Founded by Scottish immigrants in 1844, Ottawa’s neo-Gothic Knox Church now glows under thousands of candles for intimate live concerts downtown

Knox Presbyterian Church, a prime example of neo-Gothic architecture, is known for its notable clock tower. The church’s first home, designed by Donald Kennedy in 1845, was at Daly Avenue and Cumberland Street. In 1930, the City of Ottawa expropriated the site, leading to the construction of the current building at Lisgar and Elgin, designed by Henry Sproatt and opened in 1932.

Knox has a strong military connection, displaying the Regimental and King’s Colours of the 207th Battalion in 1919, which were originally presented by Major General Sir Sam Hughes on Parliament Hill in 1916. Memorial plaques honour those who served in the two World Wars.

At Knox Presbyterian Church, visitors can engage in a range of activities beyond attending religious services. Alongside the church’s monthly Jazz Vespers and Community Concerts, visitors can also enjoy mesmerising Candlelight concerts, a tribute series that celebrates iconic compositions and songs from just about every genre. You can also attend workshops, seminars and lectures on topics like theology, spirituality and personal development.

Knox Presbyterian Church, rooted in the Reformed tradition and founded by John Knox in Scotland, emphasizes the Trinity, salvation by grace, and the Bible as its authority. Its beliefs are summarized in the Westminster Standards and traditional creeds, with a commitment to sharing God’s love and serving the community.

Knox Church is situated at 120 Lisgar Street on the southeast corner of Elgin Street and Lisgar Street, just south of Ottawa’s City Hall. Thanks to its central location, it’s easily reachable by public transport. Bus routes 5, 14, and 18 stop at Lisgar and Cooper, whereas the Transitway has stops five blocks from Knox church at Slater at Metcalfe and Albert at Metcalfe. For drivers, there’s plenty of parking near the church, including on Lisgar Street and Laurier Street.