A Platform Inspired by the Iconic Architecture of the Sanctuary and Mount Royal
Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal today unveils its new digital platform—a transformation designed in the image of the site: inspired by the sanctuary’s iconic architecture, notably its majestic dome, and by the curves of Mount Royal on which it stands.
Launched online at 10 a.m. this morning, the new website marks a significant step in the transformation of the Oratory. It builds on the momentum initiated with the opening of the new welcome pavilion and reflects a clear intent: to offer an inclusive, smooth, and welcoming digital experience that reflects the site’s spiritual, cultural, and heritage richness. Discover the platform
A Website Designed for Everyone
Created for the two million annual visitors—pilgrims, cultural tourists, the faithful, and curious guests—the new website is built on a modernized interface and a streamlined user experience:
- Simplified navigation (reduction from 8 to 3 levels of information);
- Direct access to essential services: mass schedules, prayer intentions, virtual candles, donations;
- Enhanced “Plan Your Visit” section: full planning tools, concerts, accommodations, guided tours;
- Room reservations with views of Montreal for private events;
- Online store: religious items, souvenirs, publications.
10 Must-Sees to Explore
The Oratory now features 10 must-see attractions—true cornerstones of any visit—highlighted through:
- Interactive geolocated maps;
- Immersive virtual tours;
- Rich descriptions covering spiritual, historical, and architectural aspects.
Iconic spaces like the Crypt, the Basilica, the Museum, and the 62-bell carillon, along with lesser-known areas such as the Gardens of the Cross or the Votive Chapel, are now accessible online in rich detail.
Each space offers an enhanced experience, accompanying visitors during and after their visit to the Oratory.
A new digital visual identity has also been developed: modern, clean, and infused with the colors and culture of the site.Une nouvelle charte graphique a également été développée pour le numérique : moderne, épurée, et empreinte des couleurs et de la culture du lieu.
A Human and Tailored Collaboration
The website was designed with care and method in a spirit of co-creation. The project was led by the Saint Joseph’s Oratory communications team, directed by Céline Barbeau and Danielle Decelles, with support from Marianne Hébert (communications) and Alban Babadjide (web technologies).
To bring this vision to life, the Oratory collaborated with Rouge On Blue, represented by:
- Hala Tazi, project manager, who orchestrated the entire production;
- Sébastien Guy, creative director, who crafted the visual approach inspired by the sanctuary;
- Lionel Pardin, president of Rouge On Blue, who upheld the project’s custom philosophy;
- And Benoît Lapointe, chief technology officer at Rouge On Blue.
“We had to create a website in the image of this sacred place: welcoming, luminous, inspiring.”
— Sébastien Guy, Creative Director, Rouge On Blue
“This new site is more than just a digital tool: it’s an extension of our mission of welcome. It was designed like a custom-tailored garment, perfectly suited to our place and culture.”
— Céline Barbeau, Director of Communications, Saint Joseph’s Oratory
“At a time when websites are becoming standardized, this project is a unique gesture—made by humans, for humans.”
– Lionel Pardin, President, Rouge On Blue
“Leading this project was a privilege: it’s rare to accompany such an iconic place in its digital transformation while staying true to its soul.”
— Hala Tazi, Project Manager, Rouge On Blue