Welcome Day

Greetings to all new and returning students!

This year is a historic year for our colleges – and all of you are part of this wonderful and exciting history. This past July, Regis College and St. Michael’s College formally federated to create a single centre of excellence in theological studies in Canada. Some of the changes may not be as apparent yet, as we’ve just begun the process of closer collaboration. However, one such visible change is that this is the first time a joint dean of the new federation can send his warmest and most heartfelt greetings to all new and returning students, faculty and staff of both Regis and St. Michael’s.

For now, some existing structures will remain in place, such as college registration and program advising, although the faculty, library and staff have already begun imagining ways in which we can work collegially. And, as we start the new academic year, we can also do that with our students. In some ways, it’s providential that we embark on such a process at the same time that Pope Francis has called on the church to engage in its own synodal processes. I hope that we can all find inspiration from this to help us on our own paths in unifying our two colleges. So, as the synod’s motto says, “Let’s walk together … in the Holy Spirit.”

The recent pandemic has certainly affected our lives these last two years, but we hope that soon we’ll be able to share in each other’s good company in teaching and learning, in the classroom on the university campus, and to build a great community in student life and in our common worship.

The University of Toronto and the colleges of the Toronto School of Theology have consistently ranked high in university rankings, all due to excellent faculty, librarians and staff – and our students! I do hope you take full advantage of these riches as you engage in your studies and find a place in our community. I look forward to welcoming everyone back onto the campus and pray that the Spirit of our Lord gives you courage and passion to find God in all things.

With blessings for your studies,

Jaroslav Skira

Dean, Regis-St. Michael’s, Faculty of Theology

Dr. Jaroslav Skira

Dean of the Regis-St. Michael's Faculty of Theology