After more than a year of planning, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto hosted its first-ever three-day conference, Synergy Toronto 2026, from November 3–5 at the Chelsea Hotel in Toronto. The gathering brought together more than 200 delegates committed to fostering collaboration and building bridges across Catholic education, healthcare and community services.

Bishop Robert Kasun C.S.B. opened the conference with prayer, setting the tone for three days of thoughtful dialogue, shared learning and connection. The conference welcomed an impressive group of speakers and presenters from across Canada and the United States, including the Honourable Jean Augustine, Dr. Brian Corbin, Sr. Gill Goulding, C.J., Elder Rosella Kinoshameg, Eddie MacDonald, Sr. Donna Markham, O.P., Dr. Moira McQueen, the Honourable Graydon Nicholas, Sr. Mary Rowell, C.S.J., Shirlee Sharkey and Linda Staudt, among many others. Their diverse experiences and perspectives enriched conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing Catholic institutions and the communities they serve.

An enthusiastic team of volunteers helped make the gathering a success. High school students from St. Joseph’s College, St. Patrick’s Catholic Secondary School and the Toronto Catholic District School Board’s Catholic Student Leadership Impact Team (CSLIT) played an important role throughout the three days, welcoming delegates, providing direction and bringing youthful energy to the event. Their participation was a wonderful reminder of the importance of engaging and inspiring the next generation of Catholic leaders.

A highlight for many delegates was the closing Mass on Thursday morning, celebrated by His Eminence Frank Cardinal Leo, alongside Bishop Yvan Mathieu, S.M., Fr. Haig Chahinian, Fr. Arthur Lee, Fr. Paul Magyar and Fr. Peter Poel, O.F.M. Cap. In his homily on the parable of the lost sheep, Cardinal Leo offered a poignant reflection: even the shepherd can become lost and need to be found. His message reminded us that we are all called to care for one another and recognize our own need for support.

As this inaugural gathering of Synergy Toronto 2026 came to a close, its central message remained clear: we are stronger when we work together. The challenges facing our communities cannot be addressed in isolation. They call for renewed relationships, shared wisdom and a willingness to learn from one another.

Looking ahead, we hope to pass the torch forward, recognizing that the responsibility to build on what has begun belongs to all of us. The conversations, connections and inspiration sparked over these three days must continue beyond the conference. Together, let us keep this flame alive, strengthening our collaboration and carrying forward our shared mission of service, rooted in faith and inspired by the dignity of every person.