Archives

Historical background

The Montreal Diocesan Archives was established in 1943 when an Archives Committee was created by the Executive Committee of the Diocese in accordance with the recommendation of the Archives Committee of the General Synod. In 1964, the first Diocesan Archivist was appointed by the Bishop, and in 1993, the Diocesan Synod adopted Canon 8 on Archives. This established the Diocesan Archives canonically, defined the responsibilities of the diocese and parishes for the preservation of records and mandated the appointment of a Diocesan Archivist by the Bishop. Since 1998, the Diocesan Archivist can count on an Assistant, who undertakes the daily work at the Diocesan Archives.

Mandate

The Archives preserves the records of the diocesan administration including the records of the Bishops and other officers, and of the Synod and its various boards and committees, the records of the deaneries and of individuals, both clergy and laity, who have been active in the affairs of the church. Some parishes have deposited their records in the Archives and the records of closed parishes are usually to be found there.

Research

We are welcoming researchers on-site, on appointment only. Please note that some records are restricted. For more information about the research procedure, please consult our research policy.

Certificates

We are issuing certificates for church and genealogical purposes. To order a certificate, please download the Application for a Certificate of Baptism, Confirmation, Marriage, and Burial or for a Certified Transcript. Should you need a legal document which proof your birth or marriage, please consult the Director of Civil Status website.

Diocesan Archives Staff

Dr Richard Virr — Diocesan Archivist and Archivist of the Ecclesiastical Province of Canada
Ms Barbara McPherson — Assistant Archivist
Contact e-mail: archives@montreal.anglican.ca
Phone (514) 843-6577, #254
Fax (514) 843-6344
Mail: 1444 avenue Union, Montréal, QC H3A 2B8