2026.10.25 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Dear Parishioners,

This Sunday, October 25^th, is commemorated as the Day of Palliative Care in the Archdiocese of Toronto. It is a day to appreciate the gift of life, from womb to tomb, and to promote palliative care. This day also reminds us that even when a person cannot be cured, that person can still be cared for, comforted and loved. In our society, we often measure success by achievements, productivity, and the ability to do things independently. When someone becomes seriously ill, grows weak, or approaches the end of life, we may mistakenly feel that life has lost its value. But the Christian understanding of life is different. A person’s dignity does not diminish when strength disappears, independence is lost, or death approaches. Every human being remains precious in the eyes of God. Palliative care is not simply about managing pain or providing medical assistance. It is about caring for the whole person—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It seeks to relieve suffering, preserve dignity, support families, and help people live as fully and comfortably as possible. 

In his message for the Day of Palliative Care, our Archbishop Frank Cardinal Leo writes, “We have a message of hope and love that must be communicated to people in need of our care, about the benefits of palliative care as well as the morally unacceptable practice of euthanasia and assisted suicide.” Starting Saturday, November 14^th, our Parish will be hosting Horizon of Hope, a four-part palliative care program developed by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. More information will be available in the bulletin or on our Parish website. This will be a helpful and informative session for all Parishioners. The Archdiocese has also published a brochure titled Palliative Care and Catholic Response to Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide, available in ten languages, that answers many questions and outlines the benefits of palliative care.  The brochure can be accessed online at: https://www.archtoronto.org/palliativecare

Fr. Vijai, CSC ~ Pastor