OUR HISTORY
OUR HISTORY
St. Mark’s Church, the oldest active church building in the Diocese of Toronto, boasts a rich history that reflects the evolution of its community. The area was first settled in 1793, with the initial Anglican service recorded in 1813. Between 1822 and 1824, the current wooden frame church was constructed just south of a cemetery established in 1819. Initially dedicated to St. John the Evangelist in 1828, the parish relocated to Pine Street, Port Hope, in 1869. After dividing in 1872, the restored church building and cemetery were rededicated to St. Mark in 1873.
A Legacy of Growth and Resilience
Under the dynamic leadership of Reverend Jonathan Shortt, who served from 1836 until his death in 1867, the church expanded twice. In 1842, the church was extended to the east, with galleries added on three sides of the nave. Another expansion in 1852 included transepts on the north and south sides and a Willis pipe organ from England. Despite these expansions, the church's location and maintenance needs led to the construction of a new church on Pine Street in 1869. The original building fell into disrepair until 1872 when parishioners successfully petitioned to restore and reopen it as St. Mark’s in 1873.
Surviving Trials and Honoring Traditions
St. Mark’s has weathered numerous challenges, including a major fire in 1925 and economic hardships. The church’s resilience is attributed to the dedication of its parishioners, notably the Right Honourable Vincent Massey, a steadfast supporter from the 1920s until his death in 1967. His legacy includes hosting H.M. Queen Elizabeth II and H.R.H Prince Philip at his Canton estate in 1959, during which they attended Morning Prayer at St. Mark’s. The church proudly displays mementos from this visit, including a signed portrait and the Queen’s signature in the guest book. By royal permission, the choirs wear cassocks in the Royal Livery color—scarlet.
PARISH HALL
On August 4th, 2013, we celebrated the inaugural event in our newly constructed Parish Hall. This milestone was achieved after numerous delays, including the unexpected discovery of previously buried remains during excavation.
The Parish Hall is designed to serve a variety of needs. The upstairs Mezzanine is a favorite spot for Yoga classes, while two large meeting rooms, equipped with refreshment facilities and a library, provide ample space for gatherings. An elevator ensures full accessibility to the second floor. On the main floor, a modern industrial kitchen and a large meeting hall, complete with a stage and grand piano, cater to diverse events and activities.
The realization of the Parish Hall was made possible through a combination of generous contributions. A significant lead gift from the late Ben Lloyd and his wife Jane Pinchin was complemented by funding from the Diocese of Toronto’s Ministry Allocation Fund and a Baker Foundation grant for the Sunday School. Additionally, an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant facilitated the creation of barrier-free access. The unwavering support and donations from our congregation, through a highly successful Capital Campaign, turned the vision of a modern, accessible Parish Hall into reality.
Renting the Hall
We welcome the community to our Parish Hall. To book the Parish Hall, please contact the Church Office between 9 a.m. and noon, Tuesday through Friday, by email or directly at 905-885-4071. Inquiries can also be directed to our Wardens via email.