Parish Celebrates their Own Cardinal! Thrilled to Welcome His Eminence Cardinal Frank Leo to Montreal!

Thrilled to welcome His Eminence Cardinal Frank Leo to Montreal!
The weekend of March 22 and 23 was marked by the exceptional presence of Cardinal Frank Leo, who enlivened the city of Montreal with his presence. It was his first visit to his hometown since his elevation to the rank of cardinal, and he seized the opportunity brilliantly. 

The event generated a wave of enthusiasm and an electric atmosphere that propelled the celebration of mass on March 22 at 12:10 p.m. at the Cathedral Mary-Queen-of-the-World to a new level of excellence. The Cathedral was packed to the rafters for the occasion. Many faithful Catholics came in large numbers on board a bus to celebrate with Cardinal Frank Leo, whom they still hold in very high esteem. These Catholics were parishioners from Saint John Bosco in Montreal. They remember him fondly as Auxiliary Bishop of Montreal. The following day, Cardinal Frank Leo presided over two Masses in his home parish of Our Lady of Consolata parish. The first, at 9:30 a.m. in Italian, was a moment of great fervor.

The second, at 11 a.m., in English, was attended by a large and dedicated community. During these Eucharistic celebrations, Cardinal Frank expressed his profound gratitude to the Lord and the Holy Father Francis, and he acknowledged the numerous crowds who mobilized to be present and give thanks with him. The atmosphere was undeniably electrifying, with an unmistakable sense of anticipation among all present for these extraordinary masses. At the end of the Masses, Cardinal Frank Leo invited all those who wished to greet him to come to the front (the cathedral) and approach the main door of the Church (Our Lady of Consolata). It was a truly special moment, an unforgettable experience. The crowds of people were impressive. I immediately approached a woman hurrying to greet Cardinal Frank and asked, "Why are you so happy, Madame X?"; She replied with disarming sincerity: "My dear Padre Jean-Marie, my family and I hold Cardinal Frank Leo in our hearts. He is an exceptional person, humble, kind, his voice resounds the divine voice..."

I was absolutely certain that my conviction was right. Cardinal Frank Leo is such a gift from God to His Church. It was truly heartwarming to see everyone leaving with a smile, a photo with Cardinal Frank in hand. His patience and attentiveness were remarkable, and his ability to satisfy everyone was obvious. He is a true pastor, an exceptional man. After hours of heart-to-heart talks and prayers, the Our Lady of Consolata parish organized a banquet in his honor. We gathered in the parish hall to share a meal together, and it was a truly unforgettable experience. And what a meal it was! There was joy for all, and the meal was a moment of sharing and celebration.
Article by Fr. Jean-Marie Kabesa BILWALA (Episcopal Vicar in Montreal)