As Archbishop Emeritus Richard Gagnon of Winnipeg travels home to BC after his retirement, we take this opportunity to honour his decades of faithful service, particularly his nine years as Bishop of Victoria.
From 2004 to 2013, he shepherded the Diocese of Victoria with dedication, leaving a lasting impact on our local community. His reflections on his journey paint a picture of a life dedicated to faith, learning, and pastoral care.
In a recent conversation at the Western Assembly of Catholic Bishops in Victoria, he shared the story of his vocation, the transformative moments that led him to the priesthood, and the lessons he has learned along the way.
The Call to Priesthood: A Journey of Discovery
Like many who enter religious life, Archbishop Gagnon's calling came early but did not take root immediately. He first felt drawn to the priesthood as a child but, like many young people, set the idea aside. It wasn’t until university that he found himself once again confronted with the question of vocation. A trip to Lourdes in France became a pivotal moment, deepening his faith and prompting him to consider priesthood more seriously.
During his studies, he also encountered misconceptions and prejudices about the Church, which only strengthened his resolve. "University can make or break you," he remarked. "For me, it was a time of questioning and ultimately deepening my faith." His intellectual curiosity led him to explore Catholicism more deeply, eventually solidifying his decision to pursue a life in ministry.
From Teacher to Pastor: Embracing a Life of Service
Before entering the seminary at 29, Archbishop Gagnon worked as a teacher, a profession he deeply enjoyed. "Teaching was always my vocation," he shared. His experience in the classroom, especially through subjects like music, English, and history, allowed him to connect with young people and their families in a meaningful way. Yet, he always felt there was something more—something missing. This yearning ultimately led him to seminary studies in Rome, marking the beginning of his formal journey toward the priesthood.
His transition from teaching to pastoral ministry was not as daunting as one might expect. "Teaching and being a pastor are connected in many ways," he explained. His natural inclination for guiding and educating others made the shift a natural progression rather than a drastic change.
A Bishop’s Journey: From Victoria to Winnipeg
Archbishop Gagnon's rise through the Church led him to serve as Vicar General in Vancouver before—as many on Vancouver Island remember—being appointed Bishop of Victoria. The move brought new challenges and opportunities, particularly in working closely with Indigenous communities on Vancouver Island. "I became deeply involved with Reconciliation efforts even before it became a national focus," he noted, recalling his engagement with programs like Returning to Spirit.
His appointment as Archbishop of Winnipeg introduced him to yet another unique faith community. He described Manitobans as "down-to-earth, friendly people with a strong sense of community," adding that the province’s cold winters created a shared resilience among its people. One of the highlights of his time in Winnipeg was celebrating the Archdiocese’s anniversary with a massive Mass at the MTS Centre, home of the Winnipeg Jets, where 14,000 people gathered in worship.
Looking Ahead: Retirement and Continued Service
Though officially retiring, Archbishop Gagnon has no plans to step away entirely from ministry. He is relocating to Abbotsford, BC, to be closer to family, but his calendar is already filling with retreat bookings. "I expected that to happen," he laughed, acknowledging that a lifetime of service does not simply end with retirement.
As he embarks on this next chapter, his reflections serve as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the enduring impact of a life devoted to the Church. His story is not just about answering a call but about embracing each moment with openness and a willingness to serve. Through every step—from the classroom to the pulpit, from Vancouver to Victoria, and finally to Winnipeg—Archbishop Gagnon has remained steadfast in his mission, leaving a lasting legacy for those who follow in his footsteps.
Cover photo courtesy of the Archdiocese of Winnipeg. Used with permission. You can see more photos and details on Archbishop Emeritus Gagnon's Farewell Mass here: https://archwinnipeg.ca/rgfarewell/
