Message from the Director

Dear Pilgrims,

We are very much aware that the current circumstances of COVID–19 are leaving many people in isolation from work, family, and friends, many more uncertain about their economic future, and all worried for the health and well being of themselves and those whom they love.

Traditionally, the Church and grounds of Martyrs’ Shrine, time praying with St. Jean de Brébeuf and his companions to Christ, and the consolation of spiritual conversation with a Jesuit, would be a corner stone of support to you in times such as these.  It is, with a heavy heart, that we must inform you that important temporary restrictions set in place, both by government and ecclesial authorities, prevent us from offering these to you.  As all churches in the Archdiocese of Toronto are closed, so is the Church of St. Joseph here. Just as all Provincial and Federal Parks have closed their gates, so must ours remain closed.  And, just as requirements around social distancing are in effect across the country, the Jesuit Fathers here are, for the moment, limited in the means in which we can serve you.

This being said, the prayers of the Jesuits at Martyrs’ Shrine are not halted and, indeed, are all the more fervent for you, each of our pilgrims, and the world.  Though we cannot, at this moment, offer you a physical space of support, we have instituted, on our website, the means for you to send us prayer petitions.  We will light a candle and pray for you if you so desire it. 

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Michael Knox, SJ
Director