Auxiliary Bishop of Montréal: 'Pope Francis has given us a lot to reflect upon'

By Lisa Zengarini and Silvonei Protz

After four intense days of meetings and listening to Canadian Indigenous peoples and government leaders, and celebrating liturgies, Pope Francis presided at Vespers with Bishops, clergy, consecrated persons, seminarians and pastoral workers at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec on Thursday evening.

Challenges of secularism and abuse in the Church

During the celebration the Pope called on Church leaders in Canada to overcome the many challenges that hinder the proclamation of the joy of faith in an increasingly secular society, emphasizing that to proclaim the Gospel “the Church must also be credible”. 

In this regard, he acknowledged the challenge of ministering in the wake of allegations about clerical sexual abuse and abuses against Indigenous children at Church-run residential schools, which has been the golden thread of his “penitential pilgrimage” Canada.

He asked the forgiveness of all the victims, and, referring specifically to the ongoing process of healing and reconciliation with the Indigenous peoples of Canada, reiterated that “never again can the Christian community allow itself to be infected by the idea that one culture is superior to others or that it is legitimate to employ ways of coercing others.”

Bishop Faubert: 'A dense moment of spirituality'

Among those attending the celebration, was the Auxiliary Bishop of Montréal, Alain Faubert, who shared briefly his first impressions on the celebration and on Pope’s visit to Canada with Vatican News' Silvonei Protz.

One thing that impressed him of the celebration was the Holy Father’s “simplicity” and “warmth”.

We have a lot to do

According to Bishop Faubert, Pope Francis’ words this week give a clear indication of what needs to be done in the Church in Canada.

“We have got a lot to do; we’ve got a lot to ponder upon, to reflect upon, to pray upon, in order to become this Church that God wants for us to be here in Canada.”