In a remarkable blending of sport and spirituality, the St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, has become a vibrant gathering place for Montreal Canadiens supporters during this year’s NHL playoffs. Dressed in the team’s iconic blue, white, and red jerseys, fans fill the pews not for traditional worship, but for spirited watch parties, chanting “Olé! Olé! Olé!” as they cheer on their beloved Habs.
A Unique Community Experience
Marjolaine Quintal, the director of content and communications for La Cargaison— the nonprofit multimedia organisation hosting the events—expressed her surprise at the overwhelming turnout. “Hockey is almost a religion in Quebec and Canada,” she remarked, noting that the communal atmosphere surrounding the games resonates deeply with the province’s cultural identity.
La Cargaison has been utilising the cathedral’s historic space for concerts and multimedia shows for a couple of years, and Quintal sees no difference when it comes to hockey matches. “There’s ceremony, there’s decorum, there’s passion, and these events serve as a communal gathering,” she explained. With a massive 35-foot screen showcasing the games, DJs energising the crowd, and lights illuminating the cathedral’s stunning architecture, the atmosphere is one of joyous celebration.
As fans lined the streets for the recent sold-out watch party, a man in a priestly red garment—who calls himself “St-Flanelle”—invited attendees to kneel for a light-hearted prayer invoking the legendary Canadiens player Maurice “Rocket” Richard. “Our rocket, who is in heaven, may your talent be shared,” he began, drawing laughter and cheers from the crowd. David Ouellet, the man behind the persona, described his role as intended for fun and camaraderie.
A Historic Tradition in Modern Times
As attendees like Antoine Dubé arrived to soak in the lively atmosphere, many admitted they were not regular churchgoers. However, the thrill of gathering with fellow fans to share in the excitement of the game was irresistible. Isabelle Brulotte, who oversees the cathedral through the Corporation Monseigneur Forget, highlighted that the tradition of watching hockey in churches is not new. “Historically, churches served as community hubs where people could gather to listen to games, especially those who couldn’t afford a television or radio,” she explained.
In keeping with this tradition, the cathedral is now offering blue, white, and red candles for fans to light as they pray for Canadiens victories. While some have expressed concerns about the appropriateness of sports broadcasts in a sacred space, Brulotte stands firm in her belief that these events align with the church’s mission to engage with the community and attract younger generations. “In 2025, we welcomed 10,000 visitors through the cathedral doors for events beyond religious celebrations,” she noted, suggesting that this initiative has successfully drawn new faces into the church.
Endorsements from the Ice
Even Canadiens players are embracing the cathedral watch parties, with star winger Cole Caufield stating, “It literally is (a religion). Everyone is so committed and passionate. No matter your lifestyle, everyone rallies around their hockey team.” His sentiments resonate with fans who view their allegiance to the Canadiens as a profound aspect of their identity.
However, not all academics agree that sports can be equated with religion. Matt Hoven, who holds the Kule chair in Catholic religious education at St. Joseph’s College in Edmonton, acknowledges the cultural overlaps but argues that sports do not address life’s existential questions. Yet, he concedes that the fervour surrounding hockey can evoke spiritual feelings, particularly when fans light candles or offer prayers for victory. “It’s interesting how, when given the opportunity, the spiritual often surfaces,” he noted.
Why it Matters
The phenomenon of transforming a cathedral into a hockey viewing venue encapsulates the deeply rooted connection between culture, community, and sport in Quebec. It exemplifies how institutions can adapt to modern societal trends while still fulfilling their foundational roles. By fostering a space where sports and spirituality intersect, the cathedral not only revitalises its relevance in contemporary society but also strengthens communal ties among fans. As Quebecers gather in prayer and celebration, the spirit of hockey continues to unite them, transcending the boundaries of faith and sport.
