Par Benoît-Marc Boyer

Celebrating its centenary this year, today's Mount Royal Cross, well known to the population of Greater Montreal, shines out in the evening for miles around.

Its tradition dates back to the founding of Ville-Marie in the days of New France. In 1642, Jeanne Mance, Paul de Chomedey, sieur de Maisonneuve and a few others created a city of faith, peace and mutual aid.

As early as the first winter, when a threatening ice jam was averted, people planted a cross on Mount Royal as a sign of thanksgiving. This was on January 6, 1643.

The cross that overlooks Montreal today was erected in 1924 and lit up for the very first time on Christmas Eve. Since then, it has continued to be a landmark throughout the city. A fitting tribute to the Christ it represents, who can be a beacon in our lives.

Like the many roadside crosses on our roads, in town and country, the one on Mount Royal reminds us of our roots and of the One who inspired so much generosity and solidarity in our ancestors.

This heritage is ours. It's up to us to keep it alive. Because of a cross, as Robert Lebel so beautifully sings.