Archbishop Leo Celebrates First Communion Mass at Holy Spirit Parish in Barrie

The Most Reverend Francis Leo, Archbishop of Toronto, recently traveled North to Holy Spirit Parish in Barrie.

His Grace celebrated Mass at the parish, which was a very special occasion for all, especially those receiving their First Holy Communion.

Following Mass, a potluck reception was held in the parish hall.

Holy Spirit parish was established when Ducha Swietego Mission, previously a mission for the care of souls of the Polish faithful of the archdiocese, was officially assigned parish boundaries and declared an official parish of the Archdiocese of Toronto on September 6, 2001.

The parish began celebrating Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Elementary School before moving to St. Joan of Arc High School in 2004.

On December 22, 2012, the church building was officially opened with Mass celebrated by Bishop Wayne Kirkpatrick. In May of 2013, on Pentecost Sunday, Cardinal Thomas Collins traveled to the parish to bless the new church.

The parish continues to offer Mass in both Polish and English under the leadership of their pastor, Fr. Bartek Palczewski.