This week, with Christmas nearly upon us, Rover wanted to visit somewhere appropriately Christmassy. He thought of checking out the decorations or Christmas trees, but when the opportunity to visit Sydney’s oldest Church arose, he decided this was a perfect place to go. St James Church is a beautiful and historic building in the heart of the city, and Rover was enthralled by all of the things he discovered inside!
If you would like to visit St James Church it is located in the heart of Sydney, not far from Hyde Park. The street address is King Street, but parking can be difficult to find. However St James Train Station is very close by if you want to come by public transport. If you wish to make a day of it, there are plenty of other heritage attractions within walking distance, including Hyde Park Barracks and Hyde Park, or you might like to check out the David Jones Christmas Windows and the various decorations around the city.
St James’ is the oldest church building in the city of Sydney and has been in continuous use since 1824 when it was consecrated. The beginnings of the Church date back to 1819 though when the convict architect Francis Greenway was asked to design a series of buildings for Governor Lachlan Macquarie. Greenway was to design a courthouse and a school on King Street and a Cathedral for George Street but Comissioner Bigg who had been sent from London put a halt to some of these plans. The Cathedral was put on hold, the school was moved and the originally planned school became a courthouse. Similarly, the planned courthouse which was already being built on King Street became a Church dedicated to St James – the St James Church we know today.
The first service held in the Church was held in January of 1822 when Reverend William Cowper sheltered his congregation (who were residents of Hyde Park Barracks) from inclement weather inside its walls. This was the only unofficial service to be held before the Church was consecrated as Reverend Samuel Marsden, then the Principal Chaplain, argued that the Church should not be used until it had been legally and properly consecrated. The Church was consecrated by Reverend Samuel Marsden on February 11, 1824 using a service approved by the Archibishop of Canterbury. The same day, the first baptism was held. The Church isn’t just famous and important for the buildings history though. Inside there are a number of rare marble memorials from the 1800s and also a huge collection of beautiful movable heritage artefacts including Church items like crosses. There are also exquisite windows to admire, and Rover will return to find out more about these in the future!