All Saints Anglican Church Petersham is a nonprofit Anglican parish operating under the Australian Business Number 20441283492RR0001, part of the Diocese of Sydney. Established as a congregation in 1860 with initial services held in a local schoolroom, the church has served the Petersham community for over 160 years.

History

The parish resolved to construct a permanent church building after the site was bequeathed by Mrs. Priddle, sister of early settler Dr. Wardell. Construction began in 1870, with the foundation stone laid in December of that year. The eastern section opened on All Saints' Day (1 November 1871), followed by the completion of the western end in 1880. Key expansions included a vestry (1886) and a pipe organ from A. Hunter & Son of Clapham, later electrified in 1911. The building gained heritage recognition in 1974 when listed by the National Trust of Australia (NSW), with a centenary memorial stone laid by Governor Sir Roden Cutler in 1970.

Community Engagement

Under its "Hub of Hope" initiative, the church runs multiple outreach programs:

• Community dinners: Free weekly meals served every Tuesday evening.
• BBQ lunches: Thursday barbecues hosted in the church’s community garden.
• Freezer meals: Congregants donate pre-cooked meals for individuals facing financial hardship or crisis.
• Hot food roster: Meal deliveries for families with newborns or others in need of temporary support.

The church remains active in worship and community service, with regular Sunday services and events documented through digital ministries. Its architectural and historical significance continues to be recognized in local heritage registers.

[1] https://allsaintspetersham.org.au [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints_Anglican_Church,_Petersham [3] https://www.instagram.com/allstspetersham/ [4] https://www.youtube.com/user/allsaintspetersham [5] https://allsaintspetersham.org.au/hub-of-hope/