Welcome to St Patrick’s Cathedral. Mother Church of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and one of the architectural glories of Melbourne.
St Patrick’s is an integral part of Melbourne, and its history tells us much about the State’s birth and growth. Situated on the fringe of the city grid, close enough to the heart of Melbourne to be a powerful presence and breathe with a life of its own.
The beauty of the Cathedral speaks of the glory of God. Its peace reaches to our innermost heart, and its welcome to those who pass by is of a God who is ever compassionate to us, his people.
We are delighted to share a precious part of our faith, culture and heritage with you.
by Most Reverend Denis J. Hart D.D.
Emeritus Archbishop of Melbourne
Saint Patrick’s is a place of God, an oasis of peace and beauty. A small immigrant community built it with courage, vision and love. It is a lasting reminder of God’s constant presence among the people of Melbourne.
As a small boy I remember my father bringing me in for a visit. Later as a seminarian I saw that it was the focus of the Church and I attended Ordinations. Later as a priest at the Cathedral I came to know the many moods which our Cathedral has; the peace of early morning, the prayerfulness of those who come for a visit, the comfort of reconciliation offered at lunchtime as the Cathedral becomes light and the day is splendid.
St Patrick's Cathedral is the mother church of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne. The Centenary of its official opening and Consecration was marked in 1997; however, the first Mass was celebrated on the site in February 1858 in a former partially completed church, some of which was incorporated into the south aisle of the present building. By 1868, the completed nave of the Cathedral first served the needs of the community for regular worship and prayer.