Picture this a red brick church standing proudly against the Melbourne sky. This is St John Catholic Church a landmark in East Melbourne. Its history stretches back further than many imagine. It began not as a Catholic church at all. The land was first occupied by the Anglican Parish Church of the Holy Trinity. This served as both church and school until 1864. The Anglicans moved. A small Gothic Catholic church replaced it in 1866. It was the first Catholic church in East Melbourne. This was St John the Evangelist Church. The Sisters of Charity established a school in 1890. This provided education for many generations.
A larger Romanesque style church was built nearby. It opened in 1901. Its design is unique. It blends Irish and Australian artistic elements. Think a prominent Celtic cross and details reflecting the predominantly Irish heritage of its parishioners. The current church building however is different. Archbishop Daniel Mannix laid the foundation stone in 1929. The Archdiocese of Melbourne bought the land for £3151. The striking red brick structure was completed in 1930. It stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the community.
St John’s had a period of team ministry. It joined with St Joseph’s and All Saints from 1983 to 1992. Then it regained its status as a separate parish. A significant event happened in 1992. Fr Joe Bui Duc Tien became the first Vietnamese refugee ordained as a priest in the Archdiocese of Melbourne. He served as parish priest until 2006. His appointment had a lasting impact on the parish. It also connected the community to broader Catholic history.
In 2008 St John’s became part of St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish. It reconnected with its roots. The church continues to be a place of worship and community gathering. The original St John’s school building became a professional learning center. The building’s restoration is sensitive. It blends contemporary and heritage architecture. Today St John’s stands not just as a church but as a vibrant symbol of faith and history. A symbol of a community that has endured and thrived. The church is a treasured part of Melbourne’s rich tapestry. It continues to inspire and uplift.