HISTORY
Welcoming people in the heart of Hintonburg for over 125 years
Why do we say "over 125 years"?
Our roots as a faith community on this property date back to 1898, when Catholics recognized an urgent need to help destitute children before the advent of government social services. This property was the primary location for receiving approximately 8,000 Catholic British Home Children who emigrated to Canada. These children who walked through our doors were part of over 100,000 British Home Children who came to Canada.
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While the property was originally a Victorian farmhouse, it became New Orpington Lodge in 1898. It was later renamed as St. George’s Receiving Home in 1905. The capacity to care for the children increased with the addition of two adjoining buildings in 1905 and 1926. During the Depression era, the St. George’s Receiving Home closed in 1935. The property then took on a new purpose. During World War II, the Canadian government rented the buildings as barracks and for research. During this time, we again welcomed people in need of housing from across Canada – this time, our military members. The end of World War II steered our future back to our roots as a faith community with our parish formally established and renovated in 1947.
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Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, often called “Holy Rosary,” witnessed a pivotal time in history. World War II had ended, the Baby Boom hit, and Canada’s optimism and faith soared. At one of the largest religious gatherings in North America, the June 1947 Consecration of Canada to the Immaculate Heart of Mary drew over 200,000 pilgrims to Lansdowne Park in Ottawa for the Marian Congress. Hence the name, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary. However, there is more to the story!
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We have a long history of supporting those in need from all faiths - first the British Home Children, immigrants from World War II, a Project 4000 family, families fleeing crisis in the Middle East and more recently through the formation of the Circle of Friends. Led by Holy Rosary parishioners, the group comprises people of all faiths who help newcomers and refugees.
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We are continuing this tradition with the Rectory House Renovation Project for affordable housing for refugees. We are very excited! This project will help up to 90 people per year start their new lives in Canada. We are accepting tax-deductible donations, and all funds will be used for the renovations. Click here for ways to donate.
