The first permanently appointed catholic chaplains in Australia, Fr Philip Conolly and Fr John Joseph Therry
Abstract
Southerwood, Terry On 7 May 1820, four days after landing at Sydney, Australia's first Vicar General, Fr Philip Conolly, celebrated Mass for the first time on the soil of this continent. He was assisted by the co-pioneer, Fr John Joseph Therry. This historic liturgical action took place at the house of John Reddington in Pitt Row, later the site of many a dramatic event, Her Majesty's Theatre. At this time both priests were guests of the Davis household in Charlotte Square. The following day, also at Reddington's, Therry offered Mass for the glory of God and in honour of St Michael.