During his recent visit to Notre-Dame d’Afrique Mission, Montreal’s Archbishop Christian Lépine encouraged the faithful not to be disheartened by their weaknesses or past failures. “In life, we sometimes make resolutions and strive to improve, yet we still fall short, caught in our faults and frailties. This is not a reason to be discouraged. We must hold fast to Jesus Christ, for he has the power to renew our hearts,” he reminded everyone present.

To know Jesus is to experience the transformative power of salvation. “When we take time to reflect on the journey of our lives, we see that Jesus has always been present and that God has supported us. It is also a moment to acknowledge our ongoing need to remain close to him,” Archbishop Lépine noted.

He reminded the congregation that each person holds immeasurable value in God’s eyes, and that God is our strength, especially in times of challenge. “Whether through Scripture, through Jesus Christ, or sometimes through others, God sustains us. Even in the struggle against illness, poverty, or our own limitations, God is our strength,” he said.

The Archbishop stressed that the greatest challenge is the transformation of our own hearts. “At the end of our lives, God will ask what we have done with the faith, love, and prayer he has given us. We need one another and the support of community to move forward,” he explained.

Archbishop Lépine also highlighted the richness of Montreal’s community life. “Montreal is a city open to the world—a global city. It is a place of welcome and, in itself, a mission: to overcome prejudice, to learn from one another, and to be rays of light showing that peace is possible,” he said.

He spoke of the importance of justice, peace, and the value of every individual’s story and experience. “Montreal’s communities are enriched by diverse traditions and paths. Welcoming people along with their life stories allows us to continually learn and grow together,” he reflected.

In closing, Archbishop Lépine affirmed that Jesus Christ meets each person where they are. “The trust we place in his presence reminds us of our worth in God’s eyes and allows us to draw strength from him as we continue our journey of faith,” he concluded.

Maribel Mayorga
Press Officer, Archbishop's Office and
Director, Communications and Media relations
Archdiocese of Montreal