General

It is with deep regret that the Archbishop of Montreal, Most Reverend Christian Lépine, announces the death of his predecessor, Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte, on April 8, 2015. He was 78 years old.

Archbishop Lépine shares the sorrow of the Cardinal's family and of the entire diocesan community in Montreal.

Cardinal Turcotte was a great witness to Jesus Christ present in our world and a dedicated servant of the Church. With thoughts of everyone who has been touched by his presence among us, we ask the Lord to guide us along the path of hope.    

Archbishop Lépine will celebrate a Mass today for the Cardinal at 5 p.m. at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral. Everyone is welcome.

The Holy Father sent a telegram of condolences to Archbishop Lépine on learning of the death of Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte.

Recalling the Cardinal's devoted service to the Church as diocesan pastor, president of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, and member of several Roman congregations, Pope Francis noted the Cardinal's earnest focus on the challenges facing today's Church. He also highlighted the Cardinal's active participation in the 1994 Synod on Consecrated Life and its mission, and in the 1997 Synod on America, in which he was one of the main players.  

Expressing sincere condolences to the Turcotte family and to all the clergy and faithful of the archdiocese he once pastored, the Pope imparts his blessing upon everyone who will be taking part in Cardinal Turcotte's funeral.

The Funeral Mass for Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte will be held on Friday, April 17, 2 pm at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral. The public is welcome to pay their final respects to the Cardinal on the eve of the funeral, Thursday, April 16 from 7 am-10 pm at the Cathedral. More details to follow.   


Official Biography
Read the dossier The Man behind the Cardinal