It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Paul Joseph O’Connor on April 25, 2020, at the age of 66.
Loving husband of Maija Asaris for 34 years. Paul will be greatly missedby his mother Mary, siblings Susan, Kevin (Lisa) and nieces & nephew Alida, Carson and Caroline.
He will always be remembered by all the people whose lives he touched as a friendly and caring person.
Paul loved his Irish heritage, a spirited Irish get together, travel, and family history.
Throughout his life, Paul shared a passion for history which included supporting Heritage Toronto, the Etobicoke Historical Society, Alderwood Historical Society and contributing a chapter to the Villages of Etobicoke.
We thank the staff of Trillium Hospital who cared for Paul during his fight with the COVID virus.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Donations can be made in Paul’s memory to St. Ambrose Catholic church or the Trillium Health Partners Foundation.
To make a donation in Paul's memory,
please click on the link below -
NOTE: You must select St. Ambrose Parish
also please indicate in the comments that your donation is in Paul's memory.
Loving husband of Maija Asaris for 34 years. Paul will be greatly missedby his mother Mary, siblings Susan, Kevin (Lisa) and nieces & nephew Alida, Carson and Caroline.
He will always be remembered by all the people whose lives he touched as a friendly and caring person.
Paul loved his Irish heritage, a spirited Irish get together, travel, and family history.
Throughout his life, Paul shared a passion for history which included supporting Heritage Toronto, the Etobicoke Historical Society, Alderwood Historical Society and contributing a chapter to the Villages of Etobicoke.
We thank the staff of Trillium Hospital who cared for Paul during his fight with the COVID virus.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Donations can be made in Paul’s memory to St. Ambrose Catholic church or the Trillium Health Partners Foundation.
To make a donation in Paul's memory,
please click on the link below -
NOTE: You must select St. Ambrose Parish
also please indicate in the comments that your donation is in Paul's memory.
Update from the Archdiocese of Toronto May 27, 2020
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.
Q. How is the Archdiocese of Toronto preparing for re-opening?
A. Four archdiocesan task forces have been addressing the following pandemic-related issues:
1. Re-opening of churches;
2. Re-opening of offices;
3. Financial implications and related issues; and
4. Best practices that can be implemented post-pandemic.
We are also working closely with the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario (ACBO) to offer dioceses and churches a consistent approach to re-opening across the province. All this work has been done in consultation with health and safety experts. We’ve held virtual town halls with our clergy and staff, to keep them appraised of our plans along the way.
Pastors have been communicating directly with the faithful in a variety of ways – through the parish website, by mail, text, phone and through social media. Cardinal Thomas Collins, Archbishop of Toronto, has provided regular updates to the faithful.
These and other Covid-19 related resources can be accessed by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/covid19. You can subscribe to receive these updates if you’re not already receiving them.
Q. Why not re-open the churches now?
A. Throughout this process, we have been part of conversations and meetings with all levels of government to advocate for reopening places of worship as soon as it is safe to do so. We’ve also discussed the unique nature of our worship spaces, how we plan to create a safe environment for the faithful and we’ve shared our draft plans for re-opening. While we would all like to re-open right away, we must do so thoughtfully and responsibly, as we do everything possible to ensure the safety of all. As Cardinal Collins wrote in his May 7 statement to the faithful, “We should also recall that we Christians defend the sanctity of human life from the first moment of conception until natural death: in a time of pestilence, that commitment of ours requires us to follow the reasonable norms designed to protect the lives of those around us.”
Q. I understand the Province of Ontario has amended its Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, to allow for drive-in religious services. Can we have an outdoor Mass at my parish?
A. The amendment was passed, however, it contains several restrictions which would not make the celebration of Holy Mass feasible. Parking lot Masses are not permitted in the Archdiocese of Toronto.
Update from the Archdiocese of Toronto 2
Q. When will we re-open churches?
A. That is the question on everyone’s minds. Unfortunately, we can’t give you a firm date at this time. We rely on the direction of the top health officials in our province who have expertise in pandemic planning. Once they indicate it is safe to do so, we will re-open churches when we are confident that parishes can provide a safe environment for the faithful. We are planning for a phased reopening, similar to what is being done in churches around the world.
Q. What will it look like when we reopen churches?
A. The re-opening period will require a number of changes from our pre-pandemic operations. We anticipate that capacity limits will be necessary once churches re-open, beginning with smaller numbers and increasing as it is safe to do so. Physical distancing (2 metres/6 feet) measures will also be introduced and our desire to socialize as a faith community will be limited for a period of time. Enhanced worship space cleaning measures will also be required at and before every Mass. These require significant supplies and volunteers to ensure they are implemented properly. We are working with experts to finalize the specific measures that will be required.
Q. How about weddings, funerals and baptisms?
What is the status of these sacramental celebrations?
A. Weddings and baptisms can proceed at present but are limited by the guidelines of local health authorities to 5 people including the celebrant. Funerals continue with a limit of 10 people. We recognize these numbers create anxiety and frustration for many people. We anticipate as churches begin to reopen these numbers will increase. However at this time, we cannot give an indication of what those numbers will be and when they can happen.
Q. What about First Communion and Confirmation celebrations for children of sacramental age that are scheduled to take place around this time of year?
A. These celebrations are not able to take place at this time. Whether these are rescheduled to the fall or to a date in 2021 is largely dependent on how soon we are able to return to church in greater numbers. We will continue to keep you informed as plans are finalized.
Q. What about candidates for Baptism or reception into the full communion of the Catholic Church that were scheduled to take place at the Easter Vigil?
A. The Baptism of candidates or their reception into the Catholic Church can take place on an individual basis within the limits imposed by the health authorities, of 5 people, including the minister. Alternatively, these liturgical celebrations should be the focus of attention when churches re-open.
Q. Where is Mass televised/offered online?
A. While we recognize it is not the same as attending Mass at your local church, there are many opportunities to watch daily or Sunday Mass. Visit www.archtoronto.org/covid19 and click on “Watch the Mass” – you’ll find options for daily Mass with Cardinal Collins from St. Michael’s Cathedral as well as links to parish celebrations offered each Sunday (or in some cases more frequently). The daily televised Mass, produced by the National Catholic Broadcasting Council, airs on a number of networks including Salt & Light Catholic Television, YesTV and VisionTV. Consult your local listings or visit www.DailyTVMass.com for a full schedule. While public Masses are currently suspended, priests across the Archdiocese of Toronto celebrate daily Mass – be assured that your parish priest is praying for you daily throughout this period of pandemic.
Update from the Archdiocese of Toronto 3
Q, How can I help?
A. As noted, we will need significant volunteer assistance as we re-open churches. If you would like to offer your time and talents to assist at your local parish, please contact them and let them know you’d like to help and your availability. You can also visit: www.archtoronto.org/covid19 to learn about additional volunteer opportunities with local charities.
We’ve also been heartened by the many parishioners who have asked how they can continue to financial support their parish. A number of donation options are available including credit card, pre-authorized giving or dropping off your donation at the parish office. You can learn more about financially supporting your parish by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/covid19/Pages/support .aspx
Thank You
We recognize this is a particularly challenging time for all. Thank you for your patience during this period of closure. Know that we are working tirelessly to prepare and create a safe environment for you and your loved ones. We want to welcome you back as soon as it is safe to do so!
Please join us in praying for all those who are sick and those who have died during this time of pandemic. We also remember in our prayers those caring for the ill, our health care professionals and the countless front line workers labouring during these difficult days.
We will continue to keep you updated as plans evolve.
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.
Q. How is the Archdiocese of Toronto preparing for re-opening?
A. Four archdiocesan task forces have been addressing the following pandemic-related issues:
1. Re-opening of churches;
2. Re-opening of offices;
3. Financial implications and related issues; and
4. Best practices that can be implemented post-pandemic.
We are also working closely with the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario (ACBO) to offer dioceses and churches a consistent approach to re-opening across the province. All this work has been done in consultation with health and safety experts. We’ve held virtual town halls with our clergy and staff, to keep them appraised of our plans along the way.
Pastors have been communicating directly with the faithful in a variety of ways – through the parish website, by mail, text, phone and through social media. Cardinal Thomas Collins, Archbishop of Toronto, has provided regular updates to the faithful.
These and other Covid-19 related resources can be accessed by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/covid19. You can subscribe to receive these updates if you’re not already receiving them.
Q. Why not re-open the churches now?
A. Throughout this process, we have been part of conversations and meetings with all levels of government to advocate for reopening places of worship as soon as it is safe to do so. We’ve also discussed the unique nature of our worship spaces, how we plan to create a safe environment for the faithful and we’ve shared our draft plans for re-opening. While we would all like to re-open right away, we must do so thoughtfully and responsibly, as we do everything possible to ensure the safety of all. As Cardinal Collins wrote in his May 7 statement to the faithful, “We should also recall that we Christians defend the sanctity of human life from the first moment of conception until natural death: in a time of pestilence, that commitment of ours requires us to follow the reasonable norms designed to protect the lives of those around us.”
Q. I understand the Province of Ontario has amended its Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, to allow for drive-in religious services. Can we have an outdoor Mass at my parish?
A. The amendment was passed, however, it contains several restrictions which would not make the celebration of Holy Mass feasible. Parking lot Masses are not permitted in the Archdiocese of Toronto.
Update from the Archdiocese of Toronto 2
Q. When will we re-open churches?
A. That is the question on everyone’s minds. Unfortunately, we can’t give you a firm date at this time. We rely on the direction of the top health officials in our province who have expertise in pandemic planning. Once they indicate it is safe to do so, we will re-open churches when we are confident that parishes can provide a safe environment for the faithful. We are planning for a phased reopening, similar to what is being done in churches around the world.
Q. What will it look like when we reopen churches?
A. The re-opening period will require a number of changes from our pre-pandemic operations. We anticipate that capacity limits will be necessary once churches re-open, beginning with smaller numbers and increasing as it is safe to do so. Physical distancing (2 metres/6 feet) measures will also be introduced and our desire to socialize as a faith community will be limited for a period of time. Enhanced worship space cleaning measures will also be required at and before every Mass. These require significant supplies and volunteers to ensure they are implemented properly. We are working with experts to finalize the specific measures that will be required.
Q. How about weddings, funerals and baptisms?
What is the status of these sacramental celebrations?
A. Weddings and baptisms can proceed at present but are limited by the guidelines of local health authorities to 5 people including the celebrant. Funerals continue with a limit of 10 people. We recognize these numbers create anxiety and frustration for many people. We anticipate as churches begin to reopen these numbers will increase. However at this time, we cannot give an indication of what those numbers will be and when they can happen.
Q. What about First Communion and Confirmation celebrations for children of sacramental age that are scheduled to take place around this time of year?
A. These celebrations are not able to take place at this time. Whether these are rescheduled to the fall or to a date in 2021 is largely dependent on how soon we are able to return to church in greater numbers. We will continue to keep you informed as plans are finalized.
Q. What about candidates for Baptism or reception into the full communion of the Catholic Church that were scheduled to take place at the Easter Vigil?
A. The Baptism of candidates or their reception into the Catholic Church can take place on an individual basis within the limits imposed by the health authorities, of 5 people, including the minister. Alternatively, these liturgical celebrations should be the focus of attention when churches re-open.
Q. Where is Mass televised/offered online?
A. While we recognize it is not the same as attending Mass at your local church, there are many opportunities to watch daily or Sunday Mass. Visit www.archtoronto.org/covid19 and click on “Watch the Mass” – you’ll find options for daily Mass with Cardinal Collins from St. Michael’s Cathedral as well as links to parish celebrations offered each Sunday (or in some cases more frequently). The daily televised Mass, produced by the National Catholic Broadcasting Council, airs on a number of networks including Salt & Light Catholic Television, YesTV and VisionTV. Consult your local listings or visit www.DailyTVMass.com for a full schedule. While public Masses are currently suspended, priests across the Archdiocese of Toronto celebrate daily Mass – be assured that your parish priest is praying for you daily throughout this period of pandemic.
Update from the Archdiocese of Toronto 3
Q, How can I help?
A. As noted, we will need significant volunteer assistance as we re-open churches. If you would like to offer your time and talents to assist at your local parish, please contact them and let them know you’d like to help and your availability. You can also visit: www.archtoronto.org/covid19 to learn about additional volunteer opportunities with local charities.
We’ve also been heartened by the many parishioners who have asked how they can continue to financial support their parish. A number of donation options are available including credit card, pre-authorized giving or dropping off your donation at the parish office. You can learn more about financially supporting your parish by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/covid19/Pages/support .aspx
Thank You
We recognize this is a particularly challenging time for all. Thank you for your patience during this period of closure. Know that we are working tirelessly to prepare and create a safe environment for you and your loved ones. We want to welcome you back as soon as it is safe to do so!
Please join us in praying for all those who are sick and those who have died during this time of pandemic. We also remember in our prayers those caring for the ill, our health care professionals and the countless front line workers labouring during these difficult days.
We will continue to keep you updated as plans evolve.
St. Ambrose Parish is now offering our parishioners free registration to Formed!
www.stambroseparish.formed.org
FORMED on Demand is the revolutionary digital platform that gives you unprecedented access to video-based study programs, feature films, audio presentations, and eBooks from the Church’s foremost presenters.
To register please enter www.stambroseparish.formed.org.
Do not sign up as individual.
www.stambroseparish.formed.org
FORMED on Demand is the revolutionary digital platform that gives you unprecedented access to video-based study programs, feature films, audio presentations, and eBooks from the Church’s foremost presenters.
To register please enter www.stambroseparish.formed.org.
Do not sign up as individual.
Photo Gallery Visit our Photo Gallery,
new pictures have been added!
PANCAKE TUESDAY
A Big thank you to Patti, Gemma, Theresa, Marge and also to Sara from Parent Council and other mothers for a successful pancake Tuesday!
We made about 1200 pancakes for the children at St. Ambrose Catholic School.
A Big thank you to Patti, Gemma, Theresa, Marge and also to Sara from Parent Council and other mothers for a successful pancake Tuesday!
We made about 1200 pancakes for the children at St. Ambrose Catholic School.
Anyone wishing to volunteer in any ministry here at St. Ambrose, please see Archdiocese Volunteer Screening website where you will find a list of volunteer positions and description. Click here for a list of ministries https://www.archtoronto.org/volunteer-screening/Pages/Ministry-Positions-in-English-.aspx
Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we are called to share our gifts with others and with the world. Given the importance of this call from God, it is essential that we, as a community, do everything in our power to ensure that the offerings are shared fairly, at the right time and by the right people. We fulfill our mission more effectively when we do our utmost to ensure a richer, stronger more vibrant community of faith. Please see Father Donatello if you are interested in volunteering.
Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we are called to share our gifts with others and with the world. Given the importance of this call from God, it is essential that we, as a community, do everything in our power to ensure that the offerings are shared fairly, at the right time and by the right people. We fulfill our mission more effectively when we do our utmost to ensure a richer, stronger more vibrant community of faith. Please see Father Donatello if you are interested in volunteering.
MASS TIMES
Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday)
8:00am
Saturday Vigil: 4:30pm
Sunday: 9:00am
11:00am
Confessions:
Saturday 3:45-4:15pm
(or call office for appointment)
Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday)
8:00am
Saturday Vigil: 4:30pm
Sunday: 9:00am
11:00am
Confessions:
Saturday 3:45-4:15pm
(or call office for appointment)
Matthew 25: 35 I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.
Welcome to your home at St. Ambrose Parish! It is through the love of Christ that he has brought me here to St. Ambrose Parish to serve you as Pastor. It is my prayer and hope, and with the grace of God, we can build up the kingdom of our Lord with love and joy. We all have troubles and difficulties in our lives. But when we come to the Lord with a humble heart in the midst of our brothers and sisters in Christ we should all feel the warmth and mercy of God. We should encounter Jesus! Let us together welcome the hungry, the thirsty and the stranger who come to St. Ambrose Parish. Let Christ work through us to be the food of good works, the drink of mercy and the welcome that a stranger yearns for. - Father Donatello Iocco
Welcome to your home at St. Ambrose Parish! It is through the love of Christ that he has brought me here to St. Ambrose Parish to serve you as Pastor. It is my prayer and hope, and with the grace of God, we can build up the kingdom of our Lord with love and joy. We all have troubles and difficulties in our lives. But when we come to the Lord with a humble heart in the midst of our brothers and sisters in Christ we should all feel the warmth and mercy of God. We should encounter Jesus! Let us together welcome the hungry, the thirsty and the stranger who come to St. Ambrose Parish. Let Christ work through us to be the food of good works, the drink of mercy and the welcome that a stranger yearns for. - Father Donatello Iocco
FEAST DAY – December 7th
Aurelius Ambrosius, better known in English as Saint Ambrose (c. 340 – 4 April 397), was an archbishop of Milan who became one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the 4th century. He was consular prefect of Liguria and Emilia, headquartered in Milan, before being made bishop of Milan by popular acclamation in 374. Ambrose was a staunch opponent of Arianism, and has been accused of fostering persecutions both of them and of Jews and pagans.
Traditionally, Ambrose is credited with promoting "antiphonal chant", a style of chanting in which one side of the choir responds alternately to the other, as well as with composing Veni redemptor gentium, a Christmas hymn.
Ambrose was one of the four original doctors of the Church, and is the patron saint of Milan. He is notable for his influence on St. Augustine. Ambrose was born into a Roman Christian family about 340 AD and was raised in Trier.[2] His father was Aurelius Ambrosius, the praetorian prefect of Gaul his mother was a woman of intellect and piety. Ambrose's siblings, Satyrus (who is the subject of Ambrose's De excessu fratris Satyri) and Marcellina, are also venerated as saints. There is a legend that as an infant, a swarm of bees settled on his face while he lay in his cradle, leaving behind a drop of honey. His father considered this a sign of his future eloquence and honeyed tongue. For this reason, bees and beehives often appear in the saint's symbology.
After the early death of his father, Ambrose followed his father's career. He was educated in Rome, studying literature, law, and rhetoric.[6] Praetorian prefect Probus first gave him a place in the council and then in about 372 made him consular prefect or "Governor" of Liguria and Emilia, with headquarters at Milan, which was then (beside Rome) the second capital in Italy.
Ambrose was the Governor of Aemilia-Liguria in northern Italy until 374 when he became the Bishop of Milan. He was a very popular political figure, and since he was the Governor in the effective capital in the Roman West, he was a recognizable figure in the court of the Emperor Valentinian I. Ambrose never married.
Soon after acquiring the undisputed possession of the Roman empire, Theodosius died at Milan in 395, and two years later (April 4, 397) Ambrose also died. He was succeeded as bishop of Milan by Simplician. Ambrose's body may still be viewed in the church of S. Ambrogio in Milan, where it has been continuously venerated — along with the bodies identified in his time as being those of Sts. Gervase and Protase.
Many circumstances in the history of Ambrose are characteristic of the general spirit of the times. The chief causes of his victory over his opponents were his great popularity and the reverence paid to the episcopal character at that period. But it must also be noted that he used several indirect means to obtain and support his authority with the people.
He was generous to the poor; it was his custom to comment severely in his preaching on the public characters of his times; and he introduced popular reforms in the order and manner of public worship. It is alleged, too, that at a time when the influence of Ambrose required vigorous support, he was admonished in a dream to search for, and found under the pavement of the church, the remains of two martyrs, Gervasius and Protasius. The saints, although they would have had to have been hundreds of years old, looked as if they had just died. The applause of the people was mingled with the derision of the court party.
Aurelius Ambrosius, better known in English as Saint Ambrose (c. 340 – 4 April 397), was an archbishop of Milan who became one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the 4th century. He was consular prefect of Liguria and Emilia, headquartered in Milan, before being made bishop of Milan by popular acclamation in 374. Ambrose was a staunch opponent of Arianism, and has been accused of fostering persecutions both of them and of Jews and pagans.
Traditionally, Ambrose is credited with promoting "antiphonal chant", a style of chanting in which one side of the choir responds alternately to the other, as well as with composing Veni redemptor gentium, a Christmas hymn.
Ambrose was one of the four original doctors of the Church, and is the patron saint of Milan. He is notable for his influence on St. Augustine. Ambrose was born into a Roman Christian family about 340 AD and was raised in Trier.[2] His father was Aurelius Ambrosius, the praetorian prefect of Gaul his mother was a woman of intellect and piety. Ambrose's siblings, Satyrus (who is the subject of Ambrose's De excessu fratris Satyri) and Marcellina, are also venerated as saints. There is a legend that as an infant, a swarm of bees settled on his face while he lay in his cradle, leaving behind a drop of honey. His father considered this a sign of his future eloquence and honeyed tongue. For this reason, bees and beehives often appear in the saint's symbology.
After the early death of his father, Ambrose followed his father's career. He was educated in Rome, studying literature, law, and rhetoric.[6] Praetorian prefect Probus first gave him a place in the council and then in about 372 made him consular prefect or "Governor" of Liguria and Emilia, with headquarters at Milan, which was then (beside Rome) the second capital in Italy.
Ambrose was the Governor of Aemilia-Liguria in northern Italy until 374 when he became the Bishop of Milan. He was a very popular political figure, and since he was the Governor in the effective capital in the Roman West, he was a recognizable figure in the court of the Emperor Valentinian I. Ambrose never married.
Soon after acquiring the undisputed possession of the Roman empire, Theodosius died at Milan in 395, and two years later (April 4, 397) Ambrose also died. He was succeeded as bishop of Milan by Simplician. Ambrose's body may still be viewed in the church of S. Ambrogio in Milan, where it has been continuously venerated — along with the bodies identified in his time as being those of Sts. Gervase and Protase.
Many circumstances in the history of Ambrose are characteristic of the general spirit of the times. The chief causes of his victory over his opponents were his great popularity and the reverence paid to the episcopal character at that period. But it must also be noted that he used several indirect means to obtain and support his authority with the people.
He was generous to the poor; it was his custom to comment severely in his preaching on the public characters of his times; and he introduced popular reforms in the order and manner of public worship. It is alleged, too, that at a time when the influence of Ambrose required vigorous support, he was admonished in a dream to search for, and found under the pavement of the church, the remains of two martyrs, Gervasius and Protasius. The saints, although they would have had to have been hundreds of years old, looked as if they had just died. The applause of the people was mingled with the derision of the court party.
