Anniversary of historic West Coast church celebrated

St Patrick’s was dedicated by Bishop Philippe Viard SM on October 21, 1866. Over Labour Weekend, parishioners and visitors gathered at the church to celebrate a 160th anniversary Mass with Christchurch Bishop Michael Gielen. Among those in attendance were Sr Peg Flaherty RSM, who is 95, and Frs Kevin and Peter Head SM, who both grew up in Ross, as well as Hokitika parish priest Fr Huynh Tran.

After the Mass, a celebration lunch took place at a local hall.

Parishioner Biddy Manera told Radio New Zealand’s John Campbell that the building is a category 2 historic place and funds are being raised for some restoration work.

The building was made of Baltic pine, Ms Manera said. The wood was brought to Ross to build a Masonic lodge, but something went askew, so the church “scored it”, she said.

 Ms Manera recalled the church being “packed” when she attended as a child. Now there are “mainly three” who attend regularly. “We are all descendants of pioneer families here.”

The church is opened daily by the information centre across the road for people to come in. It is well-patronised by tourists.

“We have 12 to 15 visitor’s books full, . . . from 2001,” Ms Manera said.

FULL STORY

Ross church celebrates 160 years on the West Coast (Radio New Zealand)

St Patrick’s Church in Ross… (Catholic Diocese of Christchurch/Facebook)