Last week we celebrated a special occasion for the Assumption Family; the patriarch of our province, Fr. Roland Guilmain, turned 95!

Originally from Nashua, NH, Fr. Roland made his first profession as an Assumptionist in 1948 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1953 in Quebec.

Fr. Roland has had many roles over the years, ranging from professor, retreat director, provincial superior, pastor, treasurer, the list goes on. His docility and availability have made him a great gift to our province over the years.

When asked about his life as an Assumptionist, Fr. Roland shared, “Not everything was a success, but over time and through experience, I realized that wherever I was assigned was where God wanted me to be in that moment, even when I didn’t feel qualified for what I was asked to do. Also, when I was ordained a priest, I received a special grace, in that I could not see myself being anything besides an Assumptionist priest. I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I think I can say I’m happy no matter what happens…I’ve managed to keep a pretty happy attitude, so the failures, while at the time they were disheartening, were opportunities for God’s grace to come in to my life.”

We are grateful for Fr. Roland’s generous offering of his life to God, the church and the world, and for his joyful spirit that brings happiness to all who encounter him.