Press release, April 4, 2005   For Immediate Release

Ottawa, Ontario - The Most Reverend Marcel Gervais and the faithful of the Archdiocese of Ottawa are saddened by the passing of Pope John Paul II. The Archbishop wishes to announce the following events that will allow the faithful of the diocese and the public at large to pay their respects to the Holy Father.

1 - Ringing of Church Bells
The Archbishop has requested that church bells be rung from all Catholic churches in the Archdiocese from at 4:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6.

2 - Books of Condolence
Books of Condolence will be available for signature at the following churches from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5 and Wednesday, April 6.

A book of condolence will also be made available for public signing at the Apostolic Nunciature at 724 Manor Avenue (Ottawa) from Monday, April 4th to Friday, April 8th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

3 - Memorial Liturgy
A Memorial Liturgy will be held on Wednesday, April 6 at 5:00 p.m. at Notre-Dame Cathedral. Leaders and representatives of other Christian Churches as well as other faiths and representatives of the Provincial and Municipal governments have been invited to attend. The Apostolic Nuncio has invited members of the Diplomatic Corps and Members of Parliament. The general public is invited. Members of all faiths are welcomed.

4 - Eucharistic Celebration for the Faithful of the Archdiocese
A Commemorative Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Notre Dame Cathedral. The faithful of the Archdiocese have been invited and all parishes will send representatives.

5 - Closure of the Diocesan Centre Offices
Out of respect for the Holy Father, the Diocesan Centre will be closed on Friday, April 8th.

Source: Gilles Ouellette, Director of Communications
738-5025 ext. 238