Toronto ON Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church 1949

Toronto, Ontario, Church in the Name of the Holy Trinity, 1949

Prehistory

Ethnic Russians and Russian-speakers may well have been living in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, earlier in the 19th century, but there is no official record of their presence. In part, this was because the Canadian immigration records of that time allowed only for the indication of “Eastern Europe” as a place of origin, but not the Russian Empire. Nevertheless, both work opportunities and business interests likely brought a small number of immigrants in those days.

The founding in 1915 of Christ the Saviour Russian Orthodox Church in Toronto (the city’s first Russian Orthodox parish) made a supplement in the Russian language and culture to the pre-existing Greek Orthodox worship in the city. Because of the use of the Slavonic and Russian languages, the Orthodox Christian Church was enabled to take her normal and usual central place in the life of many Russian-speaking Torontonians.

At that time, almost all the Orthodox communities in North America were administered by the bishop of the North American diocese of the Russian Mission (the Diocese of the Aleutians), later called "The Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church of North America" (also called "The Metropolia", and later, "The Orthodox Church in America"). Since 1908, the Orthodox Christians in Canada had had their own administrators within the Russian Mission, and they received their first resident bishop in 1916, Bishop Alexander (Nemolovsky, who resided in Winnipeg, Manitoba. However, after World War I and after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, there was a steady arrival in Toronto of Orthodox immigrants and refugees from the territories of the former Russian Empire and the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. At first, the arrival of many persons displaced by these events produced instability and confusion, after which there began a recovery of worship and spiritual life in Toronto.

After World War II, a larger immigration began. Very many people had been displaced by this war ; and shifting borders had allowed for the escape of many Orthodox believers from Soviet-occupied territories. Amongst them were many clergy. Besides the faithful lay-persons, many bishops, priests and deacons also arrived in Canada, and many settled in Toronto. This expanded the Orthodox presence in the city, but it also made a certain amount of confusion.

For some of the new-arrivals, after having first visited the existing Christ the Saviour Church, it came to be considered preferable that they establish a second parish in the city. One of the motives for the establishment of this distinct parish would have been the decision in November, 1946, of the 7th All-American Sobor of the Metropolia to break ties with the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia. The difference between the two was principally about whether or not at this time to attempt a reconciliation with the Patriarchate of Moscow.

Founding of the parish, 1949

The history of Holy Trinity begins in the late 1940s, when Russian-speaking refugees from World War II, already living throughout Europe, began immigrating to Canada. Some of them settled in Toronto. These new immigrants soon chose to form their own congregation. Mrs. Alexandra Furlani (+2023) became one of the first members of the parish as a teenager, and she remained a leader of the congregation in 2016. After moving from Germany to England and then to Canada in 1949, Mrs. Furlani was 16 when she settled in Toronto with her family. Shortly thereafter, the Furlani family, along with a Russian Orthodox priest (recently arrived as a fellow-refugee) joined with others to begin a new Russian Orthodox Church. This priest was the Mitred Archpriest Matthew Andruchenko. Another such family is the Antonov family, represented by Igor Antonov (+2013) and his son Peter Antonov in particular. The small group met first in a home on Spadina Avenue at Queen Street. Soon afterwards, they rented a space on Parliament Street at Gerrard Street. From here, the congregation moved in 1950 back to its former Queen and Spadina neighbourhood, where it rented space in the United Church of Canada’s Church of All Nations.

Regular services were offered on Saturday evenings, Sunday mornings and during the week. In a short period of time and through word of mouth, the number of worshippers grew, and the centre of a community, around which all facets of life would revolve, was born. During the same period, a second Russian Orthodox priest arrived in Toronto and began engaging youth and involving them with the church. His work attracted a group of young people who would remain committed to the church throughout their lives.

It is useful to understand that the nascent community was affiliated with the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, rather than with the Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church of North America (of which Christ the Saviour Church was a part).

Mrs. Furlani recalls that the financial situation of the congregation was a serious challenge, since most new Russian Orthodox immigrants to the city had very little money. Yet, the community was determined and united, and worked together towards their goal of acquiring their own dedicated church building.

Russian Canadian Cultural Aid Society, 1950

In 1950, shortly after the founding of Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, the Russian Canadian Cultural Aid Society (RCCAS) was established. Its aims were to provide social and cultural events such as lectures and dances, and to help newly-arrived Russian immigrants settle in Toronto. It became a place which offered a centre in which Russian-speakers in the city could meet with each other, and where Russian language and culture would be fostered and promoted. It also began the service of providing settlement support for Russian-speaking immigrants. Many members of Holy Trinity Church are also members of the RCCAS. This organisation gave church members the opportunity to hold dances and music concerts (which were not allowed to take place in the Holy Trinity Church building).

The RCCAS was first established in a house on Queen Street near Ossington Avenue. It hosted a library that included a wide range of books, from Russian language literature to a broader range of educational and political subjects, and it commonly presented lectures by professors and international guest speakers.

Second Temple, 1953

In 1953, the Russian Orthodox believers of Holy Trinity Church opened a new Temple on Richmond Street at Berkeley Street. This one had been built by their own hands.

In 1957, Archbishop Vitaly (Ustinov) became the second ruling bishop of the Diocese of Montréal and Canada. His strong leadership would be felt long after he became the Metropolitan of the ROCOR in 1986.

In 1962, the RCCAS organisation moved to a new house, which had been built in the city’s west end, and named “Novgorod” after the historically important Russian city. In this place, for more than 20 years, the RCCAS participated in Toronto’s International Caravan, one of the city’s largest multicultural festivals, which encouraged all ethnic groups to open their doors and share their culture. This annual event had its beginning in 1969.

Third Temple, 1966

Continuing to grow, in 1966 the congregation acquired the former Beth Jacob Synagogue on Henry Street. The construction of the synagogue had been completed in 1922. Like the earlier conversion of the former Holy Blossom Synagogue on Bond Street into Saint George’s Greek Orthodox Church, Holy Trinity’s congregation adapted the building’s architecture and transformed it to suit its liturgical and spiritual requirements. One of the adaptations was the adorning of the space with rich Orthodox iconography. A living centre of faith, language, and art, Holy Trinity Church has also become a community centre that hosts gatherings associated with weddings, baptisms and funerals. When the renovation was completed in 1969, the Temple was officially opened as Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church in this building. It has now become a landmark in the city, and its exterior was used in one well-known film.

With its domed roof and Crosses typical of Orthodox Temples, Holy Trinity stands out in downtown Toronto.

What had begun as a small group of about 10 members in 1949 grew into a parish of 240 families who attend services every week. As soon as the church was bought in 1966, Mrs. Alexandra Furlani and other women from the church formed themselves into a “sisterhood”. They then began preparing meals on Sundays for all worshippers. This tradition of communal meals is supposed by some to have come from a time when many Russians were coming home from working in the factories, and it was helpful for them to come to the church to have an evening meal. However, the main purpose originated in the breaking of the fast after having received the Holy Mysteries (Holy Communion).

Holy Trinity offers a “Russian School” for the children on Saturdays, and a bazaar in November, where members bring items to sell, and all proceeds go to needy convents and monasteries around the world.

Temple interior

40 years, new immigration, after 1980

During the 1980s, in response to a growing need, the RCCAS, in co-operation with Holy Trinity Church, moved more deeply into the area of settlement services and immigration. It became an important centre in the community, helping newly arrived Russians with the difficult but vital challenges of adjusting to their new surroundings, finding employment and housing and learning the English language.

During this time, the Russian Orthodox communities in Toronto combined their efforts in order to support this very large number of new-arrivals. Together with Christ the Saviour Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Toronto, Holy Trinity Cathedral established the organisation "Russian Orthodox Immigrant Services". This group effort was able to help the newcomers very effectively.

In 2002, because of financial difficulties, the RCCAS gave up its own dedicated space, and it began to use space in Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church on Henry Street for its monthly meetings.

Canadian Diocesan Assembly Meeting, 2002

On 23-25 October, 2002, at the Church Hall of Holy Trinity Cathedral, Toronto, under the presidency of Metropolitan Laurus (Skurla), First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, the Diocesan Assembly of Canada met. The session was conducted by Bishop Gabriel (Chemodakov), Bishop of Manhattan, who headed the Diocesan Council of the Canadian Diocese. The Diocesan Assembly opened after the Divine Liturgy and a service of supplication (moleben), on the Feast of the Venerable Elders of Optina. This was the second such meeting during 2002.

On the first day of the sessions, a solemn and moving Akathist to the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God was served. A combined choir sang, directed by Mr. G A Skok. The second and third days of the sessions were taken up by a working discussion by responsible persons of the Diocese, and also by reports given by the rectors of the parishes of Eastern and Western Canada. A report on the successful work of the “Ruskok” (i.e., “Russia in Maskok”) Children’s Camp, on the banks of a river 2 hours from Toronto, was heard with great interest. Participants in the Diocesan Assembly endorsed the text of the Epistle to the Flock of the Diocese, which was published soon after.

At the conclusion of the sessions, Metropolitan Laurus and Bishop Gabriel, along with all who had gathered in Toronto, expressed their gratitude to Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko, rector of Holy Trinity Cathedral and Dean for Eastern Canada, and Mr. A Ya Furlani, warden of the Cathedral. Also, they thanked the Sisterhood warmly, with their Senior Sister, M Ya Slin’ko, for their excellent organisation of the meeting, their hospitality and, especially, for the food they provided. Those present sensed with joy the truly brotherly, conciliar spirit which prevailed throughout the meeting, and the readiness of the parishes to support their brethren who find themselves in difficult circumstances. Not for nought did the report of the Treasurer of the Diocese (which by its very nature is full of numbers, and was of a business-like character) end with the words of the Apostle Paul : “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galations 6:2-5).

Metropolitan Laurus, Bishop Gabriel, clergy

Reconciliation between the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia and the Moscow Patriarchate, 2007

In 2007, the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia was reconciled with the Moscow Patriarchate, and communion was restored between the 2 Churches. This act resolved many historical difficulties (brought about by the Bolshevik Revolution), but it did not immediately resolve them all. Nevertheless, this act did affect the life of Holy Trinity Church in many ways.

Signing the Act of Communion, 2007

Celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Russian Church Abroad in the Canadian Diocese, 2010

The year 2010 marked the 90th anniversary of the canonical founding of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. This significant event in Russian history was solemnly celebrated in the Canadian Diocese.

With the blessing of Bishop Gabriel (Chemodakov) of Montréal and Canada, it was decided to hold the celebration on 7-8/20-21 November, at the Temple of Holy Trinity in Toronto, Ontario (the largest parish of the Church Abroad). The date for the celebration was not chosen deliberately. It was during these days in 1920, aboard the ship “Great Prince Alexander Mikhailovich” (one of those used by the Russian exiles leaving Crimea), near the shore of Istanbul-Constantinople, and then in the city itself, that the first sessions of the Temporary Highest Church Administration in the South of Russia took place. The session met under the presidency of Metropolitan Antoniy (Khrapovitsky), which gave the beginning to the existence of the Russian Church beyond the borders of Russia.

The first session took place on 6/19 November, 1920. Then, on 7/20 November, the well-known Ukaz #362 (Decree #362) of Saint Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow, with the Holy Synod and the Highest Church Council of the Russian Church, that, in particular, stated :

 2. In the event that a diocese [...] will be unable to communicate with the HCA (Highest Church Administration), or the 
 HCA itself, headed by the Patriarch for some reason will cease its activity, the diocesan hierarch must immediately 
 contact the hierarchs from the neighbouring dioceses in order to organise the Highest Church Administration [...].   
 
 3. The care for organising the Highest Church Administration, for those [...] in circumstances described in paragraph 2 [...] 
 is the indispensable duty of the highest ranking hierarch in the said group.

Nine decades later, on exactly the same day, in the parish hall of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Toronto, a youth conference began, which also opened the Diocesan solemnities. In his opening remarks, Vladyka Gabriel touched upon those numerous difficulties, experienced by the bearers of the Orthodox worldview in contemporary setting, especially for the Russian people outside of Russia. Vladyka noted that in our times, when maybe even the Gadarene demoniac (whose story is related in Holy Scripture (Luke 8:26-39)) would be considered if not healthy, then at least only in need of a psychotherapist, people do not notice the influence of the evil spirits, although their activity now is seen almost more than in the times of the earthly life of the Lord Jesus Christ. He underscored especially that one may find salvation from the demonic activity of this world exclusively within the fold of the Church, and that the founding, by the will of God, of the Russian Church Abroad allowed our immigration to preserve both our spiritual and Russian identity.

After a lively discussion of Vladyka’s opening remarks, participants in the conference were offered a presentation prepared by the choir conductor George A Skok. His presentation offered a detailed look at the history of the Canadian Diocese of the Russian Church Abroad.

The conference was concluded by Archpriest Vladimir Morin, rector of the Temple of Christ the Saviour in London, Ontario. He talked about the first visit in the last 90 years of the Holy Wonder-working Icon of the Mother of God of “Kursk-Root” to the Russian Federation. Father Vladimir was a member of the delegation that took the Directress of the Russian Diaspora on the trip to Russia. This trip became a great spiritual event, in some way a crowning of the Grace-filled process of the re-establishment of the unity of the Russian Church. He illustrated his story with a documentary film about both the Wonder-working “Kursk” Icon of the Theotokos, and about the way in which the regenerating Orthodox Russia met this holy icon.

At 7:00 p.m., the All-night Vigil began. It was served with a special pious inspiration, assisted in this greatly by the tender singing of the cathedral choir under the guidance of Mr. G A Skok. During the polyeleios, Vladyka Gabriel served along with the rector of the Trinity Cathedral, Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko ; Mitred Archpriest Sergey Rasskazovsky (Patriarchal Representation, Parish of Saint Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow), who came especially for the feast ; Archpriests Vladimir Morin, and Michael Lyuboshchinskiy (Holy Protection Church, Hamilton, Ontario) ; Priests Viatcheslav Davidenko (Toronto) and Alexey Pjawka (Holy Protection Memorial Church, Ottawa, Ontario) ; and with Protodeacon Vasili Milonow, and Deacons Alexander Morin, Ilia Grozdanov and Eugene Schukin.

On Sunday, 21 November, At the Sunday Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, which took place with a great gathering of the Faithful (more than 800), the Holy Relics of the Baptiser of Russia, Holy Equal-of-the-Apostles Great Prince Vladimir (in Canada with the blessing of Metropolitan Volodymyr (Sabodan) of Kiev) were brought to the Trinity cathedral. The above-mentioned clergy of the Russian Church Abroad, joined by Archpriest George Lagodich (Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Montréal, Québec), concelebrated together with Vladyka Gabriel.

It is on this day that the Church celebrates the Synaxis of Holy Archangel Michael and All the Bodiless Hosts, the 25th anniversary of the blessed repose of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Philaret (Voznesensky) was marked. He was third in the succession of the First Hierarchs of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. This great man of prayer was commemorated in the entire Canadian Diocese, in accordance with the Ukaz (decree) of Bishop Gabriel. At Holy Trinity Cathedral, "Memory Eternal" was sung for him after the dismissal. "Memory Eternal" was chanted for all the ever-memorable First Hierarchs of ROCOR and for all the Russian people, who gave their lives for the faith, for the tsar, and for the fatherland, for all who fell asleep in diaspora and for all who fell in fratricidal war. A prayer-service (Moleben) to Holy Equal-of-the-Apostles Great Prince Vladimir was served, and "Many Years" was intoned for Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all Russia, the current First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral), all hierarchs of ROCOR, and also for the rector, clergy, and many parishioners of Trinity cathedral in Toronto – the hospitable hosts, who labored much for the success of the current celebration.

At the banquet, which was attended by more than 300 people, Bishop Gabriel addressed all present with words of gratitude ; and once again, he turned to the historical events, the memory of which gathered all the children of the Russian Church Abroad on that day. "Let us recall, brothers and sisters, that in the years of civil trouble and rule of the godless authorities in the Russian land, almost 1,500,000 people fled from its borders. Amongst them were notable politicians, military commanders, famous writers, philosophers, and scientists. They created political, military, and creative organizations. Already, in the first half of 1920s, many publishing houses, newspapers, and magazines appeared in the diaspora. Russian political, scientific, and literary life possessed a striking richness and diversity. Yet, by the unfathomable will of God, all of it, with the passing of the short (from the historical perspective) 9 decades, almost completely vanished, and in any case, took on a very humble resemblance. Conditionally speaking, only one immigrant “organisation” continued to grow steadily. Despite all obstacles, difficulties, and troubles, it remained the sole organisation that united within its borders everything that was called and is now called the Russian Diaspora. The entire essence of the mission of the Russian Emigration was concentrated in it. For this “organisation”, as it is said in the Scripture, came to be “not of men and not according to men”. This is our Russian Church Abroad. If it weren’t established by the providence of God, then the Russian Orthodox Diaspora would not have been preserved".

Bishop Gabriel also reminded that the well-known Ukaz #362 of Patriarch Tikhon, along with the “Tomos” of the Ecumenical Patriarch, the 2 that served as the foundation for the canonical activity of the Russian Church Abroad, was adhered to strictly. And when, by the mercy of God, the Russian Orthodox Church in the Fatherland, after long sufferings, once again obtained freedom to carry on its service, the canonical communion between the 2 parts of the Russian Church in the Diaspora and in the Fatherland was re-established. Yet, that doesn’t mean that our special purpose is fulfilled. The Russian Orthodox Church Abroad was always faithful to its mission : the care for the Russian Orthodox people who for different reasons happened to be outside of Russia, and the preaching of the Orthodox Christian Faith amongst the nations, on whose lands we carry out our service. In his recent interview to the magazine “Trinity Heritage”, Metropolitan Hilarion underscored that after the re-establishment of the canonical unity of the Russian Church, these 2 main directions of our mission do not lessen, but rather are broadened and strengthened.

Following this, there was a concert of the cathedral choir under the guidance of Mr. G A Skok. The wide programme of the concert was grounded, as it were, on a historical canvas, in a way a vocal chronicle of Russia and the Russian Orthodox diaspora. A good combination of the Church and secular songs, masterful, penetrating performance, all evoked a sort of ecstasy in the listeners.

Those present were greeted by the rector of Holy Trinity Cathedral, Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko and Archpriest Sergey Rasskazovsky, rector of the Patriarchal representation in Toronto. In conclusion, Reader Y G Miloslavsky, author of a number of articles on the history of the Russian Church Abroad, gave a small lecture. In particular, the lecturer touched upon the role that the 2 great hierarchs, Saint Tikhon the Confessor, Patriarch of Moscow, and Metropolitan Antoniy (Khrapovitsky), played in ordering and developing the Russian Church Activity in the years of persecution. In his words, each one of them received the obedience prepared for him, and each one fulfilled it completely. Saint Tikhon the Confessor, contrary to all the efforts of the antichrist’s powers, was granted, as Saint John of Shanghai later said, “by the cross to hold the Russian Church on the surface of Russian life”. The service of Metropolitan Anthony was different. He was granted to preserve the Russian Diaspora. Actually, only on account of the colossal, unequalled authority of Metropolitan Anthony amongst the First Hierarchs of the Eastern Churches, it was possible to continue the activity of the Highest Church Administration in the South of Russia abroad on canonical grounds.

Purchase of a neighbouring house for meetings, 2011

In 2011, the congregation purchased a house next door to the Temple, which was to be used by youth taking classes and by priests delivering lectures.

The congregation recently invested in the restoration of its landmark heritage building.

View of the gallery during a service

The 22nd Russian Orthodox Church Musicians’ Conference, 2012

The 22nd Russian Orthodox Church Musicians’ Conference, held in Toronto from 3-7 October, 2012 (hosted by Holy Trinity Cathedral where Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko is the rector), was a great success. The Conference was organised by the Liturgical Music Commission of the Synod of Bishops in co-operation with the local organising committee chaired by the choir director of the cathedral, George A Skok. The theme of the conference was “Twenty Years Later : Directions in Russian Church Music”. Thanks to a grant from the Fund for Assistance to the ROCOR, the Synodal Commission was able to invite 4 speakers from Russia, who shared their knowledge and experience. These speakers were :

 • The former director of the Choral Conducting Courses at the Saint Petersburg Theological Academy and choir director 
 of the Prince Vladimir Cathedral in Saint Petersburg, Mikhail I Vaschenko, who read a paper entitled, 'The Development 
 and Directions of Russian Church Music in Saint Petersburg after the Fall of Communism'.  Church singing in Saint 
 Petersburg is blossoming and interest therein has grown sharply in the last twenty years.
 
 • Priest Mikhail Asmus (Moscow), a staff member of the Department of External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate
 and a principal editor in publishing the legacy of liturgical music of Deacon Sergei Trubachev, in his lecture, 
 'Fundamental Issues in contemporary Russian Orthodox Singing in Light of the Works of Deacon Sergei Trubachev', 
 spoke about the life and works of Deacon Sergei, and set out in detail the principles and approaches applied by 
 the late master.
 
 • Ekaterina N Sadikova, an assistant and singer in the mixed choir of the Holy Trinity-Saint Sergius Lavra, directed 
 by the late Archimandrite Matvey (Mormyl), in her presentation, 'Continuing the Traditions of Russian Chanters in the 
 works of Archimandrite Matvey, former Choir Director of the Holy Trinity-Saint Sergius Lavra', informed the 
 participants of the conference about Father Matvey’s role as a chanter and arranger of ancient chants.  Her devotion to 
 Father Matvey and to the Lavra’s traditions of spiritual music deeply touched many of the listeners. 
 
 • Vladimir A Gorbik, director of the choirs of the Moscow Metochion of the Holy Trinity-Saint Sergius Lavra and a 
 graduate of the Moscow Conservatory in orchestral as well as choral conducting, shared his vast experience, at the same
 time focussing on the spiritual approach to the work of choir directors and Church singers.  During his master-classes 
 for directors and singers, participants witnessed Vladimir Aleksandrovich’s very high level of professionalism and 
 dedication to the Church.  V A  Gorbik also gave a talk on 'Questions of contemporary Performance of liturgical Music 
 in the Orthodox Church'.

Professor Kurt Sander (USA) gave a lecture on “Nurturing a living Tradition of liturgical Music in the Orthodox Church”, where he talked about the importance of maintaining creativity in Orthodox Church music.

In addition to the main lectures, the participants attended the following workshops :

Mariya V Bakhvalova (Canada) gave a lesson on vocal performance. Benedict Sheehan (USA) conducted a seminar on “Singing Trubachev in English : Approaches to Interpretation and Transcription”. Professor Sterling Beckwith (Canada) led a motivated discussion on “Unleashing Russian Sounds from North American Voices”.

The second cleric of the cathedral, Priest Viatcheslav Davidenko, worked very hard in support of the conference. The organisers were especially grateful to him for his simultaneous translations from English to Russian, which he did for the Russian-speaking participants.

It is noteworthy that the choir directors from the 2 major monasteries of ROCOR and the OCA (Hieromonk Roman (Krassovsky) from Holy Trinity Monastery (ROCOR) and Benedict Sheehan from Saint Tikhon’s Monastery (OCA)) were both present at the conference.

The conference culminated in the festal hierarchal services, headed by Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov) of Montreal and Canada, together with a multitude of clergy in a church filled with worshippers.

Joining Archbishop Gabriel on Sunday morning were Bishop Job (Smakouz) of Kashira (Moscow Patriarchate) and Bishop Irénée (Rochon) of Québec (Orthodox Church in America). This was the first concelebration in Canada of hierarchs from ROCOR, the MP and the OCA.

Music sung during the Divine services included the compositions of Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) of Volokolamsk ; Archbishop Ionafan (Yeletskih) ; Archimandrite Matvey (Mormyl) ; Deacon Sergei Trubachev ; Kurt Sander ; Nun Juliana (Denisova) ; N Schidlovsky ; G Lapaev ; B Feoktistov ; K Mironov ; S Tolstokulakov ; B Ledkovksy ; M Konstantinov, and others. The combined choir sang as one and very prayerfully under the direction of various choir directors who were participants of the conference.

It should be mentioned that the Holy Trinity parish welcomed the participants of the conference at a rather complex time (the cathedral was undergoing major renovations, and scaffolding was everywhere, both inside and outside the Temple). Despite these issues, a group of volunteers headed by the Church Warden, Alexandra Y Furlani, worked to bring the Temple to a majestic state, and the services and other conference activities there took place with minimal disruption.

As is customary, the conference closed with a banquet ; and it must be said that it was a glorious one, organised by the Sisterhood of Holy Trinity Cathedral under the direction of the Head Sister, Anna P Zotova. The Rector, Father Vladimir Malchenko, gave a speech thanking the Synodal Liturgical Music Commission, the local committee, the guests who had travelled from Russia, the Sisterhood, the participants of the conference, and all parishioners. Father Vladimir presented gifts to the members of the Commission and the local organisers.

In his word of thanks, Archbishop Gabriel noted the importance of work in the field of Church music, and he talked about several of current related initiatives. He invited everyone to come to the services at the Synodal Cathedral in New York on 28 October, 2012, when the Metropolitan Cathedral choir, under the direction of P A Fekula, was to sing the Divine Liturgy to the music of Mikhail Sergeyevich Konstantinov, the famous choir director of the San Francisco Cathedral, to mark the 30th anniversary of the day of his repose in Christ.

Brief remarks were also made by the Chairman of the Liturgical Music Commission, Archpriest Andrei Papkov, and by the head of the local committee, G A Skok.

Protodeacon Serge Arlievsky, a member of the Synodal Liturgical Commission, commemorated departed labourers in the field of liturgical music, starting with Metropolitan Laurus (Skurla), the late chairman of the Liturgical Music Commission, as well as Archimandrite Matvey (Mormyl), Deacon Sergei Trubachev, Alexander Ledkovsky, who had been a member of the Commission, and others. “Many years” was proclaimed for the Rector, the Sisterhood, and all parishioners.

Especially moving was the performance by the children’s choir “The Trinity Nightingales”, directed by Mariya V Bakhvalova, made up of children from the parish Russian School, where close to 300 students are enrolled. As they performed Russian songs, the audience was clearly moved and many had tears in their eyes. The young singers were rewarded with boisterous applause.

In conclusion, one must mention the enthusiasm and joyful mood of the participants, who returned to their places in the Churches of Russia abroad with renewed strength and energy as they continue their work in the field of liturgical singing.

40th anniversary of Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko, 2013

On 14-15 December, 2013, the Holy Trinity parish in Toronto celebrated with great joy the 40th anniversary of ordination to the Holy Priesthood of its long-time rector, Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko. The celebrations were led by Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov) of Montréal and Canada, who had travelled to Toronto especially for this occasion, together with Bishop Georgije (Djokic) of the Serbian Diocese. Father Vladimir was ordained to the Holy Diaconate on 2 December, 1973, in the Saint Nicholas Cathedral of Montréal by the Ruling Bishop of the Canadian Diocese at that time, Archbishop Vitaly (Ustinov), the future Metropolitan and Hierarch of Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. Only a few months later Father Vladimir was ordained to the Holy Priesthood, and from that very time he never left the Holy Trinity parish. He followed another prominent representative of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, Archpriest Matthew Andrewszhenko. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Vladyka Gabriel announced that, according to the resolution of the Bishops’ Council of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, in order to commemorate his 40 years of priestly service, and for his outstanding diligence, dedication, and hard work for the well-being of our Mother Church, the Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko was awarded the Church Order “The Sign”, Third Degree, and he presented to him all the insignia of the Order, along with the appropriate certificate.

On 31 May, 2018, Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov) made a pastoral visit to this Temple on the occasion of the Altar Feast-day, the Feast of Pentecost. He served the Vigil on Saturday evening, and he presided at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on the Sunday of Pentecost.

Archbishop Gabriel anointing at Vigil

Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church remains committed to its original purpose – to provide a place in which Russians may express the Orthodox Christian Faith, and at the same time maintain contact with their historical cultural roots, and with others of Russian origin in Toronto.

Holy Trinity Seminary Octet of Jordanville, New York, sang in the cathedral, 2015

On Sunday, 11 March, 2015, the second Sunday of Great Lent, the Feast of Saint Gregory Palamas, Holy Trinity Seminary Choir made a historical first visit to Holy Trinity Cathedral in Toronto, Ontario. The octet came at the invitation of Holy Trinity Cathedral rector (and Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary graduate, 1973) Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko. Although Holy Trinity Cathedral enjoys an excellent choir under the direction of choirmaster (and Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary graduate, 1976) George Skok, the Seminary Choir sang alone for the All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy. The services were well-attended. The Choir sang Holy Trinity Monastery chant and select arrangements from its repertoire, which communicated the sense of a Lenten pilgrimage to Holy Trinity Monastery.

Following the Divine Liturgy and "trapeza" (repast), the choir gave a concert of select Lenten arrangements from the preparatory weeks prior to the beginning of the Fast to Holy Week, with inspirational commentary by Choirmaster Nicholas Kotar (Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary (HTOS), 2014). Afterwards, he described the academic life and current events in the Seminary. Deacon Peter Markevich (HTOS, 2013 ; instructor of Liturgics) gave a brief talk about the history and current mission of Holy Trinity Publications. The choir’s new CD release, titled “Cycles and Seasons” was announced and it was for sale. Michael Perekrestov, Curator of the Foundation of Russian History, which managed the HTOS library, archive, and museum resources, gave a brief talk and PowerPoint presentation about recent developments in his department ; and he showcased some interesting museum collection items. Finally, Priest Ephraim Willmarth (HTOS, 2011), the Seminary’s administrative assistant, congratulated Father Vladimir on behalf of Rector Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) for having completed more than 40 years of priestly service.

70 year anniversary, 2019

On 23-24 November, 2019, Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral) led the celebration of the 70th anniversary of Holy Trinity parish.

On Saturday, 23 November, Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral) of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, led the festal All-Night Vigil. He co-served together with Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov) of Montréal and Canada, and Bishop Luke (Murianka) of Syracuse, as well as numerous clergy from all parts of the Canadian Diocese, and guests from the Eastern American Diocese.

It was providential that the celebrations in Toronto coincided with the Feast of the Wonder-working Montréal-Iveron Icon of the Theotokos. In addition, Holy Trinity Parish was visited by the Myrrh-streaming Icon of the Theotokos, "Softener of Evil Hearts", which had arrived in Canada from Moscow.

The parish choir was amplified by singers from Montréal and other places, and it was led by George A Skok.

On Sunday, 24 November, Metropolitan Hilarion presided at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, and he was assisted by the bishops and clergy previously mentioned.

At the Little Entrance, parish rector Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko was awarded the right to wear a second Jewelled Cross. Deputy rector Archpriest Viatcheslav Davidenko was awarded the palitsa.

At the conclusion of the service, Metropolitan Hilarion presented the 5 oldest parishioners of Holy Trinity Church with the Synodal Order of the Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God. The highest award was given to the last of the surviving founders of the church and the teacher of the parish school, Vasily P Malikov ; the longtime psalmist Olga F Pechnikova ; parish treasurer Maria N Blagoveshchenskaya ; parish choir conductor George Skok (directing the choir since 16 years of age) ; longtime head sister Maria Y Slinko ; longtime former parish warden Alexandra Y Furlani. Diocesan gramotas for zealous work for the benefit of the Church were issued to parishioners who were the most distinguished in this field. Metropolitan Hilarion, warmly congratulated the clergy and parishioners on their 70th anniversary. Following this, "Memory Eternal" was intoned for all the reposed clergy and parishioners, and the "Polychronion" (Many Years) sung for the clergy and parishioners.

Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral), Archbishop Gabriel and Bishop Luke serving with the clergy and parishioners

Archpastoral visitation, 2023

On 3-4 June, 2023, in accordance with the established custom in the Canadian Diocese, the Ruling Bishop, Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov), arrived for the Altar Feast-day of Holy Trinity Cathedral Church in Toronto, Ontario. Holy Trinity Cathedral is the largest parish of the diocese. This visitation was for the celebration of the Altar Feast-day of the cathedral, on the Feast of Pentecost (Descent of the Holy Spirit, the All-Holy Trinity).

On Saturday, 3 June, for the serving of the Vigil of Pentecost, the cathedral was filled with worshippers. Archbishop Gabriel presided, and he was assisted by the cathedral clergy.

On Sunday, 4 June, for the serving of the festal Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, there were so many present that, as the saying goes, "there was nowhere for an apple to fall". Archbishop Gabriel presided, and he was assisted by Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko, Rector of the parish (Dean of the Eastern Deanery of the Canadian Diocese) ; Vyacheslav Davidenko ; Protodeacon Alexander Morin, and Deacon Seth Davydenko. The cathedral choir sang solemnly and with emotion, under the direction of one of the most famous choir directors of the Russian Orthodox diaspora, Reader George Skok. There were more than 300 communicants.

Reader George Skok, choir-director

At Divine Liturgy, Subdeacon Andrew Petarodas was ordained to the Holy Diaconate by Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov). The newly-ordained Deacon Andrew will help in the pastoral care of the Greek community that was formed at Holy Trinity Cathedral.

After the dismissal, everyone was invited by the cathedral sisterhood to a festive meal, and the vast hall barely accommodated all those present.

After congratulating the parish on its anniversary, and expressing gratitude to the local sisterhood, Vladyka Gabriel spoke about a significant event in which he recently took part : on Sunday, 28 May, 2023, the Saint Nicholas parish of the Russian Orthodox Church in Brisbane, Australia (the first Russian parish in Australia) celebrated its 100th anniversary. On this occasion, clergy from various Australian Orthodox parishes and guests from foreign countries arrived at Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Archbishop Gabriel had been born in Australia, and he led the festive service.

Particular parish information

This parish is part of the Diocese of Montréal and Canada of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, which is a part of the Moscow Patriarchate. The bishop is Archbishop Gabriel (Chemodakov).

Services are offered in Church Slavonic.

The parish follows the Old (Julian) Calendar.

The Altar Feast-day of this parish is the Feast of Pentecost (Descent of the Holy Spirit, the All-Holy Trinity).

In 2023, the rector is Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko.

The assistant priest is Archpriest Vyacheslav Davidenko.

The deacon is Protodeacon Alexander Morin.

Address :

Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church

23, Henry Street

Toronto, Ontario

M5T 1W9

Telephone : (416) 979-2990

Web-site : http://www.holytrinity.ws/

Facebook

Directions :

The Temple is situated near College Street and University Avenue, on the corner of Henry and Cecil Streets, south-east of College Street and Spadina Avenue. This is in the Baldwin Village district of Downtown Toronto.

By car :

Approach the Temple by driving north or south along either University Avenue or Spadina Avenue. From either of these, approach the Temple by driving east or west along either College Street or Dundas Street West. It is necessary to turn south from College Street or north from Dundas Street West on Beverly Street. At Cecil Street, turn eastwards, and drive until Henry Street. The Temple is directly ahead.

By bus/subway :

Consult the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).

TTC Metro : Queen’s Park station. There is also TTC surface service on Dundas Street and on College Street.

By rail or air :

Toronto is accessible from eastern or western Canada, and from the USA by VIARail.

Toronto is accessible from most places in the world by air, and the flights arrive at the Pearson International Airport in the northwest part of the Greater Toronto Area.

Some few flights arrive at the Toronto Island Billy Bishop Airport.

Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko

Telephone : (416) 265-5651

Archpriest Vyacheslav Davidenko

Telephone : (647) 505-9930

References

Borisovsky, Avital, “A Landmark of Culture and Faith : The Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church of Toronto” (Исторический памятник культуры и вероисповедания: Свято-Троицкая Русская Православная Церковь в Торонто).

Handera, Vladimir, 'The Russian Orthodox Church in Toronto', in “Polyphony” (Summer, 1984), pp. 83-85.

Makovetsky, Archpriest A V, “History of the Russian Church Abroad” (Moscow : Publishing House Peter, 2009). ISBN 978549807-400-9. (in Russian)

(Maximovitch), Saint John, “History of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad”

The “Russian Mission” in North America

Seide, Gernot, “History of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia from its Beginnings to the Present : Part IV, Chapter 1.5 – The Dioceses in Canada” (rocorstudies.org)

Shchukin, Archpriest Sergei, “A brief History of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, 1922-1972”.

Tarasar, Constance J, ed., “Orthodox America 1794-1976 : Development of The Orthodox Church in America” (Syosset, NY : The Orthodox Church in America Department of History and Archives, 1975). ASIN : B000ZLZAUE.

Young, Father Alexey, “The Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia : A History and Chronology”

Additional information :

Parish Web-site in Russian ; in English

Montréal and Canadian Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia web-site

Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia web-site

Wikipedia article about the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR)

Orthodoxwiki article about the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia

The Orthodox Church in America web-site

Orthodoxwiki article about The Orthodox Church in America

Russian Orthodox Church web-site

Wikipedia article about the Russian Orthodox Church

Orthodoxwiki article about the Russian Orthodox Church