Upon entering St. Patrick’s Basilica, one is immediately welcomed by the sweet smell of incense which is burned throughout the day. Next, the visitor is drawn to the impressive gothic-style architecture and decoration.
Several white arches line the aisle way, painted with colourful designs. Enough shiny wooden pews to seat one thousand people are arrayed on either side framed by intricate stained-glass windows depicting Catholic icons and symbols.
At almost any time of the day, local parishioners can be found praying silently or performing various religious rituals in small groups. Four regular masses are held each weekday and there are also several times set aside for confession each day. St.
Patrick’s serves as an important place for Catholics from all over the city.
Located near the corner of Kent and Nepean streets, St. Patrick’s Basilica is Ottawa’s oldest English-speaking Catholic parish.
The cornerstone of the church was laid by Sir John A. Macdonald in 1872 and blessed by Bishop Guigues, the first bishop of the city. It was built entirely from local stone and church construction was completed in 1875.
Named for the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick’s was declared a basilica on March 17, 1995.
Recently, the building underwent renovation in order to restore its roof, add insulation and repair a stone buttress used to support the Northwest wall.