6 Things You Didn’t Know About Pearson’s Multi-Faith Chapel
Welcoming 16,000 attendees and 63,500 prayer requests, learn how Head Chaplain Mike Garabedian and his team of chaplains create a sanctuary of care for employees and passengers of all faiths and backgrounds.
Nestled in Terminals 1 and 3, pre-security, Pearson’s Multi-Faith Chapel has long been a place where people arrive on a wing and a prayer — looking for comfort, reflection or guidance during life’s most meaningful moments.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week for more than four decades, the chapel provides a welcoming space for reflection, worship and connection for people of all faiths and backgrounds.
The Chapel is more than a place of prayer or quiet thought. It’s a lifeline for the Pearson community, offering counselling, emotional support and crisis response.
In 2024 alone, the Chaplaincy team led over 2,500 counselling sessions, hosted 1,250 in-person services — including daily worship, mass, Friday prayers, and holiday observances — welcoming almost 16,000 attendees, and received an incredible 63,500 prayer requests.
We connected with Head Chaplain Mike Garabedian to learn more about the vital role the Chapel plays across the airport. Mike’s own journey began after two decades as a GTAA employee in Health & Safety Training. One day, out of curiosity, he decided to visit the Chapel— and that single encounter changed everything.
“It only took one encounter with one chaplain,” Mike says. “I was hooked and I haven’t looked back since.”
Here are 6 Things You Might Not Know About Pearson’s Multi-Faith Chapel
1. The Chapel Serves More Airport Employees Than Passengers
Nearly 90% of those who seek support are airport workers. While passengers often stop by briefly, airport employees build lasting relationships with the chaplains — sometimes meeting regularly over months or years.
Over the years, its chaplains have helped countless people find comfort, strength and hope, including those navigating mental health challenges or families rebuilding connections. “Those are the victories we never forget,” Mike reflects.
2. The Chapel Team Includes More Than 20 Chaplains
The Pearson Chaplaincy has grown to over 20 chaplains representing multiple faiths, cultures, and languages — from Hindi and Urdu to Spanish, French and Cantonese — ensuring everyone can connect in a way that feels familiar and respectful.
3. They’re Part of Pearson’s Emergency Response Team
In moments of crisis like aircraft emergencies or family tragedies, chaplains play a key role in Pearson’s Airport Emergency Plan, providing emotional and spiritual support to those affected.
4. It’s Not Just a Space — It’s a Presence
Chaplains don’t wait for visitors to come to them. They walk the terminals, visit maintenance facilities and cargo buildings, making an effort to meet employees where they work. Mike calls it a “ministry of intentional presence.”
5. Resources Are Available in More Than 20 Languages
Each year, the Chapel distributes thousands of printed materials covering topics like grief, stress and forgiveness — many available in more than 20 languages. “We’ve had people tear up when they receive something in their mother tongue,” Mike shares.
6. All Services Are Complimentary
All services, including counselling, prayer services, printed resources and events, are provided free of charge. The team also offers referrals to community or medical support, filling gaps that traditional employee assistance programs may not cover.
Visit the Chapel Year Round
Employees and passengers are welcomed to take a quiet moment to reflect or connect with a chaplain in our Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 Chapel. Visit Pearson Chapel for updates on all upcoming Pearson Chapel events!
