Father Antoine (Paul) Courcier, born in Oujda, Morocco, in 1932, passed away in the hope of the Resurrection on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the hospital in Avallon. He spent his childhood in Morocco before returning to France with his family. At 17, he experienced a profound conversion that led him back to the Catholic Church in which he had been baptized. After working briefly in tourism and for Air France, he served in the Algerian War from 1955 to 1957. In 1958, despite his family’s opposition, he entered La Pierre-qui-Vire Abbey, receiving the name Antoine. He made his solemn profession in 1962 and was ordained a priest in 1965.
Over the decades, Father Antoine served his community in many ways: as sub-cellarer, kitchen master, infirmarian, and later as part of the guesthouse team, where his talks were warmly appreciated. He also contributed to diocesan life, serving on the Presbyteral Council. Known for his generosity and perseverance, he combined deep faith with a lively sense of humor, often provocative yet always grounded in a sincere trust in God’s mercy. Though sometimes testing the patience of his brothers, he left behind the memory of a man who gave himself entirely to his vocation and community.
In recent years, as his health declined, he lived more withdrawn, spending time in the infirmary while still sharing community meals. His final days were marked by serenity and faith. With gratitude, his monastic community will commend him to God’s mercy during the Eucharist on Saturday, September 20, at 11:00 a.m., followed by his burial in the monastery cemetery. May he rest in peace.