aquilareen
Frances St Bernard’s Catholic
Site of church, only gateposts remain. Foundation stone 1 Nov 1953 by Archbishop Matthew Beovich, architect Ernest A Keal, Mount Gambier stone, opened 9 May 1954, closed, demolished 2014. First services in school or hall from 1884.
“a historic occasion for the Catholic community of Frances and district when His Grace the Archbishop of Adelaide, Most Rev. Dr. Beovich laid the foundation of the new Church of St. Bernard. Although the day was cold and showery there was a large attendance from Naraeoorte, Hynam, Kybybolite and the towns across the border. . . but for the generosity of Mr. Charles Koch, who gave £5,000, this might have been delayed for 20 years.” [Narracoorte Herald 5 Nov 1953]
“Following the generous gift of £5,000 by a Frances grazier, a new church to serve the Catholic community in the Frances district will be erected. . . Mrs. A. Koch, of Naracoorte, mother of Mr. C. A. Koch, would contribute £100 towards furnishing the church. Other generous offers were also made.” [Narracoorte Herald 9 Feb 1953]
“For almost three-quarters of a century Mass had been celebrated under difficulties, in school, hall, or private homes. . . Several names were suggested, but he decided on St. Bernard. St. Bernard was a remarkable figure. He was counsellor and friend of Popes, kings and scholars, and as the eighth centenary of his death was in 1953, when celebrations were held throughout the Catholic world to mark the occasion, it was fitting that this church would be named after him.” [Southern Cross 28 May 1954]
Frances St Bernard’s Catholic
Site of church, only gateposts remain. Foundation stone 1 Nov 1953 by Archbishop Matthew Beovich, architect Ernest A Keal, Mount Gambier stone, opened 9 May 1954, closed, demolished 2014. First services in school or hall from 1884.
“a historic occasion for the Catholic community of Frances and district when His Grace the Archbishop of Adelaide, Most Rev. Dr. Beovich laid the foundation of the new Church of St. Bernard. Although the day was cold and showery there was a large attendance from Naraeoorte, Hynam, Kybybolite and the towns across the border. . . but for the generosity of Mr. Charles Koch, who gave £5,000, this might have been delayed for 20 years.” [Narracoorte Herald 5 Nov 1953]
“Following the generous gift of £5,000 by a Frances grazier, a new church to serve the Catholic community in the Frances district will be erected. . . Mrs. A. Koch, of Naracoorte, mother of Mr. C. A. Koch, would contribute £100 towards furnishing the church. Other generous offers were also made.” [Narracoorte Herald 9 Feb 1953]
“For almost three-quarters of a century Mass had been celebrated under difficulties, in school, hall, or private homes. . . Several names were suggested, but he decided on St. Bernard. St. Bernard was a remarkable figure. He was counsellor and friend of Popes, kings and scholars, and as the eighth centenary of his death was in 1953, when celebrations were held throughout the Catholic world to mark the occasion, it was fitting that this church would be named after him.” [Southern Cross 28 May 1954]