The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre Restores Hope in the Holy Land

On Nov. 29, more than 250 supporters of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) gathered at the Venu Event Space in Woodbridge, Ont., for a gala evening themed “Restoring Hope in the City of God.” The black-tie event featured a reception, dinner emceed by Lisa LaFlamme, musical performances by St. Michael’s Choir School alumni, and a silent auction – all in support of the Order’s charitable mission in the Holy Land.

His Eminence Frank Cardinal Leo, Grand Prior of the Canada-Toronto Lieutenancy, presided over the evening and reflected on the Order’s enduring call to safeguard Christians and Christian institutions in the region. He emphasized the importance of sustaining the Church’s presence through education, charitable outreach and unwavering solidarity.

A video message from His Eminence Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, offered a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by communities in the Holy Land; displaced families, vulnerable children, widows, the elderly and Church institutions struggling to provide stability amid conflict and economic strain.

By night’s end, a remarkable total of $125,000 had been raised through the generous support of sponsors and members. His Excellency, Dr. Colin Saldanha, Lieutenant of the Canada-Toronto Lieutenancy, presented a cheque for $100,000 to His Excellency Thomas Pogge, Vice Governor General for North America for the Equestrian Order, in support of the Ensuring the Future Capital Campaign. An additional $25,000 will assist the Saint James Vicariate, which oversees schools, hospitals, orphanages, and social ministries in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas. These contributions were a meaningful expression of solidarity at a time when Christians face mounting pressures due to violence, terrorism, instability, and declining pilgrimages.

Guests included knights and dames of the EOHSJ, business and political leaders, philanthropists, community members, and Friends of the Order – a diverse group united by faith and a commitment to turning compassion into action. Gala Chair Dame Anna Rossetti described the evening as not only a fundraiser but a moment to strengthen communal bonds and renew dedication to the Christian mission in the Holy Land.

The event also marked the early momentum of a new initiative: the Holy Land Children’s Education Endowment Fund. With Sir Michael Tibollo announced as Honorary Chair, the campaign began on a hopeful note, receiving an initial pledge of $225,000 toward its $1 million goal.

To learn more about the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem and their mission, visit https://eohsj.com/.

Contributions in support of their work can be made through CanadaHelps: EOHSJ Toronto.