Our final Mass to launch the Year of Jubilee and give thanks for the elevation of Frank Cardinal Leo to the College of Cardinals took place on February 25 at St. Edward the Confessor Parish in North York. This pilgrimage church in the Central Pastoral Region of the Archdiocese of Toronto welcomed 1,500 guests for a beautiful celebration, with Cardinal Leo presiding accompanied by Bishop Robert Kasun and more than 40 priests concelebrating. The church was full, as was the foyer, hall and basement with a livestream also connecting those not able to attend in person.

His Eminence expressed gratitude to the hundreds of faithful that arrived hours early to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. He also invited those gathered to indeed make this a special Year of Jubilee, walking as “pilgrims of hope” and reflecting on how we can enhance our faith journey through the idea of pilgrimage and outreach to those most in need. Cardinal Leo led a decade of the rosary for the health of Pope Francis, as Catholics both locally in the archdiocese and throughout the world lift up our spiritual shepherd in prayer. His Eminence also visited the outdoor grotto following Mass where students led the beautiful singing of Salve Regina.

Special thanks to St. Edward the Confessor’s pastor, Msgr. Pat O’Dea, the pastoral team and countless volunteers who prepared a beautiful liturgy and extended warm hospitality to all those in attendance. The regional celebrations have been inspiring to all those in attendance and an opportunity for our faith community to come together joyfully and lovingly as we fully embrace this Year of Jubilee.