This post is written by Cynthia Bouchard, former Chancellor of the Diocese of Victoria (2012-2023)
This week marks an important anniversary in the Diocese of Victoria. Ten years ago, on August 28, 2014, Bishop Gary Gordon was installed as the 17th Bishop of Victoria.
Pope Francis had formally appointed Bishop Gary as Bishop of Victoria two months earlier, on June 14, 2014. Shortly thereafter Bishop Gary travelled to the Pastoral Centre to meet with the Consultors and the diocesan staff. Later, while he was sitting in my office, I received a glimpse of our new Bishop, for as he opened his suitcase to retrieve documents, I noticed that he had packed a pair of running shoes. I soon realized those shoes would become a symbol of a Bishop on the move!
Bishop Gary and Merlin on the move
The Installation Mass was held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Victoria. During his homily, Bishop Gary referred to the church as our home, where all are welcome, as family. The gesture of inviting all those present to hold his pectoral cross was a powerful symbol of our baptismal call to shared ministry as people of God.
Click here to read the program of Bishop Gary’s Installation Mass.
The event was covered in a special edition of the Diocesan Messenger, which featured photos, articles about Bishop Gary, and even a profile of the Bishop’s dog, Merlin. The Victoria News also ran a story, where Bishop Gary reflected on being a bishop and a priest: “You’re deeply involved with people in life’s trenches. It’s amazing and very privileged."
Our Bishop’s pastoral ministry may be defined by his steadfast faith, often witnessed through stories and relationships, about God’s love, grace, mercy, and the bonds we share as members of a family. Always mindful of those on the peripheries, Bishop Gary continues to challenge us to “cross the road” to meet our Indigenous neighbours, to visit the sick, clothe and feed the hungry (even plant potatoes), and shelter the homeless
Thank you, Bishop Gary, for the blessings and gift of your leadership and pastoral ministry in this Diocese. May your journey, as you travel in your truck, fish from your boat, or walk your dog, continue on sure footing, secure in a good pair of running shoes!
