The Shepherds' Trust

The Shepherds' Trust supports the needs of our retired clergy who have served our family of faith, enriching our lives in our own homes, schools, churches, hospitals and other areas of ministry.

The idea of the Trust began with a group of lay people who realized the needs of our retired priests and offered their help to establish the Trust as a reflection of the gratitude and appreciation of the parishioners they served.

Through your support of the Shepherds’ Trust, our retired priests are given the dignity of adequate pensions, health care and other assistance in their golden years.

2008 Campaign

As parishioners, we have reaped the benefits of our priests’ unselfish service to ourselves and our families for generations. Called by God and consecrated to the priesthood to care for His people, they have faithfully served and continue to serve our families, in our churches, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, missions and on our streets. The collection for the Shepherds’ Trust will take place in all parishes in the Archdiocese on November 15th and 16th. Envelopes will be distributed the weekend of November 8th and 9th. The Shepherds’ Trust does more than just bridge the gap in our priest’s retirement years; it says thank-you in a very tangible way for the blessings we have received. Your generosity on November 15th and 16th is deeply appreciated.

House of Providence

In 1857 the Sisters of St. Joseph opened the doors to the House of Providence on Power Street in downtown Toronto. At its peak it provided accommodation for 700 elderly residents and orphans, people who were among the most vulnerable in society.

There have been many changes over the years, including name changes. Now known as Providence Healthcare, the centre is managed by the Catholic Health Corporation of Ontario.It provides complex continuing care, long-term care and community outreach with a particular focus on addressing the medical, physical, spiritual and emotional needs of individuals with geriatric conditions.

One thing that has not changed is the level of care and compassion that residents receive. It is truly a labour of love.

There are nine retired diocesan priests in residence at Providence. Thanks to the generosity of the parishioners of the Archdiocese of Toronto and their support of the Shepherds’ Trust, these priests are being lovingly cared for in their retirement years.

Anita Persaud is the Personal Support worker for the retired priests. She is available to assist them with a myriad of day to day tasks, such as tidying their rooms, laundry, feeding, etc.. They keep Anita busy, but she thoroughly enjoys the time she spends with each of them.

The care our priests receive from all of the staff at Providence is unparalleled. Meals are planned according to the dietary needs of the residents and there is also a doctor and registered nurses on duty every day.

There is a real sense of community at Providence whether you are a priest or a lay resident. After breakfast each day, the retired priests concelebrate mass. After mass there is a variety of activities for them to enjoy, movies, bingo, exercise classes etc. Fr. Paul Lennon hosts a gospel group and a Karaoke group, so there is something for everyone.

Our retired priests are forever grateful to the Shepherds’ Trust and your generous support each year. Because of you, they live with dignity and peace.

THIRTEENTH ANNUAL SHEPHERDS’ TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT!

Monday September 14, 2009

We are pleased to announce the return of our annual Shepherds’ Trust Golf tournament to the stately Kleinburg Golf and Country Club. This year’s tournament is scheduled for Monday September 14, 2009.

[Click Here]... For Registration Forms, Payment (cheque or credit card) or More Info about the Thirteenth Annual Shepherds' Trust Golf Tournament

Make an Online Donation ... [Click Here]

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