St Patricks Catholic Church

St Patricks Catholic Church has been a spiritual retreat in the heart of Sydney since it first opened its doors back in 1844.

It was the second Catholic Church to be built in the city, yet it is thought to be Sydney’s oldest Catholic church. Part of the reason for this is that the oldest Catholic Church, St Mary’s Cathedral, was built earlier on but had to be reconstructed in 1882 following a fire that razed down the structure.

St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Wedding, Address & Mass Times, The Rocks

Since it was built, the church has remained a key landmark in the city, undergoing renovation back in 1999 to restore it to its former glory. Some of the most noticeable features at the church include its grand high altar, the intricately designed stain glass windows, as well as statues located across the church.

The high altar, which was sourced from Paris before its installation, is an iconic part of the church design. The glass windows, on the other hand, are the oldest in the church and these were erected in 1849. It is interesting to note that many of the statues in the church were crafted in the early 20th century and were imported from different parts of France.

Historical tours are held at the church on the first and third Monday of the month at 10:15am. These begin at St Patrick’s Courtyard Coffee Shop, where a guide will conduct the hour-long tours. Some of the heritage buildings to be visited during the tour include St. Patrick’s Church, Convent Chapel, the former convent, as well as the old presbytery. Bookings must be made in advance, and tickets go for $10 per person.

Additionally, St Patricks Catholic Church offers Mass services on weekdays, weekends and public holidays, at different times as indicated on the church’s official website. The church also holds marriage and baptisms with prior arrangement. Interested visitors can get involved in any of the church’s ministries and groups.

St Patricks Catholic Church is at 141 Harrington Street in Sydney.