The atmosphere was electric inside St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, as fervent hockey fans gathered to support their beloved Montreal Canadiens during the NHL playoffs. Dressed in the team’s iconic blue, white, and red jerseys, the congregation transformed the sacred space into a vibrant arena, chanting “Olé! Olé! Olé!” rather than hymns. With the playoffs in full swing, these spirited watch parties have attracted hundreds, showcasing the deep-rooted connection between hockey and community in Quebec.
A Sacred Space for Sports
La Cargaison, a nonprofit multimedia organisation, has been instrumental in organising these lively events, which have exceeded all expectations. Marjolaine Quintal, the director of content and communications for the organisation, remarked, “People in Quebec and Canada gather together around hockey games – it’s almost a religion, so we find it works wonderfully.” The venue, which has hosted concerts and light shows in recent years, now serves as a unique gathering point for fans to revel in the excitement of the games.
Transforming the cathedral into a sports arena involves a massive 35-foot screen for the games, complemented by DJ performances and dazzling light displays that illuminate the church’s historic architecture. The event not only draws fans but also creates a sense of unity and celebration.
A Playful Spirituality
As fans queued around the block for the sold-out event, a colourful figure dressed in a red priest-like garment mingled with the crowd. Known as “St-Flanelle,” a playful nod to the Canadiens’ jerseys, he invited attendees to kneel and participate in a light-hearted prayer. “Our rocket, who is in heaven, may your talent be shared,” he intoned, referencing the legendary Maurice “Rocket” Richard. David Ouellet, the man behind the character, explained that his antics were meant to bring joy to the fans, stating, “It’s to make people laugh.”
For many, the atmosphere of camaraderie and shared enthusiasm was the primary draw. Antoine Dubé, waiting in line, shared that he was there for the communal experience rather than religious devotion. “I’m not a regular churchgoer, but I’ll be praying for victory,” he admitted, echoing sentiments shared by many in the crowd.
Embracing Tradition and Modernity
Isabelle Brulotte, head of the Corporation Monseigneur Forget, which manages the cathedral, noted that the practice of watching sports in churches is not entirely new. “Churches were once the gathering places of their communities, so listening to hockey games in them was common, especially for those without access to a TV or radio,” she explained. The cathedral now offers Habs-themed candles for fans to light as they pray for the team, merging tradition with contemporary sporting culture.
Despite some objections regarding the appropriateness of such events in a sacred space, Brulotte remains steadfast in her commitment to serving the community. “In 2025, 10,000 people walked through the cathedral doors for events not related to religious celebrations,” she noted. “That’s quite a lot, and some of them even returned for mass.”
The Players Weigh In
The engagement from fans has not gone unnoticed by the players. Canadiens’ star winger Cole Caufield, who recently hit a milestone of 50 goals in a season, remarked, “It literally is (a religion). That’s a story that makes it make sense. I mean, just everybody’s so committed and passionate.” This sentiment underscores the profound emotional investment that both the players and fans have in the team.
However, not all commentators agree on the religious parallels. Matt Hoven, a scholar in Catholic religious education, suggested that while sports create community and identity, they do not address life’s deepest questions in the same way religion does. Yet, he acknowledges the emotional connections that sports can evoke, especially in fans lighting candles and praying for their team’s success.
Why it Matters
This unique blend of faith and fandom reflects a significant cultural phenomenon in Quebec, where hockey transcends mere sport and becomes a collective experience that unites individuals across various backgrounds. These gatherings in sacred spaces illustrate how traditions can adapt to modern contexts, fostering community spirit and engagement. By embracing such events, the church not only serves its mission but also revitalises its relevance in the lives of younger generations, proving that love for the game can indeed coexist with reverence for the sacred.
