In an unexpected fusion of sport and spirituality, the St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, has transformed into a vibrant hub for Montreal Canadiens enthusiasts during the NHL playoffs. As fans donning the team’s blue, white, and red jerseys congregate in the historic church, they exchange hymns for spirited chants, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a sacred gathering.
A Celebration of Community and Passion
The cathedral has become the venue of choice for fervent Canadiens supporters, who come together to watch their team take on the Tampa Bay Lightning. The gatherings, organised by La Cargaison, a nonprofit multimedia organisation, have attracted hundreds of fans, exceeding all expectations. Marjolaine Quintal, the organisation’s director of content and communications, expressed the cultural significance of these events. “Hockey is almost a religion in Quebec and Canada, so it works wonderfully to bring people together,” she remarked.
With a massive 35-foot screen set up for the games, the church is alive with energy. DJs pump up the crowd, and lights dance on the historic walls, creating a unique environment where sport and celebration intersect.
A Unique Ceremony of Prayer and Play
As the anticipation builds for the sold-out watch parties, fans are greeted by a figure in a priest-like red garment, who invites them to kneel and join in a light-hearted prayer for the team’s success. Known as “St-Flanelle,” David Ouellet leads the congregation in invoking the spirit of Montreal hockey legend Maurice “Rocket” Richard. “Our rocket, who is in heaven, may your talent be shared,” he intones, blending reverence with revelry.
Attendees, many of whom do not regularly attend church, describe the atmosphere as a blend of camaraderie and excitement. Antoine Dubé, a fan lining up for the event, noted he was drawn by the community spirit and the shared experience of rooting for their team. “We’re all here praying for victory,” he said, embodying the fervent hope that defines the Canadiens’ fanbase.
Churches: A Historic Venue for Sports Enthusiasm
Isabelle Brulotte, head of the Corporation Monseigneur Forget, which manages the cathedral, highlighted that this phenomenon is not entirely novel. Traditionally, churches have served as communal gathering spaces, where people would gather to listen to hockey games during times when they could not afford televisions or radios. “Churches were the gathering places of their neighbourhoods,” she explained in a recent conversation.
In line with this tradition, La Cargaison has embraced the spirit of community by offering Habs-themed candles for fans to light as they pray for the team, reinforcing the connection between faith and sports in the hearts of many. Despite some criticism regarding the appropriateness of sports broadcasts in a sacred space, Brulotte stands firm in her belief that these events serve a vital purpose in engaging younger generations. “In 2025, 10,000 people walked through the cathedral doors for events other than religious celebrations. That’s significant,” she stated, emphasising the importance of accessibility and community involvement.
A Reflection of Cultural Identity
The intersection of sports and spirituality raises intriguing questions about the role of hockey within Quebec society. Cole Caufield, a star winger for the Canadiens, encapsulated this sentiment, stating, “It literally is (a religion). Everyone is so committed and passionate.” This connection underscores a shared identity and collective passion that transcends individual lifestyles.
Conversely, Matt Hoven, an educator at St. Joseph’s College in Edmonton, cautioned against viewing sports as a religion in a traditional sense. He acknowledged the overlapping rituals and community aspects but emphasised that hockey does not provide answers to life’s profound questions. Nonetheless, he recognised that the fervour surrounding sports can evoke deep emotional responses, akin to spiritual experiences. “It’s fascinating how opportunities arise for the spiritual to manifest,” he noted, reflecting on the phenomenon of fans lighting candles and offering prayers during games.
Why it Matters
This unique blending of sports and spirituality in Quebec highlights the profound connections that exist within communities. As the Canadiens continue their playoff journey, these gatherings in the cathedral not only provide a platform for fans to unite in support of their team but also redefine the role of sacred spaces in contemporary society. By embracing this intersection, the church reinforces its relevance and fosters a sense of belonging in an ever-evolving cultural landscape. In times of uncertainty, these watch parties remind us of the unifying power of sport and the shared hope that binds a community together.
