Finding god in the street
This retreat provides participants with an integrated experience of prayer, reflection, and outreach through an interfaith lens.
It takes place within, and on the streets surrounding, Sacre Coeur parish in downtown Toronto; an area of the city that is known for homelessness and addiction.
Hosted at Sacre Coeur downtown.
The team has extensive experience working on the streets of cities, and reaching out to those who are poor and oppressed.
For Grade 12 Students
Maximum 15-20 people.
Reflections by the students
“I found God on this street retreat by having my heart opened ... the unhoused people I met were people just like me, filled with hopes and dreams... The homeless aren’t distant strangers. They are children of God.”
“In the cold and wet of Sherbourne Street I realized that there is such need: a need for food, for shelter, and for compassion. I will admit that I turn my gaze away from the homeless people I tend to see. But talking to some today made me understand that we are all connected, that the God that lives in me, lives in them.”
“Several street people politely asked if they could have one more bag for a friend, and one lady we met, said, ‘Thank you, you are our future.’ Kindness is everywhere, even in the most unlikely dangerous intersection of Sherbourne and Dundas.”
Location:
Sacre Coeur and Environs
381 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M4X 1K4
What will I need?
Includes day street patrol so dress appropriately for the weather
Sleeping bag is required for overnight in Parish Hall
Maximum Group of Participants:
For Grade 12 Students
15-20 Students (plus Supervisors)
Day Retreat or Overnight
Time: From 9:30 am until 1:30 pm
(same day or next day)
Recommended Contribution
$300 (Includes facilitation and venue)