A Construction Site Giving Way to Nature
A Green Partnership to Restore a Space within the Sanctuary
The inauguration of the new welcome pavilion was a joyful event for both Saint Joseph’s Oratory and the public. However, the construction work, which extended over several years, left its mark on a portion of the sanctuary grounds, an area once frequented by the students of the Maîtrise des Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal. It was therefore time to restore this space, which had become barren and devoid of greenery.
 The site before the tree planting |
 The site before the tree planting |
Discussions soon began about how to revitalize the land, with the aim of emphasizing one of the Oratory’s cherished values: ecology. Indeed, while the sanctuary’s main mission is to offer a welcoming place for pilgrims, it is also important to remember that the site lies on a mountain that predates Saint Brother André’s work and serves as a living environment for a diverse ecosystem that must be preserved. The sanctuary’s outdoor spaces are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, century-old trees, rare plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, particularly within the Father Louis-Trempe Nature Reserve.
 Tree planting |
 Tree planting |
Our goal was therefore to respect the biological integrity of Mount Royal and to contribute to the fight against urban heat islands by maximizing the urban canopy. Through a recently developed partnership with Les Amis de la montagne, we connected with Soverdi, an organization dedicated precisely to the cause we wanted to support. Thanks to outstanding collaboration and numerous proposals, the expertise of this urban greening organization made it possible to plant 95 native trees on the former construction site in October 2025, bringing the area back to life and enhancing the ecological value of the site.
And this is just the beginning! Starting in spring 2026, a beautiful flowering meadow will add color to the area and further support biodiversity. We can’t wait to share what comes next!
 The site after the tree planting |
 The site after the tree planting |
