Description

St Michael’s Uniting Church stands on the site of the oldest church in Melbourne. The current building was designed by pre-eminent architect Joseph Reed and erected in 1867. It is notable for its striking Lombardic architecture and cultural heritage. The National Trust-classified building features Romanesque arches, a turreted spire and polychromatic brickwork. The remarkable theatre-inspired auditorium, focusing on the pulpit and organ, is unique in Melbourne.

This year the St Michael’s community have completed an extensive "Revitalisation with Purpose" renovation project with Trethowan Architects and Nuvelo Projects. The redesigned auditorium honours our architectural heritage while meeting current accessibility standards and our community mission to create an inclusive and welcoming church for all.

Today the church is home to an inclusive, progressive Christian community committed to compassion, justice and full inclusion of LGBTIQA+ people. Visitors can enjoy the contemporary stained-glass windows by artist Klaus Zimmer, elegant sanctuary furniture, and hear the magnificent refurbished George Fincham & Sons Grand Organ with over 2000 speaking pipes.

Mingary (meaning 'the quiet place' in Gaelic), a peaceful sanctuary for people of all religions and cultures devoted to healing and restoration, will also be open.

What's On

The church will be open from noon to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Self-guided tour information will be accessible by QR code. Volunteers will be available to provide information about the church’s architecture, history, and ethos.

Explore the unique architecture and take a moment in Mingary—the Quiet Place, or enjoy the music.

St Michael’s organist, Rhys Boak, will perform 10-minute recitals on the Grand Organ hourly from noon to 3pm both days.

Visitors are invite to attend the 10 AM Sunday worship service to experience the life of the current congregation.