New dean ushers in new vision for St. Matthew’s Anglican Cathedral

The Anglican Diocese of Brandon has appointed Rev. Chris Evetts as dean of St. Matthew’s Anglican Cathedral. The move follows the retirement of dean Rev. Don Bernhardt earlier this year.

Along with the leadership change, the church at 403 13th St. is undergoing major upgrades aimed at transforming it into a modern community hub.

Evetts, who was ordained in the Diocese of Brandon eight years ago, took up the new role in February. It includes responsibility for St. Mary’s Anglican Church at 401 First St. and St. Paul’s in Wawanesa, known as a “multi-point parish.”

“It’s a big job, but I have a good calendar that keeps me organized,” Evetts said. “Being dean means not only leading the cathedral parish but also stepping in for the bishop when needed.”

Since assuming the role, Evetts has launched the Restoring Hope Project, a vision to renew both the worshipping community and the cathedral’s role in Brandon at large. That vision involves creating a space that extends beyond Sunday worship.

“The Anglican Church in Canada is facing changes, and people’s needs are shifting,” he said. “We want St. Matthew’s to be more than a place of worship — it should be a gathering place where the wider community can meet, connect and serve one another.”

Already, the cathedral has taken bold steps. The traditional pews have been removed and replaced with chairs to allow flexible use of the space. New washrooms are being added. The cathedral has strengthened ties with Brandon University’s Faculty of Music, which holds concerts there, and is finalizing a partnership with Westman Immigrant Services, which will share space in the building apart from existing space the organization uses.

Plans for the basement include hosting meal programs for vulnerable residents, offering services such as haircuts or basic medical care, and creating rental space for artisans, small businesses and pop-up restaurants or community classes.

“Our long-term goal is to be a self-sustaining community hub, with people in the cathedral every day,” Evetts said. “We want to serve Brandon in ways that are new for us but still rooted in our baptismal promises.”

The changes have been well received by parishioners, he said, with many recognizing the need to adapt to remain relevant in today’s world. Still, challenges remain — particularly around funding.

“Some grants close their doors to us simply because we’re a church,” he said. “But what we’re trying to show is that most of what we want to offer is not religious programming. We’re talking about community meals, arts events and shared space. This is about serving Brandon.”

Current funding comes from diocesan support, Anglican foundations and rental income from community partners, but the cathedral is seeking new partnerships to advance its ambitious plans.

Built between 1912 and 1913, St. Matthew’s Cathedral is one of Brandon’s architectural landmarks, designed by W.A. Elliott in the English Gothic Revival style. Its red brick, limestone trim and central tower make it a striking presence along 13th Street.

Evetts acknowledges the challenge of balancing history with innovation.

“We’re trying to shake the ghosts of the past and become something new. That means taking risks and inventing as we go, because there isn’t a blueprint for this,” he said.

Despite construction dust and ladders scattered about, Evetts invites residents to see the transformation for themselves.

“Ring the bell during the week,” he said. “Come in, and we’ll be happy to show you around. Look past the renovations and see the vision — we want St. Matthew’s to be a place where Brandon gathers, in every sense.

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