A beautiful day of fraternity in the Vietnamese community

On June 12, the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality was on full display as priests and deacons from various cultural communities in our diocese were welcomed. The atmosphere was both solemn and joyful, marked by heartwarming reunions.

It was also the perfect moment to open our arms wide to newcomers—those priests and deacons who enrich our large diocesan family with their presence and commitment.

Father Pierangelo Paternieri, our Episcopal Vicar for Cultural and Ritual Communities, spoke with his usual kindness. His words of gratitude touched everyone present: thank you for your daily service, for your unfailing dedication to our missions and parishes, for your presence that enriches our Montreal diocese.

For this is indeed our treasure: this mosaic of cultures, these thousand and one ways of expressing our common faith, this diversity which, far from dividing us, unites us in the same communion. We truly form a beautiful family!

This year has not always been easy, as we all know. The trials have sometimes weighed heavily. But what bright moments there have also been! What moving moments of sharing, what announcements full of hope that have warmed hearts in all our communities. This, too, is the life of the Church: weathering storms together to better enjoy the sunny days.

Alessandra Santopadre
Assistant - Office for Cultural and Ritual Communities
Archdiocese of Montreal