Pilgrims climbing stairs on knees at St. Joseph's Oratory Montreal

Saint Joseph'S Oratory

Visiting Oratoire St-Joseph in Montreal: Hours, Tickets, History, and Tips

Published Date: 17/07/2024

Overview of Oratoire St-Joseph

Nestled on the northern slope of Mount Royal in Montreal, Canada, the Oratoire St-Joseph stands as a monumental tribute to faith, perseverance, and the miraculous. This basilica, dedicated to Saint Joseph, the patron saint of Canada, is not only a stunning architectural marvel but also a pivotal site of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection. The Oratory’s history is intimately linked with the life of Saint Brother André, born Alfred Bessette in 1845. Brother André, a humble doorman at Collège Notre-Dame, became renowned for his unwavering faith and attributed numerous miraculous healings to the intercession of Saint Joseph (Saint Joseph’s Oratory Official Site).

As Brother André’s reputation grew, so did the number of pilgrims seeking his guidance. This led to the construction of a small chapel on Mount Royal in 1904, which eventually evolved into one of the world’s largest shrines dedicated to Saint Joseph. The basilica, with its Renaissance Revival architecture and towering copper dome, was completed in 1967 and continues to inspire millions of visitors each year (Lonely Planet).

This comprehensive guide aims to provide all the essential information for your visit to the Oratoire St-Joseph, covering its rich history, visitor information, travel tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a tourist, this guide will ensure that your visit is both smooth and memorable.

Portrait of Joey Sforza smiling outdoors on June 3, 2015

Small train station where pilgrims arrived to visit Brother André, operated by Montreal Park & Island Railway

Contents Overview

Introduction
Brother André - The Humble Beginnings
A Chapel on Mount Royal - Seeds of a Dream
The Basilica’s Completion and Legacy
Miracles and Recognition - The Path to Sainthood
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Accessibility and Amenities
Special Events and Guided Tours
Best Photographic Spots
Stay Connected
FAQ
Conclusion

Brother André - The Humble Beginnings

Born Alfred Bessette in 1845, Brother André lived a life marked by humility and service. He joined the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1870 and served as a doorman at Collège Notre-Dame in Montreal. Despite his lack of formal education, Brother André possessed an unwavering faith in St. Joseph, known as the patron saint of the impossible. He attributed numerous miraculous healings to the saint’s intercession, encouraging the sick and suffering to pray to St. Joseph for relief.

A Chapel on Mount Royal - Seeds of a Dream

As Brother André’s reputation as a healer grew, so did the number of pilgrims seeking his guidance and prayers. A small chapel dedicated to St. Joseph was built on Mount Royal in 1904 to accommodate the growing crowds. This modest structure, measuring just 18 by 24 feet, marked the humble beginnings of what would become one of the world’s largest shrines dedicated to St. Joseph.

From Chapel to Basilica - A Testament of Faith

The influx of pilgrims and reports of miraculous healings continued, fueling the need for a larger space. In 1917, construction began on a larger crypt church, which was completed in 1924. This crypt church, located directly below the basilica’s main altar, still welcomes visitors today. The construction of the basilica itself, a massive undertaking, began in 1924 and spanned over three decades.

The Basilica’s Completion and Legacy

The Oratoire St-Joseph basilica, with its distinctive Renaissance Revival architecture and towering copper dome, was finally completed in 1967. The basilica’s grand scale, intricate details, and serene atmosphere serve as a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of Brother André and the countless individuals who contributed to its creation.

Miracles and Recognition - The Path to Sainthood

Throughout his life, Brother André remained devoted to St. Joseph and the pilgrims who sought his help. He tirelessly prayed for the sick and distributed medals stamped with the image of St. Joseph, urging everyone to place their trust in the saint’s intercession. Countless testimonies of miraculous healings attributed to Brother André’s prayers and devotion to St. Joseph led to his beatification in 1982 by Pope John Paul II. In 2010, Brother André was canonized as Saint Brother André, solidifying his place as a symbol of faith and compassion.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

The Oratoire St-Joseph welcomes visitors year-round. Visiting hours vary seasonally, so it is best to check the official website for the most current schedule. Admission to the basilica is free, but donations are welcomed. Special guided tours and events may require tickets, which can also be purchased through the official website.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Located in Montreal, the Oratoire St-Joseph is easily accessible by public transit and private vehicle. Parking is available on-site. While in the area, visitors can explore Mount Royal Park, enjoy the views from Kondiaronk Belvedere, or visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. The surrounding neighborhood also offers a variety of dining and shopping options.

Accessibility and Amenities

The Oratoire St-Joseph is committed to accessibility. The site offers ramps, elevators, and other facilities to assist visitors with limited mobility. Amenities include restrooms, a gift shop, and a cafeteria. For those unable to visit in person, a virtual tour is available on the official website.

Special Events and Guided Tours

Throughout the year, the Oratoire St-Joseph hosts special events, including religious celebrations, concerts, and educational programs. Guided tours are available in multiple languages and provide an in-depth look at the basilica’s history, architecture, and the life of Saint Brother André. Check the official website for a schedule of upcoming events and tours.

Best Photographic Spots

The Oratoire St-Joseph offers numerous opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Popular spots include the basilica’s grand staircase, the statue of Saint Joseph, and the panoramic views from the observation deck. Visitors are encouraged to share their photos on social media using the hashtag #OratoireStJoseph.

Stay Connected

Download our app Audiala for more travel tips and updates. Follow us on social media to stay informed about special events and guided tours at Oratoire St-Joseph.

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for Oratoire St-Joseph?

Visiting hours vary seasonally. Check the official website for the most current schedule.

How much are tickets for Oratoire St-Joseph?

Admission to the basilica is free. Special guided tours and events may require tickets, available for purchase on the official website.

Is Oratoire St-Joseph accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, the site offers ramps, elevators, and other facilities to assist visitors with limited mobility.

Conclusion

Saint Joseph’s Oratory holds multifaceted significance, encompassing faith, history, architecture, and community. Whether seeking spiritual solace, marveling at architectural grandeur, or simply finding a moment of peace in the city, a visit to Saint Joseph’s Oratory promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Call to Action

Plan your visit today by checking out the official website, and don’t forget to explore our other related posts for more travel tips and insights. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and events.