From the earliest days of the settlement of Guelph, Catholics have played a role in the life of the community. Bishop Macdonell, the Bishop of Kingston, who was responsible for the Catholic Church in Ontario, was a friend of John Galt, the founder of Guelph. He had supported Galt’s work with the Canada Company, which was charged with developing much of the land in southern Ontario. When Galt established the new settlement on April 23, 1827, he gave to the Catholic Church the hill in the center of the town. In his Autobiography he writes: “a beautiful central hill was reserved for the Catholics, in compliment to my friend, Bishop Macdonell, for his advice in the formation of the Company.” A road was cleared leading up to the hill: Macdonell Street. In the autumn of 1827 Bishop Macdonell was one of the first visitors to the new settlement.
Under the leadership of Monsignor Dennis Noon, the Basilica church was restored and rededicated in 2014, when it was also declared a Minor Basilica in recognition of it’s architectural significance in the city of Guelph and it’s spiritual importance to so many in Guelph, throughout the Diocese and beyond. As we look to our 200th anniversary in 2027, we thank God for the blessings of “Catholic Hill” and pray that many more might to come to know and believe in Jesus Christ, the redeemer of the world.
For a more comprehensive history, click here.
Devotions
Outside of the celebration of the Eucharist, there is a strong devotional life here at the Basilica. On Wednesdays, except for the summer time, the schedule is as follows:
7:00am-Office of Lauds (Morning Prayer)
7:30am- Mass
8:00am- Perpetual Help Devotions
8:30am- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
12:00pm- Benediction
12:15pm- Mass
There are added prayers and devotions throughout the liturgical year, especially in Lent.
Marian Days
Join us at the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate for Marian Days, celebrated on the first Saturday of each month starting June 6. The format starts at 9am, Holy Hour with morning Prayer and Confessions; 10am Benediction; 10:30am Holy Mass followed by an outdoor Rosary Procession (weather permitting). Coffee, tea and gift shop available after Rosary Procession (Participants are welcome to bring their own Lunch).
Parish Schools
Within our Parish boundaries are located five schools, including Elementary levels through to High School. These schools are part of the Wellington Catholic District School Board. Our Pastoral Staff provide support to these schools throughout the year, including celebrating school masses, sacramental preparation, and more. If you would like information about enrolling your child, please contact the school:
Saint Ignatius of Loyola
Saint Michael
Saint Paul
Bishop Macdonell Secondary
Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary
Saint John Bosco Secondary
Families whose children are enrolled in public or private schools, are homeschooled, or for other reasons unable to attend Catholic School may consider this enriching faith-development program.
These interactive parent-child programs are offered through the Diocese of Hamilton and cover every age and stage from Kindergarten through to high school, including programs specially designed to assist children preparing for the Sacraments of First Communion and Confirmation.
Clergy and Staff
Father Ian Duffy, Rector
Father Jonathan Reitzel, Associate Pastor
Most Reverend Matthew Ustrzycki, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus, In Residence
Father Bill Foote, Honorary Assistant