News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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PM pays tribute to Saint André of Montreal

Visits Saint Joseph's Oratory and Attends Thanksgiving Mass

October 30, 2010
Montreal, Quebec

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today attended a thanksgiving mass at Montreal's Olympic Stadium in honour of the canonization of Brother André. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to this remarkable Canadian by visiting Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, which recently received additional government support for vital restoration work.

"For many, his life is an example of how faith can move mountains. For others, he is a source of profound inspiration. We all recognize that he was a great man, a great Quebecer and a great Canadian."

Brother André was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on October 17, 2010. He is the second Canadian-born saint in our country's history and the first Canadian man to be canonized.

Through Canada's Economic Action Plan's National Historic Sites of Canada Cost-Sharing Program, the Harper government is providing support for restoration work at Saint Joseph's Oratory. These funds will make it possible to repair the copper roofs on the basilica's four turrets and the surrounding stone masonry walls.

Approximately two million people visit St. Joseph's Oratory — where Brother André is entombed — every year.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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