Aucklanders whisper tales of a church that crossed the sea. That church is Saint Francis de Sales Church. It stands here today a testament to faith and resilience.
Saint Francis de Sales and All Souls Parish was established in 1904. However, a worshipping community existed here for years before.
The original church building was small and wooden. Bishop Pompallier commissioned it in 1866 as a mortuary chapel. It was named for François de Sales, one of his patrons. Imagine that little chapel making its way across the harbour. In 1893, it was barged across from Symonds Street, Auckland. It was erected on this very site.
The Catholic population in town doubled between 1890 and 1900.
In 1919, a second larger building was erected. It was a Gothic Revival design built over the old chapel. The old chapel was dismantled and removed through the entrance. You can almost picture the scene.
The name of the old church became the name of the new one. Bishop Cleary added All Souls at its dedication on the Feast of All Souls, 2nd November 1919. This was in remembrance of those lost in World War 1 and the flu epidemic. The Saint Francis de Sales Church became a memorial.
Today, Saint Francis de Sales welcomes all. The historic church is open most daylight hours. You can sit quietly and reflect. You can also enjoy this special place.
Mass is held here regularly. Saint Francis de Sales offers a welcoming faith community.
Consider the journey of this church. From a mortuary chapel to a parish landmark, Saint Francis de Sales has evolved. It has served the community for over a century. It is a place of worship and remembrance.