The District of Canada celebrated the Feast of St. Marcellin Champagnat on Saturday, June 6 with a special gathering honoring four Brothers celebrating significant jubilees of religious life this year.
Brothers, family members, and friends gathered at the District House in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu for a prayer service followed by a festive meal. The celebration provided an opportunity to give thanks for the faithful witness and dedicated service of the jubilarians, whose combined years of religious life span nearly three centuries.
Honored this year were Br. Jean-Pierre Cotnoir, celebrating 60 years of religious profession; Br. André Barsalou, celebrating 70 years; Br. Guy Morel, celebrating 75 years; and Br. Armand Morin, celebrating 80 years. Three of the four jubilarians were able to be present for the celebration.
The Feast of St. Marcellin Champagnat holds special significance for Marists around the world as they remember the founder of the Marist Brothers and renew their commitment to his mission of making Jesus Christ known and loved, especially among young people.
The gathering offered an opportunity for the Canadian Marist community to celebrate the enduring commitment of these Brothers and to express gratitude for the many ways they have contributed to the life and mission of the Institute throughout the years.
The USA Province joins the District of Canada in congratulating Brs. Jean-Pierre, André, Guy, and Armand and thanking them for their many years of faithful service to God, the Church, and the Marist mission.
