Quebec church transforms into Habs playoff watch hub

The atmosphere inside St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, is electric as the sounds of excitement fill the space. Here, fans wearing the blue, white, and red jerseys of the Montreal Canadiens gather in droves, transforming the sacred venue into a vibrant hub for hockey enthusiasts. Instead of traditional hymns, the air resonates with the familiar chant of “Olé! Olé! Olé!” as these dedicated supporters come together to cheer for their beloved team.

A New Kind of Community Gathering

Since the onset of the NHL playoffs, this cathedral has become a lively gathering point for hockey aficionados, who participate in raucous watch parties. These events merge the fervor of live sports with a sense of community, as hundreds rally together to support their team through cheers, chants, and even prayers for victory.

Marjolaine Quintal, the director of content and communications for La Cargaison, the nonprofit multimedia organization orchestrating these events, noted that the turnout has surpassed all expectations. Her observations highlight a unique cultural phenomenon: “People in Quebec and Canada gather together around hockey games – it’s almost a religion.”

In her view, the similarities between the rituals of sports and religion are striking. Both serve as communal experiences, fostering connections and shared emotions among participants.

Transforming Sacred Spaces

The cathedral, with its rich history and stunning architecture, offers an extraordinary backdrop for these hockey viewings. A massive 35-foot screen displays the games, while DJs energize the crowd and colorful lights dance across the church's historic walls. This innovative blend of sports and spirituality creates an atmosphere that is both entertaining and unifying.

As fans line up outside the building, the excitement is palpable. At one recent event, a man dressed in a red, priest-like robe encouraged attendees to kneel and join in a playful prayer, invoking the legendary Canadiens player Maurice “Rocket” Richard. Known as “St-Flanelle,” he humorously engages the crowd, stating, “Our rocket, who is in heaven, may your talent be shared.”

The Intersection of Faith and Sports

For many attendees, this experience is about more than just hockey; it’s about community and connection. Antoine Dubé, a fan in attendance, shared that he was drawn to the vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to experience the game alongside others. Interestingly, many participants admitted they were not regular churchgoers, yet the sense of fellowship brought them together, united in their prayers for the Canadiens’ success.

Isabelle Brulotte, who manages the church through the Corporation Monseigneur Forget, explained that watching sports in sacred spaces is not a novel concept. Historically, churches served as community hubs where individuals would gather to listen to games, particularly during times when they could not afford a television or radio. This tradition reflects the deep-rooted connection between sports and community life in Quebec.

Community Engagement and Controversy

While the watch parties have garnered significant attention and participation, they have also sparked some debate. Brulotte has received inquiries from individuals who view the broadcasting of games in the church as inappropriate or irreverent. Nevertheless, she firmly believes that the events align with the church’s mission to serve the community, particularly younger generations.

• In 2025, over 10,000 visitors attended the cathedral for events beyond religious ceremonies.
• Some attendees have returned for church services after initially visiting for the sports events.
• The church offers Habs-themed candles for fans wishing to light one in prayer for the team.

Views from the Players

The unique atmosphere of these gatherings has caught the attention of the players themselves. Canadiens star Cole Caufield reflected on the significance of hockey in Quebec, stating, “It literally is (a religion).” His comment underscores the profound connection between the team and its fans, highlighting the shared commitment and passion that transcends individual lifestyles.

These sentiments resonate deeply within the community, where hockey has become a unifying force, creating a sense of identity and belonging among fans.

Sports and Spirituality: A Complicated Relationship

While many find parallels between sports and religion, not everyone agrees. Matt Hoven, who teaches Catholic religious education, argues that while both realms create community and identity, sports do not address the fundamental questions of life. “Hockey isn’t trying to answer life’s biggest questions,” he stated. However, he acknowledges that the two worlds frequently intersect, especially in Quebec, where hockey was initially perceived as an English sport but later embraced by Francophone priests.

In contemporary culture, sports figures have often been elevated to almost saintly status. Legendary Canadiens goalies like Patrick Roy and Carey Price have been affectionately dubbed “Saint Patrick” and “Jesus Price” by fans, illustrating the deep veneration some hold for these athletes. This phenomenon reflects how sports can evoke strong emotional and even spiritual responses from followers.

The Power of Rituals in Sports

Hoven also points out that the rituals associated with sports can stir religious feelings among fans. The act of lighting candles and praying for a team’s victory can evoke a spiritual experience, suggesting that sports can, at times, fulfill a similar role to traditional religious practices.

“It’s fascinating how opportunities for expression arise, allowing people to connect with the spiritual,” he noted.

The Future of Sports in Sacred Spaces

The phenomenon occurring at St-Jean-l’Évangéliste Cathedral exemplifies a growing trend where traditional venues adapt to fulfill contemporary community needs. By opening their doors for hockey viewings, churches not only engage with younger demographics but also preserve their role as integral parts of community life.

This blend of sports and spirituality may challenge conventional perceptions, but it also presents an opportunity for churches to remain relevant in a rapidly changing society. Such events could pave the way for new forms of community engagement that resonate with a diverse audience, fostering connections that extend beyond the sports field and into the heart of the community.