St Peter’s Parish Church

Amidst the grandeur of Melbourne, discover St Peter’s Parish Church. It stands proudly at the corner of Albert and Gisborne Streets, a testament to time and faith. St Peter’s is the oldest Anglican church on its original site in Melbourne’s inner city. Its story begins in 1846 when Charles La Trobe laid the foundation stone. Even before its completion in 1848, the church hosted services, a beacon of faith for the burgeoning city. In 1848, a pivotal moment occurred on the steps of St Peter’s. Queen Victoria’s letters patent, declaring Melbourne a city, were read aloud. This act solidified St Peter’s place in Melbourne’s history. The church witnessed the city’s transformation during the gold rush. It became a hub of activity, with hundreds of baptisms and weddings each year. St Peter’s wasn’t static. It grew and evolved alongside Melbourne. In 1854, it underwent expansion, increasing its capacity to 1050. Later, in 1876, further extensions shaped the church into the structure we admire today. The church’s architecture reflects the contributions of several prominent Melbourne architects. Charles Laing, Charles Vickers, Leonard Terry, and Alexander North all left their mark on St Peter’s. The church is more than just bricks and mortar. It has been a vital part of the community. It is renowned for its Anglo-Catholic tradition and commitment to social justice. This commitment was especially evident during the vicarship of Ernest Selwyn Hughes and Farnham Edward Maynard. They championed social outreach, leaving an indelible mark on the church’s identity. St Peter’s rich musical tradition resonates through the years. The Choir of St Peter’s Eastern Hill continues to uplift spirits with its beautiful music. The church also boasts stunning artworks. From bronzes by Andor Meszaros to carvings by Robert Prenzell and Ola Cohn, St Peter’s is a treasure trove of artistic expression. Even the famed opera singer Nellie Melba has a connection to St Peter’s. She took organ lessons here as a schoolgirl. And author Henry Handel Richardson, a worshipper at St Peter’s, immortalized the church in her novel “The Getting of Wisdom”. As you stand before St Peter’s Parish Church, you’re not just observing a building. You’re witnessing a living embodiment of Melbourne’s history, faith, and artistic spirit.