Saint André Bessette lived from 1845 to 1937, spending his adult life as a religious brother in Montreal, Quebec in Canada, writes William Bloomfield, pictured, pictured below, General Counsel for the Diocese of Lansing, January 6.
Known as “Brother André,” this simple doorkeeper lived a life of radical humility, prayer, and hospitality. He gradually became known as a miracle worker, and thousands upon thousands soon began visiting him or writing to him seeking his intercession.
Rather than accepting the acclaim, however, Brother André told people to pray to Saint Joseph and attributed any miracles received — and there were many — to Saint Joseph.
Brother André's devotion to Saint Joseph spread and he eventually became caretaker of what would become the magnificent Shrine of Saint Joseph on Mount Royal in Montreal. Brother André continued in this role until his death in 1937. It is said that over one million people visited the body of Brother André upon his death.
A few years ago, I completed the Consecration to Saint Joseph promoted by Father Donald Calloway. The consecration encouraged going on a pilgrimage to a shrine of Saint Joseph so I decided to bring my family on a pilgrimage to Saint Joseph Shrine in Montreal.
While the main church is certainly large, and the exterior of the shrine’s enormous dome is impressive, the heart of the shrine is the votive chapel to Saint Joseph, where pilgrims still come to light a votive candle and bring their petitions to Saint Joseph.
Brother André was canonized in 2010. His tomb is also found at the shrine and pilgrims likewise come to visit his tomb and ask for his intercession.
Saint André Bessette, pray for us!
Saint Joseph, pray for us!
