The opportunity to be in Montreal is always wonderful, especially down in what is referred to as old Montreal. We’ve been just off of St. Catherine Street this week. The number of excellent restaurants is numerous and yes the poutine is great! Though I know that poutine is not really good for me – but then doesn’t it seem true that many tasty things are less than healthy!?

We found Mr. Steer – a real hole-in-the-wall kind of place! It looks like something out of the 1950’s but what great burgers – hand-formed and spiced in such a nice way – mmmm – I think we’ll be back before we leave here.

And of course, Mr. Steer is a Habs fan.

St Catherine Street is, I must say rather narrow and, at times, seedy. But all the stores and restaurants are there. It reminded me of the old Yonge Street of the 1970s.

We also had the opportunity to visit the Basilica. Tremendous architecture for sure! We attended a light show – which left me wondering about what happens at this church and is it still a place where a group of believers worship or gather for community?

Yes we were in meetings and yes we did lots of work…but we also had some fun going out to eat. One of the places we went to eat was the 3 Amigos! Wendy and I love Mexican food and this was very enjoyable.

I could not end this post without talking about the teaching and ministry of Mark and Sharon Tillsley. What a gracious, kind, and loving couple. Their encouragement floods into the room and very quickly you sense you are cared for. Yes, it is that evident.

We sang this song – and I felt I wanted to catch it for reflection later. You may or may not know the turn but the words are enough.

We pray for peace – for us and for all God’s children.