Holy Rosary Cathedral

Situated at the intersection of 13th Avenue and Garnet Street in the heart of Regina, Saskatchewan, the Holy Rosary Cathedral stands as a beacon of architectural splendor and historical significance. As the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina, it has been a spiritual and cultural landmark since its completion in 1917. Its stunning Romanesque Revival style, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination for both architectural enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

A Glimpse into the Past

The journey of Holy Rosary Cathedral began in 1912 when construction commenced. The cornerstone was blessed by Archbishop Peregrin-François Stagni, O.S.M., the Apostolic Delegate to Canada, on June 30, 1913, in front of an impressive assembly of approximately 2,000 people. The cathedral was designed by the renowned architectural firm of Joseph Fortin from Montreal, who also designed other notable Roman Catholic cathedrals in Saskatchewan, such as St. Paul's in Saskatoon and Our Lady of Assumption in Gravelbourg.

The design of Holy Rosary Cathedral was inspired by the churches of northern France. The building is faced with yellow brick and accented with limestone, giving it a distinguished and timeless appearance. The construction was overseen by Smith Brothers & Wilson, and the final cost amounted to $135,000, a significant sum at the time.

Architectural Marvel

The Romanesque Revival style of Holy Rosary Cathedral is characterized by its robust and grandiose structure. The twin spires rising majestically above the city skyline are among its most striking features. The façade is adorned with intricate details, including a large rose window that adds to the cathedral's aesthetic appeal.

Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive. The light and airy interior is decorated sparingly, in keeping with Canadian aesthetic sensibilities. The nave is spacious, with high ceilings that create a sense of openness and tranquility. The stained glass windows, installed in 1951 by André Rault, add a touch of color and artistry, depicting various religious scenes and figures.

The McGuigan Organ

One of the cathedral's most prized possessions is The McGuigan Organ, constructed and installed by Casavant Frères of Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, in 1930. This magnificent gallery organ replaced a large reed organ and has been a source of beautiful music for the congregation ever since. The organ underwent extensive repairs after a disastrous fire in 1976 and was renovated again in 1992–1993. It was named in honor of Sister Marion McGuigan, a beloved local humanitarian and educator.

Renovations and Restorations

Over the years, Holy Rosary Cathedral has undergone several renovations and restorations to maintain its beauty and functionality. The interior has been redecorated five times since its construction, with significant renovations occurring in 1928, 1951, 1968, 1976, and 1992. The 1968 renovations were particularly noteworthy as they were undertaken to conform with the directives of the Second Vatican Council. This included the dismantling of the high altar at the east end of the choir and the installation of a nave altar at the crossing. The choir was also converted into a chapel during this period.

The fire in 1976 caused considerable damage to the cathedral, rendering it unusable for some time. During the renovation period, Masses were held in the neighboring Westminster United Church. The restoration efforts not only repaired the damage but also enhanced the cathedral's structure and aesthetics. The 1992 renovations saw the removal of the opaque screen separating the nave from the choir, and the main altar was restored to a position closer to the original high altar's site.

Sacred Heart Academy

Adjacent to the cathedral, across the closed Garnet Street, stands the building that once housed Sacred Heart Academy. This girls' high school was operated by the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions, who also provided music tuition to students from across the city. The school closed in 1969 as the number of Sisters dwindled. Today, the building has been converted into townhouses, although the Archdiocese has retained a portion of the east basement, formerly the piano studios, for office use.

A Place of Worship and Community

Holy Rosary Cathedral is not just an architectural masterpiece; it is also a vibrant place of worship and community. The cathedral continues to serve as the spiritual home for many Catholics in Regina and the surrounding areas. It hosts regular Masses, special religious ceremonies, and community events, fostering a sense of unity and faith among its congregation.

Visiting Holy Rosary Cathedral offers a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Regina's history and heritage. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its spiritual ambiance, the cathedral is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you stand before its grand façade, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that went into creating this magnificent structure, and step inside to feel the serene and sacred atmosphere that has welcomed worshippers for over a century.