2007

Father Tom re-iterated his praise for the parish community's efforts and generosity in responding to the needs of the aging church building – "We have achieved so many of our common goals in making our worship space safe and sound.

"There has been a great deal of work done . . . we maintained a clear understanding of what needed to be done, we have been successful so far . . . it is true we are now in debt, an unavoidable circumstance due to the roof replacement . . . but with your continued support, I know we can continue to maintain this church and retire our debt. . . Thanks to all who contribute so generously . . ."

JAN. - FEB. – Work on the exterior as a result of the dig last year was completed – a new roof has been installed – new fascia has been installed on the exterior front face of the church – repairs to the front steps, railings and side entrance have been completed. The cement blocks have been shaved along the front entrance to prevent tripping and other injuries – leaks in the rectory have been sealed and walls repaired.

Office equipment has been upgraded and serviced properly to maximize efficiency. Negotiations with our suppliers resulted in an upgrade to a faster and better photocopier.

MARCH - APRIL – On the 18th and 19th of March, Father Ron Mercier led an outstanding series of well-attended Prayer Reflection sessions. Besides being a regular visitor to our parish, Father Ron is a world-renowned leader of retreats and has served for many years as dean of Regis College at the University of Toronto. As Father Tom said: "We are most fortunate to benefit from his presiding skills here at Holy Spirit."

A new sound system and microphones were, of necessity, also purchased and installed. Their arrival was obvious in the four new and larger speakers, but the hugely improved sound of the organ, the singers, the musicians and the liturgists was also very apparent and appreciated.

Sculptor Tim Schmalz delivered the square-shaped Stations of the Cross to replace the round ones. These pieces deserve close inspection – the scenes are very graphic – they bring the Way of the Cross to emotional life.

Schmalz also made a visit to the church on April 21 and 22 to speak about the many pieces of his work which decorate our church.

He described how the art was made, the materials used, the time and effort. He pointed to the "Whatsoever" piece on the altar and said that "of all my liturgical pieces this is my favourite."

At the rear of the church, where a confessional was removed, an enclosed fenced-in area was created with a specially lighted platform for Schmalz's new statue called "Little Flower" – Saint Therese of Lisieux.

He said: "it was an image of the teenage saint writing her poems to the Lord . . . the words take flight as angels rising in an arc to heaven . . . their wings take shape as petals to form a rose, the symbol of love, and beauty . . . ."

After the masses on that weekend he answered questions and signed miniatures for those who purchased miniatures of his art.

New hymnals were made available to the parish for use during mass. New vestments have been purchased and the church and office areas have been made more secure with an alarm system.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER – The skylights have been replaced and are now leak free.

Father Tom presided over the popular Reflections book club during Advent and has scheduled sessions for next spring during Lent. Odilie Gaudet also offered to return in September for Good News sessions.

On Dec. 12. the congregation was, as was the case last year, able once again to enjoy their musicians take part in a Christmas concert. Lisa DiMaria ,Andrew Kwong, Adam Bernardini, Victor Cheng and Emi Hegedus sang and played in solos, duets, two quartets and joined with the audience in some carols for a truly joyful experience.