90 years in mission

On November 9, 2008, friends gathered at Scarboro's central-house in Toronto to celebrate another milestone in the Society's history

November/December 2008

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Close to 300 people were on hand for Scarboro’s 90th anniversary celebrations including the families and friends of deceased members, former staff, Scarboro priests and lay missioners, and many Scarboro benefactors. Upon arrival, guests were warmly greeted, provided with a name tag, and directed to coffee, tea, and refreshments.

Archbishop Thomas Collins of Toronto Archdiocese and president of Scarboro’s civil corporation was the main celebrant at mass with nearly 30 priests concelebrating. In front of the altar was a small Chinese memorial shrine with the names of our deceased missioners and a lit candle representing each country where some of our priests are buried. Liturgical songs sung in English, Spanish, and Japanese helped reflect our outreach to the world.

Following the Eucharist, all went downstairs for lunch. Scarboro’s kitchen staff did a superb job of setting up two buffets and three dessert stations in different rooms on the main floor. And everyone rejoiced in the chance to renew past friendships and make new ones.

Following lunch, Council member Fr. Mike Traher; lay missioner Mary Olenick, coordinator of the Lay Mission Office; and Kathy Murtha, coordinator of the Mission Centre, prepared a Powerpoint presentation on “Scarboro Missions, Past, Present and Future”. A highlight was the unexpected appearance of “Monsignor Fraser”. The contemporary Fraser was made present by Fr. Frank Hegel.

We are grateful for all the congratulatory notes and flowers we received from Scarboro missioners and many friends who were unable to attend. From Guyana, Fr. Russ Sampson wrote:

“I trust all went well for the celebration today. I celebrated Mass at Holy Rosary/St. Anthony where both Fr. Ken MacAulay and I served in the past. Scarboro lay missioners Patty and David MacDonald and Miriam Wheeler were also present and we prayed in solidarity with your celebrations. I trust that our prayer in thanksgiving for 90 years of service to peoples of different lands also incorporated our deceased brothers and sisters of Scarboro Missions who served in many different ways. God’s hand has guided us, even though we have been fragile, weak, and small. Of course, this is a great testimony to what God can do. May we continue to discern our future and always be thankful for the ways the Holy Spirit has laboured through the various personalities that have made up Scarboro Missions over the years...May we continue to be open to God’s surprises.”

We sincerely thank you, our members, friends, and benefactors, for your support, friendship, and prayers. Be assured of our daily prayers for you and your loved ones.

(Fr. John Carten, S.F.M.)

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