thanks to those of you who had suggestions re the Ontario records. will follow up. And regarding translations does anyone know the translation for abbreviations par. and mar. on French Canadian baptismal records? I am sure it must mean god father and god mother -- but am curious as to exact translation. Also in French marriage records when there is a small x in front of a name of one of the parents of the bride or groom -- does that mean that person is deceased eg. xThomas Delaney? Also what does a small f mean in front of a mother's name on baptismal records eg. f. Mandina Waykey? Hope someone can help. thanks in advance. Alexsandra -- Alexsandra K. Stewart Pancultural Associates, Inc. Appreciative Inquiry and Management Consulting 1628 Oak Street NW Washington DC 20010 USA tel: 202-667-6855 fax: 202-667-4727 internet: www.pancultural.com e-mail: [email protected]