Statement by Bishop Raymond Poisson,
Bishop of St-Jérôme-Mont-Laurier and
President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops
on the Passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) receives the news of the passing of Her Majesty, Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, with profound sadness. I join my brother Bishops and all of the Catholic faithful of this country in praying for the repose of her soul and in extending sincerest condolences to the members of the Royal Family.
Generations of Canadians have lived under Queen Elizabeth’s long reign. She will be forever remembered for her remarkable service to the people of our country and the entire Commonwealth. We grieve her loss, with all her subjects, and recall in a special way the Church of England, of which she was Supreme Governor.
There is immense inspiration to be found in the life the Queen lived. From the onset of her reign, Queen Elizabeth II vowed to dedicate her life to the service of others. She fulfilled this promise without stint or reservation.
Born on 21 April 1926, Queen Elizabeth II entered this world amid one of the most turbulent periods in history. Having grown up amid the chaos and destruction of the Second World War, as Queen, she guided her subjects in its aftermath and beyond, providing stability and hope.
She visited Canada 22 times. On each occasion, Canadians found in her an example of service, patriotism, respect for humanity, and devotion to God. In 1971, when delivering a speech in Toronto, she remarked: “I want the Crown to be seen as a symbol of national sovereignty belonging to all. It is not only a link between Commonwealth nations, but between Canadian citizens of every national origin and ancestry.” Queen Elizabeth resonated with Canadians from all walks of life.
On this day of great sadness, we do well to reflect on all that is to be learned from the life of Queen Elizabeth II and we pray: Grant her eternal rest, O Lord, and may everlasting light shine upon her.
8 September 2022
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