In those days, there were no resident clergy, yet the spark of faith was already alive.
By 1858, a priest from Deniliquin would make the arduous journey twice a year to minister to the growing Catholic community, offering sacraments and spiritual care.
In 1857, nine Catholic children were enrolled in a tent school run by the Church of England, underscoring both the shared nature of early education and the increasing number of Catholic families settling in the region.
By 1863, the desire for a Catholic identity in Echuca led local families to begin planning for their church and school. With the support of Bishop James Goold, land was secured, and in 1865 the foundation stone of St Mary’s Chapel was laid.
The chapel was completed in 1866 and, though modest, served primarily as a school due to the absence of a resident priest.
As the town developed and the Catholic population expanded, a larger brick church was constructed and officially dedicated in 1877.
Two years earlier, in 1875, St Mary’s was formally declared a parish, marking a pivotal moment in our shared history.
Since then, St Mary’s Parish has been shepherded by both Augustinian and Diocesan priests, each contributing to the community's spiritual and pastoral growth.
These priests fostered lay leadership in all areas of parish life — liturgical, pastoral, social and administrative — planting seeds that continue to bear fruit today.
In the present day, St Mary’s is a thriving, multicultural parish enriched by people of many backgrounds who bring their unique expressions of faith, culture and service.
As the current parish priest from the Philippines, I am honoured to witness the beauty of this diversity.
I work closely with the Laity, who lead ministries with great dedication — from liturgical service to faith formation, outreach, hospitality and more.
Our parish mission reminds us that we are a people of faith, hope and love. As St Paul reminds us, “the greatest of these is love” (1 Cor 13:13).
As we celebrate 150 years, we honour our rich heritage, embrace the vibrant present and walk forward together in unity, grounded in the Gospel and committed to a future of peace, welcome and faith-filled service.
You're warmly invited to celebrate the 150th anniversary of St Mary’s Parish with us over the weekend of May 23-25, 2025 — a time to honour our past, rejoice in our present and look forward in faith and hope.
Father Novelito, St Mary’s Catholic Church
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