Did you know that St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Clovelly began in a humble church-school? It all started in 1917. The Catholic population of Clovelly was growing. They needed their own church. A block of land was purchased in Arden Street. Voluntary workers cleared it.
The first church building was a simple one-storey structure. It served as both a church and a school. The first Mass was celebrated there on December 23 1917. The building was officially blessed on January 20 1918. Many items from that first church are still in use today. These include the Baptismal Font and the Stations of the Cross. Also the Sacred Heart statue, statues of St Anthony, Our Lady, and St Joseph.
St Anthony of Padua Catholic Primary School is an integral part of the parish. The Sisters of St Joseph ran the school initially. It opened on January 28 1918 with 45 pupils.
The Catholic population continued to increase. A new and bigger church was needed. Another block of land on Arden Street was bought in 1924. The foundation stone for the present St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church was laid on March 28 1926. Archbishop Kelly did the honors.
The first Mass in the new St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church was celebrated on June 12 1927. The church was blessed that same day.
In 1930, the Franciscans relinquished charge of Clovelly. Monsignor Robert Peoples was appointed parish priest. The current presbytery was built. The Lourdes Grotto was also erected in 1932.
Monsignor John Muirhead became parish priest in 1935. He beautified the interior of St Anthony’s. By 1944, the church had a marble high altar. It also had side altars, a communion rail, and a sanctuary floor. These features are still visible today.
Over the years, St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church has seen many changes. New priests have come and gone. The Second Vatican Council brought significant changes. Mass began to be said in English.
In 2017 and 2018, the parish celebrated its Centenary. The celebrations included special Masses. A history book was published.
Six new stained glass windows were installed in 2018. They commemorate the parish centenary. These windows depict various saints.
The parish has always had a strong musical tradition. St Anthony’s Singers continue to lead the congregation. They lead at the Vigil Mass.
Today, St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church continues to be a vibrant community. It is committed to its mission. The mission is to know Christ and to make him known. The church serves the local community. It celebrates the Eucharist and other sacraments. It shows concern for social justice. Everyone is welcome at St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. The south entrance is the most accessible.