Statistical History of St. Joseph's Catholic Church Springvale
Based on the booklet “As I have seen it” written by Mary L Brash
In the 1930’s, Springvale was part of St. Mary’s Dandenong. Mass was celebrated in the old Mechanics Hall and, later, at Noble Park. The first Parish Priest was Fr. Sylvester Keane who was appointed in 1936. St Joseph’s officially declared a Parish in 1939.
In 1937, the original church building, which was also used for the school during the week, was blessed by Archbishop Daniel Mannix. In 1962 a new church was built on its current location by Father Coghlan.
In 1974, St. Joseph’s was placed under the care of the Order of the Friars Minor, Conventual with Fr Karl Chesher as Parish Priest. In 1988, Fr Victor Bonello commenced a building program which included renovating the church. Archbishop Frank Little consecrated and dedicated the church to the Greater Glory of God and the Salvation of Souls in October 1990.
In 2017, the most recent renovations to the church were undertaken by Fr Benedict La Volpe and blessed by Archbishop Dennis Hart in June 2017 “Go rebuild my Church”.
Springvale has always been blessed with a vibrant migrant history and this has been reflected in our parishioners throughout the decades who have together worshipped, prayed, celebrated and built a community of faith.