Archdiocese of Toronto Recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day June 21

In recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Archdiocese of Toronto will celebrate a special Mass on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 7 p.m. at the Native People’s Mission, St. Ann’s Church located at 120 First Avenue in Toronto. Archbishop Francis Leo will preside - there will be a reception in the parish hall following Mass.  All are invited to attend.

The archdiocese has also posted an update (found here) on the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF), a national initiative of which the Archdiocese of Toronto is an active participant. As of June of 2023, the IRF has raised over $10-million, putting the fund on track for its five-year, $30-million commitment. More information on the IRF can be found at irfund.ca.

To commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we have also posted a reflection entitled, Recognizing Dignity on National Indigenous Peoples Day on the archdiocesan website. The piece, written by Julia and Adam Kozak, addresses how it is important to show dignity by acknowledging the innate value of others, granted to us in creation, that is expressed in culture, nation, tribe, family and as an individual.

The faithful of the Archdiocese of Toronto are asked to continue to keep the healing and reconciliation journey with Indigenous Peoples of This Land close in prayer, through the intercession of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, as we dialogue and walk together on the path ahead.