“Well, here we are!” Imagine Father James Reposkey saying this at the very first mass within these walls. That was on October 16 1977. He looked up from the alter. St. Roch’s Church has served the Toronto community for decades. It stands as a beacon of faith.
St. Roch’s Church began in 1968. A new Catholic parish was established then. Father Oreste Cerbara came to Toronto. He was an assistant priest at St. Jude’s Church. He was part of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood.
Initially, masses occurred in the school gymnasium. Later, they moved to the parish center on Islington Avenue. The present church opened in 1977.
Father Phil Smith once served at St. Roch’s Church. He later transferred to St. Alphonsus Parish. He missed the Humber River. He said he no longer heard its placid tides. Streetcar sounds replaced them.
Two long-time associate priests served here. They were Father Luciano Baiocchi and Father Carlo Della Vecchio. Today, Father Lui Santi is the head priest.
St. Roch’s Church is more than bricks and mortar. It is a community. The church welcomes all. It is committed to following God. They make disciples of Jesus Christ. They aim to transform Toronto and the world.
Rev. Phillip Smith C.PP.S. leads St. Roch’s Church. He came from Kansas City, Missouri. He has been in Canada since 2002. He previously served as Secretary General in Rome. He enjoys exploring parish ministry.
St. Roch’s Church offers mass in multiple languages. These include English Italian and Swahili. However in-person masses were cancelled due to Covid Restrictions. Services moved online.
The church also has a connection to St. Roch Catholic School. It is located on Duncanwoods Drive. The school provides education. It also reinforces the values of the church.
St. Roch’s Church is located at 2889 Islington Avenue in Weston. You can contact them at 416-749-0328. St. Roch’s Church continues to be a vital part of Toronto. It offers spiritual guidance. It also fosters community. Its history is rich. Its future is bright.