A Peek Inside the Museum’s Collections!
Following the opening of the new Pavilion last February, the Oratory Museum has unveiled part of its collection to the public. Now open free of charge on the 4th floor, the exhibition titled “The Museum’s Collections: From the Vault to the Exhibition” offers a unique opportunity to discover a selection of over 80 remarkable items.
General view of the exhibition display cases, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal
A Hidden Treasure Trove…
The Oratory Museum was founded in 1955, but since the 1980s, it has been best known for its exhibition of Nativity scenes from around the world. However, our collections include far more than depictions of the Nativity!
In fact, among our more than 20,000 artifacts, there is a wide variety of objects that reflect many different themes—liturgy, Quebec and international religious art, popular devotion, the history of the Oratory, and more. The goal of this project is to showcase to our visitors the full diversity and richness of our heritage through four thematic displays.
General view of the Oratory Museum’s storage, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal & Musées Montréal, 2023
Liturgy and Popular Devotion
The Oratory stands out as a prominent place of spirituality and devotion. Over the years, the Museum has preserved various objects related to Catholic worship practices, including a significant collection of liturgical silverware.
 General view of the “Liturgy and Devotion” section, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal |  General view of the “Liturgy and Devotion” section, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal |
One Oratory, Many Communities
This section highlights the heritage of both religious and lay communities that have shaped the Oratory into what it is today. Since 1955, the Museum has received numerous donations—from religious communities as well as donors of diverse backgrounds, spiritual traditions, and languages—each expressing their deep connection to the shrine.
Recumbent Figure (Gisant)
Unknown artist
Early 20th century
Plaster, glass, metal, and paint
48 × 83 × 48 cm
Gift from the Italian Community of Montreal
1973.261.1-2
© Oratory Museum
The Connection Between Art and Religion
For centuries, the Catholic faith has played a significant role in the careers of many artists. As a central force in society, religion often turned to art as a pastoral tool, commissioning works from numerous artists.
The Oratory is no exception. Renowned artists such as Quebec sculptor Sylvia Daoust and French artist Henri Charlier had the opportunity to create works for the shrine or the Congregation of Holy Cross. The Museum thus holds a rich artistic heritage that reflects this unique and enduring connection between art and religion.
Saint Cecilia
Sylvia Daoust (1902–2004)
1946
Wood and paint
132 × 27.5 × 29 cm
1973.118
© Oratory Museum
Social History and Daily Life at the Oratory
The Oratory is more than just a building—it is brought to life by its visitors, pilgrims, and, above all, the dedicated staff who ensure the sanctuary runs smoothly. Throughout its history, the Museum has preserved various artifacts that reflect the daily activities and routines of the site.
Moreover, as a Catholic shrine that has become a major tourist destination, the Oratory is deeply rooted not only in the landscape but also in the fabric of society itself.
 General view of the “Social History and Daily Life” section, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal |  General view of the “Social History and Daily Life” section, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal |  General view of the “Social History and Daily Life” section, © Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal |
