Alexander Macdonell was born on 1 November 1833 in
Lochiel, Ontario. He spoke English, French, and Gaelic, and went to the local school before attending the
College of Bytown in 1857. He then continued his theological studies at
Regiopolis College in Kingston. Macdonnell ordained as a priest on 20 December 1862, aged 29. He was curate first at
Gananoque, before becoming pastor of his home parish of St. Andrew's, Lochiel. After sixteen years, he was sent to
St. Finnan's, Alexandria, where he rebuilt the parish church. In 1886 he was appointed vicar general for the
Diocese of Kingston. ==Death==