St. Columba ParishMost of us stopped learning about our faith at the age of twelve, and then tried to live an adult life on a child's understanding. Adult formation is where that changes. Everything here is free, nothing requires a background, and questions are the point.
Alpha
A free meal, a short film, and an honest small-group conversation about life, faith and meaning. Designed for people exploring — bring a friend who has never set foot in a church. Registration helps with catering but drop-ins are welcome. Also offered in Spanish in January.
Contact: Sam & Teresa Whitfield · alpha@stcolumbatoronto.ca
Bible Study
This year we read the Gospel of Luke, a few chapters at a time, with a short video from a Scripture scholar and discussion. Bring any Bible; a study guide is $20. No preparation needed.
Leader: Deacon Paul Ferreira
Advent & Lent series
A guest speaker each season: recent series on the Mass, on prayer, on the saints of Canada, and on Catholic social teaching.
FORMED
Thousands of Catholic films, courses, talks and children's programs. Go to formed.org, choose "Sign up as a parishioner", find St. Columba Toronto, and you are in.
Book club
One book a month — spiritual classics, Catholic novels, a bishop's letter. Titles for the year are on the noticeboard.
Speaker nights
Evenings with a theologian, a missionary, a Catholic doctor or lawyer on a live question. Wine and cheese.
Other paths
- Adults seeking baptism, reception or confirmation: OCIA.
- Parents preparing children for sacraments learn alongside them: programs.
- Want to teach? Become a catechist.
- The Archdiocese's Formation for Discipleship office offers courses and certificates; ask Sr. Agnes.
- Daily Scripture at Living with Christ; the Catechism online at the Vatican website.
Questions
I am not Catholic. Can I come?
Yes to all of it. Alpha in particular was made for you.
I work evenings.
Bible study is recorded for members; FORMED is on your schedule; and a Saturday-morning Alpha runs in Lent.
Is there childcare?
At Alpha, yes (register in advance). For other evenings, ask — we can usually arrange it.
Coordinator: Sr. Agnes Ibeh, SSND — ext. 25, faith@stcolumbatoronto.ca.