Basilica Heritage Foundation Announces Finalized Purchase of Basilica
The Basilica Heritage Foundation (BHF) is pleased to announce that the purchase of the Basilica in St. John’s is now final. As the new owners of the property, the BHF is looking forward to continuing the work to preserve and protect this provincial landmark.
“We began this process in early 2022 as part of a successful joint bid committee to purchase the Basilica/St. Bons property, thanks to support from the community. Over the past two years we have been working diligently to ensure all administrative, legal and logistical work was completed before officially taking ownership. We are very happy to celebrate the completion of this transaction and focus on a future for the Basilica,” said Anne Walsh, Chairperson of the BHF.
As the new owners and operators of the Basilica, the BHF will assume all duties and costs associated with repairing, preserving, and operating this building, which is over 160 years old. No small task.
“Our Foundation is looking forward to what we are calling a new beginning for the Basilica. While it will remain a place of worship, the Basilica will now open its doors even wider to the community,” said Anne. “We plan to make this space more accessible to arts and culture groups, community groups and the community at large. We want people from all over the world to visit the Basilica and help us celebrate its magnificence.”
The Basilica is home to an impressive art and artifact collection, plus countless stories tied to significant historical events. People have been visiting the Basilica for years, and the hope is to increase the amount of tourists and tour groups in the future. The BHF also plans to open space for conference rentals, event venues and more.
The operating costs of a building this age and size is something the BHF is now responsible for. The Foundation is planning several fundraising activities that will likely become long-standing events and are building donation platforms online.
“We could not have saved the Basilica without the support of the community, and we are hoping that support will continue as we come together to keep the doors open,” adds Anne. “The opportunities for this incredible space are endless and we look forward to collaborating with donors, the community and stakeholders to make sure the Basilica can continue being a significant, beautiful and functional structure.”
Outside of fundraising, there will be some revenue generating opportunities that will help fund operational costs. This will include rent paid by those using the Basilica, such as the St. John the Baptist Cathedral Basilica Parish. The BHF will introduce fees that are sustainable and will help ensure the Basilica remains standing.
“The Basilica was at risk of disappearing only two years ago. We are incredibly proud to celebrate the closure of this sale and look forward to the future with the Basilica Heritage Foundation now at the helm,” concludes Anne.
-30-
Media Contact:
Erin Curran
709-325-7193
erin@lupinecommunications.com