The 13^th of May 1836 stands as a landmark date in the history of the Catholic Church in Montreal. On that day, Pope Gregory XVI formally erected the Diocese of Montreal, granting the city of Ville-Marie its own ecclesiastical jurisdiction and laying the foundations of a community of faith that would grow and deepen across the generations.

Fifty years later, in 1886, the diocese was elevated to an archdiocese, a recognition of the remarkable growth and far-reaching influence of the Church of Montreal within Quebec and across Canada.

One hundred and ninety years after its founding, the Archdiocese of Montreal gathers more than 1.5 million faithful, nearly 190 parishes and missions, and a rich cultural diversity embracing more than thirty communities of different origins. Every Sunday, the Eucharist is celebrated in close to forty languages.

"This anniversary invites us to give thanks for the heritage we have received," said Archbishop Christian Lépine of Montreal, "and to renew our commitment to building a living Church, centred on Jesus Christ, close to the people and journeying together in hope."

From its earliest days, the Church of Montreal has pursued its mission of proclaiming the Gospel, accompanying the faithful on their journey of faith, and serving society through its pastoral, community and charitable works.

In this anniversary year, we give thanks for one hundred and ninety years of faith, service and presence at the heart of Montreal, and look with hope towards the future of our diocesan Church.