On the weekend of June 8-9. 2024, despite the rain, the faithful of St. John Bosco Parish in Ville-Émard, together with faithful from other parishes, including sisters and brothers of other religions, the municipal officials of the city of Montreal and a team from ICI Television, gathered to celebrate St. Anthony of Padua. St. Anthony holds a special place for many faithful, and in particular, in the religious tradition of the Italian people. He is celebrated and honoured as the patron saint of married couples, the poor, the suffering, etc. 

The two days were organized as follows: on Saturday at 11:30 a.m., Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala blessed the motorbikes of those in the community who brought them in. This has become a parish tradition, enabling our faithful and their friends and acquaintances to receive the Lord's protection as they ride their motorbikes. At the same time, in the parish park, a group of faithful served the gastronomic appetites of all those who wanted to taste Italian sausages in a sandwich, dipped in tomatoes and salad. Phew! You had to be there to see the craze. But that's not all! A DJ entertained the afternoon. 

The following day, Sunday, June 9, we celebrated a special Mass at 3 p.m. in honour of Saint Anthony, presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Alain Faubert of Montreal, and concelebrated by Fr. Paul and myself. It was a beautiful celebration and the church was packed. In his homily, Bishop Alain said he was surprised to see so many people at the celebration. It gave him great joy to see his sisters and brothers celebrating together. He told the story of St. Anthony, showing us how much he contributes to our faith. During the mass, it was easy to hear the sound of the heavy rainfall. To our surprise, a few minutes before the end of mass, the rain stopped and the sun came out. It was time for the procession through the neighbourhood to bear witness to our faith. In an atmosphere of praying the rosary, led by the famous group "Bande Gentile," those who could walk didn't hesitate to take a few steps. It was amazing! After the procession, everyone received some bread, traditionally made and known as "St. Anthony's bread." 

Many of you supported us and participated in-person and spiritually in this celebration. This is the type of parish that I advocate and hope for: a parish that is united and forms a single body of sisters and brothers. 

Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa, IMC