The Centenary for St. John’s Cessnock is an exciting event for the Parish. Building began with the laying of the Church’s Foundation Stone by Bishop Cyril Goulding-Bird, Assistant Bishop of Diocese on September 2, 1909. This new church was to replace St. Luke’s Church, Nulkaba (built 1867).

Since those early days the Anglican Church has served the Cessnock community and surrounding areas. St. John’s has become a place many in the community relate to through regular worship, as well as through the offices of weddings, baptisms, and funerals.

In the early 1950’s St. John’s underwent its first facelift, with the extension of the sanctuary area and inclusion of a belltower. Then in 1974, following the fire in the original hall in Westcott Street, the current hall area was added.

Stained glass windows have been given by various families over the years, enhancing the beauty of St. John’s.

We are grateful indeed to all who have supported and cared for St. John’s Church, and all who have supported the life of the whole Parish over the 100 years.

Celebrations will start with a Centenary Debutante Ball on September 20 at Cessnock Rugby League Supporters Club with Mrs. Fran Hugo the Matron of Honour. Mrs. Hugo also made her debut at an Anglican Ball and is the daughter of the late Canon Ernest Bailey and Mrs. Joyce Bailey. Fr. Ernie was a much loved Rector of the Cessnock/Wollombi Parish.

The committee would like to hear from any young women interested in making their debut at the ball and debutante forms are now available at the parish office in Dudley Street.

Debutantes should be 16 years at the time of the ball or in Year 11 at High School. The debutantes will be presented to the Bishop of Newcastle The Rt. Rev. Dr. Brian Farran.

Key dates for the celebrations are:

*August 30: Centenary launch, Fr. David Simpson, former Rector, Guest Preacher. (Marking the laying of the Foundation Stone on 2/9/1909)

*September 4 and 5: Centenary theme Laudate Dominum

*September 25: Centenary Ball

*February 28: Centenary Day, Bishop of Newcastle preaching and Celebrations (church opened for worship March 2, 1910).