André Bessette, Canadian saint (b. 1845)

André Bessette, often revered as Brother André (French: Frère André), and officially known since his canonization as Saint André of Montreal, was a profoundly influential lay brother of the Congregation of Holy Cross. Born on 9 August 1845, he dedicated his life to humble service and fervent devotion until his passing on 6 January 1937. His significant impact on the Roman Catholic Church, particularly among French-Canadians, stemmed from his deep spiritual connection to Saint Joseph and the thousands of reported miraculous healings associated with his intercession and the use of oil blessed in Saint Joseph's honor.

A pivotal figure at the outset of the 20th century, Brother André served for many years as a humble doorkeeper at Notre Dame College in Montreal, a school administered by the Congregation of Holy Cross. It was in this unassuming role that he first began to encounter countless individuals seeking solace, advice, and healing. He tirelessly ministered to the sick and suffering, emphasizing that any relief or cure came not from him personally, but through the powerful intercession of Saint Joseph and the individual's unwavering faith. He would often encourage people to rub themselves with oil from a lamp burning before a statue of Saint Joseph, consistently reiterating that it was Saint Joseph who performed the miracles, not the oil itself or his own actions.

The Congregation of Holy Cross, to which Brother André belonged, is a religious community of priests, brothers, and sisters founded in Le Mans, France, by Father Basile Moreau in 1837. Known globally for its educational and missionary endeavors, the Congregation deeply influenced Brother André's spiritual formation, fostering his lifelong commitment to service and evangelical poverty. His work laid the groundwork for the construction of Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal in Montreal, which began modestly as a small chapel in 1904. This monumental basilica, now a major pilgrimage site, stands as a testament to his persistent devotion and the widespread veneration of Saint Joseph he inspired.

Brother André's reputation for holiness and miraculous intercession grew exponentially, leading to a profound movement for his canonization. The formal process involved several key stages within the Roman Catholic Church:

Significantly, Saint André of Montreal holds the unique distinction of being the first Canadian saint who lived after the Canadian Confederation of 1867. This historical fact underscores his contemporary relevance and deep connection to the modern Canadian national identity, making him a particularly cherished figure for Canadians and pilgrims worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire millions, offering a powerful example of humility, faith, and the profound impact one individual can have through simple, dedicated service, always pointing towards the power of God through Saint Joseph.

Who was Brother André, and what was his primary role?

Brother André, born Alfred Bessette, was a lay brother of the Congregation of Holy Cross, an international religious order. His primary role for many years was that of a humble doorkeeper at Notre Dame College in Montreal. In this capacity, he met thousands of people daily, offering comfort, counsel, and fervent prayers, which eventually led to his renown for interceding with Saint Joseph for those seeking physical or spiritual healing.

How were the reported miraculous healings associated with Brother André?

Brother André was credited with thousands of reported miraculous healings, which he consistently and humbly attributed solely to the intercession of Saint Joseph, not to his own abilities. He would often encourage individuals to apply oil from a lamp burning before a statue of Saint Joseph, emphasizing that it was their faith in Saint Joseph, not the oil itself or his actions, that was the true source of grace and any perceived cure. He saw himself merely as a humble conduit for Saint Joseph's benevolent influence.

Why is he known as Saint André of Montreal, and what is his significance to Canada?

He is known as Saint André of Montreal due to his profound and lasting connection to the city where he lived and ministered for decades, and where the majestic Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, a major basilica and pilgrimage site, was built as a direct result of his unwavering devotion and advocacy for Saint Joseph. His significance to Canada is immense, as he is the first Canadian saint to have lived after the country's Confederation in 1867. This makes him a powerful and relatable symbol of modern Canadian faith, inspiring millions with his example of humility, perseverance, and profound spiritual dedication.