History of St Matthias

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It was the vision of a group of devout Anglicans who met in early 1888 that led to the establishment of St. Matthias, named after the disciple chosen to succeed Judas as one of the twelve apostles. On May 20, 1888, it held its first service, not in a church, but in the dining room of Byers Hotel, located on the east side of what is now Wellington Manor, a high-rise senior citizens’ complex on Wellington Street in Hintonburg. Hintonburg was then a farming village and Ottawa a city that boasted a population of approximately 43,000.

Images of St Matthias

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St Matthias the Saint

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Wikipedia article on St Matthias

St. Matthias Celebrates its 125 th Anniversary

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May 12 was the Sunday chosen for the major celebration of St. Matthias’ 125th year. Past and present clergy, staff and parishioners turned out at two services to commemorate the occasion.

At the 10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist, we welcomed Bishop Chapman, assistant curate at St. Matthias 1978 to 1980, who presided and preached. In his sermon he spoke of the ‘socialization of God’, a negative practice which leads to an acceptance of God as ‘one of us’, instead of a God whom we revere. We need to be more evangelical in our lives.

The service, attended by about 120 people, was followed by a light lunch where people had a chance to meet Bishop John and his wife Catherine and for many to reminisce about the days when they worked and lived on Parkdale Avenue.

Canada’s Primate, Archbishop Fred Hiltz, had accepted our invitation to preside and preach at the 4 p.m. Choral Evensong but, due to a friend’s death in PEI, he was unfortunately unable to attend. In his place he sent the Venerable Dr. Michael Thompson, who brought greetings from Archbishop Hiltz and welcomed attendees. These included nine past clergy and many former staff, choir members (seven of whom augmented our own choir) and parishioners past and present who filled the church. It was indeed a joyful event, made particularly so by the superb singing under the direction of Deirdre Piper. Matthew Larkin accompanied Deirdre’s new composition ‘I wait for the Lord’ at the organ.

A reception in the Narthex followed, and then at 6 p.m. Piper Sgt. Ronnie Lawrenson led the congregation into MacIntosh Hall for a traditional and convivial church supper of ham, scalloped potatoes, salads and anniversary cake.

I think it is safe to say that everyone who attended all or some of these events had a really enjoyable time. They were able to experience a spiritual uplifting, reflect - with the help of photos and displays - on days gone by, and enjoy meeting old and new friends.

All this did not happen spontaneously and there were many, many people who made it work. Especially we must give thanks to Mollie Stokes and Sandra Cherrett, and the teams for the lunch, reception, supper and decorations, Joan Riding for guiding us in matters of protocol and so many other ways, the Wardens for their decision making (and the wine!) and all those who helped in the clean-up.

Janet Stevens, Chair, 125th Anniversary Committee

History - St. Matthias Anglican Church

History of St Matthias

Images of St Matthias

St Matthias the Saint

St. Matthias Celebrates its 125 th Anniversary