- The Oratory is open from 6:30am until 9:00pm
News
The Stations of the Cross Garden opens May 1stAfter a few months of inactivity, we are pleased to announce the reopening of our magnificent garden. Come and recharge your batteries in this green setting, surrounded by nature,...
Special Mass for Filipino Heritage MonthTheme: Our Heritage, Be Pilgrims of Hope Basilica, 6:00 p.m. (Mass in English)
Saint Joseph, The Worker May 1stIn 1955, the foster father of Jesus, a carpenter in Nazareth, was proclaimed the Patron Saint of all workers. Songs and music at all Masses except the 7 a.m. one.
An unprecedented organ festival at the OratoryAn unprecedented organ festival at the Oratory In 1967, the Oratory organized a Canadian first: the International Organ Festival. Prelude The organ and the nave of the basilica, circa 1960. OSJ Archives, (92a-18) Expo...
With Joseph, let us walk in hopeWith Joseph, let us walk in hope Pope Francis has placed the Jubilee Year 2025 under the sign of hope. He invites all followers of Christ to be pilgrims of...
Decorating the votive chapelDecorating the votive chapel For the 2025 Novena to Saint Joseph, we continue our little story of the votive chapel. Too fast a start Work is progressing well at the beginning of...
Saint Joseph’s Oratory, a Place of Prayer and HealingSaint Joseph's Oratory, a Place of Prayer and Healing One of Brother André's greatest wishes was to have a small chapel dedicated to Saint Joseph on the side of Mount...
A monumental chapel for Saint JosephA monumental chapel for Saint Joseph In a few weeks, we will experience the Novena to Saint Joseph of 2025. On this occasion, crowds of people will visit the Votive...
A Much-Appreciated GiftA Much-Appreciated Gift An Exceptional Work Over the years, the Oratory Museum has enriched its collections primarily through donations. In 2024, the sanctuary was fortunate to acquire a work by the...
The must-sees at the Oratory
Panoramic view on MontréalWith its colorful flowers, vast green spaces, tall trees, and magnificent Garden of the Way of the Cross, the site of Saint Joseph's Oratory offers an unparalleled place of contemplation in the heart of the city, on the north slope of Mount Royal.
BasilicaThe Basilica stands out because of its stately dimensions and its location on the flank of the mountain side. Its illuminated cross is the highest point in the city.
Crypt ChurchThe Crypt Church stands out for its oak paneling, its lighting fixtures, and its ceiling, a low arch vault, which aims to create the illusion of being underground, though it is not.
Garden of the Way of the CrossThe Stations of the Cross, with its 16 stations and 42 figures measuring 3 meters tall, are nested within a lush, leafy, splendid garden, designed by landscape architect Frederick G. Todd. Art and nature combine to offer a space conducive to meditation.
Votive ChapelThe votive chapel, with its 10,000 candles and votive lamps, is at the heart of Saint Joseph's Oratory. Like a long gallery situated between the crypt and the rock of Mount Royal, this chapel is a place of devotion and prayers to Saint Joseph.
The Original ChapelThe first chapel erected on Mount Royal measured only 4.5 meters by 5.5 meters. It could be described as an oratory, that is, a place of prayer of modest size. Entering the original chapel is an invitation to discover the simplicity of the beginnings of this great sanctuary dedicated to Saint Joseph.
The Tomb of Brother AndréThe tomb of Saint Brother André, CSC, founder of the Oratory, is in a small semicircular room adjacent to the Votive Chapel. Every day, pilgrims and visitors stop here to pay their respects and pray to Saint Brother André.
Exhibit on the life of Brother AndréLocated on the 6th level, the exhibition traces various significant moments in the life of Saint Brother André. It also features three life-sized scenes, known as period rooms, as well as his heart, preserved in a reliquary that invites reflection.
Oratory's 50th Anniversary MuralThe mural pays homage to Saint Joseph: Patron of Workers, Mainstay of Families, and Protector of the Church. The artist depicted in his work personalities from the history of the shrine as well as the city of Montréal as it appeared in 1954.
Services at the Oratory
Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal FOUNDED BY SAINT BROTHER ANDRÉ, IS A CATHOLIC SHRINE DEDICATED TO SAINT JOSEPH. A PLACE OF FAITH, PRAYER, HEALING AND PEACE, THE ORATORY WELCOMES PILGRIMS AND VISITORS IN A SPIRIT OF OPENNESS AND COMPASSION.
Meeting Brother André
A friend. A brother. A saint.
Brother André, born Alfred Bessette, is certainly one of the most popular Quebecers of the 20th century. Long before he was canonized in 2010, Brother André's reputation for holiness had crossed borders and left a mark on generations.
Saint Joseph
The great saint of everyday life.
Saint Joseph can be seen as the saint of everyday life, whom one turns to for both minor concerns and pivotal moments. Saint Brother André had unwavering trust in Saint Joseph, his friend and guide.