Our Lady of the Assumption: Building the Catholic Faith in Cheltenham

Our Lady of the Assumption (OLA) Catholic Parish stands as a vibrant testament to faith, community, and service. Situated in the renowned “sand belt” region, famous for its world-class golf courses and proximity to Southland Shopping Centre, this parish has been a spiritual home for Catholics in Cheltenham and its surrounding areas since its establishment in the 1950s. For over six decades, OLA has endeavoured to proclaim the Gospel and extend Christ’s welcome to all who cross its threshold, fostering a community rooted in compassion, love, and shared purpose.

A Rich History Rooted in Faith

The story of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish began in the early 1950s, a time when Cheltenham was transitioning from sprawling market gardens to a burgeoning suburban community. The parish’s origins are closely tied to the establishment of Our Lady of the Assumption Primary School, which opened its doors in February 1952 under the stewardship of the Brigidine Sisters. This marked the beginning of a faith community that would grow to become a cornerstone of spiritual and pastoral life in the region.

Officially founded in 1958, the parish has been shaped by a succession of dedicated clergy, including notable figures such as Father Max Day (1958–1961), Father John Bracken (1961–1974), and Father Bill Pietzsch (1974–1987). Since 2022, Father Alan Fox has served as Parish Priest, guiding the community with wisdom and compassion. The parish’s history is a tapestry of devotion, with each priest contributing to its growth and resilience.

Today, OLA Parish operates in close collaboration with St Agnes’ Church in nearby Highett, sharing a Mass timetable and resources to serve the wider Bayside Catholic community. This partnership reflects the parish’s commitment to unity and inclusivity, ensuring that all members of the faithful have access to spiritual nourishment.

A Welcoming Community

At the heart of OLA Parish is its people. The parish community is diverse, drawing together individuals and families from Cheltenham and beyond, united by a shared commitment to living out the Gospel. The parish office, open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, serves as a hub for connection, offering a warm welcome to newcomers and long-time parishioners alike. Led by Parish Secretary Vino Krishnan, Parish Accountant Maureen Ryan, Psychologist AnneMaree Eddy, and Pastoral Visitation Coordinator Christine Dunne, the staff work tirelessly to support the pastoral and administrative needs of the community.

The parish’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its various groups and ministries, which cater to a wide range of interests and needs. From the St Vincent de Paul Society, which provides practical support to those in need, to the Passionist Family Groups fostering fellowship, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved. The Pastoral Council and Finance Committee ensure the parish runs smoothly, while the Social Justice group advocates for fairness and compassion in the wider community. For those experiencing grief or loss, dedicated support groups offer solace and understanding.

OLA’s Child Safety initiatives underscore its dedication to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all, particularly children and vulnerable adults. The parish adheres to the Archdiocese of Melbourne’s stringent safeguarding policies, reflecting its commitment to the wellbeing and dignity of every individual.

Spiritual Life and Worship

The rhythm of life at OLA is marked by its rich liturgical offerings. The parish shares a carefully coordinated Mass timetable with St Agnes’ Church, ensuring accessibility for all. Weekend Masses are held at St Agnes’ Church on Saturday at 6:00 PM (Vigil) and at OLA Church on Sunday at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Weekday Masses provide additional opportunities for worship, with services held at OLA on Tuesday at 6:00 PM, Wednesday and Thursday at 9:15 AM, and Saturday at 9:00 AM, as well as at St Agnes’ on Tuesday and Friday at 9:00 AM. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available on Wednesday at 9:45 AM and Saturday at 9:30 AM at OLA Church, or by appointment through the parish office.

Beyond regular Masses, OLA offers a range of sacramental programmes, including Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation, and Anointing of the Sick. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) welcomes those seeking to join the Catholic faith, providing a supportive pathway to full communion. These sacraments are celebrated with reverence, strengthening the spiritual bonds within the community.

The parish also encourages personal reflection and prayer, with resources such as meditation guides to help parishioners find moments of stillness amidst busy lives. In 2024, the parish shared resources titled “Finding Some Time for Stillness,” reflecting its commitment to nurturing both communal and individual spirituality.

Education and Outreach

Education is a cornerstone of OLA’s mission, embodied by Our Lady of the Assumption Primary School, located at 9 Centre Dandenong Road. Operated by Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd (MACS), the school is a Child Safe environment that promotes the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all students. With a dedicated staff and a curriculum rooted in Catholic values, the school plays a vital role in forming the next generation of faithful and compassionate individuals.

The parish’s outreach extends beyond its immediate community, with initiatives such as the Care for Our Common Home group, which focuses on environmental stewardship, and the Counselling and Psychological Services offered by AnneMaree Eddy. These efforts reflect OLA’s commitment to addressing both spiritual and practical needs, ensuring that the love of Christ reaches the wider community.

A Parish in Transformation

In recent years, OLA Parish has been part of a broader reconfiguration within the Bayside area, as outlined in the Archbishop’s Letter to Parishes in October 2023 and the Bayside Parishes Reconfiguration Implementation Plan in February 2024. These initiatives, led by Archbishop Peter Comensoli, aim to strengthen the Catholic presence in the region through collaboration and discernment. The parish has actively participated in consultation sessions, with reports shared in September 2023, demonstrating its commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of its community.

The parish’s weekly bulletins keep parishioners informed about upcoming events, liturgical rosters, and community news. By subscribing to the mailing list, members can stay connected and engaged, ensuring they never miss an opportunity to participate in the life of the parish.

A Place to Call Home

Our Lady of the Assumption Parish is more than a place of worship; it is a community where faith, hope, and love flourish. Located at 9 Centre Dandenong Road, Cheltenham, VIC 3192, the parish is easily accessible, with a phone number (03 9583 6161) and email (cheltenham@cam.org.au) for those seeking to connect. The parish’s website, www.olacheltenham.org.au, offers a wealth of information, from Mass times to ministry opportunities, making it a valuable resource for both parishioners and visitors.

With a 4.6-star rating from 32 reviews, OLA is cherished for its welcoming atmosphere and meaningful services. Parishioners have praised its role in supporting them through life’s joys and challenges, from beautiful funeral services to vibrant community gatherings. As one reviewer noted, “Lovely people that help other people get through a horrific time,” a testament to the parish’s pastoral care.

As Our Lady of the Assumption Parish continues to grow, it remains a beacon of faith in Cheltenham, inviting all to experience the transformative power of Christ’s love. Whether through worship, education, or outreach, OLA stands as a living witness to the Gospel, nurturing a community that is both rooted in tradition and open to the future.