Group objects to a new meeting room to be constructed at the rear of fire-ravaged St James Church in Brighton
MORE than 400 parishioners have railed against plans to build what they call a “function centre” at the rear of the burnt-out St James Church.
Inner South
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MORE than 400 parishioners have railed against plans to build what they call a “function centre” in the burnt-out St James Church in Brighton.
The Catholic church was destroyed by fire in March 2015, leaving just a shell at the North Rd site.
Since the blaze, there have been discussions on how to reconstruct the 1892-built church between the Catholic hierarchy, parishioners and neighbouring parish school, but some are unhappy with the outcome.
Timothy Lynch, a parishioner for 35 years, said plans he had seen included a new section at the rear designed as a meeting space, with a separate mezzanine level.
He said the 400-plus strong group did not want a meeting hall or “function centre”, and the church must be rebuilt the same as it was before the fire.
“We love this place – it is an architectural jewel,” Mr Lynch said.
“They want the back part of the church to be used as a meeting room, with a mezzanine and lift, and have functions and school meetings there.
“We don’t want that. It will take away the ambience and atmosphere – it would completely spoil the spiritual experience for us.”
He said the group had appealed to Catholic powers at the Vatican to step in, and was awaiting a response.
Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne spokesman Shane Healy said while detailed designs were still a while away, it would not include a function centre.
He said provisional plans did involve a small meeting room out the back so people could gather for a morning tea after Mass, similar to many other churches.