Mark had a conference in Montreal, so I joined him. It was a great couple getaway, and our first time away from both kids--we missed them so much, but knew Grammy was taking good care of them. Our time in Canada felt like a Sabbath--a time set apart--which was perfect, seeing how there are so many beautiful cathedrals to visit...
The Basilique de Notre Dame, the first Gothic Revival style church in Canada. Among its famous visitors are Pope John Paul II and Celine Dion, who was married here.
When we first stepped inside, even Mark said it took his breath away. And in the evening, they host a spectacular light show that tells the history of the church.
The pipe organ, with 1648 pipes.
The spiraling pulpit--our camera couldn't capture it.
The wedding chapel, located behind the main altar.
In the center of the altar is the crucifixion, surrounded by four Old Testament patriarchs: Melchizedek, Abraham, Moses and Aaron.
This is our hotel room, the Fairmont Le Reine Elizabeth. We look out upon statues of saints and the dome of the Basilique de Marie Reine du Monde (Mary, Queen of the World).
The interior reminded me of walking into St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, except that it's 1/3 the size.
Mark's conference site: Palais du Congres.
And now, for a stroll around Old Montreal (Montreal Vieux)...
And a late night hike up Montreal's mountain, Mont Royal.
I couldn't figure out why Canadians seem so much more relaxed than Americans--they take their time to eat and enjoy life. But then I realized they had another hour in their day, a souvenir I'd like to bring home!
No comments:
Post a Comment