A spire piercing the Montreal sky. That’s the first thing you see. The Église Saint-Pierre-Apôtre. Its Neo-Gothic architecture dominates the cityscape. A testament to faith and history.
Built between 1851 and 1853 this church wasn’t just a building. It was a statement. Architect Victor Bourgeau designed it. He drew inspiration from Holy Trinity Church in Brooklyn. Bourgeau’s masterpiece. Its Neo-Gothic style influenced Quebec architecture for years to come. The stonework is remarkable. He boldly used stone for everything even the columns. A feat rarely seen in Canada even today. The nave’s width is exactly half its total length. A precise mathematical harmony.
The church’s story is intertwined with Montreal’s. For centuries Montreal was under the Sulpicians’ control religiously and civilly. They controlled the Notre-Dame parish. They even helped finance the construction of Saint Patrick’s Basilica. Bishop Ignace Bourget challenged their dominance. He invited the Oblate Missionaries of Mary Immaculate. They established a mission in the east end. A temporary chapel was used before the permanent church was built. The land was donated by Pierre Beaudry. A businessman. His name is familiar from the Beaudry metro station.
The Église Saint-Pierre-Apôtre was more than just a place of worship. It represented the pride of French Canadians. Its spire initially stood 71.7 meters tall. Five meters taller than Notre-Dame Church. The interior is grand. The stone columns and the sumptuous altar are breathtaking. It houses a Casavant organ from 1908. A magnificent instrument.
In 1931 two additional marble altars were added. They are dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux and the Canadian Martyrs. Guido Nincheri designed them. Louis Jobin sculpted them. The stained-glass windows are beautiful. Created by Champigneulle of France.
In 1977 the Église Saint-Pierre-Apôtre was declared a historic site. A flame burns continuously in the Chapel of Hope. A tribute to the victims of AIDS. This church stands at the heart of Montreal’s gay village. Its history is rich. Its resilience strong. Its doors remain open to all.