"The Saturday Social has blessed me as well as the women's group... Before I started attending the Saturday night socials I was feeling lonely because I didn't really have a good group of friends around my age. I hadn't really found people to hang around with [but I heard about the parish and Saturday nights from two other students]. So I went to check it out and see if I would like it and I felt very welcomed! I really enjoyed my time there and with the ladies group. I felt a similar passion from the other young adults who were on the team and were apart of the group... I brought two friends and I'm sure they felt the same way."
- Natalie, Durham College student
"As an international student here, my first few days were full of fear and uncertainty. When I first saw the booth for the club, those feelings were the first thing in my mind, but the warmness I felt emanating from the students was captivating, inexplicable really. At first I started participating in their activities looking for a group of friends, but I can confidently say that, not only did I find it, but also a reforged relationship with God, something I didn't even know I was missing. I can't thank everyone in the Chaplaincy enough, my social and spiritual life took a radical turn for the better."
- Luis, Durham College graduate
"As a Durham College international student going into my third year, I look back with amazement at the great things I have enjoyed since joining this family two years ago. The Saturday socials are the most enjoyable as I am able to spend time with other college students who always welcome me and make me feel at home. They have been a second family here in Canada to my sisters and I. Joining the Parish enabled me to participate in various events like campus mass and adoration which have made me appreciate and understand my faith outside the parish walls which is a new experience. However, the best thing about St. Joseph’s the Worker Parish is that it always explores new ways for me to learn about Catholic faith with Come and See Weekends at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Scarborough, student retreats to Gethsemane Ministries in Wellandport and Chaplaincy Men’s group at the Parish. Even the catholic themed movies during movie night add on to my faith. Lastly, I have found mentorship and support in Fr. Eric Mah, Shannon Hawkyard and Aldrin Fernandes who were the key figures in easing my transition into the Parish and into a new country. I will always be grateful to my Christian family at St. Joseph’s the Worker Parish."
- Adrian, Durham College student
"As an international student, I was looking for a place to connect with young Catholics, grow in my faith, and create meaningful relationships and the chaplaincy did just that. I have been able to meet some really wonderful people, who have journeyed with me in the faith, and with whom I have created great memories. For me, it’s been such a blessing to be part of this chaplaincy, and I’m thankful to God that it exists."
- Laura, Durham College graduate
"The Oshawa Catholic Chaplaincy has positively impacted my university experience and has become important in my personal growth. My journey has led me on an unexpected path where I have learned much about my faith and the importance of friendship. It has clearly portrayed to me that wholesome interactions arise from the nature of this faith-based group. I have come to realize the image and likeness of God portrayed in all the young adults that I have met at the chaplaincy. Spending time in this community has resulted in life-long, Christ-centred connections that have proven to be true, good and beautiful. For any young adult looking to join an accepting community, build friendships that prioritize virtue or enhance their relationship with God, the Oshawa Catholic Chaplaincy is a great way to do so."
- Ontario tech university student
"A big part of the Chaplaincy is made up of students from around the world. Moving to another country as an immigrant is not only a leap of faith but also a complete surrender to what is ahead. You follow the unknowns of the new place with hope that all be well. As for many newcomers the adaptation is a tug of war within. Isolation and distance usually start taking a toll after the first months away from our old comfort zones. Located at 1100 Mary St in Oshawa, Ontario: the Oshawa Catholic Chaplaincy becomes that welcoming warmth that the soul deeply needs in the cold moments of journey ahead. Though we come from different cultures and have a variety of personalities there is a thing that unites us, and it is our faith. Not only the Chaplaincy helps us to grow spiritually and cultivate our faith, but also to mature in life. Many become like family to us. As well the community from the parish is always there when we most need it. Could not thank more Fr Eric and his guidance, along with the listening and caring counsel of the campus ministers. This little place for solace brings small drops of balm to the soul. To obtain peace is one of God’s greatest treasures. As well through this community you can learn how much God loves us in the most simple things and how He waits for us everyday."