Remembering pioneers in our community

Seine River

As the holiday season approaches, I am filled with gratitude for the many leaders in our community who do remarkable work throughout St. Norbert, from historic figures such as Father Noël Ritchot to those making an impact today.

Father Noël-Joseph Ritchot served as parish priest in St. Norbert for more than four decades and played a pivotal role in shaping the fabric of the community. Best known for his involvement in negotiating the Manitoba Act with Canada during the Red River Resistance, Ritchot’s contributions extended far beyond politics. He oversaw the construction of a church, convent, rectory, chapel, and orphanage, and purchased 1,000 acres of land for the Trappists to establish a model farm and monastery. His support reflected his lifelong dedication to faith and dedication to the community of St. Norbert. Ritchot passed away on March 16, 1905, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to be celebrated. This summer, I was honoured to join the community in commemorating his 200th Christmas Day birthday.

I am also honoured to represent community builders like Art and Wendy Bloomfield. For the past 17 years, they have organized the St. Norbert Remembrance Day ceremony at the St. Norbert Cemetery. This year marked their final time leading the event. Art first took on this role after discovering a forgotten cenotaph commemorating 13 soldiers from St. Norbert who fought in the First World War. He and his wife, Wendy, committed themselves to ensuring these soldiers, and their sacrifices, would never be forgotten, creating a dedicated Remembrance Day ceremony to honour them.

Since that first ceremony, Art, Wendy, and their committee have worked tirelessly to preserve the memory of these 13 soldiers as the community gathers each Nov. 11. I was grateful to attend again this year and to lay a wreath at the cenotaph on behalf of the Province of Manitoba. As Art and Wendy pass the torch to another member of their committee, I want to extend my deepest thanks for their years of dedication and service.

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I’m thrilled to invite you to our holiday open house at our new office, located at 16-1500 Dakota St., on Saturday, Dec.13 from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy holiday refreshments and festive cheer, and from noon to 2 p.m., join Santa for free photos. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbours, celebrate the season, and share a fun afternoon with family and friends.

As always, my office is here to support you. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out by phone at 204-221-7576 or email billie.cross@yourmanitoba.ca

Wishing everyone in St. Norbert and across Seine River a warm, joyful, and peaceful holiday season as we look forward to an exciting year ahead.