HOLY SPIRIT DAY

Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary (cf. Is 40:31)

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AN EXPERIENCE OF FAITH AND HOPE

Join the 2025 Palm Sunday Walk, a dynamic and inspiring event for young confirmands and their godparents. This special day, marked by the Jubilee 2025, is a unique opportunity to strengthen spiritual bonds, walk together in faith, and share unforgettable moments.

Accompanied by the PCL and catechists, young people, along with their godparents and families, are invited to take part in a fraternal activity to prepare for their sacrament of Confirmation.

The gathering will begin at the Basilica of St. Joseph’s Oratory with a dynamic and prayerful time of reflection, inviting the youth to reflect on the Holy Spirit and live as pilgrims of hope in this Jubilee year. When leaving St. Joseph’s Oratory, participants will receive palms, which they will carry during the 5 km walk to Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, where the walk will end with the blessing of the palms.

Those who wish may stay for the Mass at the Cathedral or may choose to go to Palm Sunday mass at their local parish.

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THE INFO

FOR WHOM?
For young people enrolled in a catechetical program in the Archdiocese of Montreal, who will receive the sacrament of confirmation this year, accompanied by their Godparent.

COST (non-refundable)
$5 per young confirmandee

REGISTRATION
Each young confirmandee is invited to register individually as soon as registrations open. Spaces are limited! 

REGISTER

SCHEDULE

April 12 2025

⏰ 1:30PM
📍   BASILICA – SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY
ARRIVAL AND CHECK-IN
Check-in by parish

⏰ 2PM
📍   BASILICA – SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY
BILINGUAL ANIMATION
Music, Witness and prayer

⏰ 3PM
📍   SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY (QUEEN MARY RD)
DISTRIBUTION OF PALMS & START OF THE WALK
🌿 Palms will be distributed by Mission Jeunesse MTL volunteers OUTSIDE Saint Joseph’s Oratory, at the start of the walk.

⏰ 3PM – 4:40PM
📍  SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY ➔ MARY QUEEN OF THE WORLD CATHEDRAL
PALM SATURDAY WALK (5KM)

⏰ 4:40PM
📍    MARY QUEEN OF THE WORLD CATHEDRAL (ON RENÉ LÉVESQUE W. BLVD)
BLESSING OF PALMS
🌿 Palms will be blessed outside the Cathedral.

PROGRAM

1:30 PM – Arrival and Check-in
📍   BASILICA – SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY

We encourage all participants to arrive together as a parish group, fostering a strong sense of community. Upon arrival, the parish catechetical leaders, lay pastoral associates, or catechist representing the parish are asked to register all participants from their parish to ensure a smooth and organized check-in process.

2:00 PM – Gathering
📍   BASILICA – SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY

The gathering will begin with an entrance procession of hope, where two confirmandees from each parish will proudly carry the banner that was carefully prepared by the confirmandees themselves. This procession will mark the beginning of a day filled with joy and hope.

This gathering will be led by the youth, for the young confirmandees, with moments of prayer, testimony, and joyful music, all centered on the theme of hope, to nourish their faith and accompany them on their journey toward Confirmation. Godparents will play a key role throughout the day, supporting their confirmandees in this important step, strengthening their spiritual bond and mutual commitment to the faith.

3:00 PM – Distribution of Palms
📍   SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY (QUEEN MARY RD)

Participants will be invited to make their way to the exit of St. Joseph’s Oratory, where palms* will be distributed by volunteers from Mission Jeunesse MTL on a first-come, first-served basis.

*Quantities are limited. A suggested free contribution of $5 is appreciated. It can be made online in advance or on-site (cash or PayPal). However, reserving palms is not possible, as they will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

3:00 PM – 4:40PM- Palm Saturday Walk (5km)
📍  SAINT JOSEPH’S ORATORY ➔ MARY QUEEN OF THE WORLD CATHEDRAL

Young confirmandees and their godparents will then join other young people from the diocese for a 5km pilgrimage through the streets of downtown Montreal towards Mary-Queen-of-the-World Cathedral.

This procession is a testimony of our faith, commemorating the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Walking together, we follow in Jesus’ footsteps, welcomed by the crowd holding palms and singing praises. It is a powerful reminder of our commitment as disciples of Christ, called to witness His love in the world with joy and hope.

4:40 PM – Blessing of the Palms
📍    MARY QUEEN OF THE WORLD CATHEDRAL (ON RENÉ LÉVESQUE W. BLVD)

Upon arriving at the front steps of the Mary-Queen-of-the-World Cathedral, we will experience the blessing of the palms, marking the start of the Palm Sunday Mass liturgy. This meaningful moment reminds us of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, greeted by joyful crowds holding palms, symbols of peace and hope. It is an opportunity to open our hearts, welcome Christ with the same joy, and prepare to enter fully into Holy Week.

After the blessing of palms, confirmandees and their godparents may choose to stay for Mass at the cathedral or return to their parishes to attend the Palm Sunday Mass of the Passion with their community.

HOW TO PREPARE?

YOUNG CONFIRMANDEES WITH THEIR PARENTS AND GODPARENT:

PRAY!
Take a moment to pray together, opening your hearts to the presence of the Holy Spirit.

JOY AND HOPE!
Approach the event with an open heart and mind.

WHAT TO BRING AND WHAT TO WEAR?

  • Dress comfortably for the walk (depending on the temperature), and appropriately for being inside a Basilica or Cathedral.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and boots for a 5km walk!
  • Stay hydrated! Bring water!
  • If needed, bring a snack for the walk (and not inside the Churches)

PARISHES: A CALL TO CREATIVITY

Each parish is invited to gather the youth to create a Holy Spirit banner together, which will play an important role during the Palm Saturday Walk 2025. This banner will symbolize the vitality and unity of your community, while reflecting the inspiring theme of the year. 

GUIDELINES FOR THE BANNER

Homemade by Youth:

The banner should be homemade by the youth of the parish. This is an opportunity for them to invest their time and talents in their spiritual journey.

Reflects Theme:

It should reflect the theme of “Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary” (cf. Is 40:31) This message, linked to the Jubilee 2025, is an invitation to a faith filled with hope, and a missionary commitment.

MATERIAL AND DIMENSIONS:

Use a standard poster board with standard dimensions (28ìn x 22in).

USE OF THE BANNER

Entrance Procession: The banner will be proudly carried by two young people from your parish during the entrance procession into the Basilica of Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Please choose these two people in advance.

Option During the Walk: While it is mandatory for the entrance procession, you also have the option of having young people from your community carry the banner through the streets during the walk.

WHY A BANNER?

This banner represents much more than just a visual symbol—it is a testimony to the hope and faith of young people on their journey toward confirmation. It reflects the shared mission of walking with the Lord, united in faith, and helps make this event a truly memorable celebration.

Thank you for encouraging the creativity of your young people and contributing to this inspiring day. For any questions or further details, contact us at missionjeunesse@diocesemontreal.org.

IDENTIFICATION

Bring a sign (on a stick) to identify your parish in the pews.

FAQ

ABOUT
HOLY SPIRIT DAY – PALM SATURDAY WALK 2025

What to expect on Holy Spirit Day?

The Palm Saturday Walk 2025 is a dynamic and unforgettable faith experience. Designed for young confirmandees and their sponsors, this special day strengthens spiritual and human connections while immersing participants in the richness of the Jubilee 2025, a year of grace, reconciliation, and mission.

A Journey of Faith

  • Confirmandees and their sponsors, accompanied by Parish Catechetical Leaders (PCL), Lay Pastoral Associates, or catechists, are invited to arrive together as a parish group at the Basilica of St. Joseph’s Oratory.
    The gathering will begin with a prayerful and engaging time of animation in the Basilica, led by youth, for youth and their accompanying adults.
  • As we prepare to set out, participants will be invited to begin the walk by receiving palms outside St. Joseph’s Oratory. Together, we will journey 5 km to Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral, a symbolic walk reflecting our spiritual path with the Lord.
  • The walk will conclude with the blessing of the palms on the steps of the Cathedral (Boulevard René-Lévesque West).
  • Those who wish may stay for the Palm Saturday Mass at Mary-Queen-of-the-World Cathedral, or may choose to go to mass on Sunday at their local parish.
  • A Jubilee Context: This walk takes place within the framework of the Jubilee, a unique time to renew our hope and deepen our commitment as disciples of Christ.
What is the Palm Saturday Walk?

The Palm Saturday Walk is an annual procession organized by Mission Jeunesse Montréal. The 2025 edition begins at St. Joseph’s Oratory and ends at Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral. This year, the event coincides with Holy Spirit Day and takes place within the Jubilee Year. The theme of the walk will be that of World Youth Day 2025.

Where and how will participants receive palms? Do we bring our own?

Palms will be available to participants of this event on a first-come, first-served basis at TWO occasions:

  • 3PM: Outside St. Joseph’s Oratory just before the walk.
  • 4:40PM: On the front steps of Mary-Queen-of-the-World Cathedral upon arrival of the pilgrims.

Quantities are limited. A free-will offering of $5 is appreciated. It can be made in advance, or site (cash or PayPal). However, no pre-order of palms will be possible as they will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.

When is this event?

It will be held on April 12 2025. 

What is the purpose of this event?

The goal is to bring together young confirmandees, their sponsors, and their families in a journey of pilgrimage and faith celebration. This unique moment strengthens their understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives and helps them fully embrace their mission as disciples in the Church and the world.

How is this event connected to the Jubilee 2025?

The Jubilee Year 2025 is an invitation to become “Pilgrims of Hope.” As a local pilgrimage, the Palm Saturday Walk embraces this spirit, offering participants a profound spiritual and communal experience.

FOR WHOM?

Who is Holy Spirit Day for?

Holy Spirit Day is primarily for young people enrolled in a catechetical program in the Archdiocese of Montreal, and receiving the sacrament of confirmation this year, accompanied by their Sponsor/Godparent. Immediate family members are welcome. However, please note that places are limited.  

Why is the Sponsor/Godparent encouraged to attend?

By joining the confirmandee at Holy Spirit Day, the sponsor reaffirms their commitment to the confirmandee’s spiritual journey and growth, and celebrates the confirmandee’s readiness to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. 

Can parents, grandparents and siblings participate?

Holy Spirit Day is primarily for young people enrolled in a catechetical program in the Archdiocese of Montreal, and receiving the sacrament of confirmation this year, accompanied by their Sponsor/Godparent. Immediate family members are welcome. However, please note that places are limited. 

REGISTRATION

Who is responsible for the registration of participants?

Parents or legal guardians of minors must fill out this registration form to give their consent for the child’s participate in this event.  

Click: REGISTRATION

Parishes who would like to register participants as a group may contact evc@diocesemontreal.org .

What information is required for the registration?

Before registering the confirmandee, please make sure that you have the following information:

  • The name of the parish that you can choose from the drop-down list
  • The name and email address of the contact person from your parish (Parish catechetical leader (PCL), Lay pastoral associate, or catechist).

If you are unsure, please contact your PCL, Lay pastoral associate or catechist.

Click: REGISTRATION

Parents: How do I know if the registration has gone through?

The registration form will request the email addresses of the parent and of the Parish Catechetical Leader (PCL) or Lay Pastoral Associate (LPA). A confirmation email will be sent to the parent (with all info provided in the registration), and the PCL or LPA (with only the name of the child and the session that they registered to). 

If you do not find an email from us, please check your spam/junk mail/unwanted mail/advertising boxes as you may have active filters in place. If you still cannot find it, please contact your PCL/APL and see if they have received a confirmation. If not, please ask them to contact evc@diocesemontreal.org. 

PCL/LPA/Catechists: How do I know who from my parish has registered?

The registration form will request the email address of the Parish Catechetical Leader (PCL) or Lay Pastoral Associate (LPA). The PCL or LPA will receive an email everytime a child is registered to Holy Spirit Day (with only the name of the child and the session that they registered to). 

Please follow up with parents to ensure that they register their children as soon as possible as places are limited. 

Who needs to register?

Parents, please complete one registration per young confirmandee. In their registration, you can indicate the number of people attending.  

Must parents and Sponsors register separately?

No. Please complete ONE registration form per young confirmandee, and include the number of people attending. 

SAFETY

What safety measures are in place?

A detailed safety plan will be implemented, including:

  • Trained volunteer teams to accompany groups throughout the walk.
  • Emergency medical support at each gathering point.
  • Coordination with local authorities to ensure a safe route.
Will the event be canceled in case of bad weather?

The walk will take place rain or shine. Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

About the participation of minors

To ensure the safety of minors, groups participating with minors must have a number of adult leaders recognized by the parish, movement or community, respecting Responsible Pastoral Ministry practices. These leaders can be youth ministers, leaders, PCL, LPA, catechists, or parents.

PARTICIPATION FEE

Is there a participation fee?

Yes, there is a $5 non-refundable participation fee per young confirmandee. This fee helps to cover costs of the event. 

How do I pay the participation fee?

When parents fill out the registration form for the young confirmandee, a Paypal page will automatically open for the payment of the participation fee. 

Paypal is the most convenient way for us to receive participation fees. Unfortunately we are not equipped to receive individual payments in cash before the day of the event. If you need to make other arrangements, please contact your PCL/APL. 

I accidentally closed the Paypal page during registration. What do I do?

Please register your child again and complete the payment on the Paypal page. 

How do I know if my Paypal payment went through?

You will receive a receipt by email from Paypal. 

Why am I receiving a Paypal invoice by email?

If you receive a Paypal invoice from us, it is likely because you have registered your child and have not provided a payment after a few days. Please note that a registration is considered complete once the payment has been received.

PCL/LPA: Our parish/mission prefers to send one payment for all confirmandees of our community. Is this possible?

PCLs and APLs are invited to contact us for further instructions: evc@diocesemontreal.org