St John's Pro-Cathedral

In the heart of Perth, Western Australia, stands a modest yet historically profound structure: St John's Pro-Cathedral. As the earliest Roman Catholic church building in Western Australia, this quaint edifice is not just a place of worship but a testament to the enduring spirit and rich history of the Catholic community in the region.

The History of St John's Pro-Cathedral

St John's Pro-Cathedral, originally the Church of St John the Apostle and Evangelist, has roots deeply embedded in the early days of the Swan River Colony. The story begins in 1843 when Father John Brady, alongside Father John Joostens and Patrick O'Reilly, arrived in Fremantle. Brady's short stay in Perth was pivotal as he claimed a land grant on Victoria Avenue, setting the stage for the first Catholic cathedral in the area.

Construction of the church commenced in December 1843, with the foundation stone laid in January 1844. By 1846, following Brady's return as Bishop, the church assumed its role as a cathedral. It served as the spiritual heart of the Catholic community until the completion of St Mary's Cathedral in 1865. Despite its small size, the Pro-Cathedral played a central role in the religious life of early Perth, witnessing the evolution of the Catholic Church in Western Australia.

Architectural Features

St John's Pro-Cathedral is a charming example of early colonial architecture. Constructed from brick and covered with lime render, the building is painted in an ochre hue reminiscent of its original appearance. The structure is punctuated by arched windows along its north and south facades, with buttresses providing support and adding to its quaint aesthetic.

One of the most striking features is the reconstructed portico at the western end. The western gable is adorned with four arched windows, two above the portico and one on each side. Inside, the church is simple yet elegant, with clear glass windows set in wooden mullions, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. The gable roof, covered with shingles, adds a rustic charm to the building.

Transformation and Restoration

Over the years, St John's Pro-Cathedral has undergone several transformations. After St Mary's Cathedral took over as the primary place of worship, the Pro-Cathedral was repurposed by the Christian Brothers as a school. In 1881, it was renovated and used by the Sisters of Mercy as a chapel for Mercedes College.

The building saw modernization in 1965 when it was adapted for use as a classroom. However, between 1979 and 1980, efforts were made to restore the Pro-Cathedral to its former glory. Additions and alterations that were unsympathetic to the original design were removed, allowing the building to shine as a museum for the Catholic Church.

Heritage Significance

St John's Pro-Cathedral holds a special place in the hearts of the Catholic community and is recognized for its cultural heritage significance. It is registered with the National Trust, the State Register of Heritage Places, and the City of Perth's Municipal Heritage Inventory. The Heritage Council of Western Australia acknowledges its importance as the first and oldest Roman Catholic church in the state and its association with the establishment of the Catholic Church and religious orders in Western Australia.

A Living Legacy

Today, St John's Pro-Cathedral stands as a symbol of perseverance and faith. Its walls echo the stories of early settlers, the challenges they faced, and the community they built. Visitors to the Pro-Cathedral can not only admire its historical architecture but also reflect on the rich tapestry of stories woven into its fabric.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or someone seeking a moment of quiet reflection, St John's Pro-Cathedral offers a unique glimpse into the past. It is a place where history is not just preserved but lived, making it a must-visit landmark in the vibrant city of Perth.