How about stepping into a place where echoes of Lebanon resonate in the heart of Montreal? We are standing before the Église et Monastère Saint-Antoine-le-Grand. It stands as a beacon of Maronite faith and Lebanese heritage.
This building has an interesting past. It was built in 1939. Initially, it served as a Jewish school. Then, in 1984, the Lebanese Maronite Order acquired the building from a Jewish group called DAATH ISRAEL. Father Antoine Sleyman undertook renovations transforming it into the Église et Monastère Saint-Antoine-le-Grand.
The Maronite monks have accompanied their people across the globe. This is especially true during the Lebanese emigration between 1975 and 1990. The Order recognized the importance of its mission in Canada. The church started attracting a growing number of young Lebanese people and developed into a parish church. Spiritual and cultural activities soon followed. Art exhibitions and musical celebrations became common.
The mission of Église et Monastère Saint-Antoine-le-Grand is clear. It aims to unite Lebanese emigrants in Canada. It also shares the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Order. It helps them preserve the traditions of their ancestors.
Today the Église et Monastère Saint-Antoine-le-Grand continues its mission. It hosts various activities. These activities aim to preserve the Lebanese Maronite heritage. Many people attend the five weekly masses. They are offered in Arabic and Aramaic with French translations. Around 2,500 people attend. Half of them are under 25 years old.
Inside this building lies a treasure. It is the Sanctuaire des Saints. Completed in 2015, it was funded by a devoted member. Over 33 tons of limestone were imported from Lebanon. It houses images of Maronite saints. These include Saint Charbel, Neemtallah, Estephan, and Rafqa. Replicas of their tombs are present.
The monastery also includes administrative offices. There is a daycare center. Numerous halls, a chapel, and a church are also inside.
The Église et Monastère Saint-Antoine-le-Grand reflects simplicity. The library books were donated. They wanted the books in the hands of the faithful. The building still features Stars of David from its time as a synagogue. The church benches retain their synagogue layout. The altar and rear wall feature a mosaic.
Outside, a cedar cross stands. It is illuminated with color-changing LED lights. The lights are controlled remotely.
The Église et Monastère Saint-Antoine-le-Grand opens its doors to all. It provides a sanctuary where faith and heritage intertwine. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Maronite community in Montreal.