In July 1904, Brother André, his confrere and carpenter Brother Abundius Piché, and some lay friends began erecting the first chapel on the slopes of Mount Royal right across the street from College Notre-Dame. The finished chapel was blessed on the 19^th of October of that year, and provided the faithful with an oratory dedicated to Saint Joseph.

 

The simple building measured a mere 4.5 metres (15 feet) by 5.5 metres (18 feet). Two over-sized walnut doors occupied almost the entire façade and opened up for Masses so people kneeling on the grass outside the chapel could see the altar. A portable communion rail was set up for worshippers could receive Holy Communion.

 

It soon became clear that more space was needed.

 

Once Brother André’s renown grew and word of miraculous healing spread abroad, throngs of pilgrims began to flock to the site. In 1908, the chapel was enlarged for the first time and a stove was added so it could be used year-round. The nave was again enlarged in 1910, at which time a steeple and a room for Brother André were also added. This is the chapel that stands today.