Surrey past urges prayers for politicians of all stripes
Poilievre, other political candidates attend Easter Mass

Fr. Augustine Obiwumma with the Poilievre after Mass.
April 24, 2025
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Surrey, B.C.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was among several politicians and political candidates who attended Easter Sunday Mass at Good Shepherd Church in Surrey, where 1,500 parishioners packed the pews to celebrate the Resurrection.
Poilievre, who attended with his wife Anaida alongside and other political representatives, joined the large congregation for the morning liturgy, at the conclusion of which pastor Fr. Augustine Obiwumma greeted them and asked for prayers and for warm greetings to the guests and expressed gratitude for their presence.
After thanking all visitors, Obiwumma noted Poilievre’s presence.
“We are so happy to see the leader of the Conservative Party visiting our community today,” he said.
He also welcomed Kerry-Lynne Findlay, the local Conservative candidate.
Obiwumma acknowledged other political party representatives who were also present, saying that although he didn’t have their names, “We want you to know, on behalf of the whole parish, we welcome each and every one of you. Thank you for coming.”
Obiwumma called on the faithful to pray for those who serve in public office.
“We pray for all of you, that God Almighty will lead all of you with the spirit of truth, so that all your policies, everything you do, will be for the glory of God and for the good of all members of our country. May God bless you and bless your work and all the vision you have for Canada. Thank you all.”
Obiwumma encouraged parishioners to meet with the political representatives after Mass, and again reminded them of the need for prayer, for them and “that God will guide them, guide their policies, so that all they do may bring honour to God and also be for the good of all of us.”
A version of this story appeared in the April 27, 2025, issue of The Catholic Register with the headline "Surrey past urges prayers for politicians of all stripes".
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