When you explore Montreal, step into St Jax Montréal, a historic Gothic Revival Anglican church built from grey limestone at 1439 Sainte-Catherine Street West. First opened in 1864 as St. James the Apostle, this unique site earned the playful nickname "St. Crickets in the Fields" when British military officers played cricket alongside the original open property.
Today, you will find a serene spiritual haven with rich history and incredible architectural details. As you walk through the interior, look for thirty-one striking stained glass windows, including the Ascension window above the altar and the Regimental Window honoring First World War service members. You can admire retired military colours from the Victoria Rifles of Canada suspended inside, along with two carved angels on the front arch keeping watch over the space. Trace the entire Apostles' Creed scripted along a distinct decorative frieze framing the nave ceiling.
Outside, take time to enjoy the peaceful public church garden, recently renovated by local volunteers. Do not miss the historical Cross of Nails hanging on the office wall, gifted directly from Coventry Cathedral in England. Whether you appreciate historic Canadian heritage or intricate stained glass, St Jax offers you a memorable stop.
What to see at St. Jax Montréal
- Gothic Revival grey limestone architecture dating back to 1864
- Thirty-one detailed stained glass windows, including the historic Regimental Window
- A ceiling frieze along the nave displaying the complete Apostles' Creed
- Retired military colours from the Victoria Rifles of Canada
- A historical Cross of Nails presented by England's Coventry Cathedral
Visiting tips
Visit during daily office hours to stroll through the public church garden and view the Coventry Cross of Nails on the office wall.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: During office hours
How to get there & what’s nearby
St. Jax Montréal is easy to reach on Montreal’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Chapel of Our Lady of Help, Montreal. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Montreal travel guide.
See the full Montreal travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.