History Group | PARISH OF ST MARY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, ASCOT VALE

This parish can trace its origins back as far as 1895 when we were an extension of the Essendon Mission and then officially with the appointment of our first Parish priest Father May in 1912 we became a freestanding parish. Our story is one of a strong and constant faith—lived in the midst of many changes, including two world wars, post war immigration, a depression, Vatican II and even an earthquake! Early years were marked by the spirituality of Irish Catholicism with its prayers, saints, love of the Mass and great devotion to Mary, the Mother of God. In more recent times our faith life has been enriched by the arrival of immigrants from many European nations, broadening the spirituality of our church.

The St Mary’s and St Margaret’s history group is interested in all aspects of our Catholic community history and encourages research, discussion and documentation on what our clergy, religious, lay members and groups have contributed to the Parish since its founding. We acknowledge the role our two primary schools have played as well as the numerous sodalities and sporting groups that were so active in our past.

Our group has an interest in all aspects of our common missionary calling (Proclamation, Worship, Fellowship and Service) as they have played out through time. We have particular interests in the numerous lay groups that have enriched our parish over the decades, and the role of women and lay people in general.

The story of our Catholic community is the fruit of great work done by laity and leaders alike. Although we can often ‘name’ the leaders more readily, our heritage has been gifted to us by many ordinary men and women whose names we may never know but whose faith, hard work, grit and determination is still felt today.

We are happy to greet new members to this group, with meetings generally held the last Thursday of the month. Contact Gerald Kearney for more information 0431 570067 or gerald_kearney@yahoo.com