Words like accessibility were probably not used too often back in 1883 when St. Finnan’s Basilica in Alexandria was constructed at a cost of $35,000. Recognizing the need for all people to be able to access their place of worship has evolved considerably since then and led to the official opening on Saturday, June 27 of the new ramp and lift to make the historic Roman Catholic church fully accessible. The $250,000 project cost more than seven times what building the much larger church cost 143 years ago and has been under construction for several months.
The ramp and lift were completed just in time for Easter, 2026. Both are located on the west side of the building beside Bishop Street. Parishioner Jean Kealty, who is 99 years old and will turn 100 on July 20, was the first person to use the new ramp and lift at that time. She also had the honour of cutting the ribbon to officially open the new facilities on Saturday.
St. Finnan’s Pastor, Father Steven Gaudet said the new accessibility facilities serve not only current parishioners, but also future ones. Indeed, children from a young family with parents pushing a stroller were excited to take a ride on the new lift after Father Gaudet blessed the new installation, speeches were made, and the ribbon was cut.
“It’s about making our basilica much more inclusivwe as we move towards the future said Bernie McDonell, Chair of the St. Finnan’s Finance Council. He said completion of the construction took longer than expected, but ultimately the job was finished.
“Prayers and money prevailed,” McDonell said.
As of Saturday, the “Lift Up Your Hearts” fundraising campaign for the construction of the ramp, lift, and small addition to the church had reached nearly $200,000 of its $250,000 goal.
St. Finnan’s is one of 27 Minor Basilica’s in Canada and one of nine in Ontario. Alexandria is the smallest town in Canada to be home to a Roman Catholic Basilica.
Photos: James Morgan
