Lost in the heart of Toronto stands St Anne’s Anglican Church a testament to faith art and history. This isn’t just any church. It’s a National Historic Site a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered.
St Anne’s Anglican Church boasts a rich history. Founded in 1862 it served the then-hamlet of Brockton later annexed by Toronto. The original church was small. But by 1906 the congregation had outgrown it. Canon Lawrence Skey the rector for over thirty years envisioned something grander. He commissioned a new church a stunning example of Byzantine Revival architecture.
The building’s unique style isn’t typical for an Anglican church. Architect William Ford Howland’s design evoked the early Byzantine period a time before the Christian church splintered. The design reflected Canon Skey’s support for an ecumenical movement aiming for unity among Protestant denominations.
Completed between 1907 and 1908 St Anne’s Anglican Church became more than just a place of worship. Sixteen years later in 1923 it was transformed into a canvas for artistic expression. Canon Skey commissioned a series of murals. J E H MacDonald a founding member of the Group of Seven led the project. He assembled a team of talented artists. This included two other members of the Group of Seven Frederick Varley and Franklin Carmichael. The murals weren’t typical landscapes. Instead they featured Christian iconography a striking departure from the Group’s usual style.
Imagine the vibrant colours filling the church’s interior. The artists employed Byzantine motifs and colours adapting them to reflect a contemporary Canadian context. These stunning works of art integrated painting sculpture and architecture showcasing the Arts and Crafts movement’s ideals. The murals depict narrative scenes written texts and decorative plasterwork. They are integral to the church’s architectural style and highlight the revival of mural decoration in the late 19th century.
The church wasn’t just a product of artistic collaboration. It was also a beacon of faith community and ecumenical ideals. It stood as a symbol of unity and artistic innovation. Sadly a devastating fire in June 2024 destroyed much of St Anne’s Anglican Church. However the spirit of this remarkable place lives on in the memories of those who worshipped within its walls and in the enduring legacy of its stunning artwork. The plans to rebuild are underway a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. This is more than just a church. This is a story etched in brick stone and the hearts of those who remember it.