Have you ever felt the weight of history as you stand before a place of worship? The Catholic Parish of Sacred Heart and Columba in Melbourne is much more than a house of prayer. It is a living testament to the community’s dedication and faith. The original Sacred Heart Church was consecrated on 7th December 1884. In 1914, the land was purchased for the current St. Columba school and church. The school was built in 1918, with the church following in 1929. These two parishes, St. Kilda West and Elwood, were the heart of their respective communities, with parishioners contributing to the construction of the schools and churches. A poignant sign of community unity arose in 1984. The Parish Priest, Father Ernie Smith, opened his home to a hungry homeless man. This simple act of compassion changed the church’s trajectory, establishing Sacred Heart Mission, a dining hall for the less fortunate. In 2000, the parishes merged into the Catholic Parish of Sacred Heart and St. Columba, serving the community with education, social support, and pastoral care. Today, Sacred Heart Mission continues to thrive, providing support to those in need. It is both a celebration of the past and a testament to the church’s commitment to the community.
Kororoit Creek
Is this where the river meets the sea? This is Kororoit Creek. It flows right here through Melbourne’s western suburbs