2685 Kingston Road

Source: Catholic Register

God works in mysterious ways. In 1963  I spent one year at Nazareth House Novitiate in St.Mary’s Ontario. The next five years I lived at St. Francis Xavier Seminary (Scarborough Foreign Missions).

Looking back these were some of the best years of my life. It was a generous hearted group of seminarians, and I became life long friends with a few. It was one of the most formative times in my life as I finally had friends, and In my second year of theology the Rector suggested that I take a year away from the seminary. He said: ““I can’t see you in the missions.” When I asked why not, he replied: “I don’t know, I just have a feeling.” I was devastated. He said if I decided to stay he would not oppose it, but suggested I consider finding other opportunities in “the world.”

It took me thirty years to realize he was right. My friendships with ordained missionaries continued and I visited the seminary at least annually. Eventually I discovered my career in hospital social work, and later private practice psychotherapy. More importantly I went back to study theology, and Regis College challenged me to do 

It took me thirty years to realize he was right. My friendships with ordained missionaries continued and I visited the seminary at least annually. Eventually I discovered my career in hospital social work, and later private practice psychotherapy. More importantly I went back to study theology, and Regis College challenged me to do some ministry with the degree. The Holy Spirit leads us on different paths.

A few years ago the building at 2685 was sold to the Toronto District School Board to erect the new Cardinal Newman High School. No demolition has occurred yet, as of summer 2021. When I pass it, I have fond memories.

I hope the new use for 2685 will bring life-giving experiences to both students and teachers. “Mission” since Vatican 11 is now understood as ministry, often to the “preferential option for the poor.” God works in mysterious ways.

John Montague earned his Master of Divinity from Regis College, University of Toronto. He is an active member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. He has a Master of Social Work, and, until his retirement, provided counselling to individuals, couples, and families. For seventeen years he organized a Day of Reflection for Catholic parents of lesbian daughters, gay sons, and transgendered children.

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5 Comments
  • Rose MacDonald
    Posted at 08:13h, 22 January Reply

    Thanks John. I was a lay missionary with Scarboro and lived at the Mission Centre .Holy Ground indeed

  • Karen Arthurs
    Posted at 08:41h, 22 January Reply

    May your path be graced with God’s love as you continue to share your gifts and talents. I believe there is more patience today for finding our way through time. …to become!

    Your writing always refelct a sense of kindness. Thank you.

  • Peter Bisson
    Posted at 10:41h, 22 January Reply

    Thank you John!

  • Philip Shano
    Posted at 16:08h, 22 January Reply

    John, I had no idea about your early seminary involvement. I keep learning about you.

  • Jack Lynch (John)
    Posted at 12:24h, 23 January Reply

    John, we give thanks every day for the ways and times that the Spirit has moved us through thos that we encountered at 2685

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