Designed by the convict architect Francis Greenway, St James Church stands as a testament to Sydney’s complex past. Imagine, if you will, worshiping in a church constructed by rogues and thieves. That’s part of the story of St James Church.
Completed in 1824 St James Church is the oldest church building in Sydney. It has been in continuous use for its original purpose since its consecration. The parish is marking its bicentenary from 2019 to 2024 with special services.
Francis Greenway designed St James Church. He was transported from England for forgery. His skills were needed in the new colony. He was granted a ticket of leave. He designed many buildings. Major General Lachlan Macquarie appointed Greenway to design law courts on this site. He changed his mind. A church was needed more.
Building began in 1819. Greenway was dismissed in 1822 for political reasons. There is evidence that the design of St James Church was simplified. Renovations in the 1970s uncovered a semi-circular portico that had been replaced.
In February 1824 St James Church was consecrated by the Rev Samuel Marsden. He was better known as the flogging parson. An architectural historian described it as a preaching box for convicts.
Initially St James Church held a mixed congregation. Hundreds of prisoners attended. Their attendance was compulsory. Officials and free settlers also joined them. The exterior stands with Greenway’s design. The interior has been renovated many times. Galleries were erected.
Early on St James Church was a base for the Diocese of Sydney schools and a theological college. As Sydney grew St James Church nearly disappeared. It was almost destroyed for a railway station. The church was heritage listed in 2004.
Downstairs there is a crypt with an astonishing chapel. In 1929 artists painted Christ and the holy family sailing into Sydney Harbour. It includes native flowers birds and the unfinished Harbour Bridge. It is known as the Children’s Chapel.
Today visitors see an acknowledgment of the original custodians of the land the Cadigal Clan. It requests prayers for traditional owners. St James Church aims to be an open inclusive and engaging sanctuary for all.
Outside you might miss a sculpture of someone sleeping on a park bench. It is a replica of Timothy Schmalz’s Homeless Jesus. It sits below a plaque honoring Francis Greenway and the builders of St James Church. The new Bicentennial Pipe Organ was dedicated to the Glory of God at the Patronal Festival in July 2024. St James Church stands as a piece of Sydney’s history.