INUVIK - Inuvik's Our Lady of Victory Church was first constructed in 1959.

It is generally regarded as the town's foremost landmark, and appears on postcards, souvenirs and even the town's logo.

Reverend Matthew Ihuoma has been leading Inuvik's Our Lady of Victory Church since August 2005. He said the historic building is showing signs of age, but is still a wonderful place to work. - Philippe Morin/NNSL photo

On May 16, News/North sat down with Rev. Matthew Ihuoma - who this summer will celebrate his two years as head of the parish - to speak about working in the historic building, flaws and all.

NEWS NORTH: Construction on this church started as far back as 1959. How does it feel to work in this building?

Matthew Ihuoma: It feels good to be part of the history. Sometimes it's a bit overwhelming when you look at the history and all the people who've been here. But it's a continuation of that history, and so that is a privilege.

N/N: Are there renovations to be made? How is the place holding up?

MI: Well, I'm not an architect or an engineer, so I can't tell you. (laughs) I couldn't tell you how the structure is doing, though I think it is strong.

I think there are many parts that need to be painted and repainted, but it's not very easy for the parish, because financially we're not very strong.

Also, during the spring when the snow melts, the whole water from that area (the back of the church,) comes down into the gravel.

We fought to get the town to divert the water from this area, but it hasn't been done yet.

N/N: The church's official name is Our Lady of Victory, but people still say Igloo Church because of the shape. Which do you use, and why?

MI: Our Lady of Victory Church is the name. (laughs)

People use Igloo Church because of the history, but as a church we use Our Lady of Victory on official documents.

But, you know, people feel good about calling it Igloo Church, so at times I'll say it.

N/N: How are the acoustics here?

MI: They are excellent. Oftentimes I don't even use a microphone when I preach or walk around.

It's the best in town. Maybe in the whole Northwest Territories, I don't know (laughs).

N/N: You've travelled to different places around the world. What are some of your favourite churches or cathedrals you've visited?

MI: Every church is unique. The church in Fort Good Hope is one of my favourites. I was there in 2004 and 2005, it's a very small church but it's very good.

In my country of Nigeria, people have so much attachment to the church.

That's why, at times, when people want to demolish a church, people don't want to let go.

Every church is very unique to its people.