Saint Joseph’s Oratory

Did Brother André foresee the grandeur of Saint Joseph’s Oratory? Here we stand before this colossal basilica, a testament to faith and healing. It began humbly in 1904. Brother André, a humble porter at Notre Dame College, known for his ability to heal the sick, erected a small chapel dedicated to his patron saint, St. Joseph. This modest structure, nestled across the street from the college, became a beacon of hope. Over the next 62 years, Saint Joseph’s Oratory blossomed. It evolved from that tiny chapel into the magnificent basilica we see today, its final interior touches completed in 1966. Brother André, sadly, didn’t live to see the dome’s completion. He passed away in 1937, leaving behind a legacy of faith and miracles. This Oratory isn’t just a building. It’s the highest point in Montreal, perched 856 feet above sea level. From the street to the dome’s peak is a staggering 506 feet. Pilgrims often climb the 233 steps to the crypt on their knees, a testament to their devotion. For those seeking a less strenuous ascent, a shuttle offers a ride from the gatehouse to the entrance. Inside, the Votive Chapel is a corridor of devotion. Votive altars line the walls, each honoring St. Joseph in different roles: model for workers, guardian of virgins, protector of the church. A breathtaking centerpiece illuminates the chapel. 3,500 votive candles ascend towards a statue of St. Joseph, arms outstretched in blessing. The chapel houses 10,000 candles in total. A poignant reminder of Brother André’s healing touch lines the walls. Wooden crutches, testaments to miraculous recoveries, hang in silent rows. The crypt church, with its flattened arches, offers a more intimate space for worship. A nine-foot statue of St. Joseph commands attention, replacing the traditional cross above the altar. The worn feet of the Christ statue on the crucifix bear witness to countless pilgrim’s touches. A giant statue of Brother André stands sentinel before stained glass windows depicting scenes from St. Joseph’s life. Ascending to the concourse level, we find access to the terrace. Here, Montreal unfolds before us, a breathtaking view down the west side of Mount Royal. Stairs lead us to the Brother André Display, a poignant recreation of his life. His lodge at Notre Dame College, his office, his hospital room. And the most sacred relic of all: Brother André’s heart. Outside, the Way of the Cross winds through the Oratory Gardens, leading to the Pool and Fountain of Redemption. Inside once again, the Oratory Museum houses a wealth of religious art. Rotating exhibits feature works related to the Holy Family, St. Joseph, and Brother André. A permanent exhibit portrays scenes from St. Joseph’s life using wax figures. Finally, we reach the basilica, a breathtaking space capable of holding 2,200 seated or 10,000 standing. Its dome, the third largest globally, is a marvel of engineering. Stained glass windows illuminate the basilica, depicting miracles attributed to St. Joseph. The Grand Organ, with its nearly 6,000 pipes, fills the space with sacred music during recitals. Saint Joseph’s Oratory is a story of faith, healing, and architectural grandeur. It’s a journey from humble beginnings to international renown.