Could a church be built on faith, bricks, and a bit of family drama? At the Anglican Parish of Grovely, the answer is a resounding yes. The Anglican Parish of Grovely isn’t just one building. It encompasses St Matthew’s in Mitchelton and All Saints in Arana Hills. But our story begins with John and Mary Nicholson, English gentry who arrived in Queensland in 1864. They settled at Groveley Farm, later known as Groveley Lodge, in Upper Kedron. Dedicated Anglicans, they missed having a local church. So, they started holding services and Sunday school right in their own home.
In 1867, the Nicholsons approached Bishop Edward Tufnell with a proposition. They offered land and a hefty chunk of their own money to build a church. Other settlers pitched in with labor and materials. Interestingly, the land wasn’t given directly to the church. It was placed in a private trust, a detail that would have implications later. While the initial plan was for a simple timber structure designed by Charles Tiffin, the local brickmakers stepped up. They offered to donate bricks, leading to a change of plans. The foundation stone for St Matthew’s was laid on September 23, 1867, by Governor George Bowen. The first service was held on February 7, 1869.
St Matthew’s, originally known as Grovely Church, served the community for years. Baptisms, burials, and marriages took place within its walls. However, it was never officially consecrated, likely due to the land ownership issue. The church wasn’t renamed St Matthew’s until 1909. A bell, donated by Howard S. Bliss, was added to the bell-post in 1914. In 1917, fifty years after the foundation stone was laid, a hall was built. St Matthew’s became a parochial district in 1920, and a vicarage followed in 1926. Eventually, it achieved parish status in 1947 with Rev. ED Eglinton as its first rector. Today, the Anglican Parish of Grovely continues to serve the community. All Saints, which can seat around 200 people, and St Matthew’s, with a capacity of 45-60, offer spaces for worship and community events. Both locations also have halls available for hire. So, the next time you’re at the Anglican Parish of Grovely, remember the Nicholsons. Their vision and dedication, combined with the generosity of the community, created a lasting legacy. It’s a testament to the power of faith, community spirit, and a few well-placed bricks.