June 2, 2017 — The Archdiocese of Montreal presented the Ignace-Bourget Diocesan Award of Merit to the
Society of Jesus on May 31, the celebration of the Visitation of the Blessed
Virgin, the patronal feast day of the diocese. Father Erik Oland, SJ, provincial
of the Jesuits’ French Canada Province, was there to receive the award from
Archbishop Christian Lépine of Montreal at Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
in Montreal.
First given in 1979, the
award is named after the second bishop of Montreal, Ignace-Bourget (1840-1876),
a prominent figure in the history of the church and his country who was known
for his faith, charity and social commitment.
“Witnessing to the faith in a
world marked by religious indifference and unbelief is the primary mission of
the Society of Jesus, which has been ceaselessly carrying it out in Montreal
for more than 300 years,” the Archdiocese said. “Today, we wish to pay tribute
to the fearlessness of the first Jesuits who came to Canada and profoundly
marked our history. On a broader note, we would like to honor all the men, past
and present, who drew and continue to draw, the inspiration for their extensive
and fruitful work primarily from their life in union with Christ for the
greater glory of God.”
The Society of Jesus was
among five other organizations and four individuals who were honored with the
award at the Mass. [Source: Archdiocese of Montreal]
