(Présence-info) The launch of the academic year at the Dominican Pastoral Institute was marked by the posthumous awarding of an honorary doctorate in pastoral theology to Jean-Claude Cardinal Turcotte.

In his address, the director of the Pastoral Institute, Brother Daniel Cadrin, said that Cardinal Turcotte was aware of the decision to present him with this honorary doctorate and that he was very happy about it. A simple, private ceremony was scheduled to be held at the hospital, but was then cancelled, as his health declined rapidly. The former Archbishop of Montreal died on April 8, 2015.

The cardinal's three brothers attended the ceremony for the presentation of his diploma, on September 2, as did his former colleagues, including the former episcopal vicar and vicar general. Msgr. Jean Fortier, a close friend and colleague of the cardinal, received the degree in his name.

In his address, André Tiphane, former vicar general, recalled the practical and pragmatic side of Cardinal Turcotte, who, instead of giving big speeches, preferred placing importance on adopting a more personal approach toward others and encountering Christ.