“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” (Leviticus 19:34)

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As the fields of our beautiful region burst into colour and life, I wish to speak directly to you—men and women who have journeyed from afar to nourish our land and feed our families. Your presence among us is a precious gift.

You leave your homes, your loved ones, your countries to labour beneath our sun—and sometimes under our storms. Your courage, your generosity, and yes, your sacrifice, do not go unnoticed. On behalf of our entire diocesan community, I offer you my heartfelt thanks.

Your skilled hands cultivate more than just fruits and vegetables. They cultivate connection. They sow bridges between cultures and reap solidarity. You enrich our diocese with your expertise, your traditions, and your faith—so often deep and beautiful.

The Archdiocese of Montreal welcomes you with open arms. You are not just workers in our midst—you are our brothers and sisters in Christ. Our doors are open to you, our churches await you, and our communities wish to know you and walk alongside you.

I know that the distance from your homeland can weigh heavily on the heart. Please know that you have a spiritual family here—one that surrounds you with prayer and affection. I encourage you to reach out to our parishes, our priests, and our communities. You will find a warm welcome, a listening ear, and fraternal support.

May the Lord bless your work, protect your families back home, and accompany you daily during your time among us. You are a gift from God to our diocese.

With all my gratitude and blessing,

✠ Christian Lépine
Archbishop of Montreal

“I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)

View the PDF version of the pastoral letter here

Learn more about a special pilgrimage celebrating seasonal agricultural workers, in communion with the local Latin American community: https://www.diocesemontreal.org/en/news-and-info/latest-news/23rd-pilgrimage-agricultural-workers-and-latin-american-community-2025