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Since 1887
Parish History
From the Jesuits' arrival in 1887 to Australia's largest Catholic parish today — a story of faith, resilience, and community across 139 years.
1887
Founded
3
Churches
5,000+
Families
20+
Masses Weekly
137
Years of Faith
12
Active Ministries
A Story of Faith & Community
139 Years of Walking Together
The Parish of Our Lady of the Way was founded in 1887 by the Society of Jesus — the Jesuits — who were invited to establish a Catholic presence on Sydney's rapidly growing North Shore. What began as a small wooden chapel serving a handful of families has grown into Australia's largest Catholic parish, with three beautiful churches, over 5,000 registered families, and a vibrant community that spans generations.
Throughout its history, the parish has weathered fires, wars, pandemics, and social change — always emerging stronger and more committed to its mission. The Jesuit tradition of intellectual rigour, spiritual depth, and service to others continues to shape everything the parish does, from liturgy and education to social justice and pastoral care.
Today, the parish stands as a testament to the faith and generosity of generations of North Sydney Catholics. Whether you are a lifelong parishioner, a newcomer, or simply curious about our story, we invite you to explore the rich history of a community that has been a beacon of faith for nearly a century and a half.
Through the Years
A Timeline of Faith
Scroll through the key moments that have shaped our parish from 1887 to today.
The Jesuits Arrive
The Society of Jesus (Jesuits) establishes the Parish of St Mary in North Sydney. Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, a pioneering Irish Jesuit, is appoint...
St Mary's Church Opens
The first St Mary's Church is opened on Miller Street, North Sydney. Built in the Gothic Revival style with local sandstone, it becomes the ...
St Francis Xavier, Lavender Bay
As the parish population expands westward, a second church is established in Lavender Bay. St Francis Xavier Church is built to serve the gr...
The Great North Sydney Fire
A devastating fire damages much of the original St Mary's Church. The parish community rallies together, raising funds and rebuilding within...
Star of the Sea, Kirribilli
The third church of the parish is established in Kirribilli. Star of the Sea serves the Polish Catholic community and becomes a beloved plac...
The Sydney Harbour Bridge
The opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge transforms North Sydney. The parish now sits at the gateway to the city, and attendance at all thre...
Post-War Growth
Following World War II, the parish experiences unprecedented growth. New schools are established, youth programs flourish, and the parish be...
Vatican II Renewal
The parish embraces the reforms of the Second Vatican Council with enthusiasm. The liturgy is renewed, lay participation increases, and new ...
Centenary Celebration
The parish celebrates 100 years of faith and service. A special centenary Mass is celebrated by Cardinal Clancy, with over 1,000 parishioner...
Parish of Our Lady of the Way
The parish is formally renamed the Parish of Our Lady of the Way, reflecting its identity as a pilgrim community walking together in faith. ...
Ron Dyer Centre Opens
The Ron Dyer Centre is opened at 42 Ridge Street, North Sydney. Named after a beloved parishioner and benefactor, the centre becomes the par...
Restoration of St Mary's
A major restoration project is completed at St Mary's Church. The historic building is carefully preserved while modern amenities are added....
Australia's Largest Parish
The parish is recognised as the largest Catholic parish in Australia by active parishioners and Mass attendance. With over 5,000 registered ...
COVID-19 and Online Mass
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the parish pivots to live-streamed Masses, reaching thousands of viewers across Australia and beyond. The onli...
Stonework Restoration Campaign
A major fundraising campaign is launched to restore the historic stonework of St Francis Xavier Church. The campaign raises $87,500 in its f...
139 Years of Faith
Today, the Parish of Our Lady of the Way continues to thrive as Australia's largest Catholic parish. With three beautiful churches, a vibran...
Our Sacred Spaces
Three Churches, One Parish
Each church has its own character and community, yet all are united in faith and mission.
St Mary's
The mother church of the parish, St Mary's has been the spiritual home of North Sydney Catholics for over 137 years. The current building dates from 1912, rebuilt after the great fire. Its Gothic Revival architecture, stunning stained glass, and magnificent pipe organ make it one of Sydney's most beautiful parish churches.
St Francis Xavier
Nestled in the harbourside suburb of Lavender Bay, St Francis Xavier is known for its intimate atmosphere and strong sense of community. The church has been live-streaming Mass since 2020 and serves as the parish's online ministry hub. Its historic stonework is currently undergoing restoration.
Star of the Sea
Star of the Sea serves the Polish Catholic community and welcomes all parishioners with its warm hospitality. The church hosts Sunday Masses at 8:00am and 10:00am, with the 10:00am Mass celebrated in Polish. Its maritime name reflects the harbour location and Mary's role as Star of the Sea.
Our Spiritual Roots
A Jesuit Parish
The Parish of Our Lady of the Way is led by the Society of Jesus — the Jesuits — a Catholic religious order founded by St Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. The Jesuits are known for their commitment to education, intellectual inquiry, and finding God in all things.
The Jesuit charism shapes everything we do. Our liturgies are thoughtful and prayerful. Our preaching engages with the questions of modern life. Our social justice work is rooted in the preferential option for the poor. And our spirituality invites each person to deepen their personal relationship with God.
The parish has been served by many remarkable Jesuit priests over the years, each bringing their own gifts and vision. Today, Fr Richard Leonard SJ serves as Parish Priest, continuing a tradition that stretches back to Fr Joseph Dalton in 1887.
“Go forth and set the world on fire.”
— St Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus
The guiding spirit of our parish since 1887
About the Parish
Learn more about who we are, our values, and what makes our community unique.
About UsPriests & Staff
Meet Fr Richard Leonard SJ and the dedicated team serving our parish community.
Meet the TeamVisit Our Churches
Find directions, Mass times, and parking information for all three churches.
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