Born a Roman Catholic in Italy, he joined a Presbyterian church only five years ago in Montreal, and now Giancarlo Fantechi has accepted a call as minister of Word and Sacrament at La Mission St-Paul, a French outreach in Sherbrooke, Que., after graduating with distinction in the Master of Divinity program at Presbyterian College.
Fantechi spent a decade working in finance in Italy. In his twenties he first encountered the reformed tradition, joining the Italian Waldensian Church. After his arrival in Montreal he eventually found his way to the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul, which he joined in 2002. The Presbyterian Church's St. Paul's Mission was begun under the wing of St. Andrew's, Sherbrooke, to serve new French-speaking families. Originally settled by United Empire Loyalists and immigrants from the British Isles, Quebec's Eastern Townships had long had a very English population that was well served by many protestant churches including St. Andrew's. In the past three decades, demographic shifts and political circumstances have dramatically increased the percentage of French speakers in the area. The region's scenery, reputable schools and economic growth have particularly attracted young families.
Presbytery members, ministers from neighbouring Montreal congregations, family and friends were present for the ordination service held at the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul. Fantechi pronounced the benediction in English, French and Italian.
– Joel Coppieters
