Most Rev. Christian Lépine reacts to the death of hockey legend Jean Béliveau. The funeral will be presided by the Archbishop on December 10, at 2 PM at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral.

While we are pained at the news of Jean Béliveau's passing, I would like to convey my deepest sympathies to his family at the loss of their loved one.

I'm thinking of all the hockey fans, and also of everyone that was touched by the dignity and respect that he radiated. He was, as we often referred to him, a gentleman on the ice and in the public eye.

My heart also goes out to the children with disabilities, whom Mr. Béliveau loved dearly and dedicated himself to helping. His humanism was rooted in a profound faith in Jesus Christ. May he continue to inspire the youth of today.

+ Christian Lépine 
Archbishop of Montreal