50th Golden Jubilee Dinner Celebration - Sacred Heart Church

A story built by faith

As Canberra grew, generations of local families helped build more than a church: they established a place of worship, a presbytery and a school. Their faith and pioneering spirit remain part of the story of Sacred Heart Church, consecrated and dedicated by Bishop Pat Dougherty on 12 December 1976.

The story began in 1968, when Sacred Heart Parish, Pearce, was established and Fr. Ailbe Conway was appointed as its founding Parish Priest. Under his leadership, and with the support of the growing local community, the foundations were laid for the church, presbytery and school that continue to serve families today.

Today, Sacred Heart is part of Mary Help of Christians Parish, formed in 1994 through the union of Sacred Heart, Pearce, and St Augustine’s, Farrer. We continue that story as a caring community, seeking to live the Gospel together.

This jubilee gathering is a chance to remember, reconnect and give thanks—for those who built and served our parish and for everyone who has made it a home. Whether you have been here for decades or joined us more recently, you are part of the story. We look forward to celebrating together.

“With gratitude for all who have made Sacred Heart a home of faith, I warmly invite you to join our jubilee celebration.”

— Fr Emil Milat, Parish Priest