Imagine townspeople digging a foundation by hand. They worked for a barbecue. That is how St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica began.
Hello everyone. I am excited to share the story of St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica with you today. This cathedral is not just a building. It is a landmark. It is a testament to Toronto’s history and faith.
In the 1840s, Toronto’s Catholic population grew fast. Bishop Michael Power saw the need for a new church. He chose William Thomas to design it. Thomas designed eight other churches in the city. Irish immigrants largely financed St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica. They made this place of worship possible.
Construction began in 1845. Workers sealed fragments of York Minster Cathedral in England within St Michael’s cornerstone. This act connected Toronto with its namesake English city. Toronto was once known as York.
Sadly, Bishop Power died in 1847 from typhus. He contracted it while helping his flock. He was buried in the crypt of the unfinished cathedral. A man who fell from the roof during construction is also buried there.
St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica was dedicated in 1848 to St Michael the Archangel. Its 79-meter bell tower was consecrated in 1866. The bells still ring today. They call worshippers to prayer.
The cathedral played a key role in founding St Michael’s Hospital. The Sisters of Saint Joseph responded to a diphtheria epidemic in 1892. They established care facilities near the church.
St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica stands as a prime example of English Gothic Revival architecture. The building features pointed arches and buttressed walls. It also has stone moulding and iron accents. The interior boasts a large nave and tall aisles. Graceful colonnettes support the arcade. This gives the space a feeling of openness.
Over the years, St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica has seen several renovations. Joseph Sheard added Bishop’s Palace additions in 1852. Gundry & Langley completed the tower and spire between 1865 and 1867. Joseph Connolly added dormers in 1890.
The stained-glass windows are particularly noteworthy. The largest one was imported from France in 1858. Etienne Thévenot created it. He also made windows for Notre-Dame in Paris.
St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica has undergone extensive restoration work. This ensures its preservation for future generations. The west facade was cleaned. The bricks returned to their original yellow color.
Today, St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica continues to be a vital center for worship and outreach. The current archbishop is Cardinal Francis “Frank” Leo. The church sponsors many outreach programs for nearby residents.
As you leave St Michael’s Cathedral Basilica remember its history. Remember the vision of Bishop Power. Remember the contributions of Irish immigrants. This cathedral stands as a symbol of faith. It also stands as a symbol of resilience in the heart of Toronto.