St. Gregorio’s Orthodox Church

Established in 1970, St. Gregorios Orthodox Church of Toronto stands as a testament to faith and community. St. Gregorios was the first officially recognized Orthodox parish in North America. The initial services were held at Trinity College Chapel on Hoskin Avenue. The community quickly grew. They initially decided to dedicate the parish to Parumala Thirumeni, their Patron Saint. Services were first held every two months, then monthly as the congregation expanded. By 1972, St. Gregorios was thriving. It boasted more members and stronger financial resources. The church became a cornerstone of the Orthodox community. It even served as the origin for many other parishes that now flourish in the Greater Toronto Area. In 1979, a pivotal moment occurred. His Holiness Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews I visited Toronto for the church’s 10th anniversary. He was received with the full honors of a state dignitary. This visit marked a significant milestone. It solidified the presence of the Malankara Orthodox Church in Canada. St. Gregorios continued to grow under the leadership of various vicars, including Rev. Fr. K.C. George and Rev. Fr. Thomas Mundukuzhy. The dream of owning a dedicated church building became a reality in 1990. The church purchased a property in Ballantrae in York Region. The first service in their own building was a momentous occasion. However, the location proved inconvenient for some parishioners. This led to the formation of St. George Orthodox Church, marking another chapter in the story of Orthodox Christianity in Toronto. St. Gregorios Orthodox Church, now located at 6890 Professional Court in Mississauga, continues its mission. It remains a vibrant center for worship, community, and the preservation of Orthodox traditions.