Your Collegiate Church
We are a sacramental community grounded by sacred scripture. Through the grace of the Holy Spirit, we strive to be witness of the hope and mercy we find in relationship with Jesus Christ. This relationship is mediated and guided by the traditions of the Catholic Church as we live in a world with goodness, discipline and knowledge.
In other words, We affirm our potential more than we condemn our brokenness; we value reconciliation over judgment; and we value the right question over the right answer.
We are Here for YOU!
Fr. Chris Valka, CSB
Great questions are an art form worthy of study.
I have lived on a lot of university campuses; and thankfully my own university experience is still within my memory’s vivid recollection. So, I get it, and there is no need for anyone to be worried about talking to a priest. Actually, I really enjoy the chance to hear the stories of others. So drop by the parish office or see me in the church after Mass or in the confessional. I also live on campus, so I am not too hard to find.
Until then, remember that your faith is first about how you belong – the belief part comes with a little more time.
Emily VanBerkum
The things that we love tell us what we are. -Thomas Aquinas
“I remember when I was a first year student attending my first ever student Mass at USMC. I felt excited and content to be surrounded by like-minded peers who were young, vibrant, and committed to living a Christ-centered life even as a university student in a big city. I am a firm believer that the liturgy is a great binding force that empowers us to engage in intellectual pursuits, fellowship, and outreach to community members in need. I hope you find this, as I did, at St. Basil’s.”
John Paul Farahat
Work/life balance is a myth; find something that you love, and you will find that it sustains all that you do…or simply drink a lot of coffee.
“Questions about music ministry? Interested in joining one of the choirs? Thinking about picking up music lessons again?
I can help with that.
Between Saint Basil’s and my studies at the Faculty of Music, I’m generally around to chat or to grab a coffee if you think that music might be the thing for you.”
Mass Schedule
Monday-Friday: 7:30 am & 12:10 pm
Saturday: 5:00 pm (Sunday Vigil)
Sunday:
- 9:00 am
- 10:30 am
- 12:00 pm
- 4:30 pm
Confessions: Monday-Friday: 11:30 am-12:00 pm; Saturday: 4:15-4:45 pm
Liturgy of the Hours:
- Monday – Friday: Vespers 5:10 pm in the Sanctuary of the Main Church
- Saturday: Lauds 9:00 am in the Sanctuary of the Main Church
Upcoming Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register at St. Basil’s?
As a student, it is not necessary to register to attend St. Basil’s. That said, some students choose to register because St. Basil’s has become their spiritual home. Should you wish to do so, registration forms are in the vestibule of the church along the wall with other flyers.
I am not a USMC student, can I still participate in St. Basil’s activities and Masses?
Of course! Some events at St. Basil’s are specifically for university students, but unless it states this specifically, know that anyone is welcome.
I am not Catholic, can I attend St. Basil’s?
Certainly! We have lots of students and people in the community who choose to simply sit in the church in the quiet stillness. Should you wish to do this, or attend any event, know that everyone is welcome.
And if you are not sure what is going on, then just ask somebody else and we have no doubt you will feel comfortable in no time.
I am Catholic, but it has been a while since I have been to church.
First of all, we are glad you are giving your faith a second look. Know that there is no judgement here – all you really have to do is simply show up. You would be amazed about how many people come here for the first time in a long time.
Coming back is really as simple as coming back to Mass.
If you want to talk to Fr. Morgan, you are most welcome to do so by dropping by or scheduling an appointment at 416-926-7110 or morgan.rice@utoronto.ca
Either way, we look forward to seeing you when you are ready.
I want to join a choir.
We are happy to have you! Just email JP at johnpaul.farahat@utoronto.ca and he will help you with the next steps.
I want to try meditation, do I have to register?
No. Anyone is welcome to drop in. Just get there a little early and introduce yourself. They are a great group of people.
Is St. Basil’s accessible and inclusive?
Yes. Disability entrances to the main church and lower levels are accessed through the main entrance of Odette Hall. There is also special seating near the front of the church if it is needed.
St. Basil’s also has hearing assistance devices. Simply ask someone at the main office when you arrive.
We work very hard to make sure that everyone feels welcome, no matter their situation. We hope you will agree!
I hope to be a teacher and need a pastoral recommendation.
All recommendation requests go through Fr. Morgan, but know that you have to provide evidence that you have been an active member of St. Basil’s before the request will be considered.
We know that many students have difficulty with this due to changes in pastoral leadership at their home parish, or that they never registered at a parish; but as long as it isn’t left to the last minute, we are happy to help as best we can.
How do I schedule an appointment with a priest?
Simply call the main office at 416-926-7110 or email Fr. Morgan at morgan.rice@utoronto.ca. You will find he is pretty quick to respond.
How do I find out when the next social event is coming up?
The NEWS section of our website has a lot of information. You can also find out about events through Facebook. Or you can contact Michael through the parish office or michael.pirri@utoronto.ca
“Student life is not easy and by that I mean there are times when you experience downsides due to stress and anxiety. But there is always that emptiness in your heart that’s always ambitious for something more. St. Basil’s has been a blessing to me in my life because the sacred space has inspired me to be active in my spiritual life as well as spent more time with God but it’s also the encouraging community that’s always there to welcome you.”
“Student life can be extremely hectic, as we try to balance our many different obligations, and it is often easy to put faith on the back burner. As a student living and working on campus, I have been able to find my spiritual home at St. Basil’s Church.
St. Basil’s has become a place of solace and encouragement for me, where I can bring my hopes, struggles and joys as I discern God’s will for my life.
Through serving as a Liturgical Minister, I have also been able to learn about the many different opportunities and resources that are available to engage and support students. I am very thankful to be a part of the St. Basil’s community; my experience here has truly enriched my university years, and has helped me to grow in my faith life and as a person.”