On Sept. 8, 2025, the Fondation du Grand Séminaire de Montréal published an open letter from its executive director, Alexandrina Diac, posing a vital question for our society: “Does Quebec still need spiritual leaders?”

Amid growing secularization and shifting social reference points, the letter reminds us that many men and women, often away from the spotlight, accompany the sick, imprisoned, isolated, or those searching for meaning each day. Their attentive presence, comforting words, and genuine listening embody a deeply human and social form of leadership.

The text highlights Quebec’s historical figures—Jeanne Mance, Marguerite Bourgeoys, Émilie Gamelin, Brother André—whose legacies were built on acts of care, attention, and solidarity. Today, these legacies are fragile in the face of rising loneliness and mental health challenges, calling for renewal.

A recent survey cited in the letter shows that nearly one in three Quebec adults report searching for meaning, underscoring the importance of spaces that train and inspire open, discerning leaders committed to the common good.

“The Grand Séminaire de Montréal is one of those rare places where, discreetly but with profound impact, the spiritual and human future of our society is being prepared,” writes Alexandrina Diac.

The Fondation invites recognition of the relevance and necessity of supporting spiritual and human leaders who, quietly and consistently, sustain the values of justice, peace, hospitality, and solidarity.

Read the open letter here (French only):

https://fgsm.org/lettre-ouverte-le-quebec-a-t-il-encore-besoin-de-leaders-spirituels/