St. Raphael’s Parish has a long history. Or should I say old? A mission for the of the Roman Catholic Highlanders of the Raisin River settlement was begun in 1786 a small timber framed church called the “Blue Chapel” was built and the parish officially recognised in 1802. The current stone structure was begun in 1821 by the Most reverend Alexander Macdonell, Vicar General of Upper Canada and then consecrated Bishop. St. Raphael’s was the administrative centre of the Church in Upper Canada.
The beauty of the ruins the stones and the bell have long intrigued me. It is the parish and church my paternal great grandparents were married in. It is the parish I was baptised in.
The ruins still stand and are being cared for and preserved. They can be walked through and enjoyed at leisure. It is a most calming peaceful place.
Heather Levac Photography 