On Monday, July 9, 2012, the Canadian Province of the Society of Saint Sulpice inaugurated a new temporary exhibition at Le Grand Séminaire in Montreal with a small reception attended by several Sulpicians from the area. In addition, Sulpician delegates attending an international symposium on the priesthood from July 8-18 attended the gathering.

The Superior General of the Sulpicians, Father Ronald D. WITHERUP, p.s.s., delivered a short introduction to the exhibition, followed by some remarks from the Vice President of the Cultural Corporation for the Canadian Province, Father Pierre BOUGIE, p.s.s. Others present to help host the festive event included Father Jacques D’ARCY, p.s.s., Provincial of the Canadian Province, Mrs. Hélène SICOTTE, the Coordinator of the Department of Important Cultural Objects, Mr. Marc LECASSE, the Coordinator of the Archives, who served as Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Frédéric SANTERRE of the Department of Rare Books, and other staff members.

The Canadian Province of Sulpicians has a rich heritage dating from 1657, the year of their arrival in Montreal. Ever since that time, the Sulpicians have become virtually identified with the founding of Montreal. They were called “the lords of Montreal” (“les Seigneurs de l’Isle de Montréal”).

In recent years, with the assistance of some foundations and government aid, the Province has been able significantly to increase the quality of care for the diverse elements of this cultural patrimony, art objects, paintings, maps, documents, books, and historic buildings. Some pictures form the gathering are featured below.