St. Jude's Anglican Cathedral ᔫᑎ ᐃᔾᔪᕐᓇᐃᑦᑐᖅ ᑐᒃᓯᐊᕕᔾᔪᐊᖓ Travel Guide

St. Jude's Anglican Cathedral, formally the Cathedral of St. Simon and St. Jude, stands as a beacon of faith and Inuit culture in Iqaluit. Affectionately called the Igloo Cathedral, its distinctive igloo shape makes it a must-see landmark. The original cathedral, designed by Ronald Thom, was built in 1972 by local volunteers and was known for its Inuit craftsmanship. It featured wall hangings, woven collection baskets, and a narwhal tusk cross. A soapstone baptismal font, dedicated by Queen Elizabeth II, added to its unique character.Tragically, the original structure was destroyed by arson in 2005. However, the community rallied, and a new cathedral, closely resembling the original design, opened in June 2012. The rebuilt cathedral incorporates fire-resistant beams and salvaged elements from the original, including the narwhal tusk cross and a silver bowl presented by the Queen. The interior showcases Inuit art and offers services in both English and Inuktitut. The cathedral symbolizes the resilience and faith of the Iqalummiut and continues to be a vital gathering place and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Arctic.