A majestic structure it stands before you. The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue. This isn’t just any church. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and history.
For centuries this spot has witnessed the ebb and flow of life. First came Fort Longueuil. A fortified residence for Charles le Moyne de Longueuil a Canadian-born Baron. Imagine the soldiers the bustling activity. The fort fell silent in 1810. Yet its legacy lives on. Many stones from the fort were used in building the very cathedral you see today.
The current structure the third church on this site. The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue. It began life as a parish church. Founded in 1698 it’s among Canada’s oldest parishes. Construction of the current building spanned years from 1884 to a final completion in 1911. The Gothic Revival style dominates its exterior. The dome however a stunning Neo-Byzantine addition. It’s a beautiful blend of styles. The architects Henri-Maurice Perrault and Albert Mesnard created a magnificent space. They even crafted the altar themselves. Using the finest stones they could find. Quebec sculptor Louis-Philippe Hébert also contributed. He created three stunning wood sculptures covered in metal.
The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue isn’t just impressive on the outside. Inside you’ll find incredible artistry. Stunning stained-glass windows depict the life of Saint Anthony. There are also three-dimensional Stations of the Cross. A true masterpiece. The cathedral’s two Casavant organs fill the vast space with music. A testament to their skill.
The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue also holds sacred relics. The Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher rests here. Founder of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Her tomb lies in the Marie-Rose chapel. Another amazing detail the crypt. It houses the remains of the Le Moyne and Grant families. They are associated with the Baron de Longueuil title. History is quite literally beneath your feet.
In 1982 the parish became a co-cathedral. This was when the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saint-Jean-de-Québec was renamed. It’s now the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saint-Jean-Longueuil. The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue. A co-cathedral. A testament to history faith and artistic brilliance. Its imposing presence here today. A quiet strength that has endured for centuries.
So take a moment to absorb this grand building. The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue. Let its beauty speak to you. Let its story touch your soul.