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office@stnorbertschurch.org
Live streaming of Mass from St. Michael's Cathedral
The situation in Lebanon is dire. At least 154 people died in the explosion and 5,000 were injured – those numbers are expected to rise over the coming days. The explosion also destroyed vital food stores and left 300,000 people homeless (representing roughly 12 per cent of the city's population). Five hundred hospital beds, as well as important medical supplies needed for the country's COVID-19 response, were also damaged in the blast.
At this time, we ask the faithful to please donate to the Lebanon relief effort, if they are able.
The Archdiocese of Toronto will send donations to the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), a papal agency with extensive on-the-ground networks in Lebanon. CNEWA staff are currently working to send food, water, medical supplies and hygiene products to Beirut. Spiritual and psychological support will also be provided to those who lost everything in a blink of an eye. Later, CNEWA will rebuild housing and help re-establish those who lost their livelihoods in this disaster.
Those wishing to help may do so in the following ways:
The people of Lebanon – who were already dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and hosting almost one million Syrian refugees – need our assistance. It is at times like these when we are called to respond in a special way to our Christian mission to love our neighbour.
Registration for Seating
Since the capacity of the church is reduced, reservation is the only solution for weekend Masses (Saturday 5.00 pm, Sunday 9.00 am, 10.30 am and 12.00 noon). Considering the elderly population of our parish, registration for all will be done exclusively over the phone (416-636-0213). You will need to provide your name, phone number, address and the number of family members coming with you. Registrations for each weekend will open the prior Wednesday at 9.00 am and close Friday at 5.00 pm.
If you show up with no registration, the ushers are forced to turn you down. Please do not make such a situation of disappointment; we all are obliged to follow government protocols.
For week-day Masses (Tuesday 7.00 pm, Wednesday 7.00 pm. Thursday 8.30 am, and Friday 8.30 am) First Come First Served admission will be followed.
Before coming to the Church:
- Please assure your reservation.
- Check your temperature. If anyone in the family has the temperature at or above 37.8°C/100°F oral or 37.5°C/99.5°F forehead, please remain home and consult your family doctor.
- If you exhibit any of the following symptoms: cough, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, muscle aches, loss of taste or smell, headache, runny nose, sore throat, chills with shakes, please remain home.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes before the Mass begins to stand in line.
- Maintain physical distancing at all times – 2 metres (6 feet) from others – in the parking lot, church entrance and in church itself.
- Upon arrival, put on mask/face covering before entering the Church (for ages 3+).
- There is only one entrance to the Church, that is, the main door facing Ancaster Rd.
- Holy water fonts are to remain empty until such time as they may be used safely.
- Sanitize hands upon entry. Please bring your own sanitizer if possible.
- Ushers will seat your household similar to boarding an airplane.
- Families and households living at the same residence may sit together, however, 2-metre (6 ft.) distance should be maintained concerning others.
- Please listen carefully to the announcements and follow the direction as advised.
- Please place your weekly offertory in the designated basket as you depart.
- No physical contact at the Sign of Peace or during the Lord's Prayer.
- Holy Communion is given only in the hand with no physical contact.
- If you suddenly feel ill, start coughing or sneezing, please leave the church for the health and safety of others gathered.
- Holy Communion will be distributed in the pews, rather people lining-up to the priest.
- Washrooms are restricted for use, unless absolutely necessary.
- All must remain in their pew. You must exit your pew only when prompted. This will be similar to how you exit an airplane.
- The printed bulletins are suspended, please visit our website: http://stnorbertschurch.org/
- The church must be closed right after each Mass for cleaning and sanitization.
- If, within 14 days of attending Mass, you have tested positive for COVID-19, you are asked to: a) contact the Ontario Public Health Authority; and, b) contact the parish office. Your identity will not be revealed to anyone other than the Public Health Authority, and only to ensure that any spread is contained.
Dear Clergy, Religious and Lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Toronto,
In light of the government announcement of June 8, 2020 regarding the re-opening of places of worship, I would like to provide additional direction to all parishes on our re-opening timeline after consulting with the Council of Priests and Episcopal Board.
While the government has indicated that places of worship may open as of 12:01 a.m. on June 12, we recognize the extensive protocols that must be in place to safely re-open our churches. These include the training of clergy, staff and volunteers as well as ensuring appropriate cleaning supplies, signage and capacity control mechanisms can be prepared. Mindful that we are still in a period of pandemic, our goal is to ensure we can welcome the faithful and provide a safe environment for all.
Recognizing these challenges and balancing them with the understandable desire of the faithful to return to their spiritual home, I would ask all parishes to adopt the following timeline: opening churches for private prayer/adoration, moving to daily Mass for the public and finally returning to Sunday Masses throughout the archdiocese.
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Please note that as per government direction regrading capacity, churches are limited to 30 per cent of their worship space. Funerals and weddings are restricted to 10 people including the presider at this time.
Before opening the church, the pastor must be satisfied that the Archdiocese of Toronto "Return to Church" guidelines can be followed. If there are concerns regarding the ability to follow these guidelines in his parish, he should consult with the regional bishop.
I continue to provide dispensation from the Sunday Mass for those who may not be able to attend for health reasons or due to capacity restrictions. St. Michael’s Cathedral will continue to livestream Masses – parishes may choose to do so for a period of time during this transition period or publicize the cathedral livestream, DailyTVMass.com as well as Masses offered through Salt & Light Catholic Television, EWTN and others.
I recognize there will be a period of adjustment and transition as we move to this new phase of operations. I also extend my sincere gratitude for all that you have done during this period of closure and for the effort you are taking to prepare and implement this new chapter in an extraordinary year.
We continue to remember in prayer those who have suffered during this period of pandemic and for all those who continue to care of them.
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Thomas Cardinal Collins Archbishop of Toronto
Earlier today, Premier Ford made an announcement regarding the re-opening of places of worship, in light of restrictions that have been in place for the last number of months relating to the coronavirus pandemic.
We thank Premier Ford and Minister Monte McNaughton (who coordinated and liaised with faith communities during this period of pandemic), for their efforts in recognizing the importance of places of worship for so many Ontarians. We also appreciate the opportunity for constructive dialogue over the last number of weeks regarding our concerns and suggestions for a path forward.
I am grateful to Catholics throughout the archdiocese for their patience and understanding as we worked collectively to minimize the potential spread of COVID-19 over the past several months. I am also keenly aware that closing our more than 200 Catholic churches in the Archdiocese of Toronto has been a painful and difficult period for all of us.
As announced by Premier Ford, there will be capacity restrictions (30 per cent) as we move to an initial phase of re-opening our churches. We will also be employing measures to ensure the safety of all those who worship at Catholic churches throughout the archdiocese. Our full re-opening plan and timing of its implementation will be issued publicly later this week after we have the opportunity to consult our Council of Priests and provide in-service sessions for clergy and staff.
We very much look forward to returning to the celebration of the sacraments in our churches as we continue to pray for all those who are sick, those who have died and for all those front-line workers who are serving so faithfully.
Holy Trinity Sunday
We have witnessed shocking events, most recently the violent death of George Floyd, that have prompted protests and important conversations both in the United States and our own country, on the topic of racism and violence. In our own archdiocese, there have been peaceful demonstrations and dialogue based on our local reality and concern for one another.
It is important that, in these conversations, we authentically listen to the plight of those who have been victims of racism, intolerance and violence. I firmly believe on these occasions that we should all listen more than we speak, in order to gain a better understanding and appreciation of the suffering of others.
While we enjoy one of the most ethnically diverse faith communities in North America, we must continue to remind ourselves daily to follow the example of Jesus to love one another as ourselves without exception. Racism knows no boundaries and it remains a present day challenge that must not be ignored.
We join together in prayer for victims of racism, violence and intolerance and for those who are working peacefully to effect change. May each one of us reflect the loving face of Jesus to all those whom we encounter on the journey.
The Solemnity of Pentecost
Update from the Archdiocese of Toronto
The decision to close our parish churches on March 24, 2020, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic was a very difficult one and we recognize the tremendous spiritual sacrifice of the faithful during this time. We also want to do all that we can to minimize the potential spread of Covid-19 in our community.
We know that you have questions and are anxious to return to your local parish. This update will let you know where we are at present and what we’ve been doing to prepare for the days ahead.
Thank you for your continued patience. We join in collective prayer, anticipating the day that we may all be together once again.
The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
The Sixth Sunday of Easter
The Fifth Sunday of Easter
All mothers are remembered on the Altar: On May 10, 2020, the second Sunday of May, let us offer our mothers on the altar whether they are alive or have gone to their eternal reward.
We Christians have two mothers: our earthly mother and our Heavenly Mother, Mary, the Mother of Jesus. The month of May is traditionally the month of Mary. Holy Mary, the supreme model for all mothers, affirmed her obedience to the call of God, and she lived her vocation throughout her entire life. Pope St. John Paul II in his encyclical letter Redemptoris Mater 46 writes, "In the light of Mary, the Church sees in the face of women the reflection of a beauty which mirrors the loftiest sentiments of which the human heart is capable: the self-offering totality of love; the strength that is capable of bearing the greatest sorrows; limitless fidelity and tireless devotion to work; the ability to combine penetrating intuition with words of support and encouragement."
The Holy Bible throws light on the place of mother in human life.
On this Mother’s Day, let us recall the words of the hymn: Gentle mother, peaceful dove, teach us wisdom, teach us love.
Greetings and Blessings from St. Norbert's Parish: Happy mother's Day!
Msgr. Gigi Philip
We pray that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy during this time of uncertainty.
We would like to share with you a reflection from Cardinal Thomas Collins, Archbishop of Toronto, related to the pandemic, sacramental restrictions and planning for a return to sacramental life.
In the communication, His Eminence references a number of working groups that have been planning for the days and weeks ahead as we all look forward to when our churches will be open for worship. Both the Archdiocese of Toronto and your local parish will keep you informed as we prepare to re-open our churches, at a time when it is safe to do so. You can visit your local parish website or stay updated online at: www.archtoronto.org/covid19.
Please take a moment to view the letter from Cardinal Collins here.
Thank you for your continued patience. We join in collective prayer, anticipating the day that we may all be together once again.
The Fourth Sunday of Easter (Good Shepherd Sunday)
The Third Sunday of Easter
2020 the Best Easter amidst Covid 19
The Triduum and Easter
| April 9, Thursday | Lord's Supper | 7.00 PM |
| April 10, Friday | Good Friday | 3.00 PM |
| April 11, Saturday | Easter Vigil Service & Mass | 7.00 PM |
| April 12, Sunday | Easter Sunday Mass | 10.00 AM |
Prayer Intentions:
Let us appreciate and pray for many: people affected with Covid 19 or facing quarantine or isolated; medical professionals, doctors, nurses, caregivers and staffs; research team, health leaders, political leaders, police; hospital chaplains and parish priests; families adjusting to new realities of life; small business owners and families facing financial stress; grocery store workers and delivery drivers and so on.
Financial Support:
Thank you for your many contributions to our parish community. It will be a challenge for our parish to maintain operations without the offertory collection. These are the ways you can continue to support our parish, especially this of crisis:
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If you have any questions please contact the Development Office at the Archdiocese of Toronto, 416-934-3400, ext. 540 or development@archtoronto.org.
I miss seeing you all. I wish you a Blessed Triduum and a Happy Easter.
Stay safe. Yours in Christ,
Msgr. Gigi Philip
St. Norbert's Parish, Toronto
"Christians have always prepared for the glory of Easter with the austere penitential discipline of Lent, but this Lent has been like no other in recent memory. The global Covid-19 pandemic has revealed the fragility of our human condition in this valley of tears, through which we journey home to the heavenly Father. It has shattered the illusion that our human will is in control of the world in which we briefly live."
Read full text of Holy Week message from Cardinal Thomas Collins.
Explore our Holy Week 2020 Schedule by clicking here.
Note: This Holy Week Program has three Sections:
1. Services live-streamed from St. Michael's Cathedral
2. Official and devotional prayers I do in private for the intentions of the parishioners and for the world. To be part of it, please keep in heart those hours from your home, work or wherever you are.
3. Zoom Prayer Meeting: please join the meeting using zoom link you find in our group whatsapp, email, website or facebook.
Make your home a small church, a chapel:
Fr. Gigi Philip
St. Norbert's Parish, Toronto
Access the livestream from St. Michael's Cathedral:
 St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica website |  St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica Facebook |
More details on the website of the Archdiocese of Toronto
As we approach the most sacred time of the year, Cardinal Collins has outlined the guidelines for celebrations during the Holy Week and Easter. Also, the times at which Masses will be livestreamed from St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica are specified.
You can read the Letter by clicking here.
Dear parishioners,
Thank you for your love and concern about my health and safety. I hope and pray that you are staying healthy by the grace of God. I remember all of you in my daily Mass and Adoration to the Blessed Sacrament. Please let me know if the parish can help you during these difficult times.
The world is in pain now. Let us be united in prayer seeking the mercy of God. In a special way, we pray for all who work hard in fighting against Covid 19. Let us obey completely the instructions of the health and civil authorities. Our office is closed until further notice and Cynthia, our parish secretary is working from home. For any emergency, please feel free to call office or send a mail. She will be checking messages and taking appropriate actions.
No doubt you are aware that our parish relies on the support of our parishioners to operate; – parish salaries, programs and ongoing operating costs (heating, water, electricity, etc.) – are funded through the generosity of our parish community. It will be a challenge for our parish to maintain operations without the weekly offertory collection.
In response to many requests that I have received from parishioners, here are the ways that you can continue to support our parish at this time:
- Your name
- Address
- Parish name
- Municipality
You will be emailed account information, which you can use to set up the Archdiocese of Toronto as a payee in your on-line banking. Your gift will be forwarded to our parish. You can make a one time or recurring gift to our offertory.
If you have any questions please contact the Development Office at the Archdiocese of Toronto, 416-934-3400, ext. 540 or development@archtoronto.org.
Thank you for your many contributions to our parish community. I miss seeing all of you at the Mass and I pray daily that we will be able to gather together again soon.
Yours in Christ,
Msgr. Gigi Philip
Dear Parishioners of St. Norbert's Parish,
In order to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus and so as to comply with the Government of Ontario's new regulations requiring that all non-essential workplaces be closed, we are sorry to inform you that the church and the parish office must remain closed until further notice.
However, we are still here for you during this difficult time. You can still leave a voicemail at the parish office: (416)636-0213.
Or you can email us at: office@stnorbertschurch.org. We will return your message as soon as possible.
Visit www.stnorbertschurch.org.
For updated information from the Archdiocese of Toronto and for links to view the Daily Mass online visit www.archtoronto.org/covid19
Please continue to pray for those sick and those caring for them. Be assured of our daily prayers for you.
Yours in Christ
Msgr. Gigi Philip
Pastor of St. Norbert's Church
My dear parishioners,
We wait for any further guidelines from the civil and ecclesial authorities. During this time of social and spiritual suffering, let me suggest two important things:
1. Follow carefully the guidelines of the health authorities. We care for ourselves and for each other.
2. Give special attention to enhance and strengthen your spiritual life during this crisis. This is a God-given moments to catch our personal spirituality. When there is no Church to worship, our home is our Church. Make use of this time to connect God in personal prayer and reading Bible.
Let us support each other. In Christ, your pastor
Msgr. Gigi Philip
My dear parishioners,
In the light of the state of Emergency declared by the Premier of Ontario and the pastoral guidelines issued by the Archbishop of Toronto, let me communicate to you this information from St. Norbert's Parish.
Cancellations until further notice:
Modified Operations:
We follow the guidelines of the Cardinal for all other parish operations. During this time of social and spiritual suffering, let me suggest two important things:
1. Follow carefully the guidelines of the health authorities. If you have travelled, sick or unwell, kindly accept self-isolation. We care for ourselves and for each other.
2. Give special attention to enhance and strengthen your spiritual life during this crisis. Make use of this time to connect God in personal prayer and reading Bible.
2 Chronicles 7:13-15 (NRSV) When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people, if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.
Isaiah 41:10 (NRSV) Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, or I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Mathew 14:30-31 When Peter became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"
Let us support each other in prayer. See you soon. In Christ,
Fr. Gigi Philip, Pastor
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