March 23, 2022

With key public health and health system indicators continuing to improve over the coming weeks, we are happy to share that by following the timelines and changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship below are the revised changes to the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) drop in visits, social and religious gatherings. All reopening changes will continue to follow public health measures and requirements i.e. proof of vaccination, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.   

We continue to follow the data for all pandemic-related measures. As a result of the latest public health and medical guidance, we are now in a position to make the changes to more closely align with the latest expert advice and local guidelines into effect. Beginning on Monday, March 21st, the following changes are made to ZSO's health and safety protocols and apply to all members and non members visiting the MGDM.

Masks and Physical Distancing

Physical distancing protocols are lifted, and masks are now optional for all visiting the MGDM. As there are slightly different rules across each province and city, local public health regulations should be followed and reviewed regularly. While masking is no longer required by public health, as an organization, we are encouraging members and visitors to consider masking where appropriate, for instance in crowded places, and if you are at a higher risk of severe illness due to being immune compromised, high risk, or unvaccinated against COVID-19 – and also if you are more comfortable wearing one.

Vaccination Policy

We will continue to ask for proof of vaccination/Negative Rapid Test result for all large gatherings hosted by the ZSO i.e. Jashan, social events, etc.

Suspended Services: Food and drink sharing is prohibited

We are grateful to all our donors and well-wishers and request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (www​.zso.org).

Cash Donations

Cheque Donations

Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box

DO NOT drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box Make Cheque payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’ Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail NOTE: Cheques made payable to ZSO are not acceptable by the bank and rejected

We thank you all for your support, patience and cooperation on keeping our community safe and healthy.  We continue to monitor guidance at all levels from local to provincial to federal, and closely assess any impact to our approach.  You continue to have our commitment to keeping you informed, as updates are available.

Disclaimers and resources: 

October 21, 2021

The province continues to remain in Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen. We are happy to share that by following the reopening timelines and changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will continue to remain open for drop in visits with additional number of days per week. All public health measures will continue to follow including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting. 

As promised and communicated earlier, our approach to re-opening the MGDM will be "slow and steady" and "data driven, not date driven". This will be based on a number of factors:

• Vaccination rates, mandates and requirements
• Case counts
• Impact of variants
• Government Protocols

 As we cautiously and gradually plan the re-opening, The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, November 1^st, 21 are as below:

DAY OF THE WEEK	TIME
Monday	4pm – 8pm
Wednesday	4pm – 8pm
Saturday	9am – 12pm(noon)

All visits to the MGDM will continue to be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by completing the online booking request form or by contacting Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org  or 647-313–9805) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation, your entry will be denied.

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelines:

• Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

• Complete the covid screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site ( https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/ )

• Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

• For COVID-19 contact tracing purposes, you will be required to provide your name and contact details which will only be kept on file for 30 days.” 

• Bring your own prayer book , head covering, sandalwood or other prayer related items

• Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

• Follow entry and exit signs

• Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

• Consumption of food and drink remains restricted

• Indoor singing and choir service

• Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

We are grateful to all our donors and well-wishers and request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (zso.org/donate).

Cash Donations

Cheque Donations

Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box

DO NOT drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box Make Cheque payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’ Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts. Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail NOTE: Cheques made payable to ZSO are not acceptable by the bank and rejected

Lastly, we want to take this opportunity and remind everyone that vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from serious illnesses like COVID-19.  Aligning with the Government’s announcement as of September 22, 2021, you will need to provide proof of vaccination to access MGDM as required helping further protect our community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

We continue to review the in-person visit and event guidelines as the Pandemic and the Government related directives evolve. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we gradually, and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority. 

Disclaimers and resources: 

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
  

• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

• Click here for more details on proof of vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act

September 26, 2021

Earlier this month, we communicated that in line with all the federal and provincial guidelines for places of worship the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) is open with revised hours and specific conditions for drop in visits once a week ONLY on Saturdays from 9am – Noon. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are in place including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.   

Our approach to re-opening the MGDM continues to be "slow and steady" and "data driven, not date driven". Number of determining factors are:

• Vaccination rates, mandates and requirements
• Case counts
• Impact of variants
• Government Protocols

We are happy to announce that we will be resuming some of our social gatherings to our members this fall. We have been doing a lot of work behind the scenes i.e. consulting various medical advisors and community peers to determine the best path forward for faith and religious social gatherings.

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by completing the online booking request form or by contacting Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org  or 647-313–9805) and receiving her confirmation.  Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation, your will be denied entry.

COVID-19 Protocols:

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelinesfor drop in visits and social gatherings:

Drop In visits	Social Gatherings
Submit the online booking request  form or contact Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org  or 647-313–9805)	Social gatherings are restricted and limited to our members only.  Attendees will be accommodated on a first come first serve basis based on the MGDM capacity requirements as outlined by public health and government guidelines.

• Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

• Complete the COVID-19 screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site

• Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

• For COVID-19 contact tracing purposes, you will be required to provide your name and contact details which will only be kept on file for 30 days.” 

• Bring your own prayer book, head covering, sandalwood or other prayer related items

• Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

• Follow entry and exit signs

• Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

 

Vaccination Policy:

We want to take this opportunity and remind everyone that vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from serious illnesses like COVID-19.  Aligning with the Government’s announcement as of September 22, 2021, you will need to provide proof of vaccination to access MGDM as required, helping further protect our community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

• All individuals visiting the MGDM will be required to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to participate in an event or a drop in visit.

• Individuals must NOT come to the MGDM (drop in visit or event) if they are sick (any illness – not just limited to COVID-19)

• Those who remain unvaccinated will NOT be able to participate in In-Person activities.

Suspended Services:

• Consumption of food and drink remains restricted

• Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service

• Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, your health and safety has been our top priority. Thank you to each of you who has done your part in helping to support a healthy and safe environment for all.

 

The Board of Directors

Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

Disclaimers and resources: 

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
  

• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

• Click here for more details on proof of vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act

September 17, 2021

The province continues to remain in Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen. We are happy to share that by following the reopening timelines and changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will be reopening for drop in visits starting Saturday, September 25, 2021, with modified hours and some specific conditions. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are followed including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.

It has been a long time since we visited the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) and we all want to return to normal. While we're relieved with Canadians getting vaccinated, the fluctuating case counts, and the delta variant remains a big concern reminding us that the pandemic is not over. We remain cautious and will continue to be guided by our progress as a community and country.

Our approach to re-opening the MGDM will be "slow and steady" and "data driven, not date driven". This will be based on a number of factors:

• Vaccination rates, mandates and requirements

• Case counts

• Impact of variants

• Government Protocols

As we cautiously and gradually plan, the re-opening The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, September 25, 21 are once a week ONLY on Saturdays from 9am – Noon. 

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by contacting Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org or calling (647) 313–9805 and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation, your will be denied entry.

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelines:

• Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

• Complete the covid screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site ( https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/ )

• Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

• For COVID-19 contact tracing purposes, you will be required to provide your name and contact details which will only be kept on file for 30 days.” 

• Bring your own prayer book , head covering, Sukhar, loban or other prayer related items

• Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

• Follow entry and exit signs

• Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

• Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended

• Consumption of food and drink remains suspended

• Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service

• Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

These past few months have been hard for all communities including ZSO in terms of revenue generation, we request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (zso.org/donate).

Cash Donations

Cheque Donations

Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box.

DO NOT drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box Make Cheque payable to "Zoroastrian Society of Ontario" Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts. Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail NOTE: Cheques made payable to "ZSO" are not acceptable by the bank and rejected.

Lastly, we want to take this opportunity and remind everyone that vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from serious illnesses like COVID-19.  Aligning with the Government’s announcement as of September 22, 2021, you will need to provide proof of vaccination to access MGDM as required helping further protect our community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.  Stay tuned for more details to follow in the coming weeks related to reopening protocols for social and religious gatherings.

 

Disclaimers and resources: 

• All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”  

• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto
• Click here for more details on proof of vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act

August 2, 2021

The province has entered Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen, and we are happy to share that by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship alongside the reopening guidelines the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will be reopening for the upcoming Shahenshahi Farvardegan days (Aug 11^th - 15^th) with modified hours and some specific conditions. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are followed including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.   

As we cautiously and gradually plan the upcoming Shahenshai Farvardegan days, participation in religious services during these days (Aug. 11th – 15th) will be limited. The MGDM will be open for visits by appointment and during the scheduled prayer times only with health & safety protocols to follow. 

The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, from August 11^th – 15^th, 2021 are: 6 AM to 9 PM

All the following prayers will be performed and live streamed during the Farvardegan days:

• Three Satoom sessions (morning, afternoon and evening),  
• Afringan 
• Farokshi in the morning
• Evening Satoom and Hum Bundagi  

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by contacting Hoofrish Patel (EVP@zso.org) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied. 

As you all are aware this has been hard for all communities including ZSO in terms of revenue generation, we request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (zso.org/donate). Cash donations should be dropped off in the ZSO safety deposit box.  Please do not drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box. If you wish to donate by cheque, please be sure to attach the completed donation form with your cheque made payable to 'Zoroastrian Society of Ontario'. Cheques made payable to 'ZSO' will be rejected and not processed.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.

Below are the COVID-19 Guidelines during the Farvardegan days as per the health and city requirements:

Do’s

Don’ts

Participation in religious services is limited and based on capacity guidelines. Visits to the MGDM are by appointment ONLY by contacting Hoofrish Patel (EVP@zso.org) If you suspect you are were exposed to COVID-19, use the online self-assessment tool (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/) before your visit to the MGDM Complete the COVID-19 screening on the day of visit and present it to the volunteer who will be on-site (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/) Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet Bring your own prayer book and head covering Sukhar must be purchased at ZSO only and CANNOT be brought from home or outside

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended Consumption of food and drink remains suspended, this includes donation of ravo, sev, malido, etc. Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies. No consumption of chasni by individuals

Disclaimers and resources: 

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 

• "Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

July 22, 2021

The province has entered Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen, and we are happy to share that by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship alongside the reopening guidelines the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will be reopening very soon with modified hours and some specific conditions. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are followed including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.  

We thank you for your patience and understanding as we cautiously and gradually plan the reopening.

Stay tuned for updated communications on the reopening plans and guidelines in the upcoming weeks.

As part of the step three of Ontario’s Roadmap to reopening per the COVID-19, Government and Health Guidelines here is what will be allowed during the stage 3 of reopening: 

Allowed

Not Allowed

Participation of religious services is increased to 25 people including the priest(s) and volunteers. Visits to the MGDM will by appointment ONLY  The online self-assessment tool must be used for every visit to the MGDM  The Covid-19 screener must be completed and presented to the volunteer who will be on-site on the day of visit ( https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/ ) Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory  Maintaining a social distance of two meters/six feet  Bring your own prayer book and head covering  Sukhar must be purchased at ZSO only and CANNOT be brought from home or outside  Follow entry and exit signs  Wedding and Navjotes will be permitted with 2M distancing along with capacity limitation and requirements

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended  Consumption of food and drink remains suspended, this includes donation of ravo, sev, malido, etc.  No consumption of chasni by individuals Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies.

Disclaimers and resources: 

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”
  
• "Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.” 

• Click here to learn more about the roadmap to reopening Ontario

March 18, 2021

In recent days, many of our members have reached out to the ZSO Board requesting drop in visits to the MGDM. While we empathize with you all and the community at large, at this point as your elected board we do not consider it an appropriate time to reopen the Darbe Mehr for drop in visits. 

We understand this is an auspicious time in our faith and community. However, the safety of the entire community is our first priority. 

We will continue to accept requests for candles and sandalwood offerings on your behalf and livestream all religious events via our YouTube channel. Click here to submit your requests and to make arrangements for sandalwood and candle offerings

We continue to keep abreast of the Government health requirements very closely and will work diligently on the reopening plans keeping safety of the community our top priority.

With best wishes for A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous Norooz.

Norooz Pirooz!

Board of Directors

Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

Nov 25, 2020

With the evolving COVID-19 Pandemic and rising cases, the city of Toronto is in a lockdown. Keeping the health and safety of our custodian and members as top priority, as well as following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship and the specific conditions which include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting, the ZSO Board of Directors has decided to CLOSE the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) until further notice. 

MGDM is CLOSED effective immediately.

All upcoming visits to MGDM are cancelled with the exception of any death prayers with a limited capacity of 10 people including the priest and custodian.  These bookings MUST be booked by contacting Hoofrish Patel (evp@zso.org).

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation.

When visiting the MGDM please be reminded of the following mandatory requirements and guidelines:

• Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM
• Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory
• Bring your own prayer book and head covering
• Refrain from bringing Sukhar, loban or other prayer related items from home
• Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet
• Follow entry and exit signs
• Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
• Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

• Drop in visits
• Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
• Navjote, weddings and other close contact activities
• Consumption of food and drink remains suspended
• Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service
• Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
"Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

Nov 18, 2020

With the evolving COVID-19 Pandemic and rising cases, the city of Toronto is listed in the Red Zone. Keeping the health and safety of our custodian and members as top priority, as well as following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship and the specific conditions which include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting, the ZSO Board of Directors has decided to revise the MGDM visiting hours. 

MGDM revised hours of operations effective immediately are: 

Saturday 9am - 12pm 

All visits to MGDM remain by appointment only and MUST  be booked at least 24 hours in advance, by contacting Hoofrish Patel (evp@zso.org) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation.

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be reminded of the following mandatory requirements and guidelines:

• Use the online self-assessment toolbefore every visit to the MGDM
• Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory
• Bring your own prayer book and head covering
• Refrain from bringing Sukhar, loban or other prayer related items from home
• Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet
• Follow entry and exit signs
• Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
• Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

• Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
• Navjote and other close contact activities
• Consumption of food and drink remains suspended
• Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service
• Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
"Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

October 29th, 2020

Message from our community leaders.

The pandemic in our community has not slowed the way we anticipated. We need to make changes in order to get control of the spread of COVID-19.
Recent trends linked with Thanksgiving have pushed us into a second wave. The pandemic is again spreading widely throughout our community. That means even our loved ones and people we see regularly could be at risk for spreading COVID-19 to us, and us to them.

While we all hope for a return to reopening as soon as possible, it’s only smart to do so when it’s safe.

Until then, let’s take a second look at how all of us can reduce the risk of COVID-19.

Look at what’s essential

Please only leave home for essentials, such as work, school, exercise, healthcare, or purchasing food and drink, gasoline, or automobile maintenance.
When you do, follow the precautions as follows;

Look at who you’re with

Please only have close contact with people who live in your home. Close contact means interaction that doesn’t require wearing masks or physical distance.

Look at how you meet

Please stop meeting in person, even at a physical distance. Treat every interaction with others as though you could be spreading COVID-19. Cut the chance of transmission. Turn every meeting into a virtual one.

Look at the why

Our grandparents, friends, coworkers, local businesses, are all reasons why we need to take a serious look at limiting our interactions.

Our community needs everyone to take the precautions seriously. This will help us all stay safe and bring the pandemic back under control.

To watch Dr. Loh's latest message about COVID-19 click here

October 25th, 2020

Joint Statement from FEZANA and North American Mobed Council (NAMC)

As Zarathushti associations and groups begin to open their doors or put together their plans for limited capacity in-person worship, the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) and the North American Mobeds Council (NAMC) have joined forces to offer and reiterate guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on reducing risk exposure to COVID-19 to the greatest extent possible for our Mobeds/priests and congregations. 

Click here for full statement on the NAMC website or here for downloadable PDF version. 

City of Toronto Resources to support Youth and Families

Stay, Play, and Learn at Home Web Page

The City of Toronto launched a web page called: Stay, Play and Learn at Home. Here you will find a list of free, high-quality recreation, active living, arts and culture, and child development resources that will help individuals and families stay engaged and active while protecting themselves and others by staying at home. Please feel free to share information about the web page with the youth and families that use your services.

Employment Connections-Community Partners Working Together

This event, as all events during Employment Connections Justice Week 2020 are open to Toronto job seekers 18 years of age and older that identify as residing in a neighbourhood that has been impacted by violence, currently on probation or parole, have a criminal record or identify as having a conflict with the law.

Annual event with hundreds of opportunities from October 26 to 30, 2020. Daily events throughout the week, include:

Entrepreneurship Day – October 27

Labour and Trades Day – October 28

All Opportunities Day – October 29

Registered participants will be sent a follow up email by October 22, 2020 with a link to the Zoom platform and details on how to connect if you have panel questions.

If you have any questions about this event please connect with Raquel.jaworski@toronto.ca or Rita.Ratz@toronto.ca

Toronto Public Library- Career Coach in Residence

The Toronto Public Library is excited to announce the launch of their Career Coach in Residence program for younger adults (18-29). This program provides free, virtual one-on-one career counselling for younger adults ages 18-29. Please feel free to forward and share this email to any young adults or community contacts who you think would benefit from this program and other upcoming library workshops and events.

Notable upcoming, free online career related events also include:

Employment Termination: What You Need to Know

Wednesday, October 28 - 5 to 6 p.m.

Learn your rights and legal implications of quitting versus being fired

Lunch and Learn series: Navigating your Career in a Rapidly Changing World

Friday October 23 – 12 p.m.: Networking in a Virtual World

Friday October 30 – 12 p.m.: Self-care for Job Search

Friday November 6 – 12 p.m.: Navigating your Career Pathway

For more information about the program or for help booking an appointment, email ccir@tpl.ca

Access Employment-Destination Employment

Destination Employment is a free, four-week skills training program designed to help newcomers and conventional refugees find jobs in the hospitality industry.

The upcoming cohort is scheduled to start on Monday, November 30, 2020 to December 23, 2020.

Full time program: Monday to Friday 9.30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Open to all newcomers – no previous hospitality experience is required

Eligibility:

Permanent Residents (PR) and Convention Refugees with valid work permits

A minimum of CLB level 4

What will you learn?

Introduction to the Hospitality Industry

5 certification trainings – WHIMS, Food Safety, Service Excellence, Smart Serve, and Emerit Workplace Essentials

Meet industry experts/employers to prepare for future careers

Develop strong job search skills

Pre and post-employment supports

To register for the program or for additional information, please call Beena De-Souza at 905-595-4177 or 905-454-2316 ext 3813 or e-mail to: Bde-souza@accesemployment.ca

 

Thursday September 19, 2020

The MGDM will be open for visits by appointment ONLY with revised hours of operations and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.

All appointments MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hour prior to the day of the visit by contacting Afreed Mistry (evp@zso.org) and receiving a confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

Special visiting hours during COVID-19 by appointment ONLY

Weekday	Hours
Tuesday	5:00pm - 8:00pm
Saturday	9:00AM - 12:00PM

As you all are aware this has been a tough year for all communities including ZSO in terms of revenue generation, we request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (www​.zso.org). All cash and cheque donations should be dropped off in the ZSO safety deposit box along with the completed donation form . All cheques must be made payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’.  Cheques made payable to ZSO will be rejected and not processed.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.  

Please DO NOT VISIT the MGDM if:

• You are feeling unwell, including fever, cough and runny nose
• You have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19
• You have traveled outside the currently in the past 14 days of your visit to MGDM, if You have recently returned to Canada, please quarantine(self isolate) for 14 days

Below are the COVID-19 Guidelines as per the health and city requirements:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Allowed

Suspended Services

Participation of religious services is limited to 50 people including the priest(s), COVID-19 dedicated volunteers and cleaning crew Drop in visits to the MGDM are by appointment ONLY. Contact Afreed Mistry (evp@zso.org) to book your visit Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet Bring your own prayer book and head covering Follow entry and exit signs

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended Navjote and other close contact activities Consumption of food and drink remains suspended Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc. Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies.

Disclaimers and resources:

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
• "Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”
• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

Thursday August 06, 2020

The city of Toronto has entered stage 3 of the provincial reopening on Friday July 31^st.   As a result of this announcement, we are in Stage 3 of reopening by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship with some specific conditions. These conditions include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.  

As we cautiously and gradually plan the upcoming Shahenshai Farvardegan days, participation in religious services during these days (Aug 11^th – 15^th) will be limited to 50 people including the priest(s), COVID-19 dedicated volunteers and cleaning crew.  The MGDM will be open for visits by appointment only with revised hours of operation and protocols to follow.  

The MGDM revised hours during Farverdegan Days (Aug 11^th – 15^th) are daily 6 AM to 9 PM.

All the following prayers will be performed and live streamed during the Farvardegan days:

• Three Satoom sessions (morning, afternoon, and evening),  
• Afringan 
• Farokshi in the morning
• Evening Satoom and Hum Bundagi  

All visits to the MGDM will remain by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by contacting Afreed Mistry (EVP@zso.org) and receiving her confirmation.  Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied. 

As you all are aware this has been a tough year for all communities including ZSO in terms of revenue generation, we request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (www​.zso.org). All cash and cheque donations should be dropped off in the ZSO safety deposit box along with the completed donation form . All cheques must be made payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’.  Cheques made payable to ZSO will be rejected and not processed.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.  

Below are the COVID-19 Guidelines for stage 3 as per the health and city requirements:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Allowed

Suspended Services

Participation of religious services is limited to 50 people including the priest(s), COVID-19 dedicated volunteers and cleaning crew Drop in visits to the MGDM are by appointment ONLY. Contact Afreed Mistry (evp@zso.org) to book your visit Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet Bring your own prayer book and head covering Follow entry and exit signs

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended Navjote and other close contact activities Consumption of food and drink remains suspended Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc. Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies.

Disclaimers and resources:

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
• "Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”
• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

Saturday August 01, 2020

The city of Toronto is preparing to oversee the safe restart of more businesses and services following the Province of Ontario’s announcement that Toronto can enter stage 3 of the provincial reopening on Friday July 31^st.   As a result of this announcement, we will enter Stage 3 of reopening by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship with some specific conditions. These conditions include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting. 

As we cautiously and gradually plan the reopening, participation in religious services is increased to 50 people including the priest(s), COVID-19 dedicated volunteers and cleaning crew. Aligning with the social distancing and spacing guidelines, the prayer room capacity will remain at a maximum of 20 people, and the remaining numbers will be distributed accordingly in the main hall to accommodate the maximum allowed indoor limit (50 people).

The MGDM is open for drop in visits with revised hours of operation and protocols to follow.

MGDM revised hours of operations:

Tuesday 4pm - 8pm | Saturday 9am - 12pm

All visits to the MGDM remain by appointment only and MUST be booked 24 hours in advance, prior to the day of the visit by contacting Afreed Mistry (evp@ZSO.org) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority. 

Below are the COVID-19 Guidelines for stage 3 as per the health and city requirements:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Allowed

Suspended Services

Participation of religious services limited to 50 people including the priest(s), COVID-19 dedicated volunteers and cleaning crew Drop in visits to the MGDM are by appointment ONLY Contact Afreed Mistry (evp@zso.org) to book your visit Wedding ceremonies are permitted following the guidelines Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet Bring your own prayer book and head covering Follow entry and exit signs

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended Navjote and other close contact activities Consumption of food and drink remains suspended Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc. Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies.

Disclaimers and resources:

• “All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.” 
• "Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”
• Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto