Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church

Gazing up at Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church, imagine the scene over a century ago. The year is 1885. Dr. John Rooney, the resident Parish Priest, lays the foundation stone for this very building. Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church stands as a testament to his dedication to the Simon’s Town community. The original chapel, built in 1850, wasn’t enough. It became part of the Francis Xavier Mission School, which now serves as the Parish Centre. The growing community needed a larger space, a place where they could gather, worship, and find solace. This new church, Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church, became that place. A fascinating detail about Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church is the bell, cast in the Dockyard in 1871, specifically for Dr. Rooney. As the molten metal flowed into the mold, Dr. Rooney’s naval friends tossed silver coins into the mix. They believed this would “sweeten” the bell’s tone, adding a unique resonance to its call. Listen closely when it rings. You might just hear the echoes of those silver coins. In 1946, a double-storeyed extension was added to the south side of Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church, further expanding its capacity to serve the community. This expansion reflects the church’s ongoing commitment to providing a welcoming space for all. Today, Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church continues to serve as a beacon of faith and community. Whether you are a devout Christian or simply seeking a moment of reflection, the doors of Sts Simon & Jude Cath. Church are open. Step inside and experience the rich history and welcoming spirit of this remarkable place.