St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, Ottawa

Saint Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral stands as an eminent Antiochian Eastern-Orthodox place of worship situated in Ottawa. Positioned on Riverside Drive, just east of Mooney's Bay and to the south of the Hog's Back Falls, this cathedral is an integral part of the community.

In 1929, Lebanese immigrants established a congregation in Ottawa. Due to the Lebanese Civil War in the 1970s and 1980s, more Antiochian Eastern-Orthodox individuals came to the city. To accommodate the growing congregation, they acquired land in 1975 and built the current cathedral between 1990 and 1992. In the year 2000, it was consecrated as a cathedral, symbolizing its elevated status.

The Diocese of Ottawa now encompasses Eastern Canada and Upstate New York, serving as a center for religious affairs in the region. The cathedral's schedule includes Vesper services held on Saturday evenings, while Sunday mornings commence with matins at 8:45 AM, followed by the divine liturgy.

Celebrating the vibrant Lebanese culture, the annual Ottawa Lebanese Festival takes place every July on the Cathedral Grounds. This event attracts people from both Lebanese and non-Lebanese backgrounds, drawing individuals from across Ottawa.

The cathedral fosters a sense of community through its various active groups, which include the Sunday School, Teen SOYO youth group, Young Adults Ministry, the Fellowship of Saint John the Divine, and the Antiochian Women. These groups provide opportunities for individuals to engage, learn, and grow within the framework of their faith.