What gives life meaning? Where can we find lasting happiness and true love? These were among the questions raised by Archbishop Christian Lépine during his homily at the Newman Centre on October 24, 2026, where he invited young adults to reflect on their search for truth, their purpose in life and their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Drawing inspiration from Saint John Henry Newman, who was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church on November 1, 2025, Archbishop Lépine emphasized that the human desire for meaning goes far beyond temporary happiness or immediate satisfaction.

While people naturally seek happiness, he explained, the satisfaction of immediate needs does not necessarily bring lasting fulfilment. The human heart also longs for true love—a love that is faithful, enduring and capable of giving meaning to one's existence.

Archbishop Lépine emphasized that the fullness of this search is found in Jesus Christ.

Saint John Henry Newman: A lifelong search for truth

Reflecting on the life of Saint John Henry Newman, Archbishop Lépine presented him as an example of someone who dedicated his life to seeking truth, rather than settling for passing happiness or momentary satisfaction.

Newman's journey ultimately led him to discover peace through his relationship with Jesus Christ. As Archbishop Lépine explained, this peace was the fruit of his lifelong pursuit of truth.

He also stressed the importance of prayer in this journey, reminding those gathered that, for Christians, truth is not simply an abstract concept but is ultimately encountered in a person: Jesus Christ.

This personal encounter is reflected in Newman's motto, Cor ad cor loquitur—“Heart speaks to heart”—which expresses the intimate relationship between God and each human person.

A unique calling for every person

Addressing the young adults, Archbishop Lépine reminded them that each person has been created and loved by God and is called to a unique mission.

He encouraged them to reflect on how they use the time entrusted to them: Are they seeking truth? Are they learning, serving and giving of themselves to others?

Recognizing that such a calling can be demanding, he emphasized that Christians are not expected to fulfil it through their own strength alone. Through the grace of Jesus Christ, they receive the strength to love, serve and follow His example.

He also reflected on the paradox of human existence: although human beings are made for eternity, they cannot attain it through their own efforts. It is through Christ and His infinite love that eternal life becomes possible.

At the conclusion of his visit, he offered the young people a book bearing a personal dedication: “From the heart of Jesus Christ to your heart.”

Echoing Newman's spirituality, these words captured the central message of the homily: the search for meaning, truth and lasting love ultimately leads to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.

The Archbishop also blessed a small garden located outside the Newman Centre, marking another meaningful moment of his visit.

Through the example of Saint John Henry Newman, he invited the young adults to continue seeking the truth, discovering their vocation and allowing their lives to become a gift of love to God and to others.