The scent of aged timber and polished concrete hangs in the air. Welcome to Saint Joseph’s Church.
This isn’t just any church. It’s a story etched in wood and stone. A testament to faith perseverance and community. Built in 2004 Saint Joseph’s replaced a much older structure. That older church itself was a successor to an even earlier wooden octagonal church. That first church was built way back in 1885. It stood in Buckle Street.
The journey of Saint Joseph’s is a fascinating blend of old and new. The original building was demolished in 1945 due to disrepair. The parish then moved east. They used a renovated hall near Paterson Street. For sixty years that hall served as the church. The current church is a marvel of modern design. It blends seamlessly with its surroundings.
Notice the semi-amphitheatre design. The circular-triangular formation seats 300 people. The altar sits at the flattened apse. It’s a unique and inviting space. There’s a full-immersion baptistery. There’s also a separate Blessed Sacrament chapel seating about 30 people.
But the true treasures of Saint Joseph’s lie in its stained glass. Look closely at the windows. You’ll find exquisite Art Deco pieces. These were imported from the studio of Harry Clarke in Dublin. They were originally part of the New Zealand Catholic Church pavilion. That pavilion was at the 1939/1940 New Zealand Centennial Exhibition.
A more recent addition is the Bahaut window. This stunning piece is by the artist Shane Cotton. It depicts fish taniwha and a fantail. It’s a celebration of faith in Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s a breathtaking sight. The window was a gift from parishioners Anthony and Nanette Bahaut.
Even the statuary holds a piece of history. The large crucifix behind the altar was in the original octagonal church. Its cross was made from heart Kauri. It was blessed with mission indulgences in 1894. A full-size statue of the Sacred Heart once stood above the altar. It was donated by a convert to Catholicism.
Saint Joseph’s Church is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to faith. It’s a place of worship and community. It’s a place where history whispers stories of perseverance and devotion. It is a place of peace in the heart of Wellington. Take a moment to soak it all in.