June 20, 2020

Re-opening of St. Monica's Church

Dear Parishioners,

You have probably heard by now that the Quebec government has authorized the reopening of places of worship effective June 22, now permitting public gatherings of up to 50 people.

In addition, we have recently received guidelines from the Archdiocese regarding the steps to take in order to reopen our church building in a safe, secure manner. 

While the protocols suggested by the Archdiocese will be our guide to re-opening, like all parishes, we face our own unique challenges.  We will need to adopt our own timeline for welcoming parishioners back, while respecting the guidelines. Be assured that our first priority will be to ensure your safety by implementing the necessary health and security measures.

At this stage, our pastoral team is planning the implementation of the safety guidelines, in keeping with the needs, resources and character of our parish.  

The guidelines recommend a gradual re-opening.  First, the physical space of the church needs to be prepared so that it can be available for personal prayer.  During this time, we will train the volunteers (hospitality, security, sacristy, liturgical ministers, etc.) necessary to re-open the church for Sunday Mass, as well as other liturgical services (baptisms, weddings, funerals, etc.).

Be assured that we will make every effort to keep you informed of our plan of action, using the communications means available to St. Monica's parish: telephone, e-mail, Facebook, our website, and our YouTube channel where video resources can be accessed.  

With the severe restrictions on the number of people able to attend Mass in person, we will be continuing online transmission of Sunday Mass, and improving the technology allowing us to do that.  Please continue to participate in our online Masses, and share the links with your friends and other parishioners through your own connections.

If you are able to join our volunteer team that will prepare the reopening and maintaining of our church for public access, please contact: 

Gina Yee, Parish Secretary by email at:

st-monica@videotron.ca  or by phone 514-481-0267 x 221.

Adjusting to life under the threat of COVID-19 during these past few months has not been easy for any of us. But despite our physical separation from one another, we remain confident and united to you in spiritual communion. Thank you for your ongoing support and co-operation as we begin our phase of gradual “deconfinement.”

Fr. Raymond Lafontaine, E.V.             Fr. Lloyd Baugh, S.J.

Pastor                                                  Associate Pastor