Mr. Speaker, today I wish to give praise to the Right Reverend Exarch Habib Kwaiter, who retired a few days ago after 60 years of priesthood with the Melkite Church.
Born in Damascus, Syria, Monsignor Kwaiter started his work in the Middle East and came to Canada in 1965. Four years later, he arrived in Ottawa and has been serving the Sts. Peter & Paul parish since.
Known for his moral strength, Monsignor Kwaiter is also an example of devotion to his community. Over the decades, he has been a true inspiration for many of his parishioners. In difficult circumstances his leadership is often and still sought after, something his community is very proud of. The church he built, Sts. Peter & Paul, is an architectural jewel in the constituency of Ottawa—Vanier and is known as a rallying force for its parishioners.
Bravo to Monsignor Kwaiter, an exemplary Canadian, for his dedication throughout the decades.
Thank you so much, Monsignor Kwaiter, for your dedication and all the work you have done for more than 60 years.