National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Sept. 30) provides an opportunity for all Canadians to reflect and honour Survivors of residential schools and those who support them. In a special way, we remember the children that never returned home. We recognize this painful history and, as a Catholic community, acknowledge our involvement in the residential school system. On this day, we pray, educate and advocate, looking for opportunities to discern how each one of us can participate in the journey of healing, reconciliation and hope.

Cardinal Collins will preside at the 7:30 a.m. Mass on Friday, September 30, 2022 from St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica, offered in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Indigenous community members will participate in the service. You can access the livestream at: www.stmichaelscathedral.com/live.

Catholics who want to learn more about the legacy of residential schools can find many helpful resources by clicking here!

Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto are invited to participate in the collection being held the weekend of October 1/2 to support the Indigenous Healing & Reconciliation Fund. The collection is a national grassroots effort to assist healing and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of This Land. The fund was the result of a $30 million financial commitment made by the Canadian Bishops in September 2021. 
Funds will support culture and language revitalization, education and community building, healing and reconciliation for communities and families and dialogue involving Indigenous elders, spiritual leaders and youth with a focus on Indigenous spirituality and culture. 
This is an opportunity to follow the invitation of the Holy Father made earlier this year for each one of us to become engaged in the healing and reconciliation journey. 

For more information or to donate online, visit: www.archtoronto.org/healingandreconciliation. Thank you for your generosity.