Canada National Saint Kateri Shrine

News from the Shrine


PRESS RELEASES

MARCH 16, 2022

Here below is the letter sent by the Board of the Saint Francis-Xavier Mission to the Community

Father Lajoie Investigations
Download the full document in pdf
  November 8, 2021
INVESTIGATION ON ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE - FATHER LEON LAJOIE
 Our congregation has been in shock since the allegations were submitted to us. Many members of the congregation have a difficult time believing the allegations because they are so contradictory to how we experienced Father Lajoie.
We forwarded the complaints immediately to the Bishop responsible for the diocese; as we firmly believed those making the allegations and those accused deserved due process. Further we do not condone, and we condemn any and all abuses made against children and believe those responsible should be held accountable.
We are satisfied the investigation is going forward. We will cooperate with the investigation providing access to investigators to church documentation and premises as needed. We are asking people to cooperate with the investigation and seek services for support during this time if you need it.
It is our hope and expectation that the results of the investigation will be shared with the community once it is completed.
We are asking the community to keep an open mind, be respectful of one and other and keep the peace. We are thankful for all the support the community members and leadership have shown to us, while we make this painful journey together.

Letter to His Holiness, Pope Francis

July 12, 2021
Discovering of the unmarked tombs of children in Residential Schools