We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Father John Emmett Walsh, who died unexpectedly today from a massive heart attack, in Montreal, Quebec, at the age of 78.

As a priest for 53 years, Fr. Walsh generously served the local Catholic community as a curate, chaplain, pastor, Biblical scholar, professor and in various diocesan ministries.

At the same time, his faith led him "to build human relationships in concrete ways so that what we say and do together brings about liberation and peace," as he says in his autobiography God Is Calling.

“At the news of Fr. John Walsh’s passing, I wish to express my most heartfelt condolences to all those whom he knew through his many commitments. From parish members to the homeless, from the poor to families in need, he was to all a living witness of that universal fraternity, in which every human being is a brother or a sister,” declared Archbishop Christian Lépine. “He was a faithful actor in many dialogues held among Christians of different confessions, as well as between Christians and Jews, offering his efforts with conviction in the cause of interreligious dialogue. The Diocese of Montreal has lost a great priest and a great man. I express my gratitude to all those who, along with him, have been instruments of fellowship and peace, ” he added.

Information regarding funeral arrangements will be made available as soon as details are confirmed.