Bulletin – April 18, 2021

April 17th, 2021

Thank You! Thank You!

On behalf of the Parish,we would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to Marie Deans for her service as the Coordinator of the Lectors for the last several years. She was always encouraging and often sent beautiful seasonal prayers and songs to the lectors. Marie is stepping down from this Ministry but will continue to proclaim God’s Word. Thank you, Marie.

We also want to welcome Tanya Maraj who will be taking over as the Coordinator of the Lectors.

ATTENDING MASS

In order to attend Sunday Masses, a reservation for each attendee is required. Please review the Protocol for Sunday Mass celebrations before making any reservations. Please click Sunday Mass Reservations to make your reservations on Eventbrite. Registration is available on Wednesday of each week. Due to limited capacity, there will be no walk-ins allowed. If you have any difficulty in registering, please call the parish office during regular office hours.

There is no reservation required for the 9:00 am Monday to Friday weekday Mass but sign in upon arrival is required.

For the safety and health of our community, please remain home if you show or have any signs or symptoms of Covid-19. Under a City of Toronto by-law, all attendees are required to sanitize their hands and wear non-medical grade masks or face coverings throughout their entire time of attendance at church. Please remember to respect the physically distance rules of 2 metres (6 feet). We are looking forward to seeing you.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

April 19th, 2021 to April 25th, 2021

MONDAY – OVUS & DELVINA PANKE & RITA & DAVID PYM – Requested by the Kilchling Family
TUESDAY – MAURICE PHILLIPPE – Requested by the Persaud Family
WEDNESDAY – SAU LIN HUI – Requested by Linda Law & Family
THURSDAY – THANKSGIVING – Requested by Suzanne Kim
FRIDAY – THANKSGIVING – Requested by Leila Mondejar
SATURDAY – FRANCIS REMY – Requested by Ruane Remy
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – LEAH FERNANDES – Requested by her Parents

ARCHDIOCESAN WEEK OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

Monday, April 19th to Saturday, April 24th

During this week, Fr. Matt McCarthy, Director, Office of Vocations, has asked that we all take some time, as a community, to pray for vocations to the priesthood, religious and consecrated life. At this time, we also ask that you pray for our 6 soon-to-be priests along with all those who are discerning and who are currently in formation. For more information, please contact your parish office, or email the Office of Vocations at vocations@archtoronto.org

Prayer for Vocations

O God, Who wills not the death of a sinner but rather that he be converted and live, grant we beseech you, through the intercession of the Blessed Mary ever Virgin, Saint Joseph, her spouse, St. Junipero Serra, and all the saints, an increase of laborers for your Church, fellow laborers with Christ to spend and consume themselves for souls through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

SHARELIFE

This weekend is ShareLife Sunday!

“Vulnerable members of our community are relying on you and me to ensure ongoing access to the care they so desperately need. This is why it’s crucial we meet our parish campaign goal of $13.8 million. Our goal can be met, but only if we each do our part.”
– Cardinal Thomas Collins

Our Parish goal this year is $187,000.
Today is ShareLife Sunday.
Please give generously.

FOOD FOR ROSALIE HALL & GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE

Thank you for your generous support of Rosalie Hall and the Good Shepherd Centre. Your food donations are very much appreciated.

Rosalie Hall assists young parents and their children to realize their potential through the provision of a wide range of child development, community, residential and educational 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 more important than ever as Covid 19 continues and numbers of needy people continue to increase. Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired.

BUNDLE UP WEEKEND FOR THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

The weekend of May 15th/16th, 2021

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul will be collecting gently used clothing, shoes, textiles, bedding and towels to support our neighbors in need or to be sold to help support their special works in the community on the weekend of May 15th/16th.

They cannot accept books, dishes, furniture, appliances, mattresses, construction materials or videos and cassettes. Please bring your donations and help others in your community.

The truck will be open:
Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Sunday from 8:00 AM to1:30 PM.

Volunteers will be there to assist with loading before and after Mass.

ECUMENICAL READINGS OF “FOR THE LIFE OF THE WORLD

Toward a Social Ethos of the Orthodox Church” And Its Implications in the Global Context
A Virtual Event
Wednesday, April 21st from 12:00 to 1:30 PM

“For the Life of the World: Toward a Social Ethos of the Orthodox Church” was released in early 2020, after being authored by a commission of theologians specifically convened for this task by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I. This document has been discussed and evaluated in diverse ecclesial settings over the past year.

In this event, the scholars from Greek Orthodox Church, African Methodist Church, the Episcopal Church and a scholar from the University of Fribourg (Catholic) will be exploring some of questions and reflections raised by different Christian communities on the document’s aim of fostering spiritual growth and the pursuit of social justice and sustainable peace worldwide by the Church.

Please register at http://bit.ly/ForTheLifeOfTheWorld

RESISTING THROWAWAY CULTURE: HOW A CONSISTENT LIFE ETHIC CAN UNITE US

Wednesday, April 21st from 7:30 to 8:30 PM

A Virtual Event Hosted by Catholic Conscience

Ours is a “throwaway culture,” in the words of Pope Francis — one in which the vulnerable are too-often discarded like trash. It doesn’t have to be this way. In his book, Resisting Throwaway Culture, Fordham University professor Charles Camosy calls us to transcend the left-right political divide in favour of a Catholic culture of hospitality and encounter where “no one is useless, no one is expendable… [and includes] those on the peripheries of life.” Join us for a free webinar with Professor Camosy about how a Consistent Life Ethic can unite us and build this political culture, one rooted in love and human dignity.

To register go to http://bit.ly/ThrowawayCultureCC

THE GARDEN SHED

The garden has a life-cycle This is true not only of the plants but also of the birds and the animals that make it their home. In the past week, I buried an injured groundhog who had burrowed under a tarp to die, a small mammal, found in a garden bed and a tiny black bird.

In the same week, as I was working, our resident pair of cardinals stopped by to see what I was doing. This has happened before, that either the pair of cardinals or the pair of robins would come by together and observe. The visits are brief given, I presume, that there are eggs that need incubating or young that need feeding, but always a gift. Life in the garden, like life everywhere, is precious and joyous and fleeting.

Looking to deepen your connection with the land? Join the Garden Ministry at sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES

Offertory envelopes for 2021 are available at the parish Office. If you would like to pick yours up, please call before coming so that we will have them ready for you. If you are unable to pick yours up, please call the Parish Office and we will make other arrangements.

Bulletin – April 11, 2021

April 10th, 2021

The Parish Family would like to congratulate:

Hoda Kouchak-Mohseni and Ki-Rae Kim who received the sacraments of Baptism, The Holy Eucharist and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.

And Lydia Lee who received the sacrament of Confirmation.

ATTENDING MASS

In order to attend Sunday Masses, a reservation for each attendee is required. Please review the Protocol for Sunday Mass celebrations before making any reservations. Please click Sunday Mass Reservations to make your reservations on Eventbrite. Registration is available on Wednesday of each week. Due to limited capacity, there will be no walk-ins allowed. If you have any difficulty in registering, please call the parish office during regular office hours.

There is no reservation required for the 9:00 am Monday to Friday weekday Mass but sign in upon arrival is required.

For the safety and health of our community, please remain home if you show or have any signs or symptoms of Covid-19. Under a City of Toronto by-law, all attendees are required to sanitize their hands and wear non-medical grade masks or face coverings throughout their entire time of attendance at church. Please remember to respect the physically distance rules of 2 metres (6 feet). We are looking forward to seeing you.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

April 13th to April 18th, 2021

MONDAY – ARMAND OAKIE – Requested by his Family
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY – EDGARDO RECANA – Requested by his Family
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – LEAH FERNANDES – Requested by her Parents

ARCHDIOCESAN WEEK OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

Monday, April 19th to Saturday, April 24th

During this week, Fr. Matt McCarthy, Director, Office of Vocations, has asked that we all take some time, as a community, to pray for vocations to the priesthood, religious and consecrated life. At this time, we also ask that you pray for our 6 soon-to-be priests along with all those who are discerning and who are currently in formation. For more information, please contact your parish office, or email the Office of Vocations at vocations@archtoronto.org

Prayer for Vocations

O God, Who wills not the death of a sinner but rather that he be converted and live, grant we beseech you, through the intercession of the Blessed Mary ever Virgin, Saint Joseph, her spouse, St. Junipero Serra, and all the saints, an increase of laborers for your Church, fellow laborers with Christ to spend and consume themselves for souls through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

FOOD FOR ROSALIE HALL & GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE

Thank you for your generous support of Rosalie Hall and the Good Shepherd Centre. Your food donations are very much appreciated.

Rosalie Hall assists young parents and their children to realize their potential through the provision of a wide range of child development, community, residential and educational 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 more important than ever as Covid 19 continues and numbers of needy people continue to increase. Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired.

SHARELIFE

Next weekend is ShareLife Sunday

The goal for the 2021 ShareLife Campaign is $13.8 million.

“Our goal can be met, but only with your help. I invite you to join today’s generation of heroes by making a sacrificial gift to ShareLife. As you contemplate the blessings God has entrusted to you, please join me in giving to ShareLife to the best of your ability.”
– Cardinal Thomas Collins

Next weekend, April 18th, is ShareLife Sunday.
Please give generously.

SONGS FROM THE SEMINARY

An Evening of Music in Honour of Our Blessed Mother

A Virtual Event Hosted by St. Augustine’s Seminary
Thursday, April 15th from 7:00 to 8:00 PM

The pandemic prevents us from gathering in person, so we will bring this concert to your home!

Join us virtually from the seminary for an evening of music in honour of Our Blessed Mother.
Join online at: youtube.com/archtoronto

The concert is free but donations are welcome. Support the Chapel Restoration with your donation at: http://bit.ly/SeminaryChapelRestoration (type “chapel” in the comments box to direct your donation to this specific project).

I’M NOT PERFECT, YOU’RE NOT PERFECT, BUT IT’S OK

Saturday, April 17th from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM

A Virtual Event hosted by Women on the Word Toronto

Do you feel like everything in your life needs to be perfect? What does God’s version of perfect mean? Women of the Word Toronto is hosting a virtual conference with guest speakers, Colleen Carroll Campbell, author of The Heart of Perfection: How the Saints Taught Me to Trade My Dream of Perfect for God’s and Dr. Josephine Lombardi, theologian, author and presenter. Registration is required.

Please register at www.wowblessingstoronto.com

For more information, go to mary@wowblessingstoronto.com

RESISTING THROWAWAY CULTURE: HOW A CONSISTENT LIFE ETHIC CAN UNITE US

Wednesday, April 21st from 7:30 to 8:30 PM

A Virtual Event Hosted by Catholic Conscience

Ours is a “throwaway culture,” in the words of Pope Francis — one in which the vulnerable are too-often discarded like trash. It doesn’t have to be this way. In his book, Resisting Throwaway Culture, Fordham University professor Charles Camosy calls us to transcend the left-right political divide in favour of a Catholic culture of hospitality and encounter where “no one is useless, no one is expendable… [and includes] those on the peripheries of life.” Join us for a free webinar with Professor Camosy about how a Consistent Life Ethic can unite us and build this political culture, one rooted in love and human dignity.
To register go to http://bit.ly/ThrowawayCultureCC

ECUMENICAL READINGS OF “FOR THE LIFE OF THE WORLD

Toward a Social Ethos of the Orthodox Church” And Its Implications in the Global Context

Wednesday, April 21st from 12:00 to 1:30 PM
A Virtual Event

“For the Life of the World: Toward a Social Ethos of the Orthodox Church” was released in early 2020, after being authored by a commission of theologians specifically convened for this task by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I. This document has been discussed and evaluated in diverse ecclesial settings over the past year.

In this event, the scholars from Greek Orthodox Church, African Methodist Church, the Episcopal Church and a scholar from the University of Fribourg (Catholic) will be exploring some of questions and reflections raised by different Christian communities on the document’s aim of fostering spiritual growth and the pursuit of social justice and sustainable peace worldwide by the Church.

Please register at http://bit.ly/ForTheLifeOfTheWorld

THE GARDEN SHED

If you are dividing your flowering, part-shade-loving perennials this spring and have extra to share, please consider bringing them to our south donation garden. Heather will be in the garden on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9:00 to 11:30 AM and would be happy to receive them.

“The garden suggests there might be a place where we can meet nature halfway.” – Michael Pollan (2007) ‘Second Nature: A Gardener’s Education’

Looking to deepen your connection with the land? Join the Garden Ministry at sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES

Offertory envelopes for 2021 are available at the parish Office. If you would like to pick yours up, please call before coming so that we will have them ready for you. If you are unable to pick yours up, please call the Parish Office and we will make other arrangements.

Bulletin – April 4, 2021

April 4th, 2021

Rejoice for the Lord has truly risen!
Alleluia! Alleluia!

We want to wish you all a Happy and Holy Easter!

From the Desk of Fr. Brando…

Thank You!

Thank you all who made our Holy Week and Easter such a beautiful and uplifting time. Our musicians, our lectors, our ministers of the Eucharist, our ministers of hospitality, those responsible for decorating the Church and members of our Pastoral Team. This year was like no other and although our liturgies were quite different, everyone came together to make them holy and meaningful.

Just a reminder

The office is closed on Easter Monday, April 5th.

There will be no 9:00 AM Mass.

RCIA

The RCIA confirmands and elect started the Busy Person’s Retreat on Monday, March 29th and will be doing so until Saturday, April 3rd in preparation for the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation on Holy Saturday.

Please pray for Lydia Lee, Hoda Kouchak-Mohseni, and Ki-Rae Kim as they go through this last stretch of the preparation process.

ATTENDING MASS

In order to attend Sunday Masses, a reservation for each attendee is required. Please review the Protocol for Sunday Mass celebrations before making any reservations. Please click Sunday Mass Reservations to make your reservations on Eventbrite. Registration is available on Wednesday of each week. Due to limited capacity, there will be no walk-ins allowed. If you have any difficulty in registering, please call the parish office during regular office hours.

There is no reservation required for the 9:00 am Monday to Friday weekday Mass but sign in upon arrival is required.

For the safety and health of our community, please remain home if you show or have any signs or symptoms of Covid-19. Under a City of Toronto by-law, all attendees are required to sanitize their hands and wear non-medical grade masks or face coverings throughout their entire time of attendance at church. Please remember to respect the physically distance rules of 2 metres (6 feet). We are looking forward to seeing you.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

April 5th to April 11th, 2021

MONDAY – EASTER MONDAY – No 9:00 AM Mass
TUESDAY – VLADO PETRANOVIC – Requested by Mira Petranovic
WEDNESDAY – CATHERINE REMY – Requested by Ruane Remy
THURSDAY – ALLAN PERSAUD – Requested by the Persaud & Goldenberg Families
FRIDAY
SATURDAY – SR. AILEEN NORONHA & MARGARET NORONHA – Requested by Alcuin Noronha
SUNDAY – 10:30 AM
SUNDAY – 12:30 PM – EAMON GAUGHAN – Requested by Agnes Gaughan

GOOD SHEPHERD CASSEROLES

Thank you to the volunteers who prepared 48 casseroles for the Good Shepherd Centre. In April, your prepared casseroles will be collected on April 24th/25th. Please consider helping to feed the less fortunate in our city. Recipes and casserole pans are available at the Parish Office. Recipes are also online at our website. For more information, please contact Irene Albrecht at 416-221-2791.

FOOD FOR ROSALIE HALL & GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE

Each month food we collect is sent to Rosalie Hall and the Good Shepherd Centre.

These agencies provide essential services to young parents and the homeless in our city.

With everyone struggling at this time, your food donations are more important than ever. Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired. Thank you for your generous support!

CATHOLIC FAMILY SERVICES OF TORONTO’S ONLINE SESSIONS

Catholic Family Services of Toronto is now offering online quick access single sessions. The single-session consultation is a quick and effective way for individuals, couples or families to address a mental health or relationship concern. To arrange for a session, please contact: info@cfstoronto.com or at 416-921-1163 or 416-222-0048. Leave them a message with your name, email and phone number, and a staff person will contact you.

Clients who are interested in pursuing other or additional services in the agency have the option to access their ongoing counselling, wellness or group programs.

Counselling fees are charged according to a client’s income level. No one is denied service because of his/her inability to pay fees.

EASTER NIGHT OF PRAISE 2021

Friday, April 9 at 7:00 PM

A VIRTUAL EVENT

St. Dunstan’s Parish invites you to a virtual Easter Praise Night. It will be aired live on our website: https://stdunstanssc.archtoronto.org/en/.

Pre-celebration music starts from 6:00 PM. Anyone wishing to make a presentation can also contact us at: stdunstan@rogers.com.

Come join us as we celebrate the victory of Christ, a victory that knows no bounds. Not even the pandemic can limit our joy at His resurrection, for we are an Easter people and Alleluia is our song!

SONGS FROM THE SEMINARY

An Evening of Music in Honour of Our Blessed Mother
A Virtual Event Hosted by St. Augustine’s Seminary

Thursday, April 15th from 7:00 to 8:00 PM

The pandemic prevents us from gathering in person, so we will bring this concert to your home!

Join us virtually from the seminary for an evening of music in honour of Our Blessed Mother.

Join online at: youtube.com/archtoronto

The concert is free but donations are welcome. Support the Chapel Restoration with your donation at: http://bit.ly/SeminaryChapelRestoration (type “chapel” in the comments box to direct your donation to this specific project).

THE GARDEN SHED

Happy Easter!

As I write, the spring rain is falling softly and steadily and I can imagine all the plant roots shaking off their winter slumber, drinking up the long-awaited moisture and resuming their jobs of delivering it to thirsting stems. In St. Gabe’s garden, some shrubs have started to bud out and day-lilies are well along in their leafing. The garden Ministry is busy, too, having planted over 200 seeds for indoor germination last weekend. You can see them under lights at the bottom of the stairs to the garage. “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn

Looking to deepen your connection with the land? To volunteer or to obtain more information please email sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES

Offertory envelopes for 2021 are available at the parish Office. If you would like to pick yours up, please call before coming so that we will have them ready for you. If you are unable to pick yours up, please call the Parish Office and we will make other arrangements.

Good Friday Morning Prayer

April 1st, 2021

Mary, Our Continued Anchor of Hope during these Trying Times

OPENING HYMN: Magnificat (Instrumental) – Taizé

INTRODUCTORY PRAYER: A Prayer for Openness

(adapted from Joyce Rupp, OFM, “Open the Door: A Journey to the True Self” p. 13)

Remember the Holy One is with you. Bring to mind this loving presence within you and around you as you pray the following:

Touch your fingertips to your forehead, saying:
Open my mind to remember your presence.

Touch your fingertips to your mouth, saying:
Open my mouth to speak your wisdom.

Touch your fingertips to your heart, saying:
Open my heart to extend your love.

Hold both hands out, open, palms up, saying:
Open my hands to serve you generously.

Hold your arms, wide open, saying:
Open my whole being to you.

Make a deep bow to the loving presence of the God in you.

OPENING PRAYER:

(adapted from Pope Francis, Prayer to Mary, Woman of Listening)

Loving God, we ask You that –
through Mary, a woman of listening, You open our ears;
Grant us to know how to listen to the word of your Son Jesus
Among the thousands of words of this world;
Grant that we may listen to the reality in which we live,
To every person we encounter, especially those who are poor, in need, in hardship.

Through Mary, woman of decision,
Help us illuminate our mind and our heart,
So that we may obey, unhesitating, the word of your Son Jesus;
Give us the courage to decide,
Not to let ourselves be dragged along, letting others direct our life.

Through Mary, woman of action,
We obtain that our hands and feet move “with haste” toward others,
To bring them the charity and love of your Son Jesus,
To bring the light of the Gospel to the world, as you did. Amen.

READING 1:

John 19:17 and Luke 23:27*

“And carrying the cross himself . . .” (Jn 19:17). “A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him” (Lk 23:27).

REFLECTION:

(adapted from the Fourth Sorrow: Mary Meets Jesus on His Way to the Cross)

Mary pushes her way through the shouting, cursing mob. At last, she sees her son carrying his cross. Mary’s heart breaks in unspeakable sorrow at the outrage committed against his precious body. She is powerless to minister to him, except by her presence. Their eyes meet and speak volumes of love in a frozen moment of anguished silence. “Trust, trust,” Jesus’ heart speaks to hers. His unspoken words echo in her hearing heart. With renewed strength, she walks the Way of her son.

SILENT MEDITATION

READING 2:

Luke 23: 55-56*

“The women who had come from Galilee with him followed behind, and when they had seen the tomb and the way in which his body was laid in it, they returned and prepared spices and perfumed oils”

REFLECTION:

(adapted from the Seventh Sorrow: Assisting at the Burial of Christ)

Mary hesitates before placing the grave cloth over Jesus’ face. Tenderly, she kisses him one last, lingering time. John steps forward to take her hand and lead her to his home. Behind them, they hear the heavy round stone rolled forward to seal the cave. Mary’s pierced heart remains united to the stilled heart of the one they had pierced—the most Sacred Heart that was formed in her immaculate womb. With one languishing wail, she proclaims what others are just now beginning to believe, what she already knew: “My Lord and my God!”

[Readings are from: New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSVCE): Catholic Edition, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.]

SILENT MEDITATION

(5 – 10 minutes)

INTERCESSIONS:

God of infinite mercy, we trust in you and your power working in us. Please hear and answer our prayers:

In this time of bewilderment and fear during this pandemic, we ask you to give us the courage to take care of one another as Jesus did. For those who are ill, especially those who are frightened and alone, for those who cannot access healthcare; for those who are the most vulnerable to this disease: the elderly, those with chronic disorders, those who are migrants and refugees and those who are homeless and lost, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

In the midst of our sadness and grief, we ask you to give us words to comfort one another. For those who are dying, for those who have no one to tend to them; and for those who have already died from the Covid-19 virus, that they live forever with Christ in the glory of the resurrection, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

In the midst of our struggle to ensure a healthy future for all who live on this planet, we ask you to give us the hope that surpasses our current understanding. For all who are on the frontlines of this Covid pandemic, especially our health care workers and first responders, who at considerable personal risk are working to save human lives; and for essential workers who are unable to stay at home but must work to provide for their families, that may God continue to protect them and keep them in good health, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

In the midst of our own anxiety, we ask you to give us the courage to support one another as You would. For spiritual leaders and our faith communities, for artists and poets, for prophets and teachers, for those who are unexpectedly unemployed, for employers who share what they can, for our government and financial institutions and those who lead them, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

In the midst of our desire to find hope, we pray for those in laboratories who work with COVID-19 testing and for researchers who are working diligently for effective treatments for the disease, and for vaccines that will be able to stop the spread of the disease especially the new Covid variants, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

In the midst of need to find order and stability, we pray for civil leaders in nations, provinces, states, cities, and villages that they may serve with wisdom, compassion and humility all the people in their care; and for all of those who have become “helpers” during this crisis volunteering their time, efforts, and talent to do good on behalf of others who are less fortunate, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

In the midst of our growing awareness that all life on Earth is connected, we ask for the heart to respect and cherish all life. That all peoples recognize that we are all your children, we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

(You may add your own intercessions here.), we pray: Lord, hear our prayer!

[adapted from Cynthia Serjak, RSM. A Prayer for Uncertain Times. (March 17, 2020). https://www.sistersofmercy.org/about-us/news-and-events/a-prayer-for-uncertain-times/; and from Fr. James Pizker, Intercessory Prayer during this Pandemic.]

God, we ask that all who are affected by this virus be held in your loving care. In this time of uncertainty, help us to know what is ours to do. We know you did not cause this suffering but that you are with us in it and through it. Help us to recognize your presence in acts of kindness, in moments of silence, and in the beauty of the created world. Grant peace and protection to all of humanity for their well-being and for the benefit of the earth. Amen.
[Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, A Covid Prayer]

THE LORD’S PRAYER

CLOSING PRAYER:

(adapted from Pope Francis, Prayer to Virgin Mary for protection)

O Healing God,
Through Mary, may you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope.
We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick.
At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith.
You, Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need.
We are certain that you will provide, so that,
as you did at Cana of Galilee,
joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial.
Help us, Mother of Divine Love,
to conform ourselves to the God’s will
and to do what Jesus tells us:
He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us,
through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen.
We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God.
Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test –
and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin. Amen.

(Prayer prepared by Sr. Maria Lucia Serrano, RSM)

Bulletin – March 28, 2021

March 27th, 2021

LENTEN AND EASTER SCHEDULE 2021

Online Registration Required for all Services

Due to Parishioner Limits, there will be No Walk-Ins allowed.

Palm Sunday, March 28th
Masses Sat., 4:30 PM
Sun., 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM

Holy Thursday, April 1st
No 9:00 A.M. Mass
7:30 PM Mass of the Lord’s Supper
No Adoration

Good Friday, April 2nd
3:00 PM – Solemn Passion of Our Lord
Please do not touch the Cross
7:30 PM – Stations of the Cross

Holy Saturday, April 3rd
No 4:30 PM Mass
8:00 PM Easter Vigil
No Adoration

Easter Sunday, April 4th
Masses 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM,
12:30 PM, 2:00 PM
2:00 PM Mass for Easter Sunday Only

Easter Monday, April 5th
No 9:00 AM Mass
Office Closed

EXTRA PARKING AT ELKHORN PUBLIC SCHOOL

As of March 18th, weekday and weekend Masses have resumed at the Church.

In order to attend Sunday masses, a reservation for each attendee is required. Please review the Protocol for Sunday Mass celebrations before making any reservations. Please click Sunday Mass Reservations to make your reservations on Eventbrite. Registration is available on Wednesday of each week. Due to limited capacity, there will be no walk-ins allowed. If you have any difficulty in registering, please call the parish office during regular office hours.

There is no reservation required for the 9:00 am Monday to Friday weekday Mass but sign in upon arrival is required.

For the safety and health of our community, please remain home if you show or have any signs or symptoms of Covid-19. Under a City of Toronto by-law, all attendees are required to wear non-medical grade masks or face coverings throughout their entire time of attendance at church while at the same time respecting the physically distance rules of 2 metres (6 feet). We are looking forward to seeing you.

Email Scam Alert

The parish office received a scam or phishing email from Fr. Brando requesting for assistance. You may have also received one. When you are in doubt if these emails are genuine, please always call the parish office to check before you reply or click on any attachment.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

March 29th to April 4th, 2021

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY – HOLY THURSDAY
No 9:00 AM Mass

FRIDAY – GOOD FRIDAY
See Schedule

SATURDAY- HOLY SATURDAY
No 4:30 Mass
See Schedule

SUNDAY – 10:30 AM

SUNDAY – 12:30 PM

FOOD FOR ROSALIE HALL & GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE

Each month the food we collect is sent to Rosalie Hall and the Good Shepherd Centre. These agencies provide essential services to young parents and the homeless in our city.

With everyone struggling at this time, your food donations are more important than ever. Please check the expiry dates before donating since we cannot pass on food that has expired. Thank you for your generous support!

EUTHANASIA PREVENTION COALITION

Canada legalized euthanasia in June, 2016. The Euthanasia Prevention Coalition (EPC) has worked with many groups and individuals to create a strong opposition to the expansion of euthanasia in Canada by Bill C-7. The COVID shut-down and media bias did not stop them.

Last week, the Canadian Senate voted to pass Bill C-7 with 5 amendments which included expanding euthanasia to people with mental illness.

Legalizing euthanasia gives medical professionals the right in law to lethally inject their patients, but permitting euthanasia for mental illness and through advanced directives directly contradicts the need for effective consent.

Oppose Bill C-7 now and demand that parliament reject euthanasia for mental illness and incompetent people.

To sign this petition opposing Bill-C7 and for more information about the organization please go to Euthanasia Prevention Coalition Canada or epcc.ca

This organization is built on donations from members and other supporters. Regular and monthly donors are the life-blood of the EPC. They are thankful to everyone who has enabled them to do this important work.

CATHOLIC FAMILY SERVICES OF TORONTO’S ONLINE SESSIONS

Catholic Family Services of Toronto is now offering online quick access single sessions. The single-session consultation is a quick and effective way for individuals, couples or families to address a mental health or relationship concern. To arrange for a session, please contact: info@cfstoronto.com or at 416-921-1163 or 416-222-0048. Leave them a message with your name, email and phone number, and a staff person will contact you.

Clients who are interested in pursuing other or additional services in the agency have the option to access their ongoing counselling, wellness or group programs.

Counselling fees are charged according to a client’s income level. No one is denied service because of his/her inability to pay fees.

2021 VIRTUAL ONTARIO PRAYER BREAKFAST

Monday, March 29th from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM.

A VIRTUAL EVENT

The 53rd Ontario Prayer Breakfast will be held virtually this year on Monday, March 29th from 7:30 to 8:30 AM. Join us at the beginning of Holy Week as we enjoy a time of prayer, musical reflection and hear from individuals whose faith has sustained and guided them on the frontline of care and ministry during the pandemic.

The Ontario Prayer Breakfast is organized by the Christian community, bringing together a diverse group of professional, political, corporate and faith leaders from across our province. In past years, close to 1,000 attendees would gather together, regardless of denominational, political or ideological affiliations to join in a time of prayer for our leaders, our province and our communities.

Complimentary registration and more information can be found at: ontarioprayerbreakfast.ca.

Reserve your ticket early. Space is limited to 1,000 virtual guests.

EASTER NIGHT OF PRAISE 2021

Friday, April 9 at 7:00 PM

A VIRTUAL EVENT

St. Dunstan’s Parish invites you to a virtual Easter Praise Night. It will be aired live on our website: https://stdunstanssc.archtoronto.org/en/.

Pre-celebration music starts from 6:00 PM. Anyone wishing to make a presentation can also contact us at: stdunstan@rogers.com.

Come join us as we celebrate the victory of Christ, a victory that knows no bounds. Not even the pandemic can limit our joy at His resurrection, for we are an Easter people and Alleluia is our song!

SONGS FROM THE SEMINARY

An Evening of Music in Honour of Our Blessed Mother

A Virtual Event Hosted by St. Augustine’s Seminary
Thursday, April 15th from 7:00 to 8:00 PM

The pandemic prevents us from gathering in person, so we will bring this concert to your home!

Join us virtually from the seminary for an evening of music in honour of Our Blessed Mother.

Join online at: youtube.com/archtoronto

The concert is free but donations are welcome. Support the Chapel Restoration with your donation at: http://bit.ly/SeminaryChapelRestoration (type “chapel” in the comments box to direct your donation to this specific project).

THE GARDEN SHED

The Spring issue of our new newsletter, “Growing News,” is now available from the home page and the Garden Ministry page of the parish website. We hope you enjoy it and look forward to your “letters to the editor.”

Although nature bestows sunlight, soil and water on the garden, it falls to us to love and care for it. If you can contribute a couple of hours a week to working “Hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature” – Alfred Austin, please get in touch. Garden care days are Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays (except for Mar. 27th) from 9 to 11:30

Our community garden, which provides vegetables and herbs to the Good Shepherd Ministries, begins its third season on March 27th with the indoor planting of seeds. Cash donations to help defray the costs of soil, seedling planters, trellises, etc. would be gratefully accepted.

If you are an experienced gardener, perhaps missing your own garden and would like to take on the leadership of St. Gabriel’s community garden, growing vegetables for the Good Shepherd Ministries and providing direction to our team, please get in touch.

You can reach the Garden Ministry at sgpgardenministry@gmail.com.

ENVELOPES FOR GOOD FRIDAY

Envelopes for the Good Friday Collection to support the needs of Christians in the Holy Land will be available on Good Friday. Please be as generous as your means allow.

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES

Offertory envelopes for 2021 are available at the parish Office. If you would like to pick yours up, please call before coming so that we will have them ready for you. If you are unable to pick yours up, please call the Parish Office and we will make other arrangements.

REMEMBERING THE PARISH IN YOUR WILL

Your parish has been there for you and your family during the most important moments of your lives. Help keep your Catholic community active and alive for years to come.

Please consider your parish in your will or through a planned gift. A bequest is a beautiful way to express your faith and gratitude for a lifetime of blessings – a lasting legacy of love that will help the Church continue with its many ministries.

For more details, please call the Parish Office at 416-221-8866 or contact Peter Okonski, Manager of Planned Giving and Personal Gifts at 416 934 3400 Ext. 519 or by email at development@archtoronto.org.

All calls are confidential.