The first image depicts a neoclassical building facade with large columns, illuminated in various colors at night, partially obscured by tree branches.
The second image shows the interior of a church with wooden pews, an ornate organ at the front, and stained glass windows along the walls.

Collins Street Baptist Church

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Architect/Designer: Joseph Reed 1862

Description

With its classical temple façade and four Corinthian columns, Collins Street Baptist Church is unique among city churches. In contrast to the prevalent Gothic style, the simple interior and two aisles, typical of the Baptist tradition, reflect the idea of church as a community of people making decisions at the local level, rather than through a church hierarchy.


The importance of preaching is reflected in the auditorium-style interior, with the pulpit placed precisely to enable the speaker to be heard without amplification throughout the building.

Learn how the church community navigates the privilege and tension of looking after a heritage building and being hospitable to the people using it today.

What's On

Learn about the history and heritage of the building from our guides. See our community kitchen at the back of the church, available to external groups, or come visit our rooftop and verandah (weather dependent).

There will also be performances from some of the choirs who rehearse and perform here.

The café at the front of the church will be open.

Children's Activities

There will be a treasure trail and quiz for younger visitors, along with a toy corner and baby change table.

Images: (1) External view of the Church from Collins Street. (2) Internal view of the Church. Photos: courtesy Collins Street Baptist Church.

Important Details

Tour/event summary information

Saturday 25 July
Open access 10am-4pm

Sunday 26 July
Open access 12pm-4pm

Bookings

No bookings required

Meeting Point

Simply enter the venue from the stairs on Collins Street

Accessibility

Ramp or level (step free) entry, Accessible bathrooms, All-gender bathrooms, Parent's Room, Assistance animals welcome

Ramp level entry via Baptist Place, the rear laneway, off Little Collins Street, by arrangement.

Location

174 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country

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