An Investment in Religious Heritage
Nearly $7 million for the Preservation of Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Subsidy from the Minister of Culture, Communications and the Status of Women
Excerpt from a speech by Father Claude Grou, CSC, Rector of the Oratory
Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is a part of our heritage. Its whole history is woven into the very fabric of our collective history and Québécois culture. This place speaks to us of the exceptional man that was Blessed Brother André, but it also tells us of the pride of the thousands of men and women who have inscribed elements of their own stories in its walls and gardens. A souvenir of our past, this place remains even now a gathering place in which we continue to recognize ourselves.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory stands out in Montreal’s for the quality of its works of art, the beauty of the Mount Royal site including the Gardens of the Way of the Cross; its world-famous organs and carillon; the unique contribution of the Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal choir school, as well as the numerous chapels and churches that lend themselves to contemplation. These treasures have made the shrine world-renowned and loved both on a religious level and as a tourist attraction.
The administration of Saint Joseph’s Oratory and its entire team continue to ensure the vitality of the site by providing an exceptional warm welcome to visitors and pilgrims alike. We are proud to be able to count on such important support on the part of the Government of Quebec’s Minister of Culture, Communications and the Status of Woman for the protection and preservation of the unique religious heritage of this shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph. We are pleased to add this important sum of money to the donations of all our generous benefactors and Associates of Brother André. Together, we continue our efforts to protect and restore, year after year, steadfastly, with perseverance and vision.
Among other things, this subsidy will make possible the restoration of the majestic Beckerath organ. This will be the first major restoration of the organ, which was originally installed in 1960. Unique in Canada, it is considered one of the 10 most impressive organs in the world, and took two years to build and seven months to install. Such a jewel merits special attention and particular, meticulous care.
Some 28 roofs will also be restored and the stones of the building envelope will be repointed. Brother André’s legacy continues to grow, develop and persevere, a faithful witness to the collective heritage of which we can all be proud.
May 4, 2008
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