In Thanksgiving for Religious on World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life

This year’s Mass for the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life was celebrated on January 31, 2026, at St. Paul’s Basilica, bringing together members of communities of consecrated life from across the archdiocese for prayer, thanksgiving and fellowship. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop Ivan Camilleri, Vicar for Consecrated Life for the Archdiocese of Toronto. Archbishop Pettipas C.Ss.R. (Emeritus Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Grouard-McLennan) concelebrated along with 17 priests.

In attendance were 110 sisters, 29 priests and brothers, as well as 8 consecrated virgins, representing 29 female communities of consecrated life and 14 male communities. The liturgy was enriched by the active participation of the sisters, priests and brothers, who served as lectors, proclaimed the Gospel, and brought forward the offertory gifts, presenting a visible and prayerful witness to their shared vocation in the life of the Church.

Following Mass, participants gathered for lunch, enjoying time for conversation and fraternity. Archbishop Pettipas offered a few warm and encouraging remarks and led the community in praying Grace before the meal. Both the liturgy and the meal were received with gratitude and joy, marking a meaningful celebration of, and thanksgiving for, consecrated life and its vital gift to the Church.