The Archdiocese of Ottawa and the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa rejoice this morning upon hearing the announcement from the Vatican that Mother Élisabeth Bruyère, founder of the Sisters of Charity of Bytown (now Ottawa) has been declared Venerable, a first step toward a possible canonization in the future.
Archbishop Prendergast, expresses his joy at learning of this good news and takes this opportunity to remind us of the great contribution Mother Bruyère and members of her congregation have exercised in the city and the diocese since their very foundation. “Mother Bruyère and the Sisters of Charity initiated and founded several of the charitable institutions that continue to be very present and active in our community, especially in health and education. Mother Bruyère’s ministry, her life of prayer and heartfelt devotion towards helping the neediest, reflect God’s love for us all. May Mother Bruyère continue to guide her fellow Sisters and sustain them in their efforts as they continue to cater to the needs of the people of Ottawa, the members of our Christian communities and our Archdiocese. This wonderful announcement is another good reason to proclaim a joyful Alleluia in these days of Easter.”
Sister Rachelle Watier, Superior General of the Sisters of Charity, commented on this news from Rome as follows: “Today is not only a great day filled with emotion and pride for the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa, it is also a day filled with joy for the whole Church which has just recognized our foundress, Élisabeth Bruyère, Venerable, a first step toward her canonization. The sanctity of her virtues has been officially recognized. We are very happy to share our immense joy with the public. This is also a great day for the city of Ottawa, for Canada, for the 185 locations where the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa have been active in our country. Filled with the love of God and a burning desire to do God’s work and help the vulnerable and those without a voice, Élisabeth Bruyère, in 1845, at age 27, changed the face of the village of Bytown. Within five months, she established a whole network of social services that were greatly needed. Élisabeth Bruyère was a woman ahead of her time. She initiated social changes that benefitted not only Ottawa but the whole world. Today, members of her Congregation continue to be active in the United States, many places in Africa, Japan, Brazil and Canada. May Venerable Élisabeth Bruyère continue to be a source of inspiration for our world. May all persons who share her compassion and continue her work in all aspects of society receive God’s blessings through her intercession.”
Members of the clergy and all the faithful are invited to come celebrate this joyous event at the Notre Dame Cathedral on June 14 at 7:30 p.m., on the feast of the Archdiocese of Ottawa.
Biography of Mother Élisabeth Bruyère
Website of the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa: www.soeursdelachariteottawa.com