Spaces of Memory That Bring Cultures Together
Celebrated since 1977, International Museum Day highlights the essential role museums play in our societies. As the International Council of Museums (ICOM) notes, they are “an important means of cultural exchange and enrichment” and help foster “mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace among peoples.”
2026 Theme: Uniting a Divided World
For 2026, ICOM introduces the theme “Museums Unite a Divided World.” In a time marked by tension and polarization, museums stand out as spaces for dialogue, inclusion, and connection.
More than places of preservation, museums invite us to discover stories, explore different perspectives, and better understand cultural diversity. By showcasing heritage and amplifying diverse voices, they actively help build bridges between generations and communities.
An Invitation to Explore and Connect
Each year, thousands of activities take place around the world. More than 37,000 museums in 156 countries participate, demonstrating their vital role in cultural and social enrichment.
It’s a perfect opportunity to visit exhibitions, discover new spaces, and reflect on the role museums play in education, well-being, and sustainable development.
Discovering SNJM History in New Ways
Although the Marie-Rose Centre, the SNJM museum space, is currently closed, several resources are available to continue exploring their history:
• the Marie-Rose Centre webpage, part of the River Sanctuaries network
• outdoor heritage panels installed on-site
• the Marie-Rose Chapel at Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue Co-Cathedral in Longueuil, where her tomb and artifacts are located
• a dedicated SNJM section at the co-cathedral museum
These spaces and resources offer meaningful ways to engage with the history and mission of the Congregation.
A Shared Heritage to Celebrate
On this International Museum Day, everyone is invited to explore, learn, and be inspired. Museums remind us that heritage is a shared treasure—one that must be preserved and passed on to future generations.