Pastoral legacy
The Late MSGR. Raymond Hanna
A Life Devoted to Church
April 21, 1955 – November 15, 2012
This tribute gathers recollections from parish archives, pastoral council notes, and family testimonies preserved in Ottawa, offering a faithful retelling of Monsignor Hanna's decades of service.
Biography
A life formed in prayer and study
The timeline below traces Monsignor Hanna's path from early formation in Lebanon to his decades-long pastorate at Saint Charbel Parish in Ottawa.
April 21, 1955
Birth in Tarshish
Born in Tarshish, Lebanon, to Joseph and Georgette Hanna.
January 1, 1967
Seminary formation
Entered the Seminary of the Holy Spirit in Kaslik—Jounieh to begin his priestly studies.
1970–1977
Novitiate & studies
Joined the Novitiate at the Monastery of Our Lady of Maounat (Notre Dame de Secours) in Jbeil, completed secondary studies in Hemena, and earned the Baccalaureate Part Two in Philosophy at Kaslik.
1982
Ordination & teaching
Ordained by Archbishop Roland Abou Jaoudi at the University of the Holy Spirit and named Principal of St. Antoine High School in Hemena.
1983–1985
Service in Lebanon & Canada
Appointed vicar of St. Jean Marc Parish in Jbeil, then moved to Montreal to assist St. Antoine Parish while traveling to Quebec City to serve the Maronite community.
1986–2012
Pastor in Ottawa
Named pastor of St. Charbel Maronite Church in Ottawa by Archbishop Elias Shaheen, elevated to Monsignor by Archbishop Georges Abi Saber, and completed a Master’s degree in Canon Law at Saint Paul University.
His legacy today
A blessing upon blessing
“What should be done then, my friends? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.”
1 Corinthians 14:26
H.E. Bishop Paul-Marwan Tabet, along with the priests of Saint Charbel Parish, invited the entire community to celebrate Monsignor Hanna’s life four years after his passing, Sunday, November 13th 2016.
During that emotional service, Bishop Tabet unveiled a painting of Monsignor Hanna—created specifically for the opening of the conference center that now bears his name at Saint Charbel Parish.
On November 11th 2018, Saint Charbel Parish unveiled a plaque in his honor. It rests in front of the parish as a sign of gratitude for his vision and leadership.
Achievements
Under Monsignor Hanna’s patronage
Vision translated into structures, land, and ministries that continue to serve Saint Charbel Parish today.
The purchase of a large church at 245 Donald Street that is financially stable and fully accountable.
The purchase of the adjacent property and community center (HARDINI Center & Rafqa Land) that serve as building blocks for the future Maronite community.
The leasing of space in the complex to ensure it is self-reliant and does not deplete church funds.
Construction and positioning of the Shrine of our Blessed Virgin Mary at the church’s entrance.
Development of Saint Charbel’s Maronite Cemetery, including the statue of Saint Charbel at its entrance.
Construction of a large tent at Saint Rafqa land for gatherings and festivals.
Total interior and exterior renovations and expansion of Saint Charbel Church, the Lebanese Hall, and the rectory adjacent to the church.
Read more
Remembering Monsignor Hanna
Ottawa media and the parish archives continue to chronicle the faith and leadership of Monsignor Hanna. Explore additional coverage below.
Carrying the torch
We continue the work he began
Honor Monsignor Hanna’s legacy by serving on a ministry team, praying for vocations, or supporting the upkeep of Saint Charbel Parish.