Remi De Roo dies at age 97; he was bishop of Victoria

At the age of 97, we can only give thanks for the life and witness of Bishop Remi De Roo, as we also mourn his passing last week on Feb 1. Bishop De Roo was appointed by Pope John XXIII in 1962 at the age of 38, making him the youngest bishop ever appointed. A native of Manitoba and participant in all 4 sessions of the Second Vatican Council, he was for many of us, the moral voice of the Canadian Conference Catholic Bishops. Known for his prophetic social justice advocacy, many may be less familiar with his compassionate listening on a personal level. "Well done, good and faithful servant. Come, receive the reward prepared for you." RIP.

Remi De Roo dies at age 97; he was bishop of Victoria

One of my fondest memories, is of Bishop De Roo coming to Hamilton to preach at the memorial service we held at the Cathedral of Christ the King for Archbishop Oscar Romero. Must have been in the mid-eighties. Bruce Cockburn, a big fan of De Roo, showed up -just in the pews. Not as an invited performer or anything notable.

Afterwards, there was a reception downstairs in the hall. A line quickly formed of people wanting to get Bruce Cockburn’s autograph- and Bruce was in the line up to greet the Bishop!!! I thought it was such a statement! Both very humble men.

Please pray in thanksgiving for the witness of Bishop De Roo -and pray that his spirit may inspire a new generation of bishops, consecrated by Francis to lead the church where it needs to go.