Unfortunately, this historic milestone will have to be commemorated online, due to the COVID-19 restrictions in force throughout New South Wales.

Nevertheless, the whole Italian community will be able to gather together virtually to enjoy a moment of reflection, to pray and to celebrate the important history of St Fiacre.

The church was established together with a school in 1886 and became an autonomous parish in 1887 .

St Fiacre was a second home for Italians who had migrated to Australia after World War II.

From 1946 onwards, thousands of Italians arrived in Sydney at the Woollooomooloo pier.

This community was disenfranchised by post-war Italy, in debt from the long crossing at sea, and was fuelled by hope for a better life on Australian shores.

The Capuchin friars, who have managed St Fiacre since 1946, waited for the Italian migrants on the wharf.

St Fiacre assisted the new Italian community by offering financial support, helping them to seek employment, learn English and obtain accommodation.

The Italian migrants found cultural support within the church – a sacred space where they could affirm their faith and preserve traditional religious festivals from various regions in Italy.

This support offered by St Fiacre was integral to the wellbeing of the Italian migrants, as without the internet, telephones or television, it was difficult to feel at home in Australia, a country with such different traditions and culture.

The church played a vital role in representing the needs of the growing Italian community in New South Wales.

St Fiacre encouraged unity and integration in the increasingly multicultural Sydney as more and more migrants arrived from Italy.

The Capuchin friars, together with Father Atanasio Gonelli, built the foundations of the Italian communities seen across New South Wales today.

The celebration of this rich history will take place on August 29, during Sunday mass, which will commence at 9:30 am.

St Fiacre is a crucial part of the Italian community, providing space for cultural activities and associations.

It is anticipated that many people will attend Sunday’s celebration to show their gratitude for the Capuchin church’s years of service.

It is hoped that the Italian community will be able to meet and gather in 2022 in order to celebrate the 135th anniversary of St Fiacre.

Another notable date looms in the 2021 calendar; November 5 marks exactly 75 years since the management of the parish passed to the Capuchin friars.