Father Andre Morancy can’t believe he’s seen Pope Francis in person, let alone in a rehabilitation center in Quebec.
The priest held back tears Thursday as the pontiff stopped by Fraternité Saint-Alphonse, a facility for people struggling with substance use disorders in Beauport, Quebec, northeast of Quebec City. Earlier that day, the Pope celebrated Mass in Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.
“He was smiling. His eyes were shining,” said Morenci, who founded the fraternity about 30 years ago. “For me, this is a big wink from God for the Brotherhood of Saint Alphonsus.”
Pope Francis spent about 20 minutes at the center handing out gifts, including rosaries and an icon of Mary and Jesus.
During the undercover stop, Morenci says, a bodyguard introduced him to the pope. The Pope then handed him envelopes containing a $20,000 donation to the brotherhood.
“He takes my hand and puts it in my hand. He said, ‘This is for the poor, Father Morenci,'” the priest recalled.
It was only after the procession left that Morency realized what was in the envelopes.
“We’re still trying not to cry,” he said.
Promise kept
The priest says the center owes the visit to Quebec Archbishop Gérald Cyprien Lacroix, who promised to bring the pope to the organization if the pope ever travels to Quebec.
Fraternité Saint-Alphonse received this icon of Mary and Jesus as a gift after the visit of Pope Francis. (Louis-Philippe Arsenault/Radio-Canada)
When Morency learned that the pope would be touring Canada, he wrote to the archbishop of Quebec to remind him of his promise. And the archbishop kept his word.
To ensure the presence of volunteers and residents, Morancy invited them to a special dinner to thank them for their involvement in the center.
He says the pope’s surprise visit has touched residents, even non-believers.
“There were some who were crying, who had watery eyes. His presence in the home may have triggered something in these people,” Morenci said.
Support is available for anyone affected by their dorm experience or the latest reports.
A national Indian school crisis line has been set up to provide support for ex-students and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.
Mental health counseling and crisis support are also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Hope for Wellness Hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or via online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
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