IFI Scarborough Church and Balitalakayan: A successful launch of Community engagement ands advocacy

IFI Scarborough Church and Balitalakayan: A successful launch of Community engagement ands advocacy

The Holy Mass Celebrants headed by Bishop Roberto Pamatpat from the Diocese of Tampa, together with Deputy Consul Kerwin Tate from Philippine Consulate General Toronto, Very Rev. Artemio Calaycay, Fr. Dante Coloma, Fr. Christian Rey, Fr. Ariel Mendoza, the lector and sacristans.

By Leny Rose Simbre

Toronto, ON – The Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) celebrated a significant milestone with the successful launch of the Resurrected Christ Scarborough Mission and the inaugural session of BALITALAKAYAN on June 22, 2024, at St. Timothy’s Anglican Church, 4125 Sheppard Ave East, Scarborough, ON. This dual initiative has set a new standard for community engagement and support among Filipinos in Canada.

The launch event was led by Rev. Fr. Christian Rey, the Mission Priest, and was supported by the IFI Diocese of Tampa. The dedication ceremony for the new mission parish was officiated by The Rt. Rev. Jojo Pamatmat (Diocesan Bishop from Tampa), The Very Rev. Artemio Calaycay (Deanery of Eastern Canada), and Rev. Fr. Dante Coloma (Parish Priest of Holy Child), marking a pivotal moment in the church’s efforts to expand and serve the Filipino community in Toronto.

The opening of the Resurrected Christ Scarborough Mission symbolizes the growth of the IFI in Canada and highlights the church’s dedication to providing spiritual guidance and fostering a sense of community among Filipinos abroad.

In conjunction with the church’s launch, the first session of BALITALAKAYAN, a monthly forum organized in partnership with Migrante Scarborough, was held. This forum aims to address pressing issues affecting Filipinos both in the Philippines and Canada, creating a space for meaningful dialogue and collective action.

“BALITALAKAYAN is a vital platform for the Filipino community in Canada to connect, share, and learn from each other,” said Rev. Christian Rey during the event. “Whether you are passionate about socio-economic issues, cultural integration, or community support, your voice is important and valued. This initiative will help foster a stronger, more connected Filipino community.”

Parishioners from the Parish of Holy Child join and support the launching of IFI Resurrected Christ Mission.

Migrante Scarborough, known for its advocacy and support for Filipino migrants, played a crucial role in the event. Their involvement ensures that the forum addresses the real and urgent needs of Filipinos in Canada, providing a space for open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.

“We are committed to addressing the challenges faced by our community and finding collective solutions through dialogue and cooperation,” said Christopher Sorio from Migrante Scarborough. “BALITALAKAYAN will be a monthly highlight where we can come together, discuss, and take action on the issues that matter most to us.”

Deputy Consul General Kerwin Tate from the Philippine Consulate General Office in Toronto was also present, drawing a diverse crowd of community members, leaders, and advocates, all eager to participate in this new chapter of engagement and support. The success of the launch promises a bright future for ongoing community initiatives and stronger ties among Filipinos in Canada.

The IFI Scarborough Church and Migrante Scarborough look forward to continued participation and engagement in the monthly BALITALAKAYAN forums. This initiative stands as a cornerstone for community building, advocacy, and mutual support among Filipinos in Canada.