Catholic Parish of Ss Peter and Paul Kiama

The Catholic Parish of Ss Peter and Paul Kiama is a longstanding Catholic sacramental community serving the towns of Kiama, Gerringong, and Jamberoo in New South Wales, Australia. The parish is part of the Diocese of Wollongong and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century.

History

The origins of the parish trace back to the early Catholic presence in the Illawarra region, with the first recorded Mass celebrated in 1833 by Father John Joseph Therry, a pioneering priest who ministered to the coastal communities of the area. By 1838, pastoral care for the Illawarra Mission was entrusted to Father John Rigney, marking the formal beginning of organized Catholic ministry in the region.

In 1852, the Kiama Parish was established as a distinct entity within the growing Catholic community, covering a broad coastal area from Albion Park and Shellharbour to the Shoalhaven region. The parish school in Kiama was founded in 1887 and came under the care of the Sisters of St Joseph that same year, reflecting the importance of education and religious formation in the parish's mission. A convent was built shortly thereafter, opening between 1888 and 1889.

During the early 20th century, the parish saw significant developments, including extensive renovations to church properties and the appointment of notable clergy such as Father Michael Malone, who served as parish priest from 1905 to 1960 and was honored with the title "Dean." In 1952, a new parish school was constructed, indicating ongoing growth and community investment.

The parish became part of the Diocese of Wollongong upon its creation in 1952, under the leadership of Bishop Thomas McCabe. The parish church, dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, remains a central place for worship and community activities in Kiama.

Community and Mission

The Catholic Parish of Ss Peter and Paul identifies itself as a sacramental faith community celebrating the life-giving love of God. It serves as a spiritual home for Catholics residing in Kiama and neighboring areas, fostering faith through liturgical celebrations, education, and outreach. The parish emphasizes both sacramental participation and the communal aspects of Catholic life, striving to live out its mission within the local context.

This overview reflects the parish's historical significance and continuing role within the Catholic Church in the Illawarra region, preserving a deep heritage while serving contemporary faith needs.[1][2][4][5]

[1] https://www.kiamacatholicchurch.com.au/parish-history [2] https://www.kiamacatholicchurch.com.au/who-are-we [3] https://kiamaanglican.org.au/about-kac/kac-story/ [4] https://www.dow.org.au/parish/ss-peter-and-paul-catholic-parish-kiama/ [5] https://stpaulsparish.org.au/history/