On August 31st, the funeral ceremony of His Eminence Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic, Archbishop Emeritus of Toronto took place at St. Michael Cathedral in Toronto. The principal celebrant was His Grace Thomas Collins, the Archbishop of Toronto.

Cardinal Ambrozic was born on January 27, 1930 and passed away on August 26, 2011. His legacy was celebrated in several places throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, the pastor of Holy Trinity Armenian church, was personally acquainted with His Eminence Ambrozic and attended the service, representing the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Canada and the faithful members of the Armenian Community. On this occasion, the letter of condolence from His Eminence Bishop Bagrat Galstanian, Primate was presented to Archbishop Thomas Collins.

Following is the letter signed by Bishop Bagrat Galstanian.-

His Eminence
Archbishop Thomas Collins
Archdiocese of Toronto

Dear Archbishop Collins,

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of a devoted servant of Christ His Eminence Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic, Archbishop Emeritus of Toronto. Cardinal Ambrozic was a good friend of the Armenian Church Canadian Diocese and the Canadian Armenian Community. He will be remembered always in the hearts and minds of the faithful for his diligent work and untiring efforts to grow and improve his beloved Church.

In the Gospel of Matthew 5:14-16 we read, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid, nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your father who is in heaven.” Cardinal Ambrozic’s leadership and service in the Church and the wider community are well renowned and highly respected. His life work will remain an excellent example to all of us, who have the privilege of preaching the Word of God and serving the Community of Faith.

On behalf of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Canada, the Diocesan Council, the Clergy, and our faithful, please accept our profound condolences at this difficult time. You have our deepest sympathy, love, and friendship always. May he rest in Peace.