News

We were shocked to learn of the unexpected passing of Brother Ivy LeBlanc of the Province of the United States.  Ivy had accepted to take up the role of Treasurer General and support the general administration as we sought to put in place new structures for the future best practice of the general administration.

When Ivy last visited us, he was struggling with his health and with back pain.  We now know it was because of widespread cancer that had invaded his spine.  He spent the summer doing the work to which he was most deeply committed - that of spreading the charism of Father Coindre far and wide with all his passion and love.  Here in Rome and then in Lyon, France, he continued in that work in significant pain.

When he went to the doctor after the summer, he was admitted to hospital.  Sadly, the cancer was found to be so extensive that he was later moved to palliative care and died peacefully on September 26, in the presence of brothers and of those who had worked so closely with him over the years.

His availability for the role of Treasurer General here in Rome and his willingness to share his knowledge and skills are reflections of his no-fuss approach to everything.  As much as his funeral services may be a big event because of how well he was known across the Institute and especially in New Orleans, he would be completely embarrassed by the fuss. 

His humility, his honesty, and his faithfulness to the charism have taken him across the Institute sharing his passion for Father Coindre’s vision. So let us celebrate his life, his passion, his availability and his commitment to the charism, while he celebrates that new life found in the embrace of our loving God. 

As Brother Polycarp noted and as we now pray for Ivy … may that seed of love grow unto eternal life.

Ametur Cor Jesu!

Br. Mark Hilton SC

Superior General