On Friday, October 9th, at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral hosted the closing Mass for the 50th anniversary of the permanent diaconate, presided over by Archbishop Christian Lépine of Montreal. The celebration also included the rites of admission for Mr. Adam Paterno, Mr. Duc Thang Vu, and Mr. François de Sales Gnokan Zumoang.

Christ, the Source of Every Vocation

In his homily, Archbishop Lépine invited those present to give thanks for the fifty-year history of the permanent diaconate and for all those who have contributed to its development through their commitment and generosity.

He reminded the congregation that the diaconate finds its source in Christ, who came "not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life." Service, therefore, is not merely a task to be performed; it lies at the very heart of the Christian vocation. Following the example of Jesus, the deacon is called to serve others and to bear witness to God’s love through his presence and actions.

The Archbishop also emphasized that the Church does not rely solely on human effort. It is called, gathered, and built up by God. Every vocation is thus part of a mission that transcends the individual and finds its origin in the call of Christ.

A Church in Service to Humanity

Service is not the exclusive domain of deacons; it involves all the baptized. Each person is called to bring the Gospel to life within their own environment—whether in their parish community, their family, the workplace, or their daily relationships. Archbishop Lépine reminded those present that the mission of the Church is not limited to liturgical celebrations. It continues in the heart of the world—where people live, work, interact, and face life’s challenges. Acts of solidarity, listening, and a commitment to the dignity of every individual become concrete ways of participating in the mission of Christ.

The tasks and responsibilities of daily life can also become opportunities for service and witness. Each person, according to their own vocation and talents, is invited to contribute to building a world that is more attentive to others.

Bearing Witness to Truth and Love

In a world searching for meaning, the Archbishop also emphasized the importance of Christian witness. Proclaiming the truth and living out love cannot be separated; faith is expressed as much through one’s actions toward others as it is through one’s words.

The witness of deacons—like that of all the baptized—is meant to make the presence of Christ visible within society. This mission requires faithfulness, openness, and a constant attentiveness to the people one encounters, especially those in need of support and accompaniment.

Recognition for Support of the Permanent Diaconate

During the celebration, Mr. Réjean Leblanc—a retired permanent deacon and president of the Association of Diocesan Directors of the Permanent Diaconate in Quebec (ARDDPQ)—presented a commemorative plaque to Archbishop Christian Lépine. This gesture of appreciation acknowledges the support the Archbishop has provided to the permanent diaconate over the past few years, as well as his commitment to the deacons and their mission within the Church in Montreal. This celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the permanent diaconate served as an opportunity to give thanks for the journey traveled, to acknowledge those who have contributed to this history, and to renew the call to serve, following in the footsteps of Christ.

From deacons to all the baptized, everyone is called—wherever they may be—to bear witness to the love of Christ and to place themselves at the service of humanity.

Joanne Dorcé
Content Manager and Assistant Director,
Communications Department
Archdiocese of Montreal