New Catholic church opened at Matakana

The new church is at 480 Matakana Road, formerly the site of the Ascension Wine Estate.

The old Catholic church was at Alnwick Street in Warkworth. The new site offers a larger space to accommodate a growing Catholic community.

The opening ceremony at the new site was led by Bishop Lowe, who spoke about how, as people of God, parishioners are called to grow in love of Christ and for one another.

He prayed that the new church would be a place of encounter, a place of rescue and a place where people grow as the body of Christ, united in love of Christ and love of one another.

At the decommissioning and Mass of Thanksgiving for the former church in Warkworth on the previous evening, Bishop Lowe said that it is the people of God who make a place holy.

The new location offers enhanced facilities including a church, ample parking and improved accessibility. There are spaces for parish events, day retreats and community gatherings. The surrounding land is earmarked for future development for pastoral activities, potentially including a primary school in 10 to 20 years.

Parish priest Fr Brian Lange expressed his excitement about the new location, saying “We are blessed to have the opportunity to create a space where people can find peace, support, and a sense of belonging. We look forward to serving the community and making a positive impact in the lives of many.”

Parishioner Jenny Schollum said that “the Mass of Thanksgiving on Saturday and the Blessing Mass on Sunday were inspiring, joyful, moving, fun, and unified the community”.

Masses are being celebrated at the new church at 6pm each Saturday and 10.30am each Sunday.

FULL STORY

Catholics make their move – Local Matters (Local Matters)

https://cathnewsnz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Media-Release-Opening-of-Holy-Name-Catholic-Church-January-2025.pdf (Catholic Diocese of Auckland – supplied)