Lens Church
Lens Church
We travelled to Europe to attend the inauguration of the Lens Church held on 28 June 1925. The French Reformed Church, various Protestant committees friendly with foreign countries, and several officers representing the President of France and the Minister of Defence, were in attendance. After having gallantly saluted the important visitors, Mr Paul Frezier, State Councillor, turned towards us and said:
“Please allow me, in the name of my committee, to say a few words to you, Professor Bieler, and to you, Mrs Bieler. It is appropriate for us to remember what you did from the bottom of your heart, for your second home. At the beginning of the war you set an example for all Canadians: your four sons left the country as volunteers, to defend and to free occupied France. We all salute your sacrifice, and we recognize why the soil of the province of Quebec has become sacred for you.
While your sons were doing their duty, you were also being enlisted. You, Mrs Bieler, stimulated positively the thoughts of Canadian Protestants, and Englishspeaking Canadians, towards the soldiers in the invaded regions of France and Belgium, miners in the Pas de Calais, factory workers in the North, the poor soldiers deprived of letters, parcels, and other comforting missiles. With your sister, Miss Merle d’Aubigné, you created a charity aimed at both the military and the refugees in the invaded provinces, where you sent them the fruit of your resources. You also found time to help discreetly but efficiently our pastors’ wives, especially those who were alone in their parishes, and in their homes. Your sympathy was always for France.
Canada was not big enough for the extent of your zeal, and you, Mr Bieler, accepted a French propaganda mission across the United States. We know that you have thrilled many audiences. Your official mission, dear Professor, has received heartfelt congratulations from our Washington embassy. The war being over, you deserved a long rest, but you sought the help of Christian brethren to help raise the funds necessary for the building of this church. It is appropriate to repeat in a loud voice that you deserve great applause from our country.”—(BB)