Marie-Rose Centre Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the River Sanctuaries

Founded to share the life and legacy of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), the Marie-Rose Centre is proud to participate in the 10th season of the River Sanctuaries. As a founding member of this heritage and tourism network, the Centre joins six other historic sites dedicated to preserving and promoting local history.

This anniversary season is particularly meaningful, featuring special programming that highlights the Filles du Roy (King’s Daughters)—the pioneering women who helped build New France. The theme also celebrates the role of bold and visionary women in Quebec’s history, closely aligning with the mission of the Marie-Rose Centre and its participation in the heritage route Discover Our Trailblazing Women.

Continuing the Mission in New Ways

Although the interior facilities of the Marie-Rose Centre are no longer open to the public following the sale of the historic site, its mission remains very much alive.

The Centre continues to promote the values, legacy, and educational work of Marie-Rose Durocher through its participation in two Montérégie heritage circuits. It offers self-guided outdoor visits, guided tours by appointment, and plans special activities throughout the year.

Visitors can also continue their discovery at the Marie-Rose Chapel, located in the Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue in Longueuil. Open to the public year-round, this place of remembrance houses the tomb of the foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). Display cases featuring artifacts, interpretive panels, and QR codes allow visitors to learn more about the Congregation’s history and Marie-Rose Durocher’s contribution to education in Quebec.

Special Programming for a 10th Anniversary Celebration

To mark this milestone season, the River Sanctuaries have partnered with the Filles du Roy Living History Group of Montreal—Montérégie, a collaboration recently unveiled during a press conference.

Four special events will offer visitors an opportunity to discover the world of these courageous women who played a vital role in the settlement of New France:

July 26—Varennes
• August 1—Longueuil | Parc de la Baronnie, located across from the SNJM heritage site
• August 8—Boucherville
• September 13 — La Prairie

Historical reenactments, musical performances, family activities, and encounters with period characters will bring an important chapter of our collective history to life.

Three Unique Heritage Routes to Explore

Created in 2016, the River Sanctuaries originally brought together five heritage sites located along the St. Lawrence River. Two additional sites joined the network in 2023, further expanding its cultural and tourism offerings.

Today, Montérégie remains the only tourism region in Quebec to offer three complementary heritage routes:

River Sanctuaries
• Discover Our Trailblazing Women
• Remarkable Heritage Discoveries

These routes showcase sites that reflect the cultural, spiritual, and architectural richness of the region. They trace the history of Indigenous presence, New France, the “Patriotes” movement, religious heritage, and modern industrial development.

A Living Heritage Waiting to Be Discovered

The 2026 season will begin in mid-June and run through Labor Day and the Religious Heritage Days on September 11, 12, and 13. Exhibitions, guided tours, historical discoveries, and themed activities will be offered at participating sites throughout the season.

Through its involvement in these heritage routes, the Marie-Rose Centre continues its mission: sharing the legacy of its foundress and reminding visitors that pioneering, visionary, and courageous women continue to inspire new generations.

👉 Consult the 2026 River Sanctuaries and Montérégie Heritage Routes program guide to discover all the activities offered this summer.