On Friday, October 24, 2025, Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral resounded with joy and thanksgiving as the Diocese of Montreal celebrated a milestone: the 50th anniversary of its Permanent Diaconate program. Diocesan deacons, their wives, and candidates gathered with Archbishop Christian Lépine to honour a ministry restored by the Second Vatican Council and cherished for half a century.

Inspired by Fr. Pierre Léger, the program has enjoyed the support of successive bishops of the Catholic Church in Montreal, from Cardinal Paul Grégoire and Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte to Archbishop Lépine. The first permanent deacon, Roger Dubois, ordained in 1981, reflected on the program’s key moments and its enduring contributions. He highlighted the unity between French- and English-speaking deacons, the growing diversity among candidates, annual gatherings with widows, and the creation of a couples’ daycare at the Grand Séminaire de Montréal initiated by his wife, Raymonde. Through their dedication, these deacons continue to present a positive and living witness of the Catholic Church in Montreal. During conversations with fellow deacons at the anniversary, Roger Dubois reminded everyone, “We must never lose hope.”

The evening was festive and vibrant, with laughter, joyful reunions, and full engagement from all attendees. The reception hall was packed, some deacons even standing, as lively and fraternal exchanges filled the room. Diocesan coordinator Réjean Leblanc delivered a heartfelt address, thanking Archbishop Lépine, Fr. François Charrette, Director of the Office of Pastoral Personnel (OPP), all permanent deacons and their wives, candidates and postulants, the music ministry team, Deacon Guy Provost and his wife Monique Cyr, and everyone who contributed to making this jubilee a remarkable success.

The highlight of the celebration was a Eucharistic Mass of thanksgiving. In his homily, Archbishop Lépine emphasized faithfulness in all aspects of life and the importance of placing God first, followed by family. Three deacons, accompanied by their wives, also shared their personal vocational testimonies, offering a moving witness to their call to service.

The Permanent Diaconate program continues to energize the life of the Diocese of Montreal and, with God’s grace, endures for future generations. It remains open to all who feel called to work in the Lord’s vineyard.

By Benjamin Ntouo-Ngouoni, Deacon