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May 6th - A legacy of faith

Fr. Michael MachacekNativity of Our LordMay 6, 2021
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Today’s readings are 2 Timothy 4: 1-5; Psalm 96 and John 10: 11-16

As Canadians this day we celebrate the memorial of St. Francois de Laval, the first bishop of Quebec (and of course, Canada), and the patron saint of Canadian bishops.  Last year on this day my reflection focused on the life of Laval (go to Nativity of Our Lord (myparish.org).

However, today I recall not only Laval’s life and legacy, but also the lives and legacies of faith bestowed upon us Canadians, especially from those women and men who came to Canada from France or else are of French- Canadian descent.  For example, in the month of May, besides St. Francois today, we honour Blessed Marie-Leonie Paradis (May 4), Blessed Catherine of Augustine (May 8) and Blessed Louis-Zepherin Moreau (May 24).  But there are so many more, including the Canadian Martyrs of the 1640s, as well as such saints as St. Marguerite D’Youville, St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, St. Marie of the Incarnation, and St. Brother Andre. 

All of them helped to plant the seeds of the church in our nation, for which we owe them much thanks and gratitude. In a nation that is becoming more and more secular, and more estranged from our faith, let us collectively ask for their intercessions as we pray, “St. Francois and all the saints of Canada, pray for us!” 

P.S. The photo above is that of the Basilica of St. Anne de Beaupre, just to the east of Quebec City.