Summer is finally here and several activities await us! Here are some great ideas for those wishing to discover our city’s religious heritage this summer!

1 - Saint Joseph’s Oratory - The Garden of the Way of the Cross

The outdoor Garden of the Way of the Cross is one of Saint Joseph’s Oratory’s best-kept secrets. Located on the east side of the Basilica, the garden shelters a magnificent Way of the Cross made of towering sculptures, which unfold amidst an artfully landscaped terrain. It is an exceptional space to meditate in communion with nature.

Montreal artist Louis Parent conceived this major artwork. His Way of the Cross has 14 of the traditional stations to which he added a marble monument depicting the Resurrected Christ and a reflecting pool with the Fountain of Redemption.

The Garden of the Way of the Cross is open from May 1 to October 14, 2019.

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2 - The Grand Séminaire de Montréal and the Séminaire de Saint-Sulpice

Grand Séminaire de Montréal

The Grand Séminaire de Montréal was established in 1857 on the Mission de la Montagne’s old fortifications dating from 1675. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the oldest areas of this site dating back to New France, namely its two towers erected in the 17th century. They testify still today to the former Fort de la montagne. Stroll along the pound of the Grand Séminaire, discover the centennial wing, the chapel, as well as the parlour. Explore the crypt of Sulpician priests, which is rarely open to visitors!

Guided tours are scheduled to run from May 29 to September 1, 2019. French tours will be held from Wednesday through Friday, at 1:00 p.m., and from Wednesday through Sunday, at 3:00 p.m.

Séminaire de Saint-Sulpice

The Séminaire de Saint-Sulpice, located at the heart of Old Montreal, is the most ancient building in the city having still the same owners since being built in 1683. By accessing its rich history, you will have the opportunity to admire the most beautiful objects, archives and artworks gathered from the patrimonial collections Univers culturel de Saint-Sulpice displayed in a chosen pathway. Within the Seminary walls, you will discover the hidden spaces of this seigneurial manor, particularly the Council Chamber, a place of culture and power. Come and also discover the impressive gardens dating back to the French Regime and listed among the most ancient in North America.

Guided tours are scheduled to run from May 29 to September 1, 2019. Visits will be held from Wednesday through Friday, at 2:00 p.m.

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3 - St. Patrick’s Basilica summer tour

This year again, a student tour guide will be available at St. Patrick’s Basilica for the summer. Marie-Ève will be giving tours Monday through Thursday with set tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

St. Patrick's Church was opened on March 17, 1847 to serve the needs of the Irish immigrants who had come to Montreal in great numbers due to the famine and other troubles in Ireland.  

The Basilica has been designated a Historical Monument by the Government of Quebec and in 1991 Saint Patrick's was named a National Historic Site of Canada.

For more information, please call the parish office at 514 866-7379.