During his recent visit to Notre-Dame d\u2019Afrique Mission, Montreal\u2019s Archbishop Christian L\u00e9pine encouraged the faithful not to be disheartened by their weaknesses or past failures. \u201cIn life, we sometimes make resolutions and strive to improve, yet we still fall short, caught in our faults and frailties. This is not a reason to be discouraged. We must hold fast to Jesus Christ, for he has the power to renew our hearts,\u201d he reminded everyone present.<\/p>\n\n
To know Jesus is to experience the transformative power of salvation. \u201cWhen we take time to reflect on the journey of our lives, we see that Jesus has always been present and that God has supported us. It is also a moment to acknowledge our ongoing need to remain close to him,\u201d Archbishop L\u00e9pine noted.<\/p>\n\n
He reminded the congregation that each person holds immeasurable value in God\u2019s eyes, and that God is our strength, especially in times of challenge. \u201cWhether through Scripture, through Jesus Christ, or sometimes through others, God sustains us. Even in the struggle against illness, poverty, or our own limitations, God is our strength,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n
The Archbishop stressed that the greatest challenge is the transformation of our own hearts. \u201cAt the end of our lives, God will ask what we have done with the faith, love, and prayer he has given us. We need one another and the support of community to move forward,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n\n
Archbishop L\u00e9pine also highlighted the richness of Montreal\u2019s community life. \u201cMontreal is a city open to the world\u2014a global city. It is a place of welcome and, in itself, a mission: to overcome prejudice, to learn from one another, and to be rays of light showing that peace is possible,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n
He spoke of the importance of justice, peace, and the value of every individual\u2019s story and experience. \u201cMontreal\u2019s communities are enriched by diverse traditions and paths. Welcoming people along with their life stories allows us to continually learn and grow together,\u201d he reflected.<\/p>\n\n
In closing, Archbishop L\u00e9pine affirmed that Jesus Christ meets each person where they are. \u201cThe trust we place in his presence reminds us of our worth in God\u2019s eyes and allows us to draw strength from him as we continue our journey of faith,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n\n
Maribel Mayorga<\/b>
\nPress Officer, Archbishop’s Office and
\nDirector, Communications and Media relations<\/i>
\nArchdiocese of Montreal<\/p>\n\n