About
It was in 1962 that Cardinal Paul-Emile Leger asked a fluently bilingual Rev. Leonard Crowley to begin coordinating services and activities for Montreal’s English-speaking faithful. In 1971, Rev. Crowley was named Auxiliary Bishop of Montreal and Director of the Office for English Language Affairs (OELA).
Always willing to “encourage individual initiative” and under the implementation of Vatican 2, Bishop Crowley organized and strengthened the English-speaking parishes in Montreal and encouraged increase participation of lay people in liturgical duties. In 1972, sensing a change in the political landscape of the province, Bishop Crowley conceived the Pillars Trust Fund. As Honorary Chairman of Pillars for 25 years, Bishop Crowley called upon volunteers from the business world, clergy and parishes to serve on its Board.
Remembering our Founder – Bishop Leonard J. Crowley
Looking back on his time as head of the OELA he remarked, “The faithful people still fill our churches. It’s a good sign – a sign that we’re willing to serve others.”