Saint Paul VI (1897–1978), born Giovanni Battista Montini, was the Pope from 1963 to 1978. He is best known for his leadership during the final stages of the Second Vatican Council, guiding the Church through its profound reforms. Paul VI continued the work of the Council, emphasizing ecumenism, interfaith dialogue, and the renewal of liturgy. His encyclical Humanae Vitae reaffirmed the Church’s teachings on contraception, sparking widespread debate. A strong advocate for peace and social justice, he also expanded the Church’s global outreach. Paul VI was canonized in 2018, recognized for his devotion, courage, and transformative leadership.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has decreed that this is a Holy Day of Memorial (Optional) to be observed in Canada.