Calwell, ACT - Sacred Heart Catholic
Year Built: 1902
Denomination: Roman Catholic
Address: 100 Casey Crescent, Calwell, Australian Capital Territory, 2905
Architect: Unknown
Traditional Owners: Ngunnawal, Ngunawal and Ngambri peoples
Last Updated: 01/10/2023
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History and Architecture:
This Gothic-style weatherboard church was only the second Catholic church in the ACT. Built by voluntary labour, it was opened on 29 June 1902 and formally dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Father James O'Gorman from Michelago preached the first sermon. As this was part of the Sydney Diocese, Archbishop Kelly, the fourth Archbishop of Sydney, conducted the first Confirmation ceremony later in 1902.
This little church became the centre of social and religious life for Catholics in the region. Parishioners often traveled many miles on horseback or by sulky to attend Sunday Mass, baptise their children, marry, and bury their loved ones. After Mass they broke their communion fasts at shared picnic-style breakfasts cooked on a stove under the pine trees they planted in the church yard in 1903.
Clergy:
There are currently no clergy recorded for this church. Submissions are welcomed.
Organ:
No information currently available. Submissions welcomed.
Source:
1. Historical board at front of Church.