Picture this: A vibrant tapestry of faith woven into the fabric of Woodbridge. This is St Margaret Mary Roman Catholic Church a cornerstone of the community. Established in 1958 this church has witnessed generations grow. It has celebrated joys and offered solace during challenging times.
St Margaret Mary’s isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of faith. Located at 8500 Islington Avenue it served as Vaughan Township’s first Catholic church. This landmark has shaped the spiritual landscape for decades.
The church experienced incredible growth under Father Donald S MacLean’s leadership. In 1975 the parish boasted 700 families. This rapid expansion led to the creation of St Peter’s Parish. Even then St Margaret Mary’s continued its remarkable growth. It became a central hub for a burgeoning Italian community.
Father Rocco Volpe a friend of Father MacLean was invited to conduct a weekly Mass in Italian. This was a significant step in making the church accessible and welcoming to a wider population. Father Volpe’s service marked a significant cultural shift in the church’s history. His contributions extended beyond the church. He also started Italian language courses at St Michael’s College.
The church’s 65th anniversary in 2023 was a momentous occasion. A gala dinner and dance were held. Archbishop Ivan Jurkovic and Monsignor John Anthony Boissonneau attended. This celebration truly demonstrated the church’s importance within the community. Various parish groups including the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic League of Women also participated.
St Margaret Mary Roman Catholic Church is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living breathing community. It’s a place where faith traditions interweave. It’s a place of shared history vibrant culture and enduring faith. A remarkable story unfolds within these walls. This church continues to inspire and uplift generations. Its legacy continues to enrich the lives of countless individuals.