Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption
North Bay

The Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption, a beacon of faith and architectural splendor in North Bay, Ontario, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of its community. This historic Catholic church, constructed in 1905, is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

The Origins of the Pro-Cathedral

The roots of the Pro-Cathedral can be traced back to 1886 when the first physical church in North Bay, St. Mary's of the Lake, was established. This small white chapel on Main Street West quickly became a central hub for the burgeoning community. The chapel's bell served multiple purposes, from calling the faithful to worship to acting as a fire alarm and a summons for important town meetings. The sacristy even doubled as a schoolroom, highlighting the multifunctional role of the church in the early days of North Bay.

However, as the Canadian Pacific Railway expanded, so did the population of North Bay, and St. Mary's of the Lake soon became insufficient for the growing community. The arrival of Father David Joseph Scollard in 1896 marked a turning point for the parish. Recognizing the need for a larger space, Father Scollard purchased the land where the Pro-Cathedral now stands, despite suggestions to build it away from the downtown area. He understood the importance of keeping the church at the heart of the community and the additional costs that would come with relocating uphill.

Building the New Church

In the spring of 1903, a meeting with the bishop, priest, and congregation members led to the decision to construct a new stone church. Architect Harry Angus of Thomson and Angus Architects was tasked with designing a church that could seat 900 people. The contract for the project was awarded to Isaiah Taillefer of Taillefer and Sons, a contracting company from Sault Ste. Marie. Despite offering one of the lowest bids, Taillefer and Sons promised to complete the project quickly, and they delivered. By December 17, 1905, the new St. Mary's of the Lake was completed and blessed, just in time for Christmas. The final cost was $65,000, which included heating, lighting, pews, altars, stained glass windows, and a large sacristy.

A New Name and Role

In the same year that construction began, the northern part of the Diocese of Peterborough, which included North Bay, was sectioned into a new diocese, the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie. While Sault Ste. Marie was chosen as the location for the new diocese's cathedral, the bishop chose to reside in North Bay. This decision was influenced by practical reasons, such as the accessibility provided by the railway, but also by a personal connection to the newly completed church. As a result, North Bay became the unofficial Episcopal See for the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie. In recognition of its importance, St. Mary's of the Lake was renamed the Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption, with Pro meaning in place of.

Architectural Highlights

The Pro-Cathedral is built in the Roman basilica style, characterized by its rectangular shape, grand entrance, long nave, and apse. The building's foundation is made of North Bay granite, while the superstructure is constructed from white limestone imported from a quarry in Orillia, Ontario. The single steeple, standing approximately 146 feet tall, is a unique feature, as cathedral architecture typically includes two steeples. Major repairs to the steeple, roof, and cross were undertaken in the 1980s, including repointing the tower and bracing the steeple. The cross was completely restructured and lifted by helicopter to the top of the steeple, adding an additional 20 feet to the total height.

Stained Glass Windows and Interior Design

The Pro-Cathedral's stained glass windows are a significant aspect of its architectural beauty. Eight of these windows were gifts from parishioners, including Isaiah Taillefer, the general contractor for the project. The most recent renovations have focused on preserving and highlighting these windows, uncovering those over the apse and accenting them with wood sills. The interior of the Pro-Cathedral has undergone several renovations over the years, with significant changes in 1923, the 1960s, and 2001.

In 1923, the church took the opportunity to enhance its beloved building during necessary plaster repairs. The Rambush Company Artist of New York was brought in to decorate the walls and ceilings ornately. Additions included a marble altar, Baldacchino, and drapery in the sanctuary, as well as new capitals on the columns, electric light fixtures, and wiring. These enhancements remained for the next 40 years.

Vatican II and Restoration

The 1960s brought significant changes to the Pro-Cathedral as part of the Vatican II ecumenical council, which aimed to renew Catholic theology. In 1967, the church's interior was simplified, with Byzantine murals painted over, woodwork removed, and stained glass windows in the apse covered in drywall. The tabernacle was moved to an alcove to the left of the apse, allowing the priest to face the congregation without turning his back to the tabernacle.

In 2001, the Pro-Cathedral underwent major renovations and restorations to recapture the warmth and harmony of its original design. Architect Jean Philippe Larocque of North Bay was hired to oversee the restoration. Carved oak panels were returned to their original place, and the stained glass windows covered in the 1960s were found to be intact under the drywall. New front doors, improved lighting and acoustics, and painted decorative touches were also added, subtly acknowledging the community's love for the old Cathedral.

The Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption stands today as a symbol of faith, history, and community spirit. Its impressive architecture, rich history, and the dedication of its parishioners make it a must-visit landmark in North Bay. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of serene beauty, the Pro-Cathedral offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of this vibrant community.