Archdiocese, heritage group sign MOU for possible ownership swap of historic N.S. church

The Saint-Marie Church opened its doors in 1905. (Source: Gabrielle Bardall)

North America’s tallest wooden church, which was deconsecrated in 2023, could soon have new owners in Nova Scotia.

The Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth and the Association Sainte-Marie héritage et développement have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a possible transfer of ownership of the former Sainte-Marie church in Church Point.

“After many years of efforts to save the building we are pleased that a local group has come forward to explore how the building might be saved and remain a viable gathering place for the community,” said Most Reverend Brian Joseph Dunn, Archbishop of the Archdiocese, in a news release.

The heritage group formed in late 2024 to save the church from demolition following unsuccessful attempts to sell it. The group previously told CTV News Atlantic they would like to transform the building into a museum for Acadian history.

“We are united by our mutual desire to find a sustainable solution for this remarkable building to allow her to continue to serve the community that built her and to tell the incredible story of the Acadians of Nova Scotia” said Gabrielle Bardall, co-president of the heritage group.

The news release notes the MOU does not mean ownership has or will be transferred, but rather that formal conversations are ongoing.

The church, which opened its doors in 1905, was recognized as a Canadian Historic Site in 2001. Many of its parishioners were descendants of Acadian families who returned to Nova Scotia after the 1755 Deportation.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page