Adam Exner, Roman Catholic prelate, Died at 94

 Adam Joseph Exner: A Pillar of Canadian Catholicism

Adam Joseph Exner, born on December 24, 1928, and passing away on September 5, 2023, was a highly respected figure within the Canadian Catholic community. His significant role as the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Vancouver from 1991 to 2004 left an enduring mark on the ecclesiastical landscape.

Formation and Early Devotion

Exner's journey in the Catholic faith was characterized by an unwavering commitment to education and knowledge. He pursued Master's degrees in philosophy and theology at the esteemed Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, showcasing his dedication to a deeper understanding of religious doctrines. Additionally, he earned a Doctoral degree in theology from the University of Ottawa.

Before his tenure as Archbishop, Exner held several vital positions within the Catholic community. He served as a professor, rector, and superior at the St. Charles Scholasticate in Battleford, Saskatchewan. His expertise extended to moral theology during his tenure as a professor at Newman Theological College in Edmonton, Alberta.

Adam Exner's path to priesthood commenced in 1950 when he joined the religious institute of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate in St. Norbert, Manitoba. His unwavering dedication culminated in his ordination as a priest in 1957. Later in his illustrious career, in 1974, Exner was appointed as the Bishop of Kamloops, and in 1982, he ascended to the position of Archbishop of Winnipeg.

Archbishop of Vancouver

A pivotal moment in Exner's religious career was his appointment as the Archbishop of Vancouver on May 25, 1991. For over a decade, he dedicated himself to this role, serving until reaching the mandatory retirement age for Archbishops in January 2004. During this tenure, he made notable contributions to the Catholic community.

In recognition of his dedicated service, the Catholic Civil Rights League established the Archbishop Exner Award for Catholic Excellence in Public Life in 2004. After stepping down from his role as Archbishop, Exner resided at St. Joseph's Residence in Vancouver before eventually relocating to his family's home area in Grayson, Saskatchewan.

Advocacy and Engagements

Archbishop Exner was recognized for his active involvement in various advocacy and community initiatives. Notably, in 1995, he secured a substantial legacy for the Catholic community from then-Premier Michael Harcourt through the Denominational Health Association. This legacy had been initiated by his predecessor, Archbishop James Francis Carney.

During his tenure as Archbishop of Vancouver, Exner played a pivotal role in preventing the closure of several Catholic institutions. He worked tirelessly to protect the assets of the Congregation of Christian Brothers in British Columbia, which included institutions like Vancouver College and St. Thomas More Collegiate. These efforts were aimed at compensating victims of the Mount Cashel Orphanage sexual and physical abuse scandal.

Furthermore, Archbishop Exner actively supported Covenant House, a shelter for runaway street kids. He was also deeply engaged in legal matters, seeking intervenor status in the litigation involving Trinity Western University and the British Columbia College of Teachers over training policies.

In 2003, Exner directed four Catholic schools to divest from a school banking program operated by VanCity, protesting the bank's alleged promotion of homosexuality through its sponsorship of a homosexual film festival and awarding a lesbian bookstore.

Honors and Associations

Archbishop Exner received numerous honors during his lifetime, including being appointed as the Knight Grand Cross of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre and serving as the Grand Prior of the Lieutenancy of Canada.

In his capacity as Archbishop, Exner was an esteemed member of several crucial organizations, including the Sacred Congregation for Bishops, the Permanent Council of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (where he contributed to the Theology and Christian Education Commissions and the National Catholic-Lutheran dialogue), and the Social Communications Commission.

Demise

On September 5, 2023, Archbishop Adam Joseph Exner passed away at the age of 94 at his residence in Grayson, Saskatchewan. His life was characterized by an unwavering commitment to his faith and tireless efforts to serve the Catholic community and the broader public. His legacy as a dedicated leader and advocate will endure, influencing the Catholic community and society at large for years to come.