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Est. 1887 · Society of Jesus
Our Story
Over 137 years of faith, community and service in the heart of North Sydney — Australia's largest Catholic parish.
137+
Years of Faith
3
Historic Churches
5,000+
Parishioners
3
Jesuit Priests
24/7
Online Mass
1887
Founded
Who We Are
Parish of Our Lady of the Way
The Parish of Our Lady of the Way — known as North Sydney Catholics — is a Jesuit parish serving the communities of North Sydney, Lavender Bay and Kirribilli. Founded in 1887, we are recognised as Australia's largest Catholic parish, with over 5,000 registered parishioners.
Our three historic churches — St Francis Xavier in Lavender Bay, St Mary's in North Sydney, and Our Lady Star of the Sea in Kirribilli — each have their own character and community, united by a shared commitment to the Jesuit mission of faith, justice and service.
We are led by the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), a religious order founded by St Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. The Jesuit tradition of intellectual engagement, contemplation in action, and care for the whole person shapes everything we do.
Parish Garden
Ron Dyer Centre, North Sydney
3 Churches
SFX · STM · SOS
Jesuit Parish
Society of Jesus
Since 1887
Our History
The Jesuits Arrive in North Sydney
The Society of Jesus (Jesuits) established a presence in North Sydney, founding what would become one of Australia's most vibrant Catholic communities. The first Mass was celebrated in a modest timber church, drawing together the growing Catholic families of the North Shore.
St Francis Xavier Church, Lavender Bay
St Francis Xavier Church in Lavender Bay was established as the primary church of the parish. Its commanding position overlooking the harbour made it a landmark of faith for the North Shore community. The church quickly became the spiritual heart of the growing parish.
St Mary's Church, North Sydney
St Mary's Church on Miller Street, North Sydney was established to serve the expanding Catholic population of the area. The church became home to the beloved Family Mass tradition and the vibrant Youth Mass community that continues to this day.
Our Lady Star of the Sea, Kirribilli
Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Kirribilli was established to serve the Catholic community of the Kirribilli peninsula. The church has a distinctive character, including a Polish-language Mass that reflects the multicultural richness of the parish.
The Second Vatican Council
The reforms of the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) transformed parish life. Mass was celebrated in English for the first time, lay participation in the liturgy grew significantly, and the parish embraced a renewed vision of the Church as the People of God.
Parish Renewal & Community Growth
The parish experienced significant renewal through the 1980s, with the growth of lay ministries, sacramental programs, and community outreach. The Ron Dyer Centre was established as the parish office and community hub at 42 Ridge Street, North Sydney.
Jesuit Mission & Social Justice
The parish deepened its commitment to the Jesuit mission of faith and justice. Partnerships with the Jesuit Refugee Service, Caritas Australia, and St Vincent de Paul Society grew. The parish became known for its intellectual and spiritual vitality under Jesuit leadership.
Online Mass & Digital Ministry
St Francis Xavier Church began live-streaming daily Mass on YouTube, making the Eucharist accessible to parishioners unable to attend in person. The Online Mass quickly attracted a global audience, extending the parish's reach far beyond North Sydney.
Faith Through the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the parish adapted rapidly — streaming all Masses online, maintaining pastoral care through phone and digital contact, and supporting vulnerable community members. The experience deepened the parish's commitment to digital ministry.
Australia's Largest Catholic Parish
Today the Parish of Our Lady of the Way is recognised as Australia's largest Catholic parish, serving over 5,000 parishioners across three churches. Under the leadership of Fr Richard Leonard SJ, the parish continues to be a place of vibrant faith, intellectual engagement, and generous service.
Three Communities, One Parish
Our Three Churches
Each of our three churches has its own history, character and community — united by a shared faith and Jesuit mission.
SFX
St Francis Xavier Church
The primary church of the parish, perched above Lavender Bay with views of Sydney Harbour. Home to the daily streamed Mass and the Saturday Vigil. Open daily for prayer.
STM
St Mary's Church
Home to the beloved Family Mass at 9am and the vibrant Youth Mass at 6pm on Sundays. A welcoming community for families, young adults and all who seek a home in faith.
SOS
Our Lady Star of the Sea
A beautiful church on the Kirribilli peninsula, home to a warm and close-knit community. Hosts a Polish-language Mass reflecting the multicultural richness of our parish.
Society of Jesus
Our Priests
Our parish is led by three Jesuit priests who bring deep pastoral care, intellectual rigour and a commitment to the Ignatian mission.
Rev Dr Richard Leonard SJ
Parish Priest
Fr Richard Leonard SJ is one of Australia's most recognised Catholic voices — author, filmmaker, broadcaster and theologian. He has written numerous books on faith and film, and is a regular commentator on ABC Radio and television. He holds a doctorate in cinema studies from the University of Melbourne.
Rev Andy Nguyen SJ
Assistant Priest
Fr Andy Nguyen SJ brings a deep pastoral heart and a commitment to accompanying parishioners through all stages of life. He is particularly involved in the sacramental programs and youth ministry of the parish.
Rev Joseph Sobb SJ
Assistant Priest
Fr Joseph Sobb SJ contributes to the liturgical and pastoral life of the parish with warmth and dedication. He is involved in the Family Mass community and the ongoing formation programs of the parish.
The Society of Jesus
The Jesuits were founded by St Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. Known for their commitment to education, intellectual life, and mission, the Jesuits have served the Church in Australia since 1848. The motto of the Society of Jesus is Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam — "For the Greater Glory of God."
The Jesuit approach to spirituality — finding God in all things, contemplation in action, and care for the whole person — shapes the culture and mission of our parish community.
Learn About the JesuitsWhat We Stand For
Our Values
Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, these values guide everything we do as a parish community.
Ignatian Spirituality
Rooted in the tradition of St Ignatius of Loyola, we seek God in all things — in prayer, in community, in the world around us. The Spiritual Exercises and Ignatian discernment shape our parish culture.
Faith & Justice
The Jesuit tradition calls us to be "men and women for others." Our parish is committed to social justice, care for refugees, environmental stewardship, and advocacy for the vulnerable.
Welcoming Community
We are a diverse, inclusive and welcoming community. Whether you are a lifelong Catholic, returning to the faith, or simply curious — there is a place for you here.
Intellectual Engagement
The Jesuit tradition prizes the life of the mind. Our parish hosts talks, book launches, film discussions and formation programs that engage faith with culture, science and the arts.
Pastoral Care
We walk with parishioners through every stage of life — from baptism to death. Our pastoral care team visits the sick, supports the bereaved, and accompanies those in need.
Global Mission
Through our Jesuit connections, we are part of a global network of mission. We support Jesuit missionaries in East Timor, Myanmar and beyond, and partner with Catholic Mission and JRS.
Stay Connected
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Parish Newsletter
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“Go forth and set the world on fire.”
St Ignatius of Loyola · Founder of the Society of Jesus
Join Us for Mass
We celebrate Mass daily across our three churches. All are welcome — whether you are a regular parishioner or visiting for the first time.
Mass TimesGet Involved
There are many ways to serve and connect — from ministries and groups to volunteering at events. Find your place in our community.
Parish LifeContact the Parish
Our friendly parish office team is here to help. Whether you have a question, need pastoral support, or want to learn more — reach out.
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