St. George's Cathedral

St. George's Cathedral in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural elegance of the Anglican Diocese of Ontario. This majestic cathedral, with its grand dome and stately columns, is not just a place of worship but a beacon of heritage and cultural significance, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore its storied past.

The Origins of St. George's Cathedral

The origins of St. George's Cathedral date back to 1792 when the original parish church, a modest wooden structure, was built across from what is now Kingston Market Square. It was the first church in the Kingston area, serving as a spiritual haven for early settlers. John Stuart, a dedicated rector, played a pivotal role in the establishment of this early church.

In the years 1825-1828, the present church building was constructed at a new location on King Street at Johnson Street. The architectural design was initially simple, but in 1838-1840, architect William Coverdale undertook a significant enlargement of the church, adding a rebuilt steeple and the iconic Doric portico in 1842. This transformation marked the beginning of the cathedral's journey towards becoming a landmark in Kingston.

Elevation to Cathedral Status and Architectural Evolution

St. George's Church was elevated to cathedral status in 1862, signifying its importance within the Anglican Diocese of Ontario. The late 19th century saw further enhancements with the construction of transepts, a choir, and a magnificent dome between 1891 and 1894. However, in 1899, a devastating fire severely damaged the cathedral's interior.

Undeterred, the community rallied to restore the cathedral, and under the guidance of architect S. George Curry and Joseph Power, a complete restoration was undertaken between 1899 and 1900. The cathedral emerged from this period of adversity with renewed grandeur, ready to continue its role as a spiritual and cultural hub.

A Hub of Worship and Community

St. George's Cathedral is not just an architectural marvel; it is a vibrant center of worship and community activities. Visitors are welcome to join the Choral Eucharist on Sundays at 10:30 am and the Choral Evensong on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 7:00 pm. The cathedral also offers weekday service times, which can be found on its official website.

The cathedral's association with the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) adds another layer of historical significance. For many years, RMC cadets and other military groups have marched into St. George's for worship on special occasions. One notable tradition is 'Copper Sunday,' an annual church parade from RMC to St. George's, where cadets collect copper coins for charity. This tradition, established in 1882 or earlier, reflects the deep-rooted connection between the cathedral and the military community.

Memorials and Artifacts

St. George's Cathedral houses several memorials and artifacts that honor the sacrifices and contributions of military personnel. One such memorial is the tablet dedicated to three officers, graduates of the Royal Military College of Canada, who died while serving in Africa. Although the original tablet was lost in the 1899 fire, the memory of these brave individuals lives on within the cathedral's walls.

In 1918, the Royal Military College's Great War Memorial Flag was presented to the rector of St. George's Cathedral. This 18 feet by 24 feet flag, adorned with 932 maple leaves representing graduates who served in the Great War and 147 crimson leaves symbolizing those who made the ultimate sacrifice, hung on the north gallery of the cathedral until it was moved to the college museum for preservation in 1934.

The cathedral also features a virtual tour of the Royal Military College of Canada gallery, showcasing stained glass windows depicting soldier saints, including St. George. The most recent additions, the St. Cecilia window and the St. Margaret window, were installed in 2002 and 2003 respectively, further enriching the cathedral's artistic and historical tapestry.

St. George's Cathedral in Popular Culture

St. George's Cathedral has also found its way into popular culture, being fictionally represented as St. Nicholas's, Salterton, in Robertson Davies's novel Leaven of Malice. This literary connection adds an intriguing dimension to the cathedral's already rich narrative, making it a point of interest for literary enthusiasts.

Notable Burials

Among the notable burials at St. George's Cathedral is that of Charles Poulett Thomson, 1st Baron Sydenham, who served as Governor General of the United Province of Canada from 1839 to 1841. His resting place within the cathedral grounds serves as a reminder of the historical figures who have been part of Kingston's and Canada's history.

In conclusion, St. George's Cathedral in Kingston, Ontario, is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument to the region's history, culture, and community spirit. Whether you are drawn by its architectural splendor, its rich history, or its vibrant community activities, a visit to St. George's Cathedral promises an enriching and memorable experience.