Timeline: History of Catholicism

1788

First Fleet arrival

The first Catholics to arrive in Australia came with the first fleet in 1788. The people on the ship consisted of Irish and English.

Dec 25, 1788

First Australian Christmas

In December 1788, the first Christmas was celebrated in Australia. This would start the tradition in Australia.

1803

First Catholic Mass

On New years day 1803, the first mass was held in Australia. This mass was held by Fr. James Harold and Fr. James Dixon.

1822

First Catholic School

In 1822, the first catholic school was founded in the NSW suburb of Paramatta.

1833

More Catholic Schools Appear

By 1833, over 10 catholic schools have been built in Australia, marking progress towards Catholicism in the country.

1834

The First Bishop

John Bede Polding was appointed as the first bishop in Australia. He was the bishop for New Holland and Van Diemens land.

1854

St. Vincent de Paul Conference

In 1854, the first Australian conference about the St. Vincent de Paul society happened in Melbourne, Victoria,

1857

Sisters of St. Joseph

By 1857, a few religious groups have started to form, including the sisters of St. Joseph. St. Mary Mackillop was apart of this group.

1886

Archbishop of Melbourne

In 1886, Thomas Carr was appointed as the archbishop of Melbourne. Thomas Carr was an influential figure for catholicism in Australia.

1953

Second Vatican Council

The Vatican II was the most important event of the twentieth century in the Catholic church and Australia. The council was held in Rome and the members included the current Pope at the time and bishops from all around the world. The plan of the second Vatican was to "open the windows of the Church' and promote Christian unity and rights to religious freedom.