On Saturday, September 13, 2025, CéDUM (Centre étudiant Domicum) and the Carrefour Intervocationnel, in collaboration with Montreal’s Office for Consecrated Life, organized a pilgrimage to Saint Joseph’s Oratory. The event brought together around fifty participants, including consecrated persons and young people actively living their faith, for a shared time of prayer, reflection, and celebration in honor of the Jubilee of Hope.

The day began at 8:30 a.m. with young participants and some consecrated persons gathering in front of Saint-Albert Church. The run commenced at 9:00 a.m., arriving at the Oratory around 10:30 a.m., where most consecrated participants were waiting near the Oratory parking lot. At 11:00 a.m., a Mass was celebrated by Brother Peace Michael A. Mushimiyimana, O.P., CéDUM chaplain, and concelebrated by Father Serge Arsenault, Missionary of Africa. The Eucharistic celebration took place in the St. Brother André Chapel, led by the youth with guitar and other musical instruments.

In his homily, Brother Peace encouraged the assembly to “walk together on the path of hope, united in our pursuit of an authentic life in Christ. May every step we take serve as an anchor of hope for ourselves and those around us.” He also invited participants to reflect on the phrase: “Just as a healthy tree does not bear corrupt fruit, our faith must be expressed through concrete actions, illuminating the world with Christ’s love.”

Following Mass, pilgrims shared a fraternal lunch in the Oratory’s Gauthier Hall. In the afternoon, consecrated participants took advantage of the sunny day for festive activities on the outdoor belvedere, offering an hour of visible witness to the vibrant presence of consecrated persons in the archdiocese. These moments provided a deep experience of prayer, sharing, and unity.

Among the many positive testimonials received, one stands out: “It was a day filled with graces,” shared Sister Suzanne, aged 87, who attended the event. “We were spiritually nourished, and also able to share experiences and joy with other consecrated persons. There is real comfort in being together in a single event. I hope I will have the health to participate in such gatherings again next year.”

The pilgrimage concluded around 2:30 p.m., rekindling the flame of faith and fellowship not only among students and consecrated persons but also with visitors who observed and shared in the joy of the day.

The organizers are delighted with the success of this event and hope to make it a recurring tradition in the years to come.

Office for Consecrated Life
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Montreal

NB: The full homily by Brother Peace Michael A. Mushimiyimana, delivered during the September 13 Eucharistic celebration at Saint Joseph’s Oratory, can be accessed here (available in French only): 
https://cedum.org/predication-2025-09-13-des-pas-d-esperance/

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