Priest Who Speaks Cree Named Archbishop in Northern Canada

A priest known for building bridges with Indigenous communities will now lead one of Canada's most diverse Catholic regions.

Susai Jesu was ordained as Archbishop of Keewatin–Le Pas on January 26 at a ceremony in The Pas, Manitoba. The 54-year-old will oversee ministry to about 49,000 Catholics scattered across a region larger than Texas, most of whom are Indigenous.

Born in southern India, Jesu moved to Canada in 2007 and quickly focused his work on Indigenous and inner-city communities. He became a Canadian citizen and learned to speak Cree alongside his native Tamil and English.

In northern Saskatchewan, he served as pastor in Pelican Narrows and Sandy Bay, getting to know the communities firsthand. He later helped welcome Pope Francis during his historic visit to Canada and joined a delegation to Rome focused on Indigenous reconciliation.

From 2017 to 2025, Jesu led Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in Edmonton. There he ran outreach programs, advanced reconciliation efforts, and provided pastoral care for multiple communities including Catholic Eritreans.

During his installation ceremony, Elders from across the Keewatin Le Pas Archdiocese blessed the new archbishop. Bishops and priests from across Canada gathered to witness the historic moment.

"I look forward to walking together with you, especially Indigenous communities, in healing, reconciliation, and shared mission," Jesu said in a statement on the Archdiocese's website. He acknowledged both the deep faith and the wounds many Catholics in the region still carry.

Why This Inspires

Jesu's appointment shows the Catholic Church prioritizing leaders who understand reconciliation isn't just talk. His fluency in Cree and years of hands-on work in Indigenous communities demonstrate genuine commitment to healing relationships damaged by residential schools and colonial policies.

The fact that he chose to learn Cree and serve in remote northern communities rather than major urban centers speaks to his dedication. His cultural sensitivity and compassion have earned him respect across diverse communities throughout his ministry.

The new archbishop faces real challenges in a region where many remain alienated from the church, but his track record suggests he's ready to listen, learn, and lead with humility. That's exactly the kind of leadership that can turn wounds into healing.