Discover this tour
The tour starts at the Sanctuary of Sainte-Marguerite-d’Youville in Varennes, on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. This sacred site will introduce you to the extraordinary life of Marguerite d’Youville, the first Canadian-born saint, who devoted her life to the less fortunate. At the museum, you’ll discover artifacts highlighting the life and work of this exceptional woman. Within walking distance, you’ll also find the Basilica of Saint Anne, where her tomb lies.
Then, head towards Vieux-Longueuil to the Centre Marie-Rose, where you’ll be immersed in the world of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher’s pioneering educational work. Nearby, you’ll discover the splendid Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue Co-Cathedral, which houses her tomb. You can also contemplate the architecture of this superb monument and visit the museum in the basement that showcases the parish’s rich historical and religious heritage.
On the second day of your tour, head to the Saint-Hyacinthe-le-Confesseur Cathedral, where you’ll discover the tomb of Blessed Louis-Zéphirin Moreau, a man of great piety and great friend of the poor. He was also credited with miraculously curing a little girl who suffered from acute leukemia. Make sure to take some time to admire the magnificent decor of this Romanesque cathedral.
The itinerary continues at the mausoleum-columbarium in the cemetery of the Saint-Hyacinthe-le-Confesseur Cathedral. There lies the tomb of the venerable Élisabeth Bergeron, who founded the teaching congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Hyacinthe in 1877 and promoted the importance of learning, despite her lack own of education.
This is also where you’ll find the tomb of the venerable Mother Catherine Aurelia Caouette, a woman of striking charisma whose life was marked by mystical phenomena. She is also known for having founded the Sisters Adorers of the Precious Blood.
Next, head to Mont-Saint-Grégoire to visit the Saint-Frère-André monument marking the birthplace of Alfred Bessette, better known as Brother André of Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Brother André remains one of the most popular Quebecers of the 20th century. Long before his canonization in 2010, his reputation for sanctity had crossed borders and marked generations.
To conclude this wonderful tour, make your way to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (L’Acadie), the birthplace of Blessed Marie-Léonie Paradis, founder of the Little Sisters of the Holy Family, and you’ll be transported back to the 18th and 19th centuries through the guided tours and exhibitions offered at the Église de L’Acadie.
