Did you know that St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble is the only Anglican church in New South Wales bearing the name of an English bishop? This bishop was Swithun of Winchester. He lived in the 9th century and even served as the first Lord Chancellor of England.
St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble’s story began as a branch of the Gordon parish. The first service took place on July 14, 1901. Fifty adults and thirty children gathered in Pymble Community Hall. Members of the Pymble family had erected this building.
In 1920, St Swithun’s became its own parish. The first church building was a small wooden hall. The Pymble family sold the land to the church. Services were held there until 1940. Then the new stone church building was completed. Soon after, St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble established a new branch church. This became Christ Church St Ives.
After World War II, Pymble’s population grew significantly. This led to a large Sunday school and confirmation classes. The parish acquired new buildings to accommodate the growth. It also hired staff to assist the rector. Before the war, the rector had only a catechist to help on Sundays. An office secretary and ministry team were not added until the 1980s.
Lay members have always been vital to St Swithun’s. They ran the Sunday school. They assisted with preaching and leading services. They financed new buildings and land purchases. Notably, the church has had an above-average attendance of men. Also unusual for the Sydney diocese, women have had opportunities to lead services and preach at St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble.
Mission work has always been integral to St Swithun’s life. This includes teaching Scripture in local schools. It also involves holding local missions. Many members participated in the 1959 Billy Graham Crusade. This gave great impetus to the congregation. St Swithun’s youth groups have produced cross-cultural missionaries. They have also nurtured ordained clergy and lay church workers.
Music has become increasingly important at St Swithun’s over the years. The church installed a beautiful pipe organ in 1989. The choir has grown stronger. This happened when many other Sydney choirs declined. The acoustics of the church are appalling, which makes the sound from the organ even more impressive.
Pastoral care has always been a priority at St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble. This care comes from the rector and congregational members. More recently, designated staff also provide support.
Interestingly, St Swithun’s has a unique feature: carriage lights made from donated aluminum. During World War II, women donated saucepans and other items. These were melted down. They were then cast into carriage lights for the new church. These lights were installed in 1940. They guided worshippers for 80 years. In 2020, a grant enabled their full restoration.
St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble is more than just a building. It is a community of living stones. These stones have experienced growth, challenges, blessings, and renewal. The heritage-listed building houses people. These people are still being fashioned by their heavenly Maker.
So, as you stand before St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble, remember its rich history. Think of the people who built it. Think of their dedication. Appreciate the living stones that continue to shape this community.