Before you stands Our Lady of Good Counsel. It is more than just a church. It is a testament to faith and community.
Our Lady of Good Counsel’s story began long before this building existed. The Deepdene area was once part of the Camberwell and Kew parishes, established in 1889. The parish initially used a building on this Whitehorse Road site, which now serves as part of the school. This building functioned as both a church and a school. Archbishop Mannix blessed the foundation stone of that first church on November 26 1922.
As the community grew, so did the need for a larger dedicated church. Construction of the present Our Lady of Good Counsel commenced in the 1950s. Father Godwin, the Parish Priest at the time, oversaw the project. Completed in 1955, the church’s design was influenced by the land. The narrow shape was dictated by the space between the presbytery and the school. Mr L Sam Miguel was the architect and Simmie & Co were the builders.
Archbishop of Melbourne Dr Daniel Mannix DD officially opened and blessed Our Lady of Good Counsel on July 3 1959.
Over the years, Our Lady of Good Counsel has seen several changes. The most recent refurbishments took place from 2016 to 2017. These renovations focused on the internal structure. A new gathering space was also added.
Our Lady of Good Counsel is part of the Our Lady of Pentecost Parish. The Parish office is located at 19 Brenbeal Street Balwyn.
Our Lady of Good Counsel has been served by many clergy over the years. Father J. B. Walsh served from 1922 to 1938. Father Denis P. Murphy followed from 1938 to 1947. Father Lawrence Godwin then led the parish from 1948 to 1965. Bishop Arthur Fox briefly served in 1965 and again in 1966-1967. Monsignor John Kelly served from 1968 to 1985. Father Pat Duggan then took over from 1985 to 2001. Father Maurie Cooney was Parish Priest from 2001 to 2006. Father Brendan Reed has been serving since 2006.
Today, Our Lady of Good Counsel continues to be a vibrant center for worship and community. It stands as a reminder of the dedication of those who built it. It reflects the ongoing commitment of the parish to serving the Deepdene community. As you leave, consider the countless prayers and stories held within these walls. This is a place of faith. It is a place of community. Our Lady of Good Counsel welcomes all.