The inscription above the entrance of Saint Michael’s Uniting Church reads, “To the glory of God…”. This grand building on Collins Street in Melbourne has witnessed the city’s growth and change for over 150 years. It stands tall and proud, a beacon of faith in the heart of a bustling metropolis.
Saint Michael’s Uniting Church, originally known as the Collins Street Independent Church, was established in 1839. The first church on this site was a humble structure, built in the early days of the Port Phillip District, the area that would become the state of Victoria. The congregation quickly outgrew the original building, and in 1863, it was demolished to make way for the current structure.
The new church, designed by Joseph Reed, was completed in 1867. Reed was a well-known architect who also designed Melbourne’s Town Hall and the iconic Royal Exhibition Building. He chose a Lombardic Romanesque style for Saint Michael’s, featuring prominent multicoloured brickwork, round arches, and a towering square bell tower. The church is listed by Heritage Victoria and classified by the National Trust of Australia.
Inside, the church boasts a unique interior that evokes a theatrical atmosphere. The sloping floor with tiered seating and a spacious gallery behind a ring of high arches, designed to ensure good sight lines, reflect the Congregationalist belief that all members of the congregation should be able to see and hear the preacher.
Saint Michael’s Uniting Church, a symbol of faith and community, stands as a reminder of Melbourne’s vibrant history and a place for people to find solace and connect with something larger than themselves. The church’s progressive message of inclusivity and justice is further embodied by its current minister, Rev. Dr Margaret Mayman.