For over 40 years, Father Boutilier has graced the corridors of St. Paul’s, endowing wisdom, spirituality and JUGS upon freshmen and seniors alike. However, that time is quickly coming to a close. At the end of this year, Father Boutilier will be moving on to new opportunities, as Father Con from St Ignatius takes his place as school chaplain. As we bid farewell a monument of Ignatian values and school community, we must examine the impact that Father Boutilier has left on the school, from staff, students, and alumni. As we bid farewell a monument of Ignatian values and school community, we must examine the impact that Father Boutilier has left on the school, from staff, students, and alumni.

Father Boutilier arrived at St. Paul’s in the summer of 1985, and quickly became entrenched in the school. Yet 1980s St. Paul’s was a different place than today. Run exclusively by Jesuits before Vatican II, the school had only recently begun to hire non-clergy teachers. The conversion of the Monaghan wing from Jesuit living space to classroom and preparation areas reflected a changing purpose for SPHS. Further, the 80s saw the introduction of the bursary program, fostering a new crop of students. Throughout his time at Father Boutilier has watched the construction of the Multiplex, the Angus Reid Wing, and the opening of the school to larger numbers of students. As part of the “old guard” of Jesuits, Boutilier has presided over a time of evolution and change at St. Paul’s.

Serving over three separate placements, his 22 years of service are the fifth longest of any Jesuit, beaten only by Father Holland, Father Murray, Father Monaghan, and Father Cotter. Yet, his true testament is the effect he has had on students. Fond moments of “Boots” include his direction in Latin and Italian to the Maroon and White Society, his love of the choir at mass, and his prayers over and with the Student Pastoral Team. 

Outside of St. Paul’s, Father Boutilier’s impact abounds. With fifty years as a Jesuit, he celebrated his Jubilee at the Provincial Dinner in Toronto. Further, he is cited in several Winnipeg Free Press articles, clarifying Church doctrine on relics to secular readers. The alumni of St. Paul’s also honour their chaplain as he moves to a new calling. 

Father Boutilier has been a monolith of St. Paul’s, experiencing a period of transition in the school. As he moves to further his impact, we wish him the best. May he continue to bless all who encounter him.