The air is filled with jubilant chants and cheers as fans of the Montreal Canadiens gather at the historic St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. Clad in the team’s iconic blue, white, and red jerseys, these enthusiastic supporters have transformed the sacred space into a vibrant hub of camaraderie and excitement, drawing hundreds together to celebrate their beloved team during the NHL playoffs. The atmosphere is electric, as the congregation engages in spirited watch parties, blending the thrill of sport with the communal spirit often found in religious gatherings.
A Unique Blend of Sports and Community
The director of content and communications for La Cargaison, the nonprofit multimedia organisation orchestrating these events, Marjolaine Quintal, expressed delight at the overwhelming interest. “In Quebec and Canada, hockey is more than just a game; it’s akin to a religion,” she noted, emphasising how this cultural phenomenon fosters unity among fans. The cathedral has recently hosted an array of concerts and multimedia shows, and Quintal believes that the excitement of a hockey match resonates similarly. “There’s a sense of ceremony, decorum, and passion—much like a church service,” she explained.
The matches are projected onto an impressive 35-foot screen, while DJs energise the crowd with music, and colourful lights dance across the cathedral’s historic walls. As Friday’s sold-out event attracted a queue that wound around the block, one fan donned a red priestly robe and invited fellow supporters to kneel in prayer, invoking the spirit of Maurice “Rocket” Richard, a Canadiens legend. “Our rocket, who is in heaven, may your talent be shared,” he declared, adopting the persona of “St-Flanelle,” a playful nod to the team’s jersey and the event’s name.
Embracing Tradition and Innovation
Antoine Dubé, one of the many fans waiting in line, shared his motivation for attending. “I came for the atmosphere and the chance to experience the game with others,” he remarked, noting that many attendees were not regular churchgoers but felt compelled to pray for a Canadiens victory. Isabelle Brulotte, head of the Corporation Monseigneur Forget, which oversees the church, explained that this phenomenon of watching hockey in churches is not new. Historically, places of worship served as community gathering spots, often becoming makeshift venues for listening to hockey games, especially for those without access to a television or radio.
In response to the hockey fervour, the church has introduced blue, white, and red candles for supporters to light, symbolising their prayers for the “Bleu, Blanc et Rouge.” While some have raised concerns about the appropriateness of such events in a sacred space, Brulotte remained steadfast in her belief that hosting these gatherings aligns with the church’s commitment to community service and outreach, particularly engaging younger generations. “In 2025, we welcomed 10,000 visitors for non-religious events,” she highlighted, with many attendees returning for traditional services.
Acknowledgment from the Players
The church’s innovative approach has garnered support from within the team itself. Canadiens star Cole Caufield, who made headlines this season for scoring 50 goals—the first player to do so since 1990—echoed the sentiment that hockey is indeed a form of worship. “It literally is (a religion),” he stated, reflecting on the deep commitment and passion fans exhibit for their team, regardless of their personal lives.
While some scholars, like Matt Hoven, who teaches Catholic religious education at St. Joseph’s College in Edmonton, argue that sports cannot equate to religion, they acknowledge the cultural overlaps. Hoven, who has explored the intersection of sports and faith in his writings, noted that while both can create a sense of belonging and identity, hockey does not aim to answer life’s profound questions. However, he conceded that the emotions stirred by sports often evoke spiritual sentiments, as evidenced by fans lighting candles and praying fervently for their team’s success.
Why it Matters
The blend of hockey and spirituality at St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral encapsulates a unique aspect of Quebec culture, where the passion for sports intertwines seamlessly with community and tradition. These watch parties not only provide a thrilling experience for fans but also reinforce the idea that sacred spaces can adapt to contemporary societal interests. As generations come together in celebration, the cathedral transforms into a centre of unity, showcasing how sport can foster connections and revive community spirit within its walls. In an era where many seek belonging, such innovative initiatives may play a crucial role in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, offering solace and joy in shared experiences.
