Summer 2023 student led project by Reanne Kurien
In the bustling metropolis of Toronto, where the allure of prosperity meets the stark contrast of economic disparities, a pressing and multifaceted issue persists- poverty and homelessness. My project delves into this issue, focusing on the intersection of social justice and faith. The Prophetic Voice I explored was Rick Tobias, a renowned advocate for the homeless and poor, who utilizes his Christian faith to address social injustice through advocacy and service. I examined how different faith traditions, such as Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism, provide insights and teachings that inform attitudes and actions toward social justice and economic equity. These religious perspectives emphasize compassion, justice and the moral imperative to care for the vulnerable, inspiring individuals and communities to take action.
The significance of the connection between social justice and faith lies in its potential to mobilize a powerful force for positive change. Faith-based organizations and interfaith coalitions can work together to address systemic barriers and power imbalances that perpetuate income inequality and homelessness. By embracing the principles of justice, compassion, and human dignity embedded in their faiths, they can advocate for policies and initiatives promoting equal access to resources and opportunities.
Moreover, the project highlights the importance of recognizing marginalized voices, including individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, as key stakeholders in the advocacy efforts, By engaging with these communities, comprehensive programs and services can be developed to tackle the root causes of income inequality to there provide immediate assistance to those in need.
My project underscores the vital connection between social justice and faith, demonstrating how religious teachings and values can inspire collective action to combat income inequality and its consequences. By centering the experiences of the most vulnerable and working collaboratively, we can strive towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society in Toronto and beyond.
Introduction
In the vibrant city of Toronto, the battle against poverty and homelessness has been ongoing for decades, leaving a profound impact on its historical, cultural and social fabric. The stark contrast between prosperity and deprivation in this metropolis underscores the urgency of addressing these pressing social issues. This paper delves into the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of poverty and homelessness in Toronto, exploring their social significance and the challenges they pose to the well-being and dignity of its diverse communities.
These issue of poverty and homelessness are issues that transcend geographical boundaries and affect individuals and communities worldwide. In Toronto, they strike at the heart of social justice, questioning the equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and power within the city. As Toronto continues to grapple with rapid urbanization, housing affordability crises and the impact of systemic inequalities, understanding the historical and cultural context of these challenges become crucial in shaping informed policies and sustainable solutions.
Among the visionary voices that resonate with this issue is that of Rick Tobias, a champion for the homeless and marginalized. Inspired by his Christian faith, Tobias has dedicated his life to combating social injustice and amplifying the voices of the vulnerable. Through his leadership at the Yonge Street Mission, he bridges the gap between faith and social justice, advocating for affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and supportive social services. Rick Tobias embodies the essence of the prophetic voice, fearlessly calling for systemic change and fostering inclusive communities that uplift the marginalized.
The stakeholders of this issue are diverse and multifaceted. They include individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, community-based organizations like the Toronto Community Benefits Network and the Better Toronto Coalition, faith-based leaders and organizations, and the general population and civil society at large. Each group has a vested interest in addressing income inequality, poverty, and homelessness and plays a pivotal role in shaping collective efforts for social change.
In this paper, I will explore critical questions from three different elements that delve into the social justice, faith, and advocacy dimensions of income inequality in Toronto.
- a) Social Justice Dimension: I will investigate the underlying systemic factors contributing to income inequality in Toronto and their intersections with issues of equity, fairness, and human rights. By analyzing how income disparities impact access to basic needs, social mobility, and overall well-being, particularly for marginalized communities, I aim to understand the scale and impact of this pressing issue.
- b) Faith Dimension: I will explore how different religious or spiritual perspectives inform attitudes, actions, and responses to income inequality in Toronto. Examining how faith communities contribute to addressing the root causes of income disparities and promoting economic justice will shed light on the potential role of faith-inspired activism in advocating for equitable economic systems. Moreover, I will identify ethical teachings and values from various faith traditions that can be leveraged to support efforts for income equality.
- c) Advocacy Dimension: I will critically analyze effective strategies and initiatives employed by organizations and individuals in Toronto to advocate for income equality and social change. Understanding how advocacy efforts influence policy reforms, public discourse, and the material conditions of marginalized communities will provide insights into the potential impact of collective action in addressing income inequality. Additionally, I will explore potential avenues for further advocacy and collective action to promote equitable opportunities for the most vulnerable in
By addressing these three critical questions, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of income inequality in Toronto, considering its social justice implications, the intersection of faith perspectives, and the potential of advocacy efforts to drive positive change. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of income disparities and inspire dialogue and collaboration towards building a more equitable and just society for all.
Literature Review
The issue of homelessness is a pressing social justice challenge with far-reaching implications for society, demanding urgent attention and evidence-based solutions. Cheever (2020) in “The Book on Ending Homelessness” discusses De Jong’s data-driven, evidence-based approach to ending homelessness. The central theme is a call for a shift from managing to ending homelessness through the provision of permanent housing solutions. This binary perspective, emphasizing that individuals are either housed or not housed, challenges conventional wisdom, highlighting the need for comprehensive data-driven solutions. This is a theme seen in many of the other sources that delve into the idea that homelessness is binary. However, this oversimplified view fails to capture the complex underlying factors that lead to homelessness. It is essential to recognize that those affected by homelessness are not to be blamed but rather they are victims of systemic issues and are usually part of marginalized communities such as individuals with disabilities, survivors of domestic violence, veterans, and racial and ethnic minorities.
Such as with Fagan (2023) which sheds light on the challenges faced by hundreds of women in British Columbia, who become homeless or return to abusive situations after leaving transitional housing. The source emphasizes the systemic issues within the housing support system and the personal experiences of discrimination and abuse faced by these women. The theme explored here is the urgent need for government intervention to protect vulnerable individuals from homelessness and abuse, underscoring the importance of providing affordable and permanent housing options. However, there is a lack of depth in the limited exploration of broader socio-economic factors contributing to the lack of affordable housing.
Shimmin and Millar’s source provides an in-depth explanation of the factors contributing to income inequality in Canada and its impact on health. The theme revolves around the recognition that income inequality goes beyond mere income differences and is rooted in social and political factors. The significance of this source lies in the comprehensive understanding it offers of income inequality’s implications on health, emphasizing the need to address socio-economic disparities to achieve social justice. Addressing homelessness requires a holistic approach that considers the structural inequalities and systemic barriers faced by individuals providing them with the support and resources they need to break free from the cycle of homelessness and achieve stability.
By adopting a more holistic approach, social advocates and researchers can work together to address the interconnected issues of homelessness, poverty and social justice. This entails focusing on affordable housing, access to social services, mental health support, and educational opportunities, among other factors. Additionally, it is essential to combat stigmas associated with homelessness and poverty, acknowledging that those affected are victims of systemic injustices and deserve compassion and support rather than blame.
Homelessness is a deeply complex issue that cannot be solely blamed on individuals, but rather, it is rooted in underlying systemic factors that contribute to the vulnerability of certain communities. The intersection of mental health and homelessness exemplifies how systemic issues play a significant role in perpetuating this crisis. Understand that individuals with mental illnesses are at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness due to factors such as poverty, disaffiliation, and personal vulnerability. Homelessness, in turn, exacerbates mental health conditions, leading to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and substance use. This insight underscores the importance of holistic and integrated approaches to tackling homelessness. By recognizing that homelessness is not an issue of individual choice or personal failings, but rather a consequence of structural and systemic inequalities, we can begin to address the root causes and develop more effective solutions.
Community-based mental health services and supportive housing are vital components in addressing homelessness among individuals with severe mental illnesses. It becomes evident that homelessness is a multifaceted issue requiring comprehensive and collaborative efforts from various sectors of society. Blaming individuals for their circumstances overlooks the systemic barriers and inequities that contribute to their vulnerability. Instead, advocating for the homelessness means recognizing the need for systemic change and ensuring that basic needs, such as housing and mental health support, are met for these individuals who cannot support themselves
While exploring the aspect of faith, Matteo (2013) explores the relationship between wealth and religion in Toronto during the 19th century. The key theme if the impact of religion on employment opportunities and ultimately income. The source provides historical context, offering insights into the economic disparities between different religious groups. It explores how those of different religious backgrounds are impacted due to their difference in faith. Similarly, Richmond 2022 emphasizes the disparities in donations among religious groups and their economic impact. The key theme revolves around religious beliefs influencing donation patterns around Ontario, and the source provides concise data to support this perspective.
The faith aspect of homelessness and poverty is a significant dimension that warrants attention in our understanding of these pressing social issues. Several key themes and arguments emerge from the relevant sources. First and foremost, faith-based organizations and religious communities often play a crucial role in providing support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. These organizations play a crucial role in providing support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. These organizations offer shelters, food, clothing, and other essential resources, demonstrating the prophetic voice of compassion and empathy in action.
Secondly, the faith aspect also intersects with the root causes of homelessness and poverty. Researchers and scholars have explored how religious beliefs and practices can reinforce or challenge systemic inequalities. For example, these sources discuss the notion of prosperity theology, which links financial success to spiritual piety. Such beliefs may inadvertently contribute to victim-blaming and perpetuate the myth that poverty is a result of personal moral failings. On the other hand, other religious teachings emphasize the importance of social justice, advocating for caring for the less fortunate and addressing the structural factors that lead to poverty.
Addressing the faith aspect of homelessness and poverty is essential for several reasons. Firstly, understanding the role of faith-based organizations can help policymakers and social advocates recognize the existing resources available within the religious communities and collaborate with them to create more comprehensive support systems. Secondly, critically examining how religious beliefs can both perpetuate and challenge poverty-related stigmas is vital for fostering a more inclusive and compassionate. Moreover, engaging with the faith aspect provides an opportunity to encourage religious communities to reflect on their prophetic role in addressing social injustices. Faith-based institutions can become powerful agents of change and support in tackling these challenges by aligning their values and teachings with efforts to combat homelessness and poverty. Emphasizing social justice as an integral part of faith can lead to greater activism and solidarity within religious communities, amplifying the collective efforts to create a more equitable society.
Bennett (2023) challenges the notion of a housing crisis in Canada, advocating for an examination of structural inequality and economic exploitation. The source presents a fresh perspective on the housing issue, encompassing different policy approaches, historical context, and the interests of various stakeholders. The article discusses the issue of homelessness as a pressing social justice challenge, calling for a shift from managing to ending homelessness through data-driven, permanent housing solutions. However, a problem that recurs through many of these sources is that it highlights the oversimplified binary view of homelessness, neglecting complex underlying factors and systemic issues affecting marginalized communities. The article emphasizes the urgent need for government intervention to protect vulnerable women from homelessness and abuse while stressing the importance of affordable housing options.
Lim’s article (2023) focuses on a rent strike in Toronto, shedding light on the ongoing struggle for affordable housing. With more than 100 tenants in an apartment complex in Toronto on a rent strike to protest proposed above-guideline rent increases of almost 10% over the last two years. This strike highlights the need for fair and affordable housing solutions in Toronto to protect vulnerable tenants and address the systemic challenges contributing to housing affordability issues. Similarly, Tranjan (2023) supports tenants’ rent strikes in Toronto, emphasizing the class conflict underlying housing debates. Rent increases and affordability are significant contributors to homelessness and poverty. When rents become too high for low-income individuals and families to afford, they face the risk of eviction and homelessness. The lack of affordable housing options forces many to allocate a substantial portion of their income towards rent, leaving little for other necessities such as food, healthcare, and education. This financial strain perpetuates the cycle of poverty and makes it challenging for individuals to break free from it. Systemic barriers further exacerbate the issue. Limited access to affordable housing is often rooted in various systemic factors, including discriminatory practices, housing policies, and income inequality. Racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by housing affordability issues, highlighting the intersectionality of poverty and homelessness. Additionally, gentrification and urban development can displace low-income residents, forcing them to seek housing in more expensive areas or become homeless. Lack of supportive services for those facing economic hardship, mental health issues, or substance abuse also contributes to homelessness. Furthermore, the lack of social safety nets and adequate affordable housing programs can leave individuals and families vulnerable to sudden economic shocks, leading to homelessness and poverty.
Connecting Faith Perspectives and Social Justice
The role of faith or religious perspectives in addressing the social justice issue of homelessness in multifaceted and can vary depending on different religious or spiritual beliefs. Many faith communities view homelessness as a moral and ethical concern, calling for compassion, empathy and action to help those in need. Religious teachings often emphasize the importance of caring for the vulnerable and marginalized members of society, promoting the idea of hospitality and charity.
In Christianity, for example, the teachings of Jesus Christ inspire followers to help the poor and homeless, as exemplified in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. The Christian value of love they neighbor translates into the responsibility to provide aid and support to those experiencing homelessness. This compassion and service to the less fortunate are seen as a reflection of Christ’s love and a way to fulfill the Christian Duty of practicing selflessness and empathy.
In Islam, the concept of Zakat plays a crucial role in addressing poverty and homelessness. Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requiring Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need. By giving to the needy, including the homeless, Muslims purify their wealth and show solidarity with the less fortunate. This act of charity is seen as a way to seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah, as well as a means to alleviate poverty and promote social justice within the Muslim community.
In Buddhism, compassion and kindness towards all beings, including the homeless, are emphasized. The practice of meeta (loving-kindness) involves extending benevolence and goodwill to others, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and empathy. Buddhists are encouraged to extend their help to those facing difficult circumstances, recognizing that all individuals are subject to suffering, and alleviating that suffering is a noble and compassionate act.
Hinduism’s principle of seva, or selfless service, underpins the duty to serve others, particularly those facing hardships such as homelessness. Seva is considered a means of seeking spiritual growth and attaining liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. By serving the homeless and less fortunate, Hindus believe they are performing a sacred duty and expressing devotion to the divine, recognizing the inherent divinity in all beings.
Overall, these teachings and principles from different religious traditions underscore the importance of showing and those in need. They provide a moral and ethical foundation for believers to engage in acts of charity and service, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility for the welfare of society’s most vulnerable members. By aligning their actions with these values, followers of these faiths can play a vital role in addressing homelessness and poverty, contributing to a more just and caring society. Moreover, faith communities often play an active role in providing practical support to those experiencing homelessness. Many religious organizations run shelters, food banks, and outreach programs to assist individuals in need.
Historically, faith-based movements have been at the forefront of addressing societal inequalities and advocating for social justice. The Civil Rights Movemnet in the United States, led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., was significantly influenced by Christian principles of equality, justice, and nonviolence. King’s voice resonated with many, inspiring mass mobilization and leading to significant advancements in civil rights.
The intersection of faith perspectives with social justice concerns presents an opportunity for transformative change. When religious teachings are aligned with the principles of compassion, justice and human dignity, they can mobilize individuals and communities to take collective action and tackle complex social issues like homelessness. However, it is essential to acknowledge that faith perspectives can also be a source of potential conflict or divisions. Differences in religious beliefs, interpretations, and practices may lead to varying attitudes towards homelessness and approaches to addressing it. These differences must be navigated thoughtfully, fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation to harness the collective power of diverse faith communities in creating positive change.
Rick Tobias, the former Executive Director of Yonge Street Mission (YSM), was a prominent Prophetic Voice whose faith perspective intersected profoundly with the pursuit of social justice, particularly in addressing homelessness in Toronto. Through my research and personal reflections, I have gained insight into the ways in which Rick Tobias and YSM have made significant contributions to the lives of individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
Rick Tobias’ faith perspective, deeply rooted in his Christian beliefs, has been a driving force behind his commitment to a social justice and compassion for the marginalized. His understanding of the Gospel’s call to love thy neighbor and care for the least among us informed his leadership at YSM for over 30 years. Under his guidance, YSM has developed into a multi-faceted organizations offering essential services such as shelters, meal programs, and addiction recovery support to people experiencing homelessness.
One of the critical ways in which faith perspectives intersect with social justice through Rick Tobias and YSM is their emphasis on dignity and empowerment. Rather than merely providing basic necessities, YSM aims to restore individuals’ sense of worth and self-respect. This approach aligns with the belief in the inherent value and worth of every person, regardless of their circumstances, as taught in Christian teachings and echoed in various religious traditions. Moreover, YSM’s commitment to building relationships and community reflects the importance of connection and belonging in faith communities. By fostering a sense of belonging and support, YSM helps individuals experiencing homelessness regain hope and agency, promoting their path towards stable housing and long-term well-being.
Rick Tobias’ prophetic voice also challenged systemic issues contributing to homelessness. Through advocacy and collaboration with other stakeholders, YSM seeks to address root causes such as housing affordability, income inequality and mental health support. This comprehensive approach to social justice recognizes that solving homelessness requires systemic change, not just short-term fixes.
The implications of the connections between faith perspectives and social justice, as exemplified by Rick Tobias and YSM, are profound. At the individual level, it offers lifelines of hope and compassion for those facing homelessness, restoring their belief in a better future. For communities, it fosters empathy and understanding, breaking down stigmas and misconceptions about homelessness. On a societal level, it challenges us to confront the structural inequalities that perpetuate homelessness and pushes us towards more inclusive and compassionate policies.
The intersection of faith perspectives with social justice, as exemplified by Rick Tobias and YSM, serves as a powerful reminder that faith can be a force for positive change in society. It calls on individuals and communities to recognize the shared humanity in all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, and to work together towards a more equitable world. The lessons learned from YSM’s approach to social justice remind us of the transformative power of faith-inspired activism and the potential for faith communities to be powerful allies in the fight against homelessness and other social injustices.
Discussion/Reflection
Social Justice:
What are the underlying systemic factors contributing to income inequality in Toronto, and how do they intersect with issues of equity, fairness, and human rights? How do income disparities impact access to basic needs, social mobility, and overall well-being, particularly for marginalized communities?
The social justice dimension of my project aimed to explore the underlying causes and consequences of homelessness and the ways in which it disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Through my research, I discovered that homelessness is not just an individual issue but a result of systemic inequalities and structural failures. It is evident that factors such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, and inadequate social support systems contribute significantly to homelessness.
The Prophetic Voice of Rick Tobias from Yonge Street Mission (YSM) shed light on how faith perspectives intersect with social justice efforts to address homelessness. YSM’s holistic approach, focused on empowerment and dignity, emphasizes the inherent worth of every individual, which aligns with the principles of social justice. Rick Tobias’s advocacy for systemic change and collaboration with stakeholders demonstrates that faith communities can play a crucial role in challenging unjust structures that perpetuate homelessness.
However, there are limitations to this dimension. Homelessness is a complex issue, and while faith-inspired organizations like YSM are making significant contributions, they cannot address the root causes of homelessness alone. More comprehensive governmental policies and societal support are necessary to create lasting change. Furthermore, my research primarily focused on the Canadian context, and to gain a more global perspective, further exploration of homelessness in other countries and regions would be valuable.
Faith:
How do different religious or spiritual perspectives inform attitudes, actions, and responses to income inequality in Toronto? How do faith communities contribute to addressing the root causes of income disparities and promoting economic justice? What ethical teachings and values from various faith traditions can be leveraged to advocate for equitable economic systems?
The faith dimension of my project explored the role of religious or spiritual perspectives in shaping attitudes and responses to homelessness. Various religious teachings and ethical principles emphasize compassion, empathy, and social responsibility, which can inspire individuals and faith communities to take action against homelessness. My findings indicate that faith perspectives can motivate people to engage in charitable activities, volunteering, and advocacy efforts to address homelessness.
Rick Tobias’s Prophetic Voice exemplifies how Christian beliefs have shaped his leadership and compassionate approach towards people experiencing homelessness. The Gospel’s teachings on loving one’s neighbor and caring for the vulnerable have driven his advocacy and service through YSM.
However, it is essential to recognize that while faith perspectives can inspire positive actions, they can also be a source of tension and division. Different religious beliefs may lead to diverse perspectives on issues like poverty and homelessness. Recognizing and promoting interfaith dialogue and collaboration can be key to mobilizing broader support for social justice initiatives.
Advocacy:
What are the most effective strategies and initiatives employed by organizations and individuals in Toronto to advocate for income equality and social change? How do advocacy efforts influence policy reforms, public discourse, and the material conditions of marginalized communities? What potential avenues exist for further advocacy and collective action to address income inequality and promote equitable opportunities for the most vulnerable?
The advocacy dimension of my project examined the efforts made by individuals and organizations, particularly faith-inspired ones, in advocating for policies and programs to address homelessness. Advocacy plays a crucial role in creating systemic change and holding governments accountable for addressing social injustices.
Rick Tobias’s Prophetic Voice and YSM’s advocacy efforts highlight the significance of engaging with policymakers, community leaders, and the public to raise awareness and influence policies related to homelessness. Their work demonstrates the importance of amplifying the voices of those experiencing homelessness and involving them in advocacy efforts.
During this research, I encountered challenges in finding a comprehensive understanding of all advocacy initiatives, especially those driven by faith communities. Further investigation into the specific ways different faith traditions engage in advocacy, along with case studies of successful faith-inspired advocacy campaigns, would enrich the analysis of this dimension.
The intersection of social justice, faith, and advocacy in addressing homelessness presents significant implications for individuals, communities, and society as a whole. Faith perspectives can inspire compassion, mobilize resources, and challenge societal norms, making faith communities valuable partners in tackling homelessness. However, these efforts must be complemented by comprehensive governmental policies, public-private collaborations, and community-driven initiatives to address the root causes of homelessness effectively.
For future exploration, a comparative analysis of the role of faith communities in addressing homelessness in different cultural and regional contexts would provide a more comprehensive understanding of their impact globally. Additionally, further research into the potential tensions and challenges that may arise when faith perspectives intersect with social justice initiatives would promote more inclusive and empathetic dialogue.
The Prophetic Voice of Rick Tobias and Yonge Street Mission exemplify how faith perspectives can intersect with social justice efforts to address homelessness. The comprehensive approach, emphasis on dignity, and commitment to systemic change have resulted in meaningful contributions to individuals and communities affected by homelessness. Moving forward, fostering greater collaboration between faith communities, policymakers, and the wider society can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions to homelessness and other social injustices.
In conclusion, this paper explored the intersection of social justice, faith, and advocacy in the context of homelessness, focusing on the Prophetic Voice of Rick Tobias and his work with Yonge Street Mission (YSM). Through this examination, it became evident that homelessness is a multifaceted issue deeply rooted in systemic inequities and structural failures, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Rick Tobias’s approach to addressing homelessness through YSM demonstrates the profound impact that faith perspectives can have on inspiring compassionate action and systemic change.
The implications of this study are twofold. Firstly, it highlights the significant role that faith communities can play in advocating for social justice and supporting vulnerable populations. Faith-inspired values such as compassion, empathy, and social responsibility can mobilize resources and drive meaningful change. Secondly, the paper underscores the need for collaborative efforts between faith organizations, policymakers, and the wider society to address the root causes of homelessness comprehensively. The involvement of diverse stakeholders is vital to create lasting solutions and a more just and equitable society.
The Prophetic Voice of Rick Tobias and YSM exemplify how faith perspectives can intersect with social justice initiatives, inspiring transformative action in the face of systemic challenges. By understanding and embracing the lessons learned from their work, society can pave the way for more inclusive and compassionate approaches to address homelessness and other pressing social injustices. Ultimately, this project seeks to inspire dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy efforts towards creating a society where every individual’s inherent dignity is respected, and everyone has access to safe and stable housing.
Advocacy efforts: Interview with Father Prakash
Background and Context:
In this interview, Reanne from the Awakening Project sits down with Father Prakash, a Dominican priest and director for inter-religious dialogue in the Archdiocese of Toronto. The interview focuses on Father Prakash’s work with the homeless community and his efforts in fostering interfaith collaboration to support the less privileged in Toronto.
The Awakening Project is a group committed to social advocacy and faith-based practices to enhance the local community’s well-being. Reanne’s summer project centers on homelessness and poverty in Toronto. She explores the root causes of homelessness, the evolving situation in Toronto, the impact of COVID-19 on the homeless community, and ways individuals can contribute to community support.
Interviewee: Father Prakash
Friar Prakash Anthony Lohale is a Dominican and the Director of the Office for Interreligious Dialogue, Archdiocese of Toronto. His ministry has been in the field of teaching, training and youth animation. He is on the board of the Toronto Interfaith Area Council (TAIC). Member of Standing Committee: Eradicating Poverty and Dignity for TAIC. A member of the National Muslim Christian Liaison Committee (NMCLC). Facilitator of the Christian-Muslim-Jewish Young Adults Dialogue Group. He was a member of the Steering Committee for the Parliament of World Religions, Toronto 2018. Course Instructor for Interfaith Diploma (University of St. Michael’s College, Toronto). Member of Development and Peace, Archdiocesan Council, Member of the Facilitating team for STIR Retreats (Spiritual Transformation in Recovery), Liaison for Ripples of Kindness (RoK) and interfaith community meal for the homeless and needy. He served as General Promoter of Justice and Peace for the worldwide Dominican Order from 2005 – to 2008. After a three-year term, he was invited to be on the leadership team as Socius for Apostolic Life (2008-2014) by the Master of the Dominican Order and lived in Rome.
Interview and transcript:
Works cited
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