St. Paul's Catholic Cathedral Parish, Saskatoon

Saint Paul’s Co-Cathedral stands as one of Saskatoon’s most historically significant Roman Catholic landmarks. Located at 720 Spadina Crescent East, in the heart of the city’s Central Business District and overlooking the South Saskatchewan River, this red-brick church with Tyndall stone trim has been a center of Catholic worship since the early 20th century.

Originally established as a parish church, the building's cornerstone was laid in 1910 by Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier and consecrated a year later by Archbishop Adélard Langevin. Designed by architect Joseph Fortin, the church became a pro-cathedral in 1921 and was elevated to full cathedral status in 1934 with the creation of the Diocese of Saskatoon. However, due to its modest size and lack of space for expansion, it was redesignated as a co-cathedral in 2011 when the new Holy Family Cathedral opened.

Architecturally, the church is known for its striking square tower, octagonal belfry striped with red-and-white Lombard bands, copper-covered steeple, and green slate roof. Inside, it houses a Casavant pipe organ installed in 1912, a stunning altar completed in 1913, and stained glass windows commemorating both World War II and the fire of 1976, which left lasting scars still faintly visible in the ceiling timbers.

Saint Paul’s Co-Cathedral continues to serve as an active parish while holding heritage status for its cultural and spiritual contributions to the city. In 2019, two paintings by Berthold Imhoff were added to the sanctuary, further enriching its artistic legacy. The building has also borne witness to contemporary tensions, having been vandalized in 2021 during protests connected to Canada’s residential school history.

Despite challenges, Saint Paul’s remains a resilient landmark of faith, heritage, and community along Saskatoon’s riverfront.