Press Release
For Immediate Release

Montreal, June 2, 2026 — The Archdiocese of Montreal and Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral today announce an open call for sacred art inviting professional artists to submit proposals for a new commemorative work entitled "Maisonneuve Sets a Cross Upon Mount Royal."

Conceived to help enrich the Cathedral's collection of historical works, this initiative envisions an emblematic scene from Montreal's spiritual and founding history: the act of Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve, who, on January 6, 1643, erected a cross on Mount Royal to give thanks to God for having spared Ville-Marie from the floods of Christmas 1642.

The future work will be installed inside Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral, in the northwest alcove near the Chapel of the Assumption, opposite Georges Delfosse's paintings depicting Jeanne Mance and the Hospitallers of Saint Joseph.

Artists are invited to submit a proposal for a figurative work inspired by Montreal's spiritual, historical, and cultural heritage, and consistent with the aesthetic of the Cathedral's collection of works on display in this sacred space.

"This work will serve as a reminder of a defining act of faith and hope in Montreal's history. It will help carry forward, for generations to come, the memory of our spiritual roots," said Archbishop Christian Lépine of Montreal, chair of the selection jury.

The open call welcomes professional artists residing in Quebec with expertise in figurative painting, sacred art, or integrating cultural heritage. The overall project budget is $50,000.

Applications must be submitted by June 21, 2026. A jury comprising Cathedral representatives and experts in visual arts and religious heritage will select three finalists. The winning proposal will be announced in September 2026 and the resulting work unveiled in early January 2027, on the anniversary of Maisonneuve's historic act.

Full details, eligibility criteria, and registration (in French only) are available at: https://mariereinedumonde.org/fr/appel-a-projets/

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Source:
Archdiocese of Montreal
Media inquiries: Maribel Mayorga
Press Secretary, Office of the Archbishop and
Director, Communications and Media Relations
Phone: 514-925-4300 | 207
Email: mmayorga@diocesemontreal.org