"ST. PETER'S CHURCH, DAYLESFORD Last Sunday his Grace the Archbishop confirmed a large number of children at St. Peter's Church, Daylesford. His Grace was assisted by Rev. J. J. Malone, P.P. The congregation included a large number of worshipers from outside districts. A short address delivered by the Archbishop was attentively listened to, and many were the expressions of congratulation extended to his Grace upon his recovery from the indisposition which had incapacitated him from active work recently. At the conclusion of Confirmation the children were treated to refreshments on the lawn in front of the presbytery A large number of parishioners dined with Fr. Malone, and the Archbishop renewed former acquaintanceships. In the evening a mission was opened by the Rev. J. O'Brien and Rev. J. Brown, of the Redemptorist Order. The mission will be concluded on Sunday next. The exercises have been well attended. The interior of this beautiful Gothic church has recently undergone complete decoration, and one of the features that have, received special attention is the stained-glass. The windows consist of eight- two-light with trefoil piece of tracery, and in each is designed one of the following figures:—St, Francis of Assisi, St. Francis Xavier, St. Augustine, St. Monica, St. Stanislaus, St. Aloysius, Our Lady, St. Joseph, St. Patrick, St. Bridget, St. Agnes, 'St. Rose of Lima, St. Ignatius, St. Vincent de Paul, St. Alplionsus Liguori, St. Thomas Aquinas. The figures are set, in medallions formed with richly designed Gothic ornament in the form of crockets surmounted by a cross and crown, while in the tracery immediately above the windows is a monogram of the names of the saints. The figures are richly coloured in glorious antique glass, with the ornamental detail in lovely mellow tones of old gold and pale yellow stains. The whole effect is rich and at the same time restrained in colour. At the base of each window is written the name of the donor. The whole of the work was designed and executed by Messrs. Brooks, Robinson and Co. limited, at their stained-glass studios, Elizabeth-street, Melbourne. The scheme is an original treatment, but at the same time strictly orthodox and Gothic in style. One feature of the work which must be apparent to those who are interested in stained-glass decoration is the maximum effect obtained with a minimum of expenditure." (Melbourne Advocate, 4 December 1909) A number of coloured photographs of the stained glass windows from the interior of St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford. The photographs were taken on the day of the 150th anniversary celebrations.brooks, robinson and co, stained glass, st peter's daylesford, church, daylesford, st alplionsus liguori, st thomas aquinas, religion, st agnes, st rose

Colour photograph of St Peter's Catholic Church Daylesford 150th Anniversary Cakest peter's catholic church, daylesford, st peter's, cake, 150, commemoration, anniversary

"The fine structure of St. Peter's, with its prettily-decorated interior, which holds crowded congregations at Holy Mass on Sundays, is alone an eloquent testimony of the piety and devotion which permeates the whole parish. Attached to the church is a circulating library, and Catholic papers and other literature are distributed at the church door. Branches of the H.A.C.B. Society and Catholic Federation are doing much good work. (Melbourne Advocate, 17 January 1914) "OPENING AND CONSECRATION OF THE NEW CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. PETER’S, DAYLESFORD Cross on St. Peter'sNotwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, the opening of the new Catholic Church of St. Peter’s, yesterday (Sunday), attracted a crowded congregation. Although the rain, which has poured almost incessantly for some days past, had left our roads and streets in the condition for which Daylesford is celebrated in winter weather, and although he storm and rain seemed to increase as the hour announced for the ceremonies approached, the church was filled by a large congregation, comprising all sects and denominations of Christians in and around the district. The beautiful edifice, erected mainly through the zeal, liberality and energy of the respected pastor, presented a most imposing appearance, and reflects infinite credit upon the Rev. Mr. Slattery, and the flock committed to his charge. The church was commenced in November 1863 and has been in the hands of the workmen up to the present time, work being uninterruptedly carried on. On commencing the foundations, it was necessary to excavate until solid clay was reached, which in consequence of the deep rich chocolate soil on the site of the building, had to be carried down to an average depth of 6 feet 6 inches. The foundations were laid with massive stones in courses of 12-inch, and four feet thick, reducing to 3 feet below the floor line. The style of the building is decorated Gothic, and consists of a nave, 80 feet by 30 feet in the clear, and a chancel 18 feet high; from floor line to apex of roof, 47 feet, which is elegantly constructed, consisting of six spans or frames with puncheons resting on carved corbels, low down between the windows. The north side consists of a handsome entrance, near the north-west angle, approached by nine steps of cut stone, and four bays of windows on nave, and a small door on side of chancel, intended as an entry from the sacristy. The south side presents a very handsome view to Victoria street, a beautiful porch entrance giving access to the building on the south-east end of nave; and on the south-west angle a handsome octagonal spire, terminating in an iron cross, with gilt floriations; the height of top of cross, from floor line, is 88 feet. A stone stairs gives access to the organ gallery and the belfry. The whole of the windows are of a handsome geometrical design, and carved in stone, with mullions and tracery, and glazed with amber-tinted glass, the chancel window being 15 feet high, and 8 feet wide. The chancel arch is unusually large, 27 feet St. Peter's interiorhigh and 18 feet wide, and handsomely moulded, and presents a fine appearance from the body of the church. The roof is stained a rich oak, with heavy cornice, and all the walls are smoothly plastered, and colored peach color, giving the amber-tinted glass a beautiful soft cathedral appearance to the interior. The altar is of a very chaste design, the panels being moulded with Gothic heads, and finished in white and gold; the altar rail was not completed, but is intended to be of polished cedar, with carved pillars. The interior fittings will be proceeded with immediately, and to complete the design, an organ gallery, with sittings for about 100 persons besides the choir, will be constructed on the west end. It is intended also to place pillar gaslights on each side of the main entrance, for lighting during vespers in winter. The style of architecture has been strictly carried out, and in the best and most substantial manner. The building has been erected under the superintendence of the architect Mr. John Townsend Brophy, a member of the congregation, and who has discharged his duty with great ability and care. The hour of half-past eleven has scarcely passed when from the sacristy entered His Lordship the Right Rev. Dr. Gould, Bishop of Melbourne, preceded by the Very Rev. Dean Hayes (Sandhurst), the Rev. P. J. Slattery, and a number of boys dressed in white surplices. The Right Reverend Prelate proceeded to the foot of the altar, the Very Rev. the Dean on his right, and the Rev. P. J. Slattery on the left. The prayers usual upon the occasion were read by the Bishop. A procession was then formed, and went around the church in the following order. Several youths bearing wax candles first, next the Very Rev. the Dean, then the Bishop and his train bearers, and following were the Rev. Mr. Slattery and acolytes. Having returned to the altar in the same order, the Deacon (Dean Hayes) and Sub-Deacon (Rev. P. J. Slattery) proceeded to robe his Lordship, who had taken his seat at the epistle side of the altar, for the solemn High Mass, at appropriate times wearing his mitre and bearing his crozier. The mass, which was chanted by the Bishop with touching simplicity and earnestness, was then commenced. The choir, under the direction of Mr. Meunsch, organist, was full and most effective. Mrs. Testar, of Melbourne, having generously offered her valuable services, took the leading soprano solos, and it is scarcely necessary to add, rendered them with exquisite taste and feeling – her beautiful voice being heard with great effect throughout the entire building. The choir consisted of the following ladies and gentlemen who volunteered to aid in the ceremonies upon this most interesting occasion. Ladies: Mrs. Tresar, soprano; Mrs. J.J. McCormick, alto; Miss Julia Conry, soprano; Mrs. Vincent, soprano; Mrs. Aitken, soprano. Gentlemen: H. Guthiel, tenor; Master John Murphy, tenor; James Knox, bass; J. M. Murphy, bass; Mr. Staunton, baritone; Mr. Sourby, alto; Mr. Short, bass. The chant, “Let us adore,” during the procession, was given by Mrs. Vincent with considerable power. The selection of the “Imperial Mass” (Haydn’s No. 3) was felicitous, and the highly artistic and finished manner in which the different parts were sustained, demonstrated that great and persevering care must have been bestowed on the preparation for “the opening day.” The “Kyrie” was given with the full strength and power of the choir. The swelling of the voices in complete harmony, and the pealing of the organ in the midst of incense and prayer, produced a most marked effect upon the congregation. In the “Gloria,” the solos of Mrs. Testar were really beautiful and Mrs. McCormick rendered the alto solos with considerable merit. Mr. Knox sang the part commencing with the words “Qui tolles” with much taste and power. The “Credo” than which we believe there is not a more magnificent piece of sacred music extant, was most successful in its rendering, nor do we ever remember to have heard anything more touching than the manner in which the line “Vetam Venturi in Seculi,” was given by Mrs. Testar. The offertory hymn “Come unto Me all ye that labor,” was given by Mrs. Testar with the most thrilling effect. The “Sanctus” having been sung, in which Mr. Sourby ably rendered an alto solo, the “Agnus Dei” was commenced with a solo by Mrs. McCormick and was given with great taste and feeling, Mrs. Testar, at the conclusion of the “Agnus,” taking up the soprano part. Mass being concluded, the Very Reverend Dean Hayes ascended the altar and proceeded to preach the opening sermon, taking as his text Second Paralipomenon [Chronicles II], 7th chapter and 16th verse – “For I have chosen and have sanctified this place that My hand may be there for ever, and My eyes and My heart may remain there perpetually.” St Peter's manseAt the close of the sermon a collection was made by the very reverend preacher, assisted by John Egan, Esq., Corinella, on behalf of the church, and about fifty pounds were contributed. When it is remembered that 500 tickets had been issues at 10s each, and the inclemency of the weather taken into consideration, the collection may be regarded as a large one. Benediction was sung by the Rev. P. J. Slattery, assisted by Dean Hayes, the choir singing the “O! Salutaris Hostia” and “Laudate.” Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus was sung at the termination of the ceremonies. The vestments issued at Benediction, as well as at the Mass, were of the most gorgeous and beautiful character. When the Benediction was over, the Rev. P. J. Slattery, standing at the front of the altar said– “I wish to say one or two words before the congregation leave. I feel most deeply indebted to all of you who have attended here today for the honor and glory of God, not withstanding the difficulties you had to encounter from this most inclement season. I am truly delighted at such a manifestation of feeling, and will not easily forget it.” The rev. gentleman having disrobed, thanked the members of the choir for their kindness in assisting at the ceremonies, and more especially Mrs. Testar, who had braved all the storm and rain to be present at, and give the advantage of her great musical abilities on, the “opening day.” (Daylesford Mercury, 15 May 1865.)A number of photographs of St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford, taken at the 150th anniversary celebration. st peter's catholic church daylesford, decoration, altar decoration, anniversary, daylesford, religion, painting, interior, slattery, gough, d'alton, mcmahon

Digital images of Swiss and Italian descendants at the 150th anniversary of St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford.victoria, 150, anniversary, heritage, celebration, daylesford, people, crowd, community, swiss italian, catholic, church, st peter's, st peter's catholic church, daylesford, parishioners, descendents, swiss italian

Digital images showing Bishop Paul Bird blessing the sesquicentenary cross at St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford,victoria, 150, anniversary, heritage, celebration, daylesford, people, crowd, community, swiss italian, catholic, church, st peter's, st peter's catholic church, daylesford, parishioners, tinetti, taffe, gervasoni, bisjop paul bird

Black and white image of the sandstone Catholic church, St Peter's, Daylesford. The spire in this image fell into a mine and was never rebuilt. catholic church, st peter's church, daylesford, daylesford

Elizabeth Hogan was born at Inglewood. She married Gus Gervasoni of Daylesford. Their only child, John Hogan Gervasoni, weas born at Daylesford on 29 September 1929. Altar boy surplice worn by John Hogan Gervasoni at St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford. It was probably made by his mother Elizabeth Gervasoni (Hogan). The last image shows John Gervasoni wearing the surplice at his First Communion at St Peter's Daylesford. Maree Scheggia (later Sullivan) stands at the front right).elizabeth hogan, elizabeth gervasoni, bess gervasoni, john hogan gervasoni, altar boy, maree scheggia, maree sullivan, st peter's catholic church, daylesford, surplice

Digital images of a priest during the 150th anniversary mass at St Peter's Dayelsford. The stunning altar decorations are visible in the photorgraphs.victoria, 150, anniversary, heritage, celebration, daylesford, people, crowd, community, swiss italian, catholic, church, st peter's, mass, interior, st peter's catholic church, daylesford, priest, celebrant, stencils, altar decorations

Digital imagesvictoria, 150, anniversary, heritage, celebration, daylesford, people, crowd, community, swiss italian, catholic, church, st peter's, st peter's catholic church, daylesford, parishioners, presentation sisters, nuns

In 2015 St Peter's celebrated 150 years since it was established.Colour photograph of the Catholic Church in Daylesford. st peter's catholic church, daylesford, catholic church daylesford, catherine d'alton, john mcmahon, m.c. gough, archdeacan slatter, archdeacon slattery, rev. m.c. mahon, jack dixon, harry maddiks, peggy maddicks, paul gregory daglish, fr gary a. jones

Two black and white photographs of a bride, Marlene Lilburne, daughter of Daylesford grocer Tol Lilburne. Marlene married a Sewell. marlene lilburne, st peter's catholic church daylesford, sewell

"ST. PETER'S DAYLESFORD. General Communion and Breakfast. On Sunday November 9, a general Communion of the men; of the parish will be held in St Peter's Church, Daylesford. A communion breakfast will subsequently take place." Melbourne Advocate, 30 October 1930. "General Communion and Breakfast, Daylesford War Memorial Protest by Rev. Dr. Collins Rights of Catholics Ignored THE splendid Catholicity of the Daylesford parish was demonstrated on Sunday morning last when a general Communion of the men of the parish took place at the 8 o'clock Mass at St. Peter's Church. This proud and edifying demonstration of faith concluded a very successful mission in the parish, conducted by the Rev. Fr. O'Flynn, C.SS.R., and Rev. Fr. Frean, C.SS.R., Daylesford parish is fairly scattered, and from every corner of it came men to take their part in the general Communion. The missioners and the Rev. W. M. Collins. D.D., P.P.. have reason to be deeply gratified at the result of the mission. His Grace the Archbishop of Melbourne (Most Rev. Dr. Mannix) was the celebrant of the Mass. He was assisted in administering the Sacrament by Rev. Dr. Collins. At the close of the Mass the hymn, "Faith of Our Fathers." was sung. The breakfast was served in the Daylesford Town Hall, the men marching there from the church. More than 250 partook of breakfast. In the balcony were lady parishioners who wished to listen to the speeches. His Grace the Archbishop was at the head table, and with him were Rev. W. M. Collins, P.P.; Crs. Bolton and Gleeson (Shire of Glenlyon), and Courtney (Shire of Davlesford); Messrs. Cleary and Egan (Blampied). Mr. J. T. Murphy. Mr. Considine, and Mr. O'Donnell (BuIIarto). Several selections were played by the Holy Cross Convent orchestra, Daylesford, and the catering was admirably carried out by Mrs. Mann. It was a well-organised and successful function, and the general arrangements reflected the highest credit on the Rev. Dr. Collins and those associated with him. Much favourable comment was made upon the great success achieved. A WAR MEMORIAL SERVICE. Strong Protest by Rev. Dr. Collins. The Rev. Dr. Collins said it was no exaggeration for him to say that he was a proud pastor that day. He had reason to be proud of the magnificent demonstration of faith made by the Catholic men of the parish at St. Peter's Church. It was promoted by a supernatural motive, and the men were sure to get their reward. He knew that many men had attended at great sacrifice, and that numbers had to grope about in the early hours to get everything in readiness at their farms and dairies. He was deeply thankful for the fine response made by the men to his invitation, and no greater encouragement could be given to him in his work in the parish. They had made a creditable demonstration before the people of Daylesford, whose good opinion they valued and wanted to retain. Catholics were part of the community, and the community's troubles were their troubles. Generally they had a few of their own troubles, but they were not wanting in helping the community to bear its troubles. Just now they were passing through a difficult time. The surrounding shires seemed to be better off than Daylesford, but the municipal fathers at Daylesford had spent a lot of money wisely in attracting tourists to the beautiful district. The money spent, he was certain, would come back a hundredfold. They appreciated the good work done by the municipal authorities, and were prepared to do their part in shoulder-ing their civic obligations. A Frankly Protestant Memorial Service. He could not let the occasion pass without calling the attention of the Daylesford people to an injustice that was being done the Catholic body, unwittingly he believed. Hie referred to the ceremony for the unveiling of the Soldiers' Memorial. It had been decided to adopt a frankly Protestant service. Catholics could not take part in a non-Catholic service, and that was not due in any way to any recent whim or caprice. Catholics had made common sacrifices, and the war memorial should stand for the Catholic boys who had fallen as well as non-Catholic soldiers. Catholics had contributed towards the cost of the memorial, and yet a programme had been adopted on the occasion of the public unveiling that excluded Catholics from taking part. They had a right to be at the ceremony, but it was asking them too much to shed their principles in order to be present. Their forefathers did not shed their principles when there was much more at stake, and they did not intend to shed theirs. They took that stand for Faith, and were still loyal citizens of Australia. The great majority, he was certain, did not realise the difficulties of Catholics, and that the stand taken was a matter of principle. There was always a minority, however, who were ever ready to score a victory over Rome at any price. Thanks to Non-Catholics. Having made his protest, he would not be honest if he did not express his gratitude to many non-Catholics in Daylesford for their help. In the Boxing Day carnival, which was their principal effort on behalf of the schools, non-Catholics gave splendid support, which he very much appreciated. The success of the carnival was dependent to a large extent on the generous help of Protestants. He trusted that the Catholic men generally would take note of what he said, and turn over a new leaf, as so many new leaves had been turned over since the mission. Missioners and Nuns Thanked. The work of the Redemptorist Fathers had been fruitful of results in the parish, and what they had done had paved the way for the magnificent men's demonstration. He wished heartily to thank the Fathers, and his thanks were also due to the Holy Cross Convent. If the Faith were strong in Daylesford, it was largely due to the Catholic schools in the district. They should never forget the Presentation nuns, and should be prepared to help them in every possible way. He was very thankful to the Rev. Mother for her kindness in entertaining many at the convent, and also for providing the orchestra at the Communion breakfast. A Splendid Success. He was greatly delighted at the presence of his Grace the Archbishop. When he started to talk about the breakfast, many told him it would not be a success. First of all, it was intended to hold the breakfast in the schoolroom, but the response was so good that it was considered they should get the Rex Theatre. Finally, they were compelled to take the Town Hall in order to accommodate the large number who purchased tickets. The presence of his Grace gave additional lustre to the successful demonstration. He was proud of the men of the parish, and hoped God would bless them and their families. (Applause.) The first toast honoured was that of "The Pope and the King." WELCOME TO HIS GRACE Proposing the toast of "His Grace the Archbishop," Cr. J. Bolton said he wished to congratulate the Rev. Dr. Collins on the wonderful success of the two functions. All parts of the parish were represented at the general Communion in St. Peter's Church, and it was an inspiring spectacle. It showed that the Faith was deep and strong in Daylesford. A great privilege had been given to them, and they owed grateful thanks to the Rev. Dr. Collins. He wished to welcome his Grace the Archbishop, and he trusted that he would enjoy his visit to the district. The country was passing through a difficult time at present, and it required plenty of clear thinking and acting to put things right again. He hoped his Grace would touch on the situation, and give them the benefit of his thoughtful and wellreasoned views. Whatever his Grace said would be worth listening to. (Applause.) THE ARCHBISHOP CONGRATULATES PASTOR AND PEOPLE. DAYLESFORD A MODEL PARISH. His Grace the Archbishop said he need not assure them that he came to Daylesford with great pleasure. His visits to Daylesford were always pleasant, but the present visit was additionally pleasant and memorable because he had the opportunity of assisting at one of the most inspiring functions that it had ever been his good fortune to attend. He was really touched to the heart when he stood on the altar and saw the beautiful St. Peter's Church—there were few churches to compare with it in the country—filled with the men of Daylesford and of the surrounding districts. Practically all the Catholic men in the parish were present at the general Communion, and it gave him very deep satisfaction and genuine pleasure to be amongst them. As the Rev. Dr. Collins and Cr. Bolton had said, it was a proof of the depth and soundness of the Faith of the Catholic people of the parish. He wished to congratulate the Rev. Dr. Collins upon the magnificent success that had attended his efforts since he came to Daylesford. He thought the Rev. Dr. Collins had been a very happy man since he took up work in the parish. He came to Daylesford more or less broken in health, and his best friends were doubtful whether his health would stand the strain of parochial duty. However, he had never looked back. He doubted if Dr. Collins would care to leave Daylesford, unless he were appointed Prefect of Propaganda, Rome, or some very high distinction was conferred on him. At all events, things had gone on well with Dr. Collins since he came to Daylesford, and he could see some of the reason for it in looking at the fine gathering before him. The Rev. Dr. Collins was a very zealous and spiritual man, and his lot had been cast amongst people who had responded to his labours. ... (Melbourne Advocate, 13 November 1930) Black and white photograph taken in Daylesford Town Hall depicting numerous men standing, and sitting at tables during the St Peter's Catholic Church Communion Breakfast. Arch Bishop Daniel Mannix stands centre back.st peter's catholic church, daylesford, communion breakfast, daylesford town hall, daniel mannix, george gervasoni, gus gervasoni

"Two hundred men of the Holy Name Society made a striking spectacle on March 26 when they marched through the streets of Daylesford to the Town Hall for a Communion breakfast, after Mass at St. Peter's Church, which concluded a tridium for the men of the parish, conducted by Rev. Father Whelan, P.P. There were many "New Australians" present. Among the visitors present were Mr. C. Condon, Mr. F. Frawley and Mr. Hooper, of the Melbourne Diocesan Union executive of the IIolv Name Society, and also eight members of the North Melbourne branch, beaded by their president, Mr. V. Sheahan. The president of the Daylesford branch (Mr. J. A. Gleeson) proposed the toast of "The Hierarchy and Clergy," to which Father Whelan and Father Moynihan, P.P.. responded. Mr. H. Poulson, vice-president, proposed the toast of "The Holy Name Society," and appealed for in increase in membership. Mr. C. Condon responded. The toast of "The Visitors" was proposed by Mr. H. Lilburne, who referred to the unavoidable absence of Father Day, spiritual director of the society. Mr. V. Sheahan and Mr. Hooper responded." (The Advocate 18 May 1950)Black and white photograph taken in Daylesford Town Hall depicting numerous men standing, and sitting at tables during the St Peter's Catholic Church Communion Breakfast associated with the Holy Name Society. st peter's catholic church, daylesford, communion breakfast, daylesford town hall, gus gervasoni, john hogan gervasoni, c. condon, f. frawley, father humphrey moynihan, h. poulson, j.a. gleeson, daylesford, holy name society, jim walsh, bert gervasoni, jack gervasoni, adrian rienets, terry mahoney, pat rodoni, rob rodoni, ken cantillon, eddie frith, j. keogh, eddie murphy, cocky collins, carl martin, jackie richards, jackie dwyer

Black and white image of the double storey presbytery at St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford.catholic church, st peter's presbytery, daylesford, daylesford

St Joseph’s was built between 1869 and 1874 to the design of amateur architect E. Shepardson, who was a schoolteacher at Eganstown. Modelled on St Peter's Catholic church, Daylesford, a Gothic Revival church designed by William Wardell. The church on .81 acres was sold in 2021 for $965,000.Colour photographs of a bluestone church - St Joseph's, Blampied. .st joseph's blampied, st joseph's mount prospect, catholic church, bluestone, church, e. shepardson

St Joseph’s was built between 1869 and 1874 to the design of amateur architect E. Shepardson, who was a schoolteacher at Eganstown. Modelled on St Peter's Catholic church, Daylesford, a Gothic Revival church designed by William Wardell. The church on .81 acres was sold in 2021 for $965,000.Colour photographs of a bluestone church - St Joseph's, Blampied. .st joseph's blampied, st joseph's mount prospect, catholic church, bluestone, church

Black and white photograph of the wedding of John Gervasoni and Santina Gervasoni at St Peter's Catholic Church, Daylesford. Back row: Tony Gervasoin, Mary Pavich, Battista Gervasoni, Gina Pavivh (or Eileen) 2nd row: Carlo {Cling} Gervasoni, Tottie Gervasoni (married Jack Sleeth), John Gervasoni (Groom), Tina Gervasoni (bride), Francis Gervasoni (married Carl Sartori) john gervasoni, santina gervasoni, tina gervasoni, tony gervasoni. mary pavich, carlo gervasoni, cling gervasoni, tottie gervasoni, tottie sleeth, francis gervasoni, francis sartori