Swan Reach, VIC – St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Swan Reach, continues to be a vibrant center of worship and community as it approaches its 110th anniversary. Established on 22 October 1914, St. Joseph’s was first served by priests from St. Mary’s Parish in Bairnsdale, who regularly came to celebrate Mass and provide for the pastoral and sacramental needs of the faithful.

In 1953, St. Brendan’s Parish in Lakes Entrance was created, and St. Joseph’s Swan Reach became part of this new parish community. Despite these changes, St. Joseph’s remains a cherished place of worship for locals.

Today, the church offers a welcoming and intimate space for worship. Mass is celebrated at 5 pm on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th (Sunday) vigil Saturdays of each month. Additionally, St. Joseph’s now holds a special 5 pm Mass on the 4th Sunday of each month for the Vietnamese Catholic community in East Gippsland, further strengthening its outreach and inclusivity.

“As God chooses St. Joseph to be the father of Jesus and protector of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we at Swan Reach feel honoured and blessed to be under his divine protection for over 110 years,” says a parish representative.

This milestone highlights the continued role of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Swan Reach as a place of faith, community, and tradition, bringing together worshippers of all backgrounds.

 

     

        

 

 

 

   

Back to All Articles
Next Article