St Paul's in the Grand Parade, 1749-1999

T.D. Regehr is a professor of history at the University of Saskatchewan.
He is the author of Mennonites in Canada, 1939–1970: A People
Transformed, The Beauharnois Scandal: A Story of Canadian
Entrepreneurship and Politics, and Remembering Saskatchewan:

St. Paul’s Church is the oldest church in Nova Scotia and the first
garrison church in Canada. In 1787, it became the first cathedral of the
Church of England outside Britain. The church, which is situated on the
Grande Parade, the central square in the city of Halifax, has been
renovated and remodeled many times and is now the oldest building in the
city.

This small volume is profusely illustrated with beautiful color
photographs of the church (both interior and exterior views), some of
its leaders, and historical events associated with the church. The book
is thematically arranged, beginning with a detailed description of the
architecture and interior furnishings. This section is greatly enhanced
by superb reproductions of stained-glass windows, the pulpit, various
plaques, pews, and other interior furnishings. Subsequent chapters focus
on the early history of the church and its relationship to the military
garrison; the construction of the building; the church’s relationship
to the community; the work of leading clergy and other congregational
leaders; the forms and styles of worship; the role of drama, music, and
education in the church; and the church’s missionary and outreach
programs.

Although the author is highly respectful of the church and its history,
this is no work of hagiography. Clerical eccentricities, quarrels, and
“serious mistakes” are documented, as are the efforts to deal with
unruly and wayward behavior on the part of parishioners and worshipers.
Short sketches of well-known members and of the special role of the
church in events of national significance or in times of great tragedy
add warm human touches to this informative and beautifully produced
history.