New monument in memory of Marie-Rose Durocher

Longueuil, Quebec, Canada – 23 May 2015 –Today, on this anniversary of the beatification of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, a new monument in her memory will be unveiled. The event will start at 4:00 pm, on the western outskirts of the Co-Cathedral of Saint Anthony of Padua, in Longueuil.

Replacement of the vandalised statue

In the autumn of 2004, a brass and copper statue also representing Blessed Marie-Rose had been installed at the same place. Unfortunately, in 2011, the work was vandalised and its pedestal has since remained empty. “The arrival of the new monument is excellent news for all those who remain faithful to the memory of our foundress”, explained Sister Catherine Ferguson, Superior General of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.

Revitalisation plan is moving along

An initiative orchestrated jointly by the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary and the Parish Parish of Saint Anthony of Padua, is part of the three-year plan to develop and improve the Co-Cathedral. “We are very pleased with this artistic addition in the immediate surroundings of our sanctuary. It testifies to the vitality of rue Saint-Charles and to the dynamism of its local partners”, emphasised the priest of the Parish of Saint Anthony of Padua, Father Christian Rodembourg.

About the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary

The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) is an international community of Catholic women religious. Those affiliated with them include associates and lay consecrated persons. Founded in 1843 in Longueuil, QC, Canada, the congregation carries out its mission of education on three continents. Visit www.snjm.org

About the Three-year plan to develop and improve the Co-Cathedral

The proposed development and improvement of the Co-Cathedral of Saint Anthony of Padua in Longueuil targets the optimum utilisation of this religious heritage. It proposes to place the historic monument on a tourist trail whilst respecting pastoral activities. It also involves integrating the site as part of a propose revitalisation of rue Saint-Charles so that it will become one of the iconic landmarks of Vieux-Longueuil. For more information, visit www.cocathedrale.ca