Mr. Speaker, this past Saturday, September 27, I had the great pleasure of taking part in the bicentenary celebrations of the Séminaire de Nicolet, my alma mater.
Seven hundred alumni attended the event to share memories, socialize and celebrate the 200 years that this, one of the oldest and noblest educational institutions in Quebec and Canada, has been making its influence felt.
Over those 200 years, generous and devoted educators have shared their knowledge and counsel with generations of young people who have developed into the elite of our society.
Over those 200 years, the Séminaire has held a vital place within society, acting as a beacon and a guide for its advancement.
Over those 200 years, it has promoted religion and art in all of its forms, as indicated by its motto, “ Religioni et bonis artibus ”. Equally, it has promoted and defended the French language and culture in Quebec and Canada.
All of this has been accomplished within an atmosphere of faith, devotion and love.
And it can all be very aptly summed up by the motto of my graduating year, 1963: “ Omnia vincit amor ”: Love conquers all.