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In Our Own Backyard
Rigaud shrine offers visitors a tranquil setting
Kristina Edson
The Gazette
Thursday, June 18, 2009
While there are many things to see and do in faraway places, the
best can sometimes be found right in our own backyard. With that in
mind, The Gazette’s West Island section will explore attractions and
delights in our corner of the world, both on and off the island.
For
135 years, pilgrims and people of faith have travelled across Canada
and many parts of the globe to visit a tranquil outdoor sanctuary that
does not flaunt its beauty, or boast its presence.
Maybe that’s why visits to Rigaud’s Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes are on the decline.
Founded
in 1874 by the Clerics of St. Viateur and based on the original Notre
Dame de Lourdes in France, the shrine flanks Rigaud Mountain.
Twelve priests offer part-time pastoral counselling, the sacrament of reconciliation, meditated Rosary, Eucharistic exposition and benediction each Sunday, anointing of the Sick (July 12 ) and night time candlelight processions in July and August.
Until the last Sunday in September worshippers can visit the open-air chapel under the trees to attend daily masses or simply hike the shrine’s tiered outdoor stone levels, visit hidden grottos or a tiny centuries old chapel that overlooks the Rigaud valley.
In addition, the shrine’s hiking trails link into Rigaud Mountain’s extensive hiking trail network.
Father René Pageau, a member of the Clerics of St. Viateur, said in its heyday some 25 years ago, the Rigaud shrine hosted as many as 6,000 visitors each Sunday.
On a good Sunday these days, between 800 to 1,000 people attend one of four services.
Those who do come may stay in the area for the day, the weekend or a week.
People also come to see the field of rocks knows as the Devil’s Garden. According to pious legend, an errant farmer chose to tend his potato field one Sunday rather than worship and take a day of rest. While ploughing the field, he supposedly sank his tools into the earth and his crop of potatoes turned to rocks.
The geological explanation: melting glaciers that once rubbed against the mountain produced smooth, rounded stones. When the glaciers retreated, the mountain was submerged under seas reaching depths of 220 metres. The stones were deposited in concentrated numbers as the seas retreated.
How long does a visit take? Anywhere from an hour to a day.
What should I bring along? A picnic, sturdy walking shoes.
Will I need any money? Parking is free, as is attending masses or walking the tranquil grounds. There is a gift shop.
How do I get there? Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine is at 43 St. Viateur St. in Rigaud. Take Highway 40 west to exit 12 in Rigaud and turn left onto Chemin De la Grande-Ligne/Highway 342. Turn left at St.Viateur St. and continue until you see the sanctuary behind Collège Bourget hockey arena.
What else to I need to know? The shrine is open daily from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (the last service starts at 4:30 p.m.)