Archbishop Leo Travels to Saint Louis de France Parish in North York

On Saturday, May 18, 2024 the Most Rev. Francis Leo, Archbishop of Toronto, traveled to Saint Louis de France Parish in North York to celebrate Mass and administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to 27 young parishioners.

After Mass, a celebration social occurred on the grounds of the parish.

Saint Louis de France parish first opened in 1967 after a need was discovered to minister to the French speaking Catholic community outside of the downtown core area of Toronto. The parish was created in the Don Mills neighbourhood thanks to work initiated by Ste. Madeleine Social Club who conducted a study and rallied community support. Fr. Benoit Jobin was the first pastor of the parish and worked tirelessly to build up the parish community.

The first Mass was celebrated at Sainte-Madeleine school in May of 1967 before moving temporarily into Parkwood United Church until a synagogue on Don Mills Road was purchased and renovated and officially became the worship space for the parish after being blessed by Archbishop Philip Pocock in October of 1970.

In 2001 the parish took on an extensive church expansion project to better serve the needs of the community.

The parish is currently being administered by Fr. Elie Abou Asssaf, OAM, and offers Mass in French on Saturdays at 5 p.m. and Sundays at 9:15 and 11:15 a.m..

Photo Gallery