When religious objects tell a story

Although the interior decoration and liturgical furniture must respect certain rules to ensure religious understanding, churches also house many objects which may appear miscellaneous and disparate at first glance. Made of various materials and shapes and from different times, these objects unwittingly narrate the history of the church and its community.

Color photograph, close-up, a life-size wax statue representing a woman dressed in green and white silk is lying on cushions and surrounded by pink flowers in a glass tomb.

Wax recumbent statue, Saint-Joseph-de-Soulanges Catholic church, Les Cèdres, 2009

Offered by parishioners, priests, or religious communities, they were given to celebrate an event or as token of gratitude for answered prayers. Generally, there is an inscription confirming the donation from a reputable parishioner, the date of an anniversary, or the recognition of a collective contribution.

Color photograph, close-up of a gold and blue statue representing a woman wearing a crown and standing on a globe, arms outstretched, she is crushing a snake at her feet.

Statue of Notre-Dame de la Garde, Sainte-Jeanne-de-Chantal Catholic church, Notre-Dame-de-l’Île Perrot, 2011

Color photograph, close-up of an anchor-shaped brass religious object with many cells in which can be placed votive candles.

Candles holder, Saint-Joseph-de-Soulanges Catholic church, Les Cèdres, 2009

Color photography, close-up of church containing photographic material, various religious objects on tables and a woman working at a computer.

Inventory and documentation of religious objects, Saint-Télesphore Catholic church, 2010

These objects document local history, highlighting the community’s significant events or illustrating specific celebrations and devotions unique to its parish. Placed throughout the church, they contibute in their own way to the interior decor and artistic richness.

Color photograph, close-up of people listening to a man wearing white gloves and holding an object in his hands, on a table a few religious objects and photographic material.

Conference on religious objects, Sainte-Madeleine Catholic church, Rigaud, 2011

A total work of art: the Saint-Michel de Vaudreuil church For the sailors’ salvation: the Saint-Joseph-de-Soulanges church