In this episode, we speak with Deacon Robert Kinghorn a Permanent Deacon in the Archdiocese of Toronto. Deacon Kinghorn shares his journey into ministry and his compelling experiences walking among Toronto’s most vulnerable populations, demonstrating the essence of compassion in action.

Key Takeaways

1. A Minister's Journey:
   Deacon Kinghorn began his ministry journey in 1971, engaging in prison ministries and hospital visits, which laid the foundation for his commitment to serving the marginalized communities of Toronto.
   
   
2. The Church on the Street:
   Inspired by a poignant question about the physical presence of the church during a late-night drive down Gerard Street, Deacon Kinghorn sought and received permission to establish a consistent presence in a very "needy" neighborhood of Toronto, embodying the church’s mission outside of its walls.
   
   
3. Ministry Principles:
   Deacon Kinghorn emphasizes the importance of showing up regularly, listening without judgment, and not trying to "fix" people, a philosophy grounded in deep respect for the dignity and spiritual life of every individual.
   
   
4. Transformative Relationships:
   Through stories of encounters with people on the streets, Deacon Kinghorn illustrates how genuine, non-transactional relationships can spark moments of hope and change, reinforcing the belief that everyone has inherent value and the potential for transformation.

Learn more about Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto by visiting https://ccat.ca