ✞ – Requested by the Cortese Family
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – PLACIDO DOMOPOY ✞ – Requested by Aileen Domopoy

ALTAR SERVERS

The Altar Server Ministry invites children, 10 and above, who are interested in learning how to serve at Mass, to please email stgabrielsaltarservers@gmail.com with details of the Mass at which they would like to serve.

THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE

For the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall

You can make a difference in the lives of the hungry and homeless this Thanksgiving by participating in the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Urgently needed items include:
tuna canned stew
vegetable oil, canned soups
coffee pancake mix
jams, sugar peanut butter
garlic/onion powder allspice
chick peas, beans canned vegetables

Please check the expiry date as we cannot pass on expired foods. Please no fresh or frozen foods.

We thank you for your generous support!

Ukrainian Crisis Update

Are you able to host a Ukrainian Family?

When hearing reports of the war in Ukraine, and the millions of Ukrainians that have been forced to flee their homeland, many have asked what they can do to help. Over 80,000 Ukrainians have already arrived to Canada through a special visa program created by Immigration Canada. An additional 500,000 have applied to the program and are expected to arrive in the coming months. Many are arriving to Toronto and are without family here in Canada to help them. Among those will be some who are vulnerable to human trafficking, particularly seniors, single women, and women with children. There is an immediate need for families to host for a period of between one and six months some of those who have arrived. If you would like to learn more about hosting a Ukrainian family, please go to Archdiocese of Toronto – Ukrainian Crisis (archtoronto.org) and register for a virtual information session.

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF – PAKISTAN FLOODS

Devastating floods in Pakistan have displaced hundreds of thousands, at one point leaving a third of the country inundated with water. More than 1,500 people have died following record rainfall with 33 million throughout the country affected by this disaster.

Since June, Pakistan has experienced three times more rainfall than an average monsoon season. Flooding and landslides have destroyed homes, crops, health centres, roads and bridges.

There is an elevated risk of the spread of malaria, dengue fever and other diseases. Priorities include clean water, shelter and health care for those directly affected by this tragic situation.

The Archdiocese of Toronto will channel donations through Catholic partners (including Caritas Canada – Development and Peace as well as the Archdiocese of Karachi) to support relief efforts underway. Please note that these organizations are not subject to the government matching funds program.

Those wishing to help may do so in the following ways:

  • Online through the Archdiocese of Toronto website – www.archtoronto.org
  • By phone through the Development Office
  • Through the parish, making cheques payable to: St. Gabriel’s Parish – Pakistan Floods – Humanitarian Relief

PROJECT RACHEL RETREAT

St. Mary of Egypt Refuge,
November 4th to 6th

Women suffering the loss of a child from abortion need support. If this is your pain, or the grief of someone you know, consider the upcoming Project Rachel retreat at St. Mary of Egypt Refuge, November 4th to 6th, 2022. For more information, contact us through our confidential phone line at 289-691-6840, e-mail us at ProjectRachel@stmarysrefuge.org, or visit www.stmarysrefuge.org/rachel.

21st ANNUAL FRIARS’ STUDENT WRITING CONTEST 2023

October 4th to January 16th, 2023

Theme: “Do good; seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17).

High School Students (ages 13-19 years) in the Catholic School Boards located in the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in this annual event that commemorates the global Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Write a five-hundred-word essay that explores the 2023 theme. Great prizes await the top three submissions. Students are encouraged to consult the resources at https://bit.ly/3AgBy5J to understand the meaning and purpose of the theme and address the focus question found on the poster at https://bit.ly/3KXgu8m.

Contact ecumenism@archtoronto.org or call 416-934-3400 (Ext. 527) for more information or questions.

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS 2022 – CAST YOUR VOTE!

October 24th, 2022

A municipal election will be held on Monday, October 24th, 2022. All Catholics are strongly encouraged to exercise their democratic right to vote. To help learn more about the candidates for Catholic School Board Trustee, Cardinal Collins has given permission for these candidates to distribute literature to parishioners departing Mass on weekends from October 1/2 through October 22/23. We hope you’ll take the time to get to know those seeking elected office for this important role.

To ensure your vote for Catholic School Board Trustee, at the polling booth, verify that you are registered as a separate school supporter. If your support status is incorrect ask for an Application to Amend Voters’ List. This form may be completed and submitted at the polling station. Thank you for your interest and involvement in this fall’s municipal election!

MARIAN RETREAT

Queen of Apostles Renewal Centre, Mississauga

October 19th, 2022

Spend the day with Mother Mary, the mother of Jesus, and our mother too on Wednesday, October 19th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Queen of Apostles Renewal Centre, Mississauga.

The cost is $45.00 lunch included.
Contact: Jean at 905-278-5229 or office@qoa.ca

NEW BEGINNINGS

Online Bereavement Introductory Program
Wednesday, October 5th – 26th from 7:00 PM- 9:00 PM

Online Separated/Divorced Introductory Program
Thursday, October 6th – 27th from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Please see bulletin boards for more information.

THE GARDEN SHED

BLUEBERRY CRISP RAFFLE
October 15th/16th

Blueberry Crisp Raffle: Made from St. Gabriel’s own berries and baked by members of the Garden Ministry, blueberry crisps will be raffled at each mass on the weekend of October 15th/16th. Arrive at mass a couple of minutes early and purchase your tickets. The draw will take place during mass and the winner, who will be announced at the end of mass can take home their prize. Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5. Good luck!

The garden could use more pairs of hands to help with winterizing. Join us on Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 8 and 11 for fresh air, sunshine and garden companionship. For more information email sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Garden Ministry!

MATURING ADULT MINISTRY

SMALL GROUP BOOK STUDY: 6-12 persons
Tuesdays – October 18th, 25th, November 1st, 22nd, 29th
From 1:30 to 3:00 P.M.
Book Title: Conscious Living, Conscious Aging by Ron Pevny.
Books will be available at the first session: Cost $20:00.
Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ
Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

LIFE STORY WRITING PROGRAMME: REFLECTION ON EXPERIENCE Small Group: 6-12 persons
Dates: October 13th, 20th, 27th, November 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, December 1st from 1:30 to 3:30 PM
Participants will be guided in reflecting on each decade of life
The cost: $20:00 for workbook to be paid at first session
Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ
Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

Bulletin – October 2, 2022

October 2nd, 2022

ST. GABRIEL’S YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS

We are welcoming young people of the parish to join the St. Gabriel’s Youth Group. Meetings, activities, and events will be available to various age groups – elementary school students, grades 6-8, high school students, post-secondary students, and young adults.

If you would be interested in joining our email list, please email sgpyouthgroup@gmail.com or contact our youth minister through the parish office.

R.C.I.A. AND ADULT FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Meetings in preparation for the R.C.I.A. (Rites of Christian Initiation of Adults) will begin this month. These meetings are for persons interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith. The exploration may lead the candidate to seek baptism, and become a member of the Catholic Christian community; or for Christians already baptized into another Christian denomination, the reception into the Catholic Church.

Adult Catholics who have not received the sacrament of Confirmation but who wish to do so are also encouraged to attend these sessions.

If you are interested in joining the RCIA meetings or if you would like to have more information about it, please contact Sr. Maria Lucia at 416-221-8866.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

October 3rd to October 9th

MONDAY – PATRICK MAK ✞ – Requested by Julie Chiu & Family
TUESDAY – INTENTIONS OF OPEYEMI NDUKWE – Requested by Opeyemi Ndukwe
WEDNESDAY – KWOK KAR HIM ✞ – Requested by J.L. Kok
THURSDAY – MICHAEL MAK, DIXON MAK & FAMILY – Requested by Julie Chiu & Family
FRIDAY – CORRADO & ANGELA CAIA ✞ – Requested by the Grech Family
SATURDAY – KOON TING LAU ✞ – Requested by Paul Lau
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – MICHAEL McCOSKEY ✞ – Requested by Fergus O’Connell
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – EUGENE JUWAH ✞ – Requested by Priscilla Juwah

CHILDREN’S LITURGY – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

At the 10:30 AM Mass from mid – September to May each year, children ages 4 to 10 have the opportunity to gather as a group for the Liturgy of the Word led by adults who have volunteered. We are in need of more volunteers to assist this program. For more information or to volunteer, please call Dawn Burke at 416 671-0561 or leave a message at the Parish Office.

INDIGENOUS HEALING & RECONCILIATION FUND COLLECTION

October 1st/2nd, 2022

Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in the collection being held this weekend, October 1/2 to support the Indigenous Healing & Reconciliation Fund. The collection is a national grassroots effort to assist healing and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of This Land. The fund was the result of a $30 million financial commitment made by the Canadian Bishops in September 2021.

Funds will support culture and language revitalization, education and community building, healing and reconciliation for communities and families and dialogue involving Indigenous elders, spiritual leaders and youth with a focus on Indigenous spirituality and culture.

This is an opportunity to follow the invitation of the Holy Father made earlier this year for each one of us to become engaged in the healing and reconciliation journey. For more information or to donate online, visit: www.archtoronto.org/healingandreconciliation. Thank you for your generosity.

THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE

For the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall

You can make a difference in the lives of the hungry and homeless this Thanksgiving by participating in the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive.

Urgently needed items include:
tomato sauce canned tomatoes
pasta sauces, soups, stews
pasta mayonnaise
jams sugar
granola/protein bars mustard
chick peas, beans canned corn
breakfast cereals peanut butter

Please check the expiry date as we cannot pass on expired foods. Please no fresh or frozen foods.

We thank you for your generous support!

GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE CASSEROLES

Thank you so much to the volunteers who prepared casseroles for September. For October, your frozen prepared casseroles will be collected at all the Masses on the weekend of October 29th/30th for delivery to the Good Shepherd Centre.

More volunteers are encouraged to become active in helping to feed our less fortunate sisters and brothers. Three different recipes are available in the Parish Office or online at the Church website. You may pick up casserole pans at the Parish Office. If you require more information, please contact Irene Albrecht at 416-221-2791.

21st ANNUAL FRIARS’ STUDENT WRITING CONTEST 2023

October 4th to January 16th, 2023

Theme: “Do good; seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17).

High School Students (ages 13-19 years) in the Catholic School Boards located in the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in this annual event that commemorates the global Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Write a five-hundred-word essay that explores the 2023 theme. Great prizes await the top three submissions. Students are encouraged to consult the resources at https://bit.ly/3AgBy5J to understand the meaning and purpose of the theme and address the focus question found on the poster at https://bit.ly/3KXgu8m.

Contact ecumenism@archtoronto.org or call 416-934-3400 (Ext. 527) for more information or questions

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS 2022 – CAST YOUR VOTE!

October 24th, 2022

A municipal election will be held on Monday, October 24th, 2022. All Catholics are strongly encouraged to exercise their democratic right to vote. To help learn more about the candidates for Catholic School Board Trustee, Cardinal Collins has given permission for these candidates to distribute literature to parishioners departing Mass on weekends from October 1/2 through October 22/23. We hope you’ll take the time to get to know those seeking elected office for this important role.

To ensure your vote for Catholic School Board Trustee, at the polling booth, verify that you are registered as a separate school supporter. If your support status is incorrect ask for an Application to Amend Voters’ List. This form may be completed and submitted at the polling station. Thank you for your interest and involvement in this fall’s municipal election!

MARIAN RETREAT

Queen of Apostles Renewal Centre, Mississauga

October 19th, 2022

Spend the day with Mother Mary, the mother of Jesus, and our mother too on Wednesday, October 19th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Queen of Apostles Renewal Centre, Mississauga.

The cost is $45.00 lunch included

Contact: Jean at 905-278-5229 or office@qoa.ca

THE GARDEN SHED

Even at this time when plants (and gratefully, the weeds) are dying back in preparation for the long slumber to come, there is much for gardeners to do. On Saturday, the Garden Ministry crew were in the garden, cutting back comfrey and Baptisia and saving seeds for redistribution in the garden next season. As well, A final harvest of tomatoes, carrots, radishes, beans and cucumber were delivered to the Good Shepherd. The community garden is now finished for the season.

At the end of this growing season, Heather Bennett, the founding Coordinator of the Garden Ministry, will retire. Ministry members will meet on Oct. 2 to plan for a future ministry that is sustainable and that meets the needs of the garden and the parish. You have been a great support in the past and we hope you will support us with your prayers in our deliberations. There is still time to try out the new chairs in the south garden before the frost!

For more information, please email sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

MATURING ADULT MINISTRY

Fall 2022 Opportunities

SMALL GROUP BOOK STUDY: 6-12 persons

Tuesdays – October 18th, 25th, November 1st, 22nd, 29th
From 1:30 to 3:00 P.M.
Book Title: Conscious Living, Conscious Aging by Ron Pevny

This book will explore how to make post retirement years more fulfilling by living more consciously. The author offers skilled guidance through the questions, challenges, endings and beginnings that occur during this life phase. Books will be available at the first session: Cost $20:00.

Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ

Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

LIFE STORY WRITING PROGRAMME: REFLECTION ON EXPERIENCE Small Group: 6-12 persons

Dates: October 13th, 20th, 27th
November 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th
December 1st f
From 1:30 to 3:30 PM

Participants will be guided in reflecting on each decade of life. From their reflections, they will write about particular stories that have significance for them. One need not be a skilled writer to be part of this program. Basic writing skills are quite sufficient. Group sessions and sharing of stories provide direction and support for the project.

The cost: $20:00 for workbook to be paid at first session

Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ

Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

FINANCE CORNER

A bequest in your will to our Church is an acknowledgment of your returning to God a portion of the gifts He has bestowed on you during your lifetime. Charitable bequests can have a favourable impact on your overall estate plan.

Bequests are not just for the wealthy! Consider including your parish or any of the archdiocesan charities or departments in your will. Let your will reflect your Catholic values. We have a free estate planning guide to help you make your plan. The Archdiocese of Toronto also maintains a list of advisors across the GTA who are available to assist in your estate planning and the preparation of a will.

Please contact us at Development@archtoronto.org for a list of Catholic estate advisors in your area. Remember about the importance of using the correct legal names when arranging bequests or other planned gifts.

For further information, contact the Development Office at 416-934-3400 Ext. 561/519 or email at development@archtoronto.org.

Passionist Jubilee Synod (St. Gabriel Synod)

September 25th, 2022

Fr. Jim O’Shea, the Provincial of St. Paul of the Cross province, of which our parish is a part, will be visiting our parish on the October 1st and 2nd weekend.

He will share with the parish what has come out of the Synod and present the vision we want to propose as we go forward.

Bulletin – September 25, 2022

September 24th, 2022

ST. GABRIEL’S YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS

We are welcoming young people of the parish to join the St. Gabriel’s Youth Group. Meetings, activities, and events will be available to various age groups – elementary school students, grades 6-8, high school students, post-secondary students, and young adults.

If you would be interested in joining our email list, please email sgpyouthgroup@gmail.com or contact our youth minister through the parish office.

R.C.I.A. AND ADULT FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Meetings in preparation for the R.C.I.A. (Rites of Christian Initiation of Adults) will begin this month. These meetings are for persons interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith. The exploration may lead the candidate to seek baptism, and become a member of the Catholic Christian community; or for Christians already baptized into another Christian denomination, the reception into the Catholic Church.

Adult Catholics who have not received the sacrament of Confirmation but who wish to do so are also encouraged to attend these sessions.

If you are interested in joining the RCIA meetings or if you would like to have more information about it, please contact Sr. Maria Lucia at 416-221-8866.

SACRAMENTAL REGISTRATION

September 27th , 28th and 29th from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

There will be registration for the Sacraments of First Communion, Reconciliation and Confirmation on September 27th, 28th, , and 29th from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM in the gathering space of the church.

Please Note:
A copy of the child’s Baptismal Certificate is required if registering for First Communion or Confirmation. Registration forms will not be accepted without it.
A Baptism certificate is not required for Reconciliation.
A fee of $30 is required at registration for Confirmation to defray related costs.

The deadline for registration for all sacraments is October 7th. No registrations will be accepted after that date.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

At the 10:30 AM Mass from mid -September to June each year, children ages 4 to 10 have the opportunity to gather as a group for the Liturgy of the Word led by adults who have volunteered. We are in need of more volunteers to assist this program. For more information or to volunteer, please call Dawn Burke at 416 671-0561 or leave a message at the Parish Office.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

September 26th to October 1st

MONDAY – STEVE & BERNADINE HIGGINS ✞ – Requested by Agnes Gaughan
TUESDAY – WONG KWOK WAH ✞ – Requested by Y. L. Kok
WEDNESDAY – EDWARD FREITAS – Requested by Megan Freitas
THURSDAY – NUZZO & PINUCCIA SPATARO ✞ – Requested by the Grech Family
FRIDAY – TRUTH & RECONCILIATION
SATURDAY – PASQUALE GATTI ✞ – Requested by Linda Gatti
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM – VICTOR PAUL ✞ – Requested by Sophie & Candida Pereira
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – ANDREW HUI ✞ – Requested by Howa Hui

WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEE

September 25th, 2022

The theme announced by His Holiness Pope Francis for the 108th World Day of Migrants and Refugees is “Building the Future with Migrants and Refugees.” In his message, Pope Francis reminds us that inclusion of those most vulnerable is the necessary condition for full citizenship in God’s Kingdom.

Indeed, the Lord says, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, sick and you took care of me, in prison and you visited me” (Mt 25:34-36).

NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

September 30th, 2022

This year’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will take place on Friday, September 30th. Cardinal Collins will preside at the 7:30 AM Mass from St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica with participation from Indigenous members of the community. All are welcome in person or via livestream at: www.stmichaelscathedral.com/live/.

INDIGENOUS HEALING & RECONCILIATION FUND COLLECTION

October 1st/2nd, 2022

Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in the collection being held the weekend of October 1/2 to support the Indigenous Healing & Reconciliation Fund. The collection is a national grassroots effort to assist healing and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of This Land. The fund was the result of a $30 million financial commitment made by the Canadian Bishops in September 2021.

Funds will support culture and language revitalization, education and community building, healing and reconciliation for communities and families and dialogue involving Indigenous elders, spiritual leaders and youth with a focus on Indigenous spirituality and culture.

This is an opportunity to follow the invitation of the Holy Father made earlier this year for each one of us to become engaged in the healing and reconciliation journey. For more information or to donate online, visit: www.archtoronto.org/healingandreconciliation. Thank you for your generosity.

THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE

For the Good Shepherd Centre and Rosalie Hall

You can make a difference in the lives of the hungry and homeless this Thanksgiving by participating in the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive.

Urgently needed items include:
tomato sauce canned tomatoes
pasta sauces, soups, stews
mayonnaise jams
granola/protein bars mustard
chick peas, beans canned corn
breakfast cereals peanut butter

Please check the expiry date as we cannot pass on expired foods. Please no fresh or frozen foods.

We thank you for your generous support!

MATURING ADULT MINISTRY

Fall 2022 Opportunities
SMALL GROUP BOOK STUDY: 6-12 persons
Tuesdays – October 18th, 25th, November 1st, 22nd, 29th
From 1:30 to 3:00 P.M.

Book Title: Conscious Living, Conscious Aging by
Ron Pevny

This book will explore how to make post retirement years more fulfilling by living more consciously. The author offers skilled guidance through the questions, challenges, endings and beginnings that occur during this life phase. Books will be available at the first session: Cost $20:00.

Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ
Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

LIFE STORY WRITING PROGRAMME: REFLECTION ON EXPERIENCE

Small Group: 6-12 persons
Dates: October 13th, 20th, 27th, November 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, December 1st from 1:30 to 3:30 PM

Participants will be guided in reflecting on each decade of life. From their reflections, they will write about particular stories that have significance for them. One need not be a skilled writer to be part of this program. Basic writing skills are quite sufficient. Group sessions and sharing of stories provide direction and support for the project.

The cost: $20:00 for workbook to be paid at first session
Facilitator: Sr. Mary Rose Marrin CSJ
Registration: contact Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM at StGabrielMMA@gmail.com

NEEDS OF THE CANADIAN CHURCH

Special Collection This Weekend

There will be a second collection today for the Needs of the Church in Canada. Your gifts are used by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops to represent Canadian Catholics in national and international pastoral activity. Thank you for your support of this important work.

21st ANNUAL FRIARS’ STUDENT WRITING CONTEST 2023

October 4th to January 16th, 2023

Theme: “Do good; seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17).

High School Students (ages 13-19 years) in the Catholic School Boards located in the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in this annual event that commemorates the global Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Write a five-hundred-word essay that explores the 2023 theme. Great prizes await the top three submissions. Students are encouraged to consult the resources at https://bit.ly/3AgBy5J to understand the meaning and purpose of the theme and address the focus question found on the poster at https://bit.ly/3KXgu8m.

Contact ecumenism@archtoronto.org or call 416-934-3400 (Ext. 527) for more information or questions

THE GARDEN SHED

Come one, come all to the garden!

On Saturday, September 24th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, we will be collecting seeds and cutting back spent flowers in preparation for winter’s chill. All hands, small and large are welcome. Gloves and tools will be available.

In autumn, Mother Nature gives us a profound lesson about transformation. Editor, Marlene Bourdon-King, explores this concept in terms of our relationship with nature, in the fall edition of our newsletter now available on the parish website.

“Growing News” can be accessed from the Garden Ministry page – https://stgabrielsparish.ca/ministries/garden-ministry/.

For more information, email sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

FINANCE CORNER

A bequest in your will to our Church is an acknowledgment of your returning to God a portion of the gifts He has bestowed on you during your lifetime. Charitable bequests can have a favourable impact on your overall estate plan.

Bequests are not just for the wealthy! Consider including your parish or any of the archdiocesan charities or departments in your will. Let your will reflect your Catholic values. We have a free estate planning guide to help you make your plan. The Archdiocese of Toronto also maintains a list of advisors across the GTA who are available to assist in your estate planning and the preparation of a will.

Please contact us at Development@archtoronto.org for a list of Catholic estate advisors in your area. Remember about the importance of using the correct legal names when arranging bequests or other planned gifts.

For further information, contact the Development Office at 416-934-3400 Ext. 561/519 or email at development@archtoronto.org.