Press Release
June 14, 2022
For Immediate Release
Joint Bid Committee Successful in Purchase of Basilica,
St. Bonaventure’s College and the St. Bon’s Forum
St. John’s – The joint bid committee of the Basilica Heritage Foundation Inc., St. Bonaventure’s College Inc, and the St. Bon’s Forum Corporation is pleased to announce that they have been successful in securing the Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and its block of attached properties (pending final court approval). The group is extremely grateful to the community for its support and looks to a bright future for these properties for centuries to come.
The sale of this property is an important component of the compensation plan for the abuse victims of the former Mount Cashel Orphanage. The entire group is very pleased to see the funds from this sale go to this cause.
“As a group, our intentions will remain focused on the preservation of this historic, culturally significant, and spiritual landmark. A landmark that belongs to the people of this province and provides a sense of “place” and belonging to so many now has a secure future,” said Fred Cahill, Chair of the Joint Bid Committee.
Acquiring these properties means that The Basilica Heritage Foundation is now able to maintain and preserve the Basilica, as a faith, heritage and cultural centre for Newfoundland and Labrador. It also means that St. Bonaventure’s College will continue to educate students, focusing on the whole person: mind, body and spirit. And the Forum will operate as a hockey rink facilitating recreation, athletics and leadership training.
Planning and preparations are now underway for next steps. The group and committee members will be working to ensure the Basilica, St. Bon’s and the St. Bon’s Forum can continue to provide a home for education, growth, culture and community.
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Media Contact:
Erin Curran
ecurran@pilotcom.ca
709-690-2959
