Celebrating Bishop Boissonneau’s 25th Anniversary of Episcopal Ordination

On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the Archdiocese of Toronto had the opportunity to celebrate the 25^th anniversary of the Episcopal Ordination of the Most Rev. John A. Boissonneau. The events included an anniversary Mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica followed by a luncheon.

The Eucharistic Celebration, presided by Cardinal Frank Leo, included attendance from the Apostolic Nuncio to Canada, the Most Reverend Ivan Jurkovič, who shared a special letter from Pope Leo XIV, congratulating Bishop Boissonneau on his faithful years of service. More than 20 bishops from across the country joined 150 priests, deacons, consecrated men and women, lay movements, representatives from healthcare, education and of course, family and friends of Bishop Boissonneau, in extending our prayers and well wishes. It was particularly fitting to have classmates from the bishop’s ordination Class of 1974 in attendance to share the special milestone with His Excellency.

Reflecting on his appointment as bishop 25 years ago, the bishop recently told the Catholic Register:

“When I was asked to be made a bishop in 2001, I then had to trust when the Lord invited me to move forward with Him. My episcopal motto in English is, ‘So that your trust may be in the Lord.’ I still think that's the most important thing, because after it is just a question of continually renewing that trust.” 

At present, Bishop Boissonneau serves as Auxiliary Bishop for the archdiocese with pastoral responsibility for the Northern Region of the archdiocese that includes 52 parishes. He previously held a similar responsibility for the Western Region. In addition, the bishop serves as Vicar for Religious Education and Archdiocesan Liaison with the Catholic Faculties of Theology. The bishop also has been the delegate for the Order of Consecrated Virgins for more than 20 years and has provided leadership for the Pontifical Mission Societies in Canada. Prior to his appointment as bishop, he served St. Augustine’s Seminary for 19 years, first as professor and ultimately as Rector from 1993-2001.

In his homily at the anniversary Mass, the bishop reminded the faithful of our collective calling and also the critical role of the bishop in stirring the seeds of faith in others:

“When we are Christians, we give witness and encourage others to follow Jesus. To be a bishop is a part of my journey of holiness but also as a successor of the Apostles, a call for everyone to journey towards holiness in their everyday lives.”

We give thanks to the Lord for the spiritual journey of Bishop John Boissonneau, for his leadership and guidance as a faithful and thoughtful shepherd on the journey. May he continue to enjoy good health and an abundance of blessings for years to come.