History Page | Relocation of Mother Marie-Rose’s Tomb to Longueuil — 2004
Return of Mother Marie-Rose’s Tomb to Longueuil: A Living Place of Prayer and Memory
The tomb was moved on May 1, 2004
May 1, 2004, remains a significant date for the Christian community of Longueuil and for the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). On that day, the tomb of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher was transferred from the Outremont motherhouse to the Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue—a place deeply connected to her life and legacy.
This symbolic gesture represents a true return to her roots. It was in this very church that she professed her vows and where her funeral was held in 1849.
A Place of Prayer Open to All
Now located in a chapel dedicated to her, the tomb of Mother Marie-Rose has become a place of prayer, silence, and inner reflection. Open to all, it invites visitors to pause, entrust their intentions, and discover the spirituality of a woman who devoted her life to education and service.
This transfer also fulfilled the desire to make the Blessed more accessible to the faithful, as Bishop Bernard Hubert noted at her beatification in 1982: “Her example lights our path, strengthens our courage, and sustains our hope.”
An Event Marked by Faith and Emotion
The transfer of the tomb took place over three days, in a spirit of prayer reminiscent of a triduum. The sisters experienced moments of vigil, ritual, and pilgrimage, both in Outremont and Longueuil.
On May 1, a simple yet moving procession carried the reliquary to the co-cathedral. Children, each holding a rose, led the way, forming a guard of honour on the forecourt where many faithful had gathered.
This moment left a deep impression on those present. Parish priest Raymond Poisson recalls:
“I carried the casket containing Mother Marie-Rose’s remains… It felt so heavy, filled with the intentions and prayers of so many people.”
A Living Legacy
Today, the presence of Mother Marie-Rose’s tomb in Longueuil continues to reflect the vitality of her mission. The SNJM carry forward her legacy through their ongoing commitment to education and accompaniment, both in Canada and around the world.
Each May 1 offers an opportunity to visit the Marie-Rose Chapel, to pause in prayer, and to learn more about this inspiring woman whose legacy continues to bear fruit.
A Place to Visit
The chapel dedicated to Mother Marie-Rose, located in the Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue, welcomes all who wish to:
• pray and reflect
• entrust their intentions
• learn more about the mission of the SNJM
A peaceful place in the heart of Longueuil, where memory and hope come together.
