March 17, 2022
Pope Francis’s appointment of Father Yvan Mathieu, S.M., as my auxiliary bishop is an answer to my prayers and to the prayers of many faithful our diocese. I welcome him with joy and gratitude for his generous yes and his willingness to serve the Church he loves. I am well aware the great sacrifice he made by leaving his religious community without their provincial superior. I wish to personally thank the Marist Fathers for generously accepting his nomination as a bishop. His formation and spirituality he has received through the many years with you will be a gift to our local and universal Church. I pray the Lord may guide you in the weeks and months ahead and grant you many new vocations.
Bishop Mathieu is not a stranger to Ottawa. Even though he is originally from Québec City, he has spent many years here for studies and now, currently, as a professor at Saint Paul’s University. Many permanent deacons and priests had the pleasure of hearing him on pastoral days, formation in Holy Scripture and retreats. I truly believe Bishop Mathieu will settle in quickly and familiarize himself with his new responsibilities. He will be a welcomed addition to our pastoral team as we continue our journey in becoming a missionary Church. Fluent in many languages, he will gladly share the joy of the Gospel to all those he will meet and serve.
The planning for the ordination of Bishop Mathieu is under way. A date has not yet been determined but we hope to announce it soon. It is our hope to welcome and introduce him to our archdiocese on April 12 at the Chrism Mass.
Marcel Damphousse
Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall
