“A People’s Place.” That’s what All Saints Anglican Church became. It stands here at Dundas and Sherbourne. Its story is one of faith, community, and radical welcome.
All Saints Anglican Church started in 1872. It aimed to be a church for everyone. Rich and poor worshipped together here. The first rector, Reverend Canon Arthur Baldwin, cared deeply. He helped widows and orphans. The church building finished in 1874 showed the founders’ generosity. People called All Saints a perfect Gothic Revival. It combined architecture and art beautifully.
As Toronto grew, so did All Saints Anglican Church. The 800-seat church was often full. Women played a crucial role in its ministry. Deaconesses visited the sick. They spoke up for the poor and immigrants.
After World War I, many families moved away. After World War II, the exodus increased. Big houses became rooming houses. The area had more poor and transient residents.
In 1964, Reverend Norman Ellis became the new rector. He grew the church by reaching out. He connected with Moss Park residents. He welcomed men from nearby shelters. These new members could not donate much money.
Ellis found new ways to help. In 1970, All Saints gave its hall to the Friendship Centre. Men from shelters could get coffee and play cards there. The Queen Street Mental Hospital started a clinic here. It offered counselling in the church hall. All Saints was becoming a vital hub.
Ellis suggested a big change. All Saints Anglican Church would become a “church-community centre.” A board of directors would manage it. In 1971, the church accepted this idea. All Saints became a place for rest and peace. It welcomed the lonely and homeless.
Most pews were removed. This made space for the Open Door Centre. It was a drop-in centre for women. Soon, men were welcome too. Ellis called these drop-ins “parlour space.” Residents could meet friends here. They offered snacks, phones, mail service, and clothing. They also provided counselling.
Worship remained important at All Saints Anglican Church. Ellis started weekly Agape Suppers. People shared a meal and studied the Bible. He believed everyone who came was part of the church. “The Church is not buildings but people,” he wrote. All Saints began hosting legal and health clinics. They supported First Nations people. Many non-profits were based here. These included Council Fire and Street Health. All Saints pioneered harm reduction.
Today, All Saints remains a “People’s Place”. People in need find help and community here. The Open Door Centre is now the All Saints Drop-in. It is run by the church-community centre board.
All Saints Anglican Church continues Ellis’ vision. Every person is welcomed with dignity. The congregation still welcomes everyone. All are invited to share God’s love here.
Richard Cunningham Windeyer designed All Saints Anglican Church. It opened in 1874. The Early English Gothic style cost $21,000. It features colourful brickwork. The city recognized its heritage in 1974. Ontario followed in 1983. This building has witnessed decades of change and service. It continues to stand as a beacon of hope.