Saint 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 Royal. Having placed a small statue of Saint Joseph in the hollow of a tree, along with medals bearing his likeness, he enjoyed visiting the spot with a friend to pray. After obtaining permission from Father Dion, his superior, to build the small chapel, Brother André, with the help of a few friends and Brother Abondius, was able to open it a few months later, on October 18, 1904.

For more than twenty years, many people received favors and extraordinary healings from Saint Joseph, thanks to Brother André’s intervention. However, he was quick to deny being the author, humorously stating, “It’s not me ; I’m just Saint Joseph’s little lap dog.”

His reputation as a miracle worker brought a growing influx of people to the Oratory, victims of all kinds of illnesses and disabilities. Indeed, the healthcare services of the time (1915-1940) were unable to meet the needs of all these sick individuals eager to regain their health. Two expansions of the small chapel (1905-1915) were necessary to accommodate the pilgrims. Despite this, it was clear that a grand residence in honor of Saint Joseph was needed.

From 1904 until his death on January 6, 1937, Brother André’s presence attracted more and more people and groups who had received thousands of favors and healings from God and his intercessor, Saint Joseph, recognized as miraculous.

In 2025, the Holy Year dedicated to hope by Pope Francis, the Oratory continues its mission. Recognized as a significant place of prayer, but requiring at the source of every endeavor acts of faith and hope, the Oratory inspires numerous healings. Less spectacular than some of the physical healings during Brother André’s lifetime, they are more of the order of “healings of the heart, soul, and spirit.” They remain vital, essential, and healing for the well-being of those in distress and despair, wounded by life and in their lives. Their greatest characteristic thus comes from the faith and hope of these individuals, humbly asking for a favor through the intercession of Saint Joseph and Saint Brother André.

Yes, even today, and more than ever, Saint Joseph’s Oratory remains a place of prayer and healing.