The Montante Cultural Center, formerly St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, was dedicated as a church in 1926 by Buffalo Bishop The Most Rev. William Turner. The building is the only perfect example of the Byzantine-Lombardic style of architecture in the country. During its 130-year history, St. Vincent De Paul parish was an integral part of the community.
In 1993, the Diocese of Buffalo closed St. Vincent de Paul parish and Canisius bought the property. The college had already acquired the school building in 1978 when it closed, along with the property around the church.
It was clear that the church could provide the space for large on-campus events. But its wonderful architecture presented challenges. Sound was often lost on the church's dome or reflected off the numerous hard surfaces. The interior of the church was often dark and cold. The pews were uncomfortable. A major renovation was desperately needed to transform St. Vincent's into a multi-purpose auditorium for the college. The renovation was a priority for the Imagine Canisius campaign. Click here to read about the renovation project.
St. Vincent de Paul parish had a very rich history, dating back to its founding in 1863 by Fr. Joseph Sorg and dedication by the first bishop of Buffalo, Bishop John Timon.