Community Vitality Event
On the morning of November 28, 2024, the ESCC, in collaboration with the Office for English Pastoral Services (OEPS), hosted a Community Vitality event at Institut de formation théologique de Montreal (IFTM). This gathering brought together 50 participants, including representatives from our valued funders (Pillar Trust and Montreal St. Patrick’s Foundation), members of at least 10 English-speaking parishes of the Archdiocese of Montreal, and sisters from the Notre-Dame and Holy Name of Jesus congregations.
The event began with our Board president, Robert Schnitzer, sharing a prayer in simplicity and introducing the audience to ESCC’s Land and African Ancestry Acknowledgements.
Fr. Ray Lafontaine followed with an inspiring testimonial about his recent pilgrimages in Regina and Rome, notably as a facilitator for the Second Synodal Assembly within the context of the Synod on Synodality. Through vivid anecdotes and beautiful visuals, he transported us to the heart of the discussions, emphasizing themes of hope, perseverance, and collective action. Fr. Ray also underscored the indispensable role of women in the Church, highlighting their leadership in spiritual and community work. His reflections resonated with imperatives of witnessing, learning, inclusion, and growth. We have no doubt that most were left with a desire for much more!
Maria Centoni, ED, then introduced Loveness Mabhunu, from Zimbabwe, our first Board member of African ancestry. The video, in her stead, celebrated the values of representation, dignity, passion, and transparency that guide the ESCC in the fulfillment of its renewed mission and vision.
Having to adjust the agenda items to constraints, Maria next succinctly touched on ESCC’s upcoming pilot projects, and its pivot in terms of advocacy and activities/programs. To better address community needs, she invited input/feedback, notably through the survey specially produced for the event.
Megan Chartrand, from the Quebec & Nunavut chapter of Canadian Parents for French’s (CPF) provided a brief overview of her organization’s work, the availability of French-language resources to support newcomers and families looking to integrate into the Quebec collectivity.
The event concluded with a vibrant networking opportunity over refreshments. Participants were free to enjoy an exposition of liturgical and musical manuscripts presented by the Sulpicians, explore the IFTM’s legacy chapel and library. Many rejoiced on seizing the opportunity.
This event helped celebrate community vitality, reconnect with colleagues and friends, and welcome new faces. It marked another step in our shared journey toward welcome, inclusion and growth.
To view the survey results, please visit the Library section of our website. The results are available under the “Public Statements, Briefs, and Other Documents“ tab.