Ministry with Maturing Adults Events

Ministry with Maturing Adults (MMA)

at St. Mary’s Parish

65 Amelia Street, Barrie, Ontario

We believe adults continue to grow into the fullness of Christian life. This ministry reaches out to the entire parish community including regular participants and those on the edge of parish life.

This includes the entire adult population in the second half of life, often described as those who are 55+. All are welcome!

The goal of the ministry is to support Lifelong Faith Development through:

· Connection and Community: Intentional building of connection with oneself, with the faith community, with the broader community, with the gift of creation, and with God.

· Mission: A lifelong outreach to others with an emphasis on supporting the senior population of the parish. In addition, the ministry fosters participation in the ministries of the parish and in activities of service on behalf of the wider community.

· Programs Aimed at Personal Growth: Through reflection, insight, and wisdom, content will address life issues and lived experience within the context of Christian faith.

Monthly Gatherings in the St. Mary’s Parish Hall 2025-26

Sept. 17 Mass with Anointing of the Sick at 12:10 p.m. followed by a light lunch

Sept. 24 Lunch from the Mandarin at 12:30 p.m. Preregistration and payment necessary.

Oct. 22 Advance Care Planning The Musical – Presented by: Hospice Simcoe at 2:00 p.m. with light refreshments

Nov. 19 Topic: TBA

Dec. 3 Advent Lessons and Carols at 2:00 p.m. followed by a light refreshments and conversation.

Dec. 10 Advent Reflection with light refreshments and fellowshipat 2:00 p.m.

Jan. 21 Happy Birthday! Party at 2:00 p.m. with games, food and prizes

Feb. 11 Mass with Anointing of the Sick at 12:10 p.m. followed by a light lunch in the parish hall

Tuesday March 17 - The Flailing Shilaleighs Band at 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. St. Patrick’s Day singalong concert in the parish hall with light refreshments. Free will offering.

April 22 Topic: TBA

May 20 Topic: TBA

June 17 Celebrating the Gift of Years: Potluck Lunch with fellowship, food and door prizes at 12:00 p.m.

MMA Programs Offered at St. Mary’s Parish – 2025-26

Christian Meditation is an ancient form of contemplative prayer rooted in the Christian tradition. This group meets online Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. For further information and an outline of the session please contact the coordinator. If you are interested in learning more about this form of prayer please contact Catherine Ecker. (cecker@archtoronto.org or 705 728 2985 ext. 115)

VON-SMART Program (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) a gentle fitness program designed for people aged 55+. Facilitated by trained fitness leaders including parishioners.  Registration required. Contact VON directly at 705-737-5044 ext. 211. Tuesday Mornings here at the parish.

Life Story Writing Life Story Writing Program provides an opportunity to look back over the years in order to gain a deeper understanding, clearer perspective and a more integrated view. The program helps to uncover evidence that God has been with you and is still with you.  The program nourishes participants and offers an opportunity for renewal.  No writing experience is needed to participate. This six week program is offered once a year in the Fall.

Women’s Guided Discussion Group. Offered twice a year on Thursdays mornings. An opportunity to gather and discuss a book related to spiritually and the second half of life with a guided book discussion group.

Bereavement Support Program:

Seasons of Hope. Bringing comfort through Catholic Grief Support - 6 week program offered in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 at the parish.

 Classic Movies at St. Mary's Parish

Join us Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. for Classic Movies in the parish hall. Some of this year’s films will include Sunset Blvd., The Third Man, Notorious, and more! Any questions please ask David: dmurdoch@archtoronto.org. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION: Classic Movies 

For information on all programs, contact the coordinator Catherine Ecker at 705 728 2985  ext. 115  or email: cecker@archtoronto.org

Maturing Adult Resources:

Are you feeling isolated or disconnected from the world?