Gala to benefit Blessed Ozanam parish

Blessed Ozanam parish is hosting Our Legacy Gala II featuring Sean Jones of the Juno Award-winning R&B group In Essence and his nine-piece band to raise funds to build a permanent church in Markham.

The gala will be held Saturday, Oct. 19 at the Hilton Markham Suites Hotel and includes a fine dining experience with a four-course meal, cash bar, numerous raffles and prizes, and dancing.

Since it was established in 2017, Blessed Ozanam has been holding its services in schools, neighbouring Catholic parishes in Markham and Stouffville, and renting space in a Markham-based Lutheran church.

“Blessed Frédéric Ozanam is the patron saint of the parish as well as the founder of the St. Vincent de Paul Society,” says Ricardo Davis, pastor of the parish. The St. Vincent de Paul Society operates in 153 countries and helps more than 30 million people in need around the world each year, he reports.

“The church aims to be a community hub by which the parish is empowered to serve the people of Markham by assisting the poor, engaging the youth and supporting families,” Davis says. “In building a permanent spiritual home, we will be able to grow our network of charity as we continue to serve the Markham community.”

Hilton Markham Suites Hotel is at 8500 Warden Ave. Gala tickets are $250 per person, and more than half of the ticket price is tax deductible. Doors open at 6 p.m., and dinner is served at 7 p.m. For more information about the gala and to purchase tickets, visit www.BlessedOzanam.ca.

Photo of Sean Jones and his band courtesy of Blessed Ozanam parish.