Fr. Ian Gagne: Keeping Christ at the centre

How did you discern your vocation to the priesthood?
Fr. Ian Gagne: I graduated from Lethbridge College in renewable resources management, and I was working in the forest in Clearwater County near Nordegg, and I heard a background thing in my head saying “I have something better for you.  I had to learn to listen to God, to grown in relationship with God, to discern his will — but all of this takes place in relationship with God.

Any family stories? Were they involved in your discernment at all?
Fr. Ian Gagne:  I’m the first-born son of five generations of first-born sons!  I also have two younger sisters. I was born and raised in Calgary, and lived in Airdrie for junior high and high school. I had asked them:  “What would you do if I became a priest?” Their response was:  “Whatever you do is your role.” They were supportive — I knew I had their support if I needed it.

Any spiritual “nuggets” or pearls to share from your years in priesthood ministry?
Fr. Ian Gagne:  Be yourself, keep Christ at your centre, and love the people.  This has always been my life goal — I’ve always been Christ-centred. I’ve had God as my best friend, and I’ve stayed at His side.

What was the best advice you've ever been given, and who was it from? 
Fr. Ian Gagne:  “Be yourself and say what you mean in your homilies. Don’t just beat around the bush, get out there!” This was Fr. Bryan Frank — while I was a seminarian on pastoral summer placement at St. Mark’s in Calgary. 

What’s your favourite prayer?
Fr. Ian Gagne:  The Anima Christi. I pray it every Mass, after communion as I sit down.

What’s your go to advice when people ask you, “Father, how do I become closer to Jesus?”
Fr. Ian Gagne:  Pray, of course!  Value your relationship with Christ, and bring that relationship into prayer.

Any advice for those discerning a vocation?
Fr. Ian Gagne:  Be true to yourself, be centred in your relationship with Christ, and if you can’t find that centre, let Mary guide you — she is the morning star that leads us on our way.

Any other notable stories you want to share?
Fr. Ian Gagne:  Well, when I was in Hanna, the town was having its hundredth anniversary. I suggested that we should go to the graveyard and have some wine and a picnic, pray for the dead, and watch the fireworks!  I wasn’t expecting anyone would actually do it, but when I got there, a number of people were already there!  I’m not sure if it’s a kosher thing to do — but it happened!  I’ve enjoyed my 25 years — and I would do it all again!  It’s been a normal life — lived it out with God in His plan.

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Fr. Ian Gagne
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​Ordained: January 10, 1997  at St. Mary's Cathedral in Calgary by Bishop Paul O’Byrne

Pastoral placements in the Diocese of Calgary:

• Associate Pastor: St. Luke’s, Calgary (1997-1999)
• Chaplain: Foothills Hospital (1997)
• Associate Pastor: St. Mary’s, Medicine Hat (1999)
  Pastor: Assumption Parish, Hay River, NWT (1999-2002)
• Pastor: St. Mary’s, Cluny, Holy Trinity, Siksika, and St. Columba, Bassano (2002-2007)
• Pastor: St. George’s, Hanna, Sacred Heart, Oyen, and St. Mary’s, Acadia Valley (2007-2016)
• Pastor: St. Ambrose, Coaldale, and St. Catherine’s, Picture Butte (2016-present)

Interview conducted by Solomon Ip for Faithfully