Notre-Dame-d'Acadie Parish / Université de Moncton
Established in 1963
First church in 1986
First pastor: 1967
In 1967, the University Christian Community obtained the use of a former chapel belonging to the Sisters of the Good Shephard. This was part of the monastery that the Sisters had sold to the Université de Moncton. In 1986 a new chapel – a distinct building – was built on campus. It was given the name Notre-Dame d’Acadie in memory of the convent for girls that had existed from 1949 to 1967. The University Christian community parish was also erected on this occasion. The chapel, belonging to the Université de Moncton, is a place of worship and of greeting for all university students regardless of their faith. The Archdiocese of Moncton, however, maintains a right of inspection on the various activities held therein.
Christ’s Mission as ‘Priest’ is present especially for baptisms, weddings, the Eucharist, etc. Besides the liturgical year, it is also honoured during the Eucharist of special events such as: blessing of the students, international mass and music, Christmas midnight mass before December exams, the special mass during student carnival week, the acknowledgment of wedding and religious anniversaries, graduation mass, etc.
The Christian dimension of ‘Prophet’ also holds its importance through sessions in spiritual growth offered to our youth and adults: ALPHA, Biblical studies, Taizé prayer meetings, the Word that frees and cures, Cursillo, JMJ, spiritual weekends for young people, outdoor Way of the Cross on campus.
The other Christian dimension of ‘King’ – to be of service to people, holds a large place. The University Christian Community considers it important to offer its members opportunities of socializing and to relate to one other. Throughout the university year, numerous Eucharistic celebrations end with social gatherings: school return BBQ, international drinks prepared by our international students, the ‘réveillon’ after midnight mass for our students, hot chocolate drinks during the Carnival, St-Valentine’s brunch, annual meeting’s fricot, etc. Another important event is the Soup and Sandwich lunch offered to students during December exams. Also, since the chapel is situated on campus, it is customary for the Notre-Dame d’Acadie community to support and encourage groups of university students who get involved in charities and humanitarian works.
The Notre-Dame d’Acadie Community is therefore composed primarily of students whose origins are Canadian and international, and non-students who are either former students or employees and former employees who have kept a close link with the community.