THE centenary celebrations for St Mary’s Church in Ipswich on October 3 drew up to 1000 people.
The highlights were morning Mass, with Archbishop John Bathersby of Brisbane presiding, followed by a day of celebrations in Timothy Molony Park.
About 280 people attended a civic dinner at the Ipswich Civic Centre on October 1.
Sunday’s program started with Archbishop Bathersby, Auxiliary Bishop Brian Finnigan, parish priest Fr Peter Casey, State Member for Ipswich Rachel Nolan, Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale, and Ipswich City Councillor Shelia Ireland being transported from the civic centre to the church in veteran vehicles, including two 1904 models.
Before Mass, Archbishop Bathersby blessed a centenary stone in the church grounds. Fr Casey said some of the original altar rails from St Mary’s were used in the making of the stone.
1On October 5, Premier Peter Beattie announced a $50,000 grant to the National Trust’s St Mary’s Conservation Appeal.
The appeal will support restoration and maintenance work on the church and other heritage-listed buildings in the St Mary’s precinct.
It has a $1.5 million target, and more than $500,000 has been raised.
Donations are tax deductible and can be made at the Ipswich parish office, phone (07) 3281 2133.
