As Pope Francis celebrated the canonization of Saint Joseph Allamano in Rome on October 20, 2024, St. Andrew’s Parish in Etobicoke, Canada joined the global rejoicing with a solemn Mass presided over by the Archbishop of Toronto, Msgr. Francis Leo, who will be created a cardinal in the Consistory on 8 December. A long-standing friend of the Consolata Missionaries since his youth in Montreal, archbishop Leo brought a personal connection to the celebration, enriching its significance for our Parish.
By Sharanka Prince Yogarajah *
The Mass at St. Andrew’s honored the legacy of Saint Joseph Allamano, founder of the Consolata Missionaries, who have faithfully served the parish since 2003. The archbishop highlighted the far-reaching impact of Allamano’s missionary vision, uniting both local and global faith communities in a shared mission of evangelization and service. This celebration was particularly fitting on World Mission Sunday, emphasizing the call to emulate Saint Allamano’s spirit of prayer, service, and missionary zeal.
During his homily, archbishop Leo shared one of Saint Joseph Allamano’s profound teachings: “First become saints, then become missionaries.” This quote underscores the importance of personal holiness as the foundation for effective mission work. “By nurturing a life of virtue and a strong relationship with God, individuals are better prepared to authentically share their faith and inspire others. For Saint Allamano, sanctity and mission are intrinsically linked, with inner transformation naturally leading to outward service”.
This event celebrated not only the canonization of a remarkable saint but also the enduring contributions of missionary groups like the Consolata Missionaries, who enrich parishes worldwide through their pastoral care and spiritual dedication. The faithful were reminded of their shared responsibility to live out the Gospel and carry forward the mission exemplified by Saint Joseph Allamano
May the example of Saint Allamano inspire us to live with integrity, serve with compassion, and embrace our role in spreading Christ’s love to the world. In his words, let us strive first to “become saints, then become missionaries,” fulfilling our shared vocation to bring hope and faith to all.
* Sharanka Prince Yogarajah, St. Andrew’s Parish in Etobicoke, Canada
