“How come the cross doesn’t light up at night anymore?” That’s a question some ask about St Nicholas of Myra Parish Church. St Nicholas of Myra stands as a spiritual beacon in Penrith. It is a vibrant Catholic community. This church is more than just a building.
St Nicholas of Myra Parish has a rich history dating back to 1835. Reverend Corcoran was the first priest at Windsor. His parish included Penrith. In 1838, Fr Brady thought it a good time to build a chapel in Penrith. John Tindale gave land to Archbishop Polding for it. This land was near the site for St Stephen’s Anglican Church.
The foundation stone of St Nicholas Church was laid in 1839. Archbishop Polding did the honors. Reverend Charles Sumner was the first priest in Penrith. A small cemetery was consecrated soon after. Three of Penrith’s early priests are buried there.
Archbishop Polding consecrated the first St Nicholas’ Church in 1850. Funds came from many faiths. Before presbyteries existed priests stayed with families like the McCarthy’s. The present St Nicholas of Myra Church opened in 1967. Cardinal Gilroy blessed it. Brian Curtin was the architect. The design allowed for more people.
The first school was in a slab chapel around 1862. In 1880, the Sisters of St Joseph opened St Joseph’s School. It was their first school. St Nicholas of Myra Primary School opened in 1954. The Sisters of St Joseph have taught in Penrith for over 120 years.
St Nicholas of Myra Parish has helped start other communities. These include Kingswood Emu Plains and Glenmore Park. Religious orders like the Benedictines enriched the parish. Franciscans also helped a lot.
In 2002, the front of the church was beautified. It became a place for rest. In 2003, the presbytery’s kitchen was improved. The old school became a parish hall. In 2004, the church was repainted. In 2014, the parish turned 175 years old.
St Nicholas of Myra is known for its welcoming environment. People find spiritual growth here. The church is round shaped and air conditioned. Priests give engaging homilies. The choir fills the space with joy. There is also ample parking. The Paschal ceremonies are especially moving.
The church’s design is contemporary. It reflects the changing attitudes of the Catholic Church. The old church was demolished to make way for it. Some residents missed the old building. It was a link to the past.
The land for St Nicholas of Myra Parish Church was donated by John Tindale. The first services were held in a slab building in the 1840s. By 1850 a more substantial church stood. Renovations occurred later. Pillars were removed. The roof was raised.
The current presbytery’s foundation stone was laid in 1932. Before presbyteries priests stayed with the McCarthy’s. Penrith was part of the Windsor Parish. Priests traveled from Windsor to celebrate Mass.
So whether you are drawn to its architecture its history or its vibrant community St Nicholas of Myra Parish Church welcomes you. It continues to be a place of faith hope and connection in Penrith.