Historic church at Windsor celebrates 175 years

By Mary Hampshire
Fr Arthur Cook with (from left): Judy Rigg, Judy Newland, Mary Hampshire, Di Wilson and Jeanette Holland.

This year marks the 175th anniversary of St Matthew’s Church at Windsor, the oldest Catholic church on the Australian mainland that has been in continuous use.

Parish festivities commenced with a dinner dance attended by 140 people on 25 September 2015 at Windsor RSL. An atmosphere of warm conviviality pervaded the room and the music had everyone tapping their toes.

Generous support on the night helped to raise much-needed funds for the restoration and preservation of the church.

Celine McDonald and her willing helpers donated their time and talents to decorating the room. Organiser, Di Wilson, and Master of Ceremonies, Leon Walker, ensured the smooth running of the evening.

St Matthew’s Church at Windsor

St Matthew’s Church at Windsor

 

Coming events

Sunday 25 October 2015: 175th Anniversary Mass at 11am in St Matthew’s Church. A light lunch will follow in the church hall. St Matthew’s Church Parish, 12 Tebbutt St, Windsor.

Sunday 1 November 2015: Parish Picnic Festivities. Mass at 9.30am in the schools grounds followed by morning tea; lunch and activities for all the family, young and old. Chisholm Catholic Primary, 30 Collith Ave, Sth Windsor.

Wednesday 18 November 2015: Thanksgiving High Tea in the church hall at 10.30am for ‘seasoned citizens’ (aged 60 and over). St Matthew’s Parish, 12 Tebbutt St, Windsor.

The 175th Anniversary Celebrations Committee comprises Fr Arthur Cook, Mary Hampshire, Jeanette Holland, Celine McDonald and Di Wilson, assisted by Judy Newland and Parish Secretary, Judy Rigg.

Generations of local families have trodden the path of faith and found joy and solace within the walls of the little “pink” church. The exterior does not prepare you for the beautiful interior. The church and original pipe organ were restored a number of years ago.

Fr Arthur was presented with a framed document bearing the seal of Pope Francis, bestowing a Papal blessing on the parish community.

It is on current view in St Matthew’s Church and in coming weeks will be displayed before Mass at the Chisholm Mass Centre.

Before it is secured to the wall in the church the Papal blessing will be taken to the Catholic schools in the parish for viewing by students at St Matthew’s Primary, Windsor; Chisholm Primary, Bligh Park; and Bede Polding College, Windsor South.

 

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