Mona Vale, NSW - St John's Anglican

History and Architecture:

The Church began its life when the rector from St Matthew’s Manly travelled to Barrenjoey lighthouse to conduct occasional services. He noted the growth of small villages in the area and the need for churches to be located within these new communities. St John’s became the first church to be built in the region and was opened on the 21st of September 1871. It was originally located on the hill overlooking Bongan Bongan beach. The rector could then travel from Manly to conduct services in the new church.

A wall plaque reads, "The History of St John's Anglican Church Mona Vale St John the Baptist Church of England Pittwater 'First Church built in this part of the Colony' 1st Site 1871 1881 Grandview Parade overlooking Bongan Beach 2nd Site 1881 1906 Bayview Road, Winnererremy Selection Mona Vale. 3rd site 1907 Pittwater Road Mona Vale. 1955 Front porch added 1982 Church extended".

A full history can be seen here.