Assumption Church in Windsor is one of those sites that, in a rather magical way taps into a history of Canada that many of us have forgotten. Its roots rest with the French period of Canada's history — indeed, not just Canada’s, as at the time the parish was established the French community stretched from the St. Lawrence right through the Great Lakes, and down the Mississippi to New Orleans.

Preservation of such a site, which must include its meaning, is therefore of utmost importance if we are to find our way into the future.

“The Master Plan defines a new framework for growth through a partnership between Assumption Church, the City of Windsor, its riverfront and the University of Windsor. Further the Master Plan builds upon the goal of creating a “green campus” in an urban context while providing a destination site for the public at the gateway entrance to Canada.The design approach is to preserve, protect, and celebrate nature and historic and cultural features. It will build upon them to define key elements to anchor and unify the campus through new cultural landscapes in the form of themed public gardens.”

“The Church is one of Ontario’s most important religious landmarks from the first of half of the 19th century and the Assumption parish, in addition to dating from the mid 18th century, is closely associated with the Francophone community in Southwest Ontario. It is of utmost importance that the conservation and rehabilitation of the church be undertaken in order to ensure the continued preservation and use of the Church. The Trust strongly supports the strategic campus master planning process at Assumption and is prepared to work closely with the Diocese, Assumption Management Board, parish and community as well as the professional project team in arriving at a vision, design and work plan that sees the property preserved and enjoyed for generations to come”

“Assumption Church is an important cultural resource to Windsor and to Canada. It is a locally designated heritage property and is on the Canadian Register of Historic Places. The site is one of the most important locations from the earliest history of European exploration and settlement in Southwestern Ontario, where French and Native peoples shared a community.”

“Assumption Church is the heart of Canada’s oldest Roman Catholic parish west of Montreal. The Windsor Heritage Committee fully supports the initiatives being made to guarantee its future.”

“This is one of Canada’s most important landmarks from the first half of the 19th century.”

“Assumption has roots extending back to the founding peoples of Canada, and can well be considered a local and national treasure.”

“See, taste, touch, hear and smell. Experience the sense of wonder of the Assumption Garden.”

“The Campus Master Plan provides for a ’green’ enhanced campus promoting and celebrating the principles of stewardship.”

“The work of the Basilian Fathers first began at Assumption in 1870, and it is our job to share and preserve their wonderful story. ”

“The Basilians are the reason Assumption rose to prominence. It’s vital we share this legacy with future generations.”

“The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary have served the needs of Windsor and the entire diocese and the Pavilion is our opportunity to give back.”

“I have fond memories of my Great-Aunt Sr. Thérèse Bécigneul from childhood including her sharing with me her passion for nature which has inspired the great love of gardening I have today.”