Longueuil: Celebration of National Seniors Day / INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE

In an atmosphere filled with emotion, gratitude, and togetherness, the first National Seniors Day celebration took place in Longueuil under the initiative of Jean-Baptiste and his community organization, Festibec.

The event brought together community leaders, pastors, and representatives from local associations, creating a rare and inspiring moment of intergenerational connection—rooted in faith, appreciation, and solidarity.

Reverend Chris Pembaya, visibly moved, opened the ceremony by emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in breaking the isolation often experienced by seniors:

“We often stay closed in our homes with our problems, but through activities like this, we have the chance to talk, to laugh, and to play together,” he shared, encouraging participants “not to remain isolated” and to continue nurturing social bonds.

The clergyman, who arrived in Canada three decades ago, also took a moment to acknowledge the work of his son, Justin, owner of the studio hosting the event, while encouraging the community to support local initiatives:

“If you have events, come rent the halls. Among us Africans, among us immigrants, let’s support each other. And I would love to see our Québécois friends here next year as well,” he added with a warm smile.

The South Shore Black Community (SSBC), represented by Diane Alexander, expressed gratitude for the welcome and inclusivity of the event:

“We’re happy to have been invited to this beautiful day. Next year, we’ll be even more. Beautiful things often start small and then grow by God’s grace,” she said, before inviting seniors to the Café des aînés at the Maison Internationale de la Rive-Sud—a free space for meeting and sharing.

The warm atmosphere of the day was filled with laughter, games, and moments of spiritual reflection. Pastor André, in a speech full of wisdom, delivered a message of gratitude and hope:

“We must never be discouraged. We should be proud of our age. To grow old is to live. Many would love to reach our age but don’t make it. We are blessed to keep going.”

His remarks, punctuated by anecdotes and reflections on eternal life, reminded everyone of the spiritual meaning of the celebration and the importance of staying active and joyful.

Several community organization representatives were present to reaffirm their commitment to supporting seniors. Alexis Manirakiza, representing Fejade (Families for the Education of Youth and Adults), highlighted the ongoing collaboration between his organization and Festbec:

“With Festbec, we’ve organized several events, including this one—the largest in our history. Aging is living, but we must also live fully. Existing is not enough; we must live with quality,” he said, quoting French journalist Christophe Boisbouvier: “Each day is a life. Take care of yourselves.”

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Baturimi, founder of the Alliance for Sustainable Development, expressed his pride in seeing seniors celebrated:

“We must learn from the experiences of those who came before us. This event is an important step. We must continue growing together—young and old—in the light.”

The day concluded with heartfelt thanks, especially to Linette, for the meal that all attendees praised as “delicious.”

Before closing, organizer Jean-Baptiste promised to continue and expand the initiative year after year.

The collective message was clear: this National Seniors Day was not an ending, but a beginning—a moment of hope and unity meant to grow and bring together even more people in the years to come.

As one participant summed it up: “Every shared laugh, every exchanged word, is a step toward a stronger, more united community.”

A celebration that, far beyond speeches, reminded everyone of the simple yet essential joy of living together.