National Trust at CPRQ Annual Forum
On Thursday, October 8, 2026, the National Trust gave a presentation on the conservation of the Papineau Chapel at the annual forum of the Conseil du patrimoine religieux de Québec (CPRQ). In a day packed with inspiring stories about communities saving and using religious buildings, it was a pleasure to share our own story of care and renewal.
The Papineau Chapel, a funerary chapel built by Louis-Joseph Papineau in the early 1850s, has been owned by the National Trust since the 1970s. This compact architectural gem underwent a significant conservation project in the early 2020s, including masonry repointing and a new roof. The conservation project was supported by the CPRQ, among others.
The CPRQ is a non-profit organization that supports and promotes the conservation and interpretation of Quebec’s religious heritage. It brings together and aligns the work of different religious traditions, the province, local authorities and experts to advance the sustainable reuse of religious heritage.
Rob Pajot, who managed the conservation project while working at the National Trust, generously came out of retirement to present on this work at the Forum. He was joined by current National Trust CEO Patricia Kell, who shared information about the conservation of the work of art over the altar, a high quality 19th-century print. Charlie Porter, Manager of Operations, rounded out the National Trust delegation.
Rob Pajot presenting at the annual forum of the Conseil du patrimoine religieux du Québec. Credit: Martin Parent.
The Forum took place in the village church in Montebello, Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours, which is itself in the process of reinvention as a community centre. A highlight of the day was a short recital on the Cassavant organ at lunch, featuring music by Quebecois composers.
The day culminated with a walking tour, including a stop at the Papineau Chapel. The Chapel tour was animated by Rob Pajot and Martin Parent of the Société historique Louis-Joseph-Papineau, which works with the National Trust to interpret the site.
Martin Parent of the Société historique Louis-Joseph Papineau shares information about the chapel with Forum participants.
At a time when so many landmark churches and other places of faith are struggling to find a future, the Forum offered concrete examples of communities re-inventing, re-using, and re-interpreting the value of these important historic places for communities. Bravo to the CPRQ for promoting and facilitating this rich exchange.
