Did you know Holy Cross Catholic Church in Caulfield South has a cross incorporated into its design? It’s more than just a place of worship. It is a testament to faith and architectural ingenuity.
Let’s step back to 1937. Father O’Brien held the first masses in the Caulfield Town Hall courtroom. Soon after, the community desired a dedicated space. O.H. Jorgensen designed Holy Cross. The foundation stone was laid on May 23rd 1937 by Archbishop D. Mannix.
Notice the Gothic style. The central nave stretches 28 meters long and 11 meters wide. Side porches protrude beyond the nave. They extend four meters on each side and are seven meters wide. This accounts for a quarter of the church’s length. The sanctuary is elevated by one step.
Bay windows weren’t part of the original design. They were added in the 1960s. The main narthex is only two and a half meters from the Glenhuntly Road entrance. The original building stopped at today’s side chapels and sanctuary.
Holy Cross is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a vibrant community. Parishioners describe it as prayerful with a focus on family. Holy Cross has a ministry for the sick and elderly. Before the pandemic, Holy Cross was a place for weekly Adoration. A night vigil was held every third Friday. People came from other parishes for St. Joseph’s Novena at St Joseph’s Church.
During lockdowns, ministry adapted. Father Varghese called parishioners. This helped patients in nursing homes connect with their faith. Joanne Jarlett said Father Varghese is loving and patient. Before restrictions, he offered Mass at Caulfield Hospital. Volunteers assisted him in offering the Eucharist to the sick.
Father Varghese dreams of a united parish. He envisions active witnesses to Christ. The Catholic Parish of Holy Cross continues to serve. It welcomes all to learn about Jesus. It’s a supportive community for prayer and sharing lives. It is rooted in faith, love, and service to others. Holy Cross stands as a beacon of hope.