New Catholic Church Opened

The new Catholic Church, St. Joseph the Workman, in Vanguard Street, was opened and blessed by Bishop O. Snedden, Wellington, late last month. The new church, built mainly by volunteer labour, fills a much-needed want for parishioners living south-west of the city area. Previously they had to travel to St. Mary's, Manuka Street. The opening was marred by wet weather and ceremonies had to be conducted inside the church, which was filled to overflowing.

The new church

Simplicity is the keynote of the interior, the focal point being the altar with its illuminated crucifix and hand-carved last supper scene in marble.

Bishop Sneddon, assisted by the Rev. Father G. S. Cheesman, parish priest of Nelson blesses the exterior.

At night the illuminated crucifixion scene at the front of the church is quite dramatic

Part of the huge crowd which packed the church

The official party at the opening, Rev. Father J. Kingan (former parish priest), Mrs and Mr Barry Phillips (job foreman), Father Cheesman, Bishop Snedden, Mr T. G. Ralfe Father P. T. Abbott, Mrs Ralfe and Mrs and Mr J. Maginnity (architect).

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The Nelson Photo News

No 26 : December 8, 1962

New Catholic Church Opened