Dear Colleagues of the Archdiocese of Montreal,

It is with joy that I announce the following appointments in our diocese:

Mr. Éric Sylvestre, PSS

Mr. Éric Sylvestre has been appointed Episcopal Vicar for the Western Deanery (francophone communities) and Parish Administrator of Saint-Jean-Bosco Parish. His term runs from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2028. He succeeds Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa.

A member of the Society of the Priests of Saint Sulpice, Mr. Sylvestre recently served as Provincial Treasurer of the Sulpicians in Canada. He was also Director of the National Office for Liturgy and Rector of the Pontifical Canadian College in Rome for nine years. With a deep interest in architecture, art history, and music, he graduated from the École du Louvre and has devoted part of his ministry to South America, notably in Brazil and Colombia.
 

Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa

Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa has been appointed Interim Episcopal Vicar for the Central Deanery, effective September 1, 2025. In addition to his episcopal duties, he has been appointed Pastor of Sainte-Madeleine d'Outremont. He will also continue as Parish Administrator of Saint-Stanislas-de-Kostka and Immaculée-Conception parishes until August 31, 2026.

*Learn more about Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa

I extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Éric Sylvestre and Fr. Jean-Marie Bilwala Kabesa for their generosity and commitment in serving our diocesan Church. May their ministry in these new responsibilities be fruitful and bring hope.

May God bless you, guide your steps, and keep you in His peace.

† Christian Lépine
Archbishop of Montreal