The magnificent Forster & Andrews organ. Its music still echoes through Sacred Heart Mosman. This isn’t just any church. Sacred Heart Mosman in Sydney’s leafy Mosman is steeped in history. Its foundation stone was blessed in 1901 by Cardinal Moran. The church’s simple brown brick exterior hides a stunning interior. The wide nave and side aisles seat 500. The arched sanctuary added in 1922 is breathtaking.
In 1925 Sacred Heart Mosman acquired a special treasure. A Forster & Andrews organ from Goulburn. This wasn’t a new purchase. This magnificent instrument originally graced St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Goulburn. It had been built in 1882. Its opening concert was a grand affair. Admission was 3 shillings for adults. This organ traveled a long way to find its home in Sacred Heart Mosman.
The story of its journey is fascinating. The Goulburn church was demolished in 1925. A larger organ was ordered. Sacred Heart Mosman parishioners bought the Forster & Andrews organ. They celebrated Monsignor O’Brien’s 25th anniversary with this gift. The organ was installed in the west-end choir gallery. It served as a memorial to parishioners who fell in World War I.
Years passed. The organ showed its age. It needed serious restoration. Roger Pogson the master organ builder undertook this task. He’s known for his work on the Sydney Town Hall organ. A bequest from Bishop Muldoon provided the necessary funds. The restoration was completed in 1984. The organ was even moved to protect it from sunlight.
The restored Forster & Andrews organ is a marvel. It’s remarkably bright and full-bodied. The sound resonates beautifully in the church’s acoustics. Its façade pipes are light green. Dark green feet contrast with red and gold fleur-de-lys. The carved nameplate proudly declares its origins: Forster & Andrews Hull England 1882.
Sacred Heart Mosman holds more than just a church. It holds a story of faith resilience and remarkable musical heritage. The organ’s music continues to uplift. It fills this special place with beauty and spiritual resonance. So take a moment breathe in the history and enjoy the legacy of Sacred Heart Mosman.