Calgary Photo Essay: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church
I included this Ukrainian Catholic Church in my “Calgary: 23 Beautiful Places to Visit in 2023” blog back in December 2022 for its amazing interior, despite my never having been inside. So, when I got note from an Everyday Tourist follower that the church was having tour after a mass just before Easter I had to go.
While a confirmed atheist, I grew up going to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church and was even an altar boy. And yes, I am sure at some point I even considered being a priest. So going to mass brought back memories – nothing bad.
Like many churches, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary sits on bluff above the Bow River valley looking down on the city and was the largest building in the community when built, creating a powerful perhaps for some an intimidating sense of place.
The Byzantine building, designed by Nicholas Flak, is shaped like a cross, with one large dome (representing Christ) flanked by four smaller ones representing Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the “Four Evangelists.” It opened in 1959 but seems much older.
However, it is the inside of the church that is overwhelming spectacular. It is literally covered from floor to to ceilings with beautiful hand-painted Christian imagery by Alberta artist Anton Yavny. It was like nothing I have ever seen before even in the great cathedrals I have visited. It was like walking into a painting, it was an immersive experience. Though I have not seen the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, I expect Yavny’s art creates the same sense of awe.
I couldn’t help but imagine that for many parishioners, going to church every Sunday morning must feel like there were getting a glimpse of heaven.
I will let the art speak for itself in this photo essay.
This photo is how you see many of ceiling paintings are seen from the ground.
The photo is flipped so you can perhaps more easily appreciate the paintings.
There is also a massive chandelier in the middle of the church that features 6000 pieces and 196 bulbs that was donated by the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League in 1960.
Last Word
While this Calgary masterpiece is not available to Calgarians and tourists every day, you can experience it every Sunday. You can attend the 9 a.m. Sunday mass in Ukrainian (which would be a unique experience) or the 11 a.m. in English and enjoy the art and pageantry. All the parishioners were very friendly when we went. It is a unique Calgary experience and one of the most beautiful places in Calgary.
Located: 704 6th St NE
Located nearby is the All Saints Church, The Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. There are 10+ churches in the Renfrew Bridgeland neighbourhoods that would make for a fun couple of hours of flaneuring.
