Sixth bishop and fourth archbishop of Montreal
Joseph Charbonneau

Archbishop Charbonneau’s episcopate opens the second century of the history of our diocese. He was the author of a major document on Catholic Action, where he expressed his confidence in youth and laypeople. In 1941, he ordained Fr. Lawrence Patrick Whelan, who became the first English-speaking bishop of the Diocesan Curia of Montreal, a bishop. He founded the Oeuvre des vocations and showed special interest in teacher training as well as the family, the lowly and the poor. It was during the famous asbestos strike (1949) that he best showed his love for workers. His surprise resignation requested by the Vatican in 1950 brought a premature end to the episcopate of this shepherd, who was loved by his priests and the faithful.

1940 Opening of the School of Social Work, University of Montreal

1941 High school teaching college

1943 Founding of the Oeuvre des vocations

1949 Intervention for asbestos workers