On May 15, 2025, the Catholic community of Ottawa-Cornwall came together in a spirit of deep joy, gratitude, and unity for a very special occasion: the Archbishop’s Jubilee Dinner. Organized by the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall under the leadership of Archbishop Marcel Damphousse, this sold-out event brought together more than 1,000 faithful to mark two significant jubilees — the Holy Year 2025, proclaimed by Pope Francis, and the fifth anniversary of the unification of the former Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall with the Archdiocese of Ottawa.
It was an evening filled with grace, hope, and heartfelt emotion.
It was a tremendous honour for me — along with our entire wonderful CNEWA Canada team — to attend and represent our agency at this inspiring diocesan-wide celebration. Our presence was a gesture of support, of gratitude, and of communion with Archbishop Damphousse, who also serves as Chair of CNEWA Canada’s Board of Directors. His leadership has been a true gift to us, not only in his official capacity, but also as a spiritual guide and mentor whose witness continually inspires.
The Archbishop’s message that evening — “Go Out, Go Deep, Go Together” — resonated powerfully throughout the hall. These words, spoken with profound conviction and pastoral tenderness, invited all of us to renew our trust in God’s providence and to walk boldly in faith as a Church. Many of us were moved to tears as he spoke about the need for courage, compassion, and communion in today’s world — and reminded us that it is ultimately God who takes the initiative in all things.
CNEWA Canada was grateful to stand among so many devoted members of the Church, united in hope and purpose. In a world that often feels fragmented, this Jubilee Dinner was a powerful sign of unity — a celebration not only of milestones but of mission. We left uplifted, renewed in our own commitment to serve the Eastern Churches, and inspired by the faithful of the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall, who continue to walk forward — together — with eyes fixed on Christ.
As we journey through the Holy Year 2025, may we carry with us the spirit of this evening and Archbishop Damphousse’s words:
“Go Out. Go Deep. Go Together.”
And always, go with God.