FaithWorks celebrates special anniversary

FaithWorks, the diocese’s annual outreach appeal, marked its 20th anniversary with a gala celebration in Snell Hall at St. James Cathedral on Oct. 30. “It was a wonderful gathering celebrating donors, supporters and FaithWorks ministry partners, who together are building communities of hope and compassion,” says Paige Souter, the diocese’s manager of annual giving. Attendees were invited to share their dreams for FaithWorks on a dream board. Archbishop Colin Johnson shared his reflections on 20 years of FaithWorks. As part of his thank-you to donors for their faith-filled generosity, he previewed a special video thanking donors. The celebration ended with a Choral Evensong at St. James Cathedral.  Members from the Toronto Urban Native Ministries led the procession with drumming and smudging. Carol Reist from The Dam was the homilist.

Guests write their dreams for FaithWorks.

Archbishop Colin Johnson addresses guests at the gala.

Katelyn James and the Rev. Christian Harvey of The Warming Room shelter in Peterborough.

The Rev. Alison Falby (left), incumbent of St. Martin, Bay Ridges, Pickering and the Rev. Canon Heather McCance, incumbent of St. Andrew, Scarborough.

Carol Reist staffs The Dam display. The Dam, a recipient of FaithWorks funding, helps vulnerable teens in Mississauga.