History of the Cathedral
St. Andrew’s Cathedral, nestled in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia, is a symbol of enduring faith and architectural beauty. For over a century, it has stood as a beacon of hope, welcoming parishioners and visitors from all walks of life to worship, celebrate, and find solace.
“The Church is not just a building; it is a living testament to faith and community.”
A Legacy of Faith
The story of St. Andrew’s Cathedral begins in the mid-19th century when Catholic settlers in Victoria sought a dedicated place of worship. In 1849, Father Modeste Demers, the first Bishop of Vancouver Island, laid the groundwork for the establishment of a Catholic parish in the region.
As the Catholic population grew, so did the need for a larger, more permanent church. In 1890, construction began on what would become St. Andrew’s Cathedral, designed by the renowned architect Perrault & Mesnard. Inspired by the Gothic Revival style, the cathedral’s design features pointed arches, intricate stained glass, and a soaring spire that reaches toward heaven.
The cathedral was officially dedicated on October 30, 1892, becoming the mother church of the Diocese of Victoria.
Serving Victoria's Catholic community since 1846
Moments in Time
Through the years, St. Andrew’s Cathedral has been a witness to history:
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It served as a sanctuary for parishioners during times of war and uncertainty.
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It hosted countless baptisms, weddings, ordinations, and funerals, marking life’s most sacred milestones.
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Renovations in the 1980s and 2000s ensured the preservation of its historical and spiritual legacy for future generations.
Today, St. Andrew’s Cathedral continues to thrive as a vibrant parish community. It is more than a historical landmark; it is a home for worship, fellowship, and service. Generations of Catholics have walked through its doors, bringing their prayers, hopes, and gratitude to God.
As we honour the past, we look forward to the future, committed to carrying forward the mission of faith and love entrusted to us.
A Living Church
Visit and Learn More
We invite you to experience the beauty and history of St. Andrew’s Cathedral for yourself. Come join us for Mass, or you can explore at your own pace during open hours.
Address: 740 View St., Victoria, BC
Contact: For more information, call us at (250) 388-5571 or email standrewscathedral@gmail.com
St. Andrew’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, with its:
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Stained Glass Windows: Depicting biblical scenes and saints, these windows are a kaleidoscope of color and storytelling.
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Hand-Carved Altars: Crafted with exquisite detail, they reflect the devotion of the artisans who created them.
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Pipe Organ: Installed in 1912, the organ fills the cathedral with majestic music during Mass and special celebrations.
Visitors are often struck by the grandeur of the cathedral’s interior, where soaring ceilings and light streaming through stained glass create an atmosphere of reverence and awe.
Architectural Splendor
