The Office for Cultural and Ritual Communities of the Archdiocese of Montreal, along with the Spanish Language Mission, was delighted to celebrate the 22nd Pilgrimage of Latin American Farm Workers this year.

Every year, the Archdiocese of Montreal leads this meaningful initiative, reflecting the Church’s commitment to these essential workers.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Mass was held at Saint Joseph's Oratory. In the aftermath of the pandemic, the Office for Cultural and Ritual Communities, in partnership with the Latin American missions of the diocese, decided to hold the Mass in a different parish each year. This change aims to involve local communities, offering them the opportunity to welcome, engage with, and get to know the many seasonal workers.

The number of seasonal workers in Quebec is steadily increasing, now estimated at 40,000, primarily from Guatemala and Mexico.

This year, on July 28, a Mass was celebrated at St. Théophile Parish. The Latino community gathered for a festive and welcoming occasion. The diocesan office director, Father Pierangelo Paternieri, along with Fathers Edison Osorio and André Tiphane, presided over the liturgy. They emphasized the importance of migrants’ presence and the need for ongoing solidarity, noting that as migrants, they have left their families behind and may experience moments of sadness, fatigue, and loneliness. However, solidarity and faith provide them with the strength and light to overcome these challenges.

Each year, Archbishop Christian Lépine of Montreal reminds us that for several months, the Church of Montreal also becomes the Church of temporary workers, and that the priests serving the Spanish-speaking faithful will be their pastors.

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