The doors of the historic Assumption Church in Windsor is re-opening to the public.

An estimated 700 people attended an outdoor mass on the grounds of the church Sunday, which was followed by an open house.

The doors opened as part of a continuing series of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of Our Lady of Assumption parish.

The church itself was built in 1842, but Assumption parish was established on October 3, 1767.

It is Canada’s oldest catholic parish, west of Montreal.

The landmark building was closed in 2014, pending a restoration campaign. 

Father Maurice Restivo, the pastor at Assumption parish, feels it is important for people to go inside the historic church.

The doors of the church will open again on Tuesday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., for the Feast day of Our Lady of the Assumption.

A partial restoration of the church is estimated to cost about $7-million. A full restoration may cost $10-million to $12-million.