Hidden within Surrey Hills stands Our Lady of Perpetual Succour. This unassuming church holds a captivating history. It began not as a grand edifice but as a repurposed coach house and stable. Father Timothy Fitzpatrick a visionary parish priest purchased the property in 1952. The land included a large two-story house. It also included a coach house and stable. This humble beginning belies the church’s significance.
The transformation took place in 1954. The coach house and stable were cleverly converted into a place of worship. The first Mass was celebrated on Christmas Eve. Imagine the scene the first Christmas Mass in this repurposed stable. A fitting tribute to the birthplace of Christ.
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant hub for the Catholic Chinese Community of Melbourne. Founded in 1985 this community found a home within its walls. The church serves as a venue for Masses. It also serves as a place for other liturgies sacraments and social events for the Cantonese-speaking community. This diverse congregation adds a rich tapestry to the church’s history.
The church also played a key role in education. Our Lady’s Primary School opened in 1957. Parishioners completed all the work except the brickwork. The school remains an integral part of the parish. It continues to nurture and educate generations.
Over the years Our Lady of Perpetual Succour has had several parish priests. Each one contributed to its growth and evolution. Father John Kelly served from 1955 to 1968. Father Patrick O’Connor followed him from 1968 to 1982. The church’s legacy extends beyond its walls. It extends into the community it serves. It continues to offer comfort and faith. It’s a testament to the enduring power of faith and community.