Dear Parishioners,
Recently, Bishop Paul-André Durocher expressed to the Sons of Mary his doubts about their fidelity to the doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church.
He wanted to compel us to sign a commitment disavowing the deep roots of the Work in which the Community was founded. If we did not sign this, he would not renew the agreement with the Sons of Mary for the ministry in the diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall.
For us, Sons of Mary, signing this commitment would be betraying the spiritual heritage received from our Foundress and from our whole spiritual family. Who would want to reject his own mother? No one of course. Hence, in conscience, we cannot and will not sign this commitment.
Therefore we announce today, with regret, that, at the latest on June 30, 2005, the Sons of Mary will terminate their ministry and leave the diocese.
We have served the Church of Alexandria-Cornwall for the past ten years. You are witnesses of the ministry which we have accomplished, you have heard the teachings which we have given you. And so, therefore, we leave it up to you to judge the present situation.
We invite you to accept this decision with serenity, as we do. Even if we may be saddened because of our departure, we are confident that God will watch over each and every one of you and over His Church. Protesting would be useless, because, on the one hand, it is contrary to the teachings we have given you and, on the other hand, such a behavior would sadden us.
Shortly, the Bishop will decide and indicate officially what will happen in the various parishes affected. Until then, we ask you to wait patiently for further news.
With a heart filled with love and peace, let us give thanks to God for all we have had an opportunity to live here.
For those who would like further information on this matter, you may refer to the web site of the Community of the Lady of All Peoples under the section:
“In the Kingdom of Love in the Truth”
www.communaute-dame.qc.ca
Together: Our Father...
May Almighty God bless you, in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and may Mary Immaculate protect you and watch over you always in peace. Amen.
Father Eric Roy, O.FF.M.
Superior General
May 21, 2005
