In our Archdiocese of Montreal, May 1, 2024, was not only an occasion to remember St. Joseph, patron saint of workers. It was also an opportunity for Archbishop Christian Lépine and Auxiliary Bishop Alain Faubert to visit priests, deacons and seminarians serving in French-speaking parishes in the Centre-Ville deanery of the Archdiocese of Montreal. 

We were welcomed at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral where we opened the evening at 7 p.m. with Vespers. A word of welcome to our archbishop and his auxiliary followed, by the local dean, Fr. Guy Bérubé. We enjoyed a rich evening of sharing testimonies among our confreres, deacons and seminarians. We were able to talk freely about our lives, our successes and difficulties, and give each other valuable advice. These exchanges contribute to the personal development and growth of each and every one of us. 

I've personally heard some priests say: "These visits have given me emotional and moral support," while another said: "It's nice to be this way with our archbishop and his auxiliary, as this time of sharing strengthens the bonds of affection and promotes the well-being of all our fellow priests, deacons and seminarians in general."  

As children of the same family: Church family of God's children, these visits strengthen our bonds of belonging to our church and to our pastor, Archbishop Christian Lépine and his auxiliary Mgr Alain Faubert, enabling us to meet and spend time together, while creating strong connections between us.  

We had great fun exchanging news, sharing prayer and discussing the challenges priests face in their ministry. Thank you to Archbishop Christian Lépine for taking the time to encourage us on our spiritual journey, and for offering us a final blessing. 

Father Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa, IMC