On October 4, 2025, a group of faithful from the Archdiocese of Montreal—including priests, deacons, and seminarians—gathered for a memorable pilgrimage led by Archbishop Christian Lépine. Known as the Montreal Diocesan Pilgrimage, the event was marked by prayer, fellowship, and spiritual reflection at Notre-Dame-du-Cap, a site steeped in history and devotion.

The pilgrimage was organized by Father Robert Paradis, pastor of Saint-Ambroise Parish in Montreal, and proved a resounding success. Six air-conditioned buses, each with 56 first-class seats, transported the pilgrims from Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral, the Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes, and Saint-Ambroise Parish. From the very start, the journey fostered a spiritual atmosphere, accompanied by prayers of praise, morning lauds, vespers, and blessings from Archbishop Lépine.

Upon arrival at the sanctuary, participants came together for the first of two reflections led by Archbishop Lépine. In the morning session, he spoke on the theme, “Our Liberation Comes Through Mary.” Drawing on the primacy of God’s love, he reminded pilgrims that God loved us first, and therefore we are called to love in return. In a world often marked by selfishness, narcissism, and misunderstanding, God’s love liberates us through His greatness. Like Mary, we are invited to surrender to God with humility, recognizing His call not as a personal merit but as a gift of grace. The Archbishop encouraged all to seek, through Mary’s intercession, the grace of a humble faith, following her example.

Following the morning reflection, pilgrims participated in Eucharistic adoration and had the opportunity for confession before sharing a communal meal. In the afternoon, the group meditated on the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary in the sanctuary gardens, leading into the Archbishop’s second reflection, which addressed pilgrims’ questions regarding plenary indulgences.

The pilgrimage concluded with a solemn Mass celebrated by Archbishop Christian Lépine and concelebrated by a dozen priests, accompanied by the Franciscan Brothers of Trois-Rivières choir. Many participants expressed a hope that this enriching experience might become an annual event, noting the peace and joy it brought to all who attended.

Father Jean-Marie Bilwala
Episcopal Vicar, Central Region