An evening of faith and solidarity in Vaughan raised $650,000 to support Catholic education in the Holy Land. The Children of the Holy Land: An Evening of Hope and Solidarity was hosted on September 11 by the Canada–Toronto Lieutenancy of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ). Cardinal Frank Leo, Archbishop of Toronto and Grand Prior of the Lieutenancy, joined supporters for the special evening. Entertainment included a special performance by stage, television and recording artist, Robert Pilon.

Proceeds will go to the Holy Land Children’s Educational Endowment Fund, which supports schools of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Amid war and economic hardship, the fund aims to help schools remain open and give children the stability and opportunity that education provides. The school network serves more than 18,000 students.

Students from the Holy Land joined the gathering by video, offering guests a personal connection to the young people their gifts will support. The evening was a reminder that behind the fundraising total are children seeking the chance to learn, grow and look toward the future with hope.

The Archdiocese of Toronto thanks the Order, gala organizers and all who contributed to this effort. Their generosity offers a tangible sign of hope to children, families and educators in the Holy Land. Those wishing to learn more and support these efforts can visit the EOHSJ website here.