50 Years of Campus Ministry at York University

This year the Catholic Chaplaincy at York (CCY) marked an impressive milestone: 50 years of Catholic ministry on campus. When York University was in its infancy, the Archdiocese committed to supporting Catholic students at the new institution, which had no religiously-affiliated colleges. Regular Sunday Mass began on campus and continues to the present. By 1974, the chaplaincy was formally established, staff and programs were added, and the impact of its growing ministry began to be felt. Over the past five decades, countless students have been accompanied and nurtured in their life of faith.

Many of those former students, now proud alumni of CCY, gathered for a special 50^th anniversary celebration. The festivities began with a Mass of Thanksgiving offered by Bishop Ivan Camilleri and concelebrated by Fr. John Paul Bolger, CC, the current chaplain. Alumni, parents, students, friends and supporters came together to thank God for the many blessings He has bestowed through the chaplaincy over the past 50 years.

Following the Mass, guests attended a sold-out banquet featuring alumni and student testimonials, video tributes and a nostalgic slideshow. Fr. Allan MacDonald, CC, a past chaplain, gave a reflective talk that reminded everyone of the purpose of the chaplaincy: to lead each person to encounter Christ. The evening served as a wonderful opportunity for alumni to reminisce, connect with old friends and share meaningful stories about how CCY has impacted their lives.

Many alumni brought their families to the spirited celebration, a testament to the tremendous growth of the CCY family since the chaplaincy began. Filled with joy and gratitude, participants left the event inspired, looking forward eagerly to the next 50 years of ministry.

To learn more about the Catholic Chaplaincy at York, please contact yorkcatholic@archtoronto.org.