In the bustling heart of Montreal, the Saint John the Evangelist Church stands as a testament to faith and resilience. The church, affectionately known as the “Red Roof Church,” is a striking landmark. It captures attention with its vibrant red metal roof against the backdrop of the city skyline. Saint John the Evangelist Church was established in 1861 by Father Edmund Wood. He brought the Oxford Movement’s principles to Canada. The current church, built in 1878, showcases a unique “slum gothic” architectural style. It’s reminiscent of the ritualist churches built in London for poorer Anglo-Catholic parishes. The architect, William Tutin Thomas, drew inspiration from churches like St. Saviour’s Hoxton in London.
The church’s interior is equally captivating. A large stone rood screen, complete with a crucifix, statues of Our Lady and St. John, and a dedicated side chapel to St. Anne, creates a sense of reverence. The church’s history is intertwined with the community it serves. It was one of the first Anglican churches in Canada to celebrate daily Mass, offer private Confession, and reserve the Blessed Sacrament. Notably, it was the first in the diocese to forgo pew rentals, offering chairs instead, symbolizing its open-door policy.
Saint John the Evangelist Church played a pivotal role in establishing vital institutions. These included Lower Canada College, the Father Dowd Nursing Home (formerly St. Margaret’s Home for Incurables), and St. Michael’s Mission. The mission served the city’s homeless until 2022, offering over a hundred meals daily. The church’s vibrant red roof, a defining feature since 1955, has not only earned it its nickname but also a place in popular culture. It has been featured in films like “Affliction,” the Quebec sci-fi series “Dans une galaxie près de chez vous,” and Quebec films such as “La Bolduc” and “Karmina.” Beyond its architectural and historical significance, Saint John the Evangelist Church embodies a spirit of community and service. It stands as a beacon of faith in the heart of Montreal. It continues to welcome people from all walks of life.