How many stories can one building tell? Right here stands the magnificent u00c9glise St-Willibrord. It is a testament to faith and community in Montreal. Let’s step back to its origins.
The parish of St. Willibrord was canonically erected on July 7 1913. It was created for English-speaking Catholics. They came from Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs parish. Also they came from a section of St. Gabriel parish. The parish records began on July 13 1913.
Construction of the church you see now took place in 1926 and 1927. Atlas Construction was involved in its building. Imagine the sounds of construction. Hammers and the voices of workers filled the air.
St. Willibrord has a rich history of spiritual leaders. Patrick McDonald was the first pastor serving from 1913 to 1931. Following him were Martin P. Reid and Frederick Elliott. Each contributed to the church’s growth. Jasper J. Stanford and William Byrd also served. Later pastors include George F. Thoms Joseph Cameron Stephen Otvos Gregory Nunez and Robert Assaly.
The area around u00c9glise St-Willibrord has transformed over time. In 1875 the village of La Riviu00e8re Saint-Pierre was formed. It was created from Notre-Dame parish. It became Verdun in 1876. Verdun achieved city status in 1907. It was renamed the city of Verdun in 1912. Then it reverted to the town of Verdun in 1982. Finally Verdun was annexed to Montreal in 2002.
u00c9glise St-Willibrord is an Anglophone parish within the Archdiocese of Montreal. It offers regular masses. Sunday masses are held from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM in English. Weekday masses take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 AM also in English.
Special celebrations mark the church’s calendar. Holy Week includes Palm Sunday Holy Thursday Good Friday the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday services. These events draw many to u00c9glise St-Willibrord.
Today u00c9glise St-Willibrord continues to be a vibrant center. It is a place of worship and community. Its long history reflects Montreal’s diverse religious heritage. As you stand here consider the many lives touched by this sacred place. The u00c9glise St-Willibrord stands not just as a building. It is a living story of faith perseverance and community.