What if these walls could talk? The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of The Annunciation of Our Lady in Sydney has a story to tell. This cathedral wasn’t always Greek Orthodox. It started as St Paul’s Anglican Church.
Designed by Edmund Thomas Blacket, construction began in 1848. Blacket favored the Gothic style. The church’s design reflects a 14th-century Decorated Gothic style. Building faced delays due to an economic depression. By 1855, the church was mostly complete. Expansion continued to accommodate Redfern’s growing population. The tower was finally finished by 1875.
But times changed. After World War II, Redfern’s population declined. European migrants arrived. This shifted the religious needs of the community. The Anglican congregation dwindled. The Greek Orthodox community grew. In 1967, the Anglican Church sold St Paul’s to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
Previously, the Greek Orthodox community gathered at St Sophia in Paddington. By the 1960s, St Sophia was too small. Buying St Paul’s offered a solution. It provided space for the community and offices for the Archdiocese.
In 1970, Archbishop Ezekiel re-consecrated the church. It became the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady. St Sophia then became a parish church. The Cathedral became a central point for the Greek Orthodox community.
Establishing churches is vital for Greek-Australians. Maintaining their Orthodox faith is essential. After the war, forming a cathedral was fundamental. Since 1970, this Cathedral has been a hub. It is a focal point for cultural, educational and philanthropic activities. It helps maintain Greek customs, traditions and language.
Look around. You will see the heritage significance of this cathedral. It is an important early design in Edmund Blacket’s career. It is the Greek Orthodox Cathedral for Australia. It represents the migrant communities after World War II.
Currently, a redevelopment plan is underway. It is worth around $27.5 million. This plan includes conservation of the 173-year-old church. There will be demolition of the existing theological building. Two new three-story buildings will be constructed. A new wing for accommodation and offices at St Andrew’s Theological College will be added. A great hall building for international guests is planned. A museum will house important religious artifacts collected over the last century. The works will incorporate Orthodox architectural features including domes.