On August 17, a day full of meaning and recognition was dedicated to temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in the agricultural sector. During an event organized by permanent deacon John Sanchez of the Diocese of Saint-Hyacinthe, a hand blessing mass was celebrated — a symbolic gesture honoring the work and commitment of those who cultivate the land with dedication every day.
Despite a rainy morning — welcomed as a blessing for the crops — the skies cleared and the afternoon turned into a sunny, festive, and solidarity-filled moment. Around 500 workers, mainly from Guatemala and Mexico, took part in the celebration with emotion, blending religious tradition with sincere appreciation.
During the mass, the priest expressed his gratitude to the workers for their valuable contribution to the agricultural sector and for the essential role they play in the life and economy of the region. The highlight of the ceremony was the blessing of the hands, a gesture of respect and gratitude for those who sow, tend, and harvest the food we all consume.
After the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a festive moment animated by a mariachi band, adding a touch of joyful and warm traditional music. An information and service area was also set up, allowing workers to access healthcare, psychological support, and useful information about the resources available in the region.
The program was represented by CAFLA, which offered psychological support and medical services, including on-site blood pressure checks. Also present were L’Ancre, the local organization responsible for sharing information about TFW programs, CNESST, and Desjardins, who provided important information about workers’ rights and accessible financial services.
Copies of the TFW Guide in Quebec were distributed by Jonathan Buitrago, regional coordinator — a document that provides workers with clear information on their rights and responsibilities, available services, and support resources.
Events like this one serve as a reminder of the importance of creating spaces where workers feel valued, respected, and supported. The blessing of the hands was not only a spiritual gesture, but also an opportunity to strengthen connections, share useful information, and celebrate the cultural richness of our agricultural communities together.
We warmly thank everyone who participated in this event, especially John Sanchez for his ongoing commitment to temporary foreign workers.
