This always has been one of my favourite churches in Toronto, and I've been to many since my ex was a musician.
Thinking back just over 20 years ago when my older kid got baptized, it was here. As well there was a memorable concert here with Daniel Lanois and Bruce Cockburn, Sarah McLachlan, and other Canadian musicians back then.
But since then the place has slowly slid downhill, being a drop in for homeless, and eventually turning into an encampment with plenty of community problems like violence and arson.
The city finally put a stop to it, since the church refused to do anything about the problems. Fencing was put around the front yard, with concrete blocks dropped in to prevent camping.
Then like a phoenix rising from the ashes (this church did burn down and get rebuilt in the past) suddenly there was a music show scheduled and it seemed to be back as a venue.
I missed that show, but then recently went to a Long Winter event there which was phenomenal. It was great to be back in that hall with that incredible vaulted ceiling along with some lighting effects made for a memorable show.
The centre area is open without any pews or anything, while the upstairs loft still has the pews. It's super comfortable and cozy and dark up there, a perfect makeout spot with excellent sight lines to the stage.
Nice to see you back again St Stephens, greetings and happy returns! read more