It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Father André Daigneault, born on April 28, 1938, in the Saint-Henri district of Montreal, and who died on May 3, 2026, in Quebec City at the age of 88. Son of the late Roland Daigneault and the late Desneiges Delisle, André had been a consecrated member of the Secular Institute Pius X since 1959.
For many years, he was a tireless evangelizer and preacher of spiritual retreats. It was through the experience of La Rencontre in October 1964 that he discovered the charism of preaching. He worked within this movement for several years; in addition, he preached numerous parish retreats in Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, and the United States.
With the Secular Institute Pius X, he served as editor-in-chief of the magazine Je Crois for nearly 25 years. A prolific author, he leaves behind a remarkable body of work including collections of poetry and books on spirituality. Some of his books were translated into English, Spanish, and Czech!
Ordained a priest on October 10, 1982, his ministry was marked by preaching and by welcoming all people to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation.
From June 1993 to June 1997, he served as General Director of the Secular Institute Pius X. Father André then continued his mission in Sutton as Father of the Foyer de Charité from 1997 to 2016. As his health declined, he moved to the Cardinal-Vachon Residence in Quebec City, where he lived his final years in peaceful offering.
We express special gratitude to Michel Paquet and Jean-Guy Olivier, who faithfully accompanied him during his final years. We also thank the staff of Cardinal-Vachon Residence for the care they provided throughout these years.
Father André’s funeral took place at the Diocesan Shrine of St. Thérèse of Lisieux in Quebec City on May 14, 2026. He is buried at Belmont Cemetery in Quebec City.
For those who wish to honour the memory of Father André, you may do so by supporting the mission of the Pius X Secular Institute. By clicking on this link, you will be guided through the process of making your online donation: make a donation
