You know where melbourne has changed so much and there are times I question why I can't stand the local cbd anymore and I still can't! I still have a thing for the old St Francis Church personally, even when I said I hate the city and I hate going there, St Francis gives the old comfort why I still like this place to pray and to chill out to myself. I've been coming since the mid 1980's and a lot has changed, so many high rises building now dwarf this now seemingly small church now, that's nuts how time does that?! The church has gotten on with the times with an ever changing demographic era like having women as speakers these days and that's great as well and many other multi cultured speakers as well rather than just the norm. Also there seems to be a bell tower that goes off not in sync with every hour that I have never seen before or I just don't remember it but I'm sure that's a new element there?! Not sure what's up with that either...The back area has been fenced off but I can tell you what used to be there!!! There was pathway in a small like cottage that went down stairs in the old rest rooms but that's all closed off with newish church shop and their more modernised toilets. I really used to like coming here via 1988 to 1990 and they were my happiest memories of this place, the old 6 pm mass that finished 7 pm ( I think but it was decades ago) with myself and my now gone mother...Many family members are disappearing via me but I will still try to go here when or if I can and no matter what I think about the CBD in the 21st century as off now?! I will always love St Francis Church and find comfort being here!!! Say what happened to all those free prayer booklets or children's colouring books that used to be inside the entrance off this church or is notion just dedicated to their Catholic bookshop now?! Also why is the back of the churches imagery of Jesus on the cross so darkened as off now with very little light?! Also the giant organ pipes are now all gone to make way for the smaller more condensed ones and why is there no organs being played via a sermon either?! I miss that but oh well... Don't EVER CHANGE St. Francis!!! Be as you are, bless....

There are lots of mass times to choose from and there are masses everyday. Solemn and quiet place that will give you peace. Reading materials are provided together with the bible and hymn book. A very spacious church that can fit a lot of people. There is also an area where you can light a candle and pray solemnly. Well lit and you can hear the priest, choir, and readers very well. Very close to the Melbourne Central Station that's why it is very easy to access. There are also some designated mass in other language for the others who prefers to attend mass in their native language. Church goers are also approachable, respectful and mindful.

Have seen this church in the city over many years but have never been inside it then recently I passed it while walking south along Elizabeth Street and turned into Lonsdale Street. I saw the sign which read "St. Francis' Church, Victoria's Oldest Catholic Church" and had to visit it. It was a very peaceful experience. It's a small but beautiful church and notwithstanding that it's the oldest church in Victoria, built between 1841 and 1845, it's very well maintained. Highly recommend.

Mass times are offered for everybody. I like the mass at lunchtime as there are not that many people - covid! I highly appreciate to have the chance to spend some time during the mass and afterwards together with Jesus. Especially Christmas is the time to think about much more than gifts. Today we can see and feel that a joyful life is not something which will last forever. But if we find our way together with Jesus than we will discover the real truth. God bless you.

Beautiful church in the heart of Melbourne - St. Francis Church, Victoria's oldest Catholic Church, where Ned Kelly's parents were married. The building is extremely well kept with beautiful finishing throughout. Inside you would not know you were still in the centre of Melbourne - it's extremely quiet and peaceful inside. It is free to enter, look around, sit and pray. Adjacent to the building on the East side is the Catholic book shop for browsing.

So good to have such a well-known Catholic Church in the heart of Melbourne, with (almost) perpetual Adoration, and offering a variety of different mass times on Sunday so you will never miss mass! They also sing MP & EP here, and the side Marian chapel is just lovely with all the flowers offered too. Confession here also a very positive experience - see side door inside church for ample times offered for this too.

My husband and I are here from Perth, visiting Melbourne for the very first time. We decided to attend the 12.05pm Mass. I left, feeling a sense of calm, peace and joy. The homily was short, simple and very meaningful and the congregation participated wholeheartedly in the prayers and singing. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity of being part of such a beautiful service.

The only Church I'll go too here in Melbourne because of it's convenience of being so close to Melbourne Central Station plus it's a Church inrelated to St Francis of Assissi.. Highly recommended for everyone and it's a great Catholic church that gives a great service by the many good priests who share their wonderful sermons for all to hear and the Good News of The Word of God..

Behold, a resplendent cathedral graces the bustling heart of Melbourne, replete with an air of divine sanctity. This hallowed house of worship bears witness to a plethora of solemn masses, drawing countless devotees from every corner of the metropolis to partake in its sacred rituals. Truly, it is a veritable benediction to have such a beacon of piety within our midst.

One of the most convenient church to go to due to its location just beside Melbourne Central. It's a beautiful place for worship and quiet reflection, the prayer service and sacraments provided were as expected, facilities were great, and there's a store next to its gate entrance where you can buy Catholic-related materials i.e. Rosaries, Bibles, Spiritual books, etc.

The chapel was built in 1841. One of the oldest Catholic church. The first Cathedral in Melbourne. The mass is celebrated in a style in keeping with the time it was built. The architecture too follows that of the time. Organs played just echoed down the hallway. The church unusually was packed for the Sunday mass. It was good in a different sort of way. It was unique

I have been attending the oldest church in Melbourne since I was a child. Beautiful services, plenty of quiet time to be spent before the Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady's Chapel. Iconic church where St Mary Mackillop was baptised. Reccomend a respectful stop off here. For tourists, I recommend discreet photo-taking if you would like to capture the beauty inside.

Thank you Alecia for your Above and Beyond customer service. You were so nice to me that I finally bought the beai Archangel Gabriel bronze Statue ( despite i found it cheaper online ) and in bonus I also purchased the Statue of Saint Gerard de Majella . The Central Catholic Bookshop has got an amazing staff like you ... God bless you always ❤️

This is one of the most dedicated place as a church. Very good church in the city for your mass atendance and your prayers, Please observe not to disturb and walking inside while mass is occurring, your blessed to be there. Visit both wing chapels and St.Mary's Chapel. Remember to light a candle, and Thanks as well as request your good needs. God Bless You

got the cops called on me because i was making the infinity sign with my hands, expressing myself when the hymns came through my body, was a good service but needs more ties to the country, the land which the church is built on, it seems like a great place but only if you look like a regular. im sorry i can only be honest in the eyes of god

Melbourne's first Catholic Cathedral in 1848. This place is an oasis in the middle of the CBD's hustle and bustle. It is a place that will give you a time to reflect and calm down. Mass times are offered several times during weekdays, weekend and Sunday. The Priests are very friendly and welcoming to all. This place is a gem.

Attended the church on Sunday for the 11am mass. Beautiful old church to visit for mass, light a candle and pray, confession or admire the architecture. They have a pipe organ in which they use for mass as well as a extremely well coordinated choir. Se the St Francis church website for mass times and contact details.

I was surprised to find that the Blessed Sacrament is almost always exposed for adoration. A real blessing to be able to slip into a quiet sanctuary for some prayer amidst the constant bustle of the CBD streets. Weekday masses at different timings to suit your convenience, and daily reconciliation too.

Magnificent sacred furnishings, especially in the Lady Chapel. Frequent Masses and Confession available daily. Parking is very difficult. Carpark is reserved for people living beside the church and can only be entered with a swipe card. Best to take a tram or a train to Melbourne Central nearby.

i've been coming to the church services for years, great people, good vibes and an amazing building. but one day i awoke, dripped in sweat. i had come to a sudden realisation, that i wish did not occur. i realised that, GOD WASN'T REAL. what do i do now? thanks for wasting my time st francis.

Church run by Blessed Sacrament Congregation. Mass at convenient times. Perpetual Adoration of the blessed Sacrament. Oldest Catholic Church in Victoria. Monthly a mass for the Philippino Community. Also monthly mass for the people who live with HIV. Signed mass for the deaf once in month.

A beautiful church to attend for services. The choir performs at 11 am Mass on Sundays. Parking is available in the car park next to the church, monies from which fund charities supported by the Blessed Sacrament Congregation. There is a coffee shop, and toilets available for the public.

Awesone beaut Early church of Melbourne where first Oz St baptised. Peaceful always. Regular Masses Confess. Pastoral centre with coffee cake often. Awesome God. Very beautiful with Catholic or orgerbooks shop nearby. Priests and brothe live nearby for any emergency.

Located in the middle of Melbourne CBD, this church is my place to go whenever I feel like to. Although there are always traffic around the corner, the inner side of the building somehow gives me peace and calmness that I love. Lots of mass times as well.

I am a regular visitor at the St Francis Church. The fact that its in between the city just makes it more accessible. It is always so quite inside and its a great place to pray and meditate. The interior still has a very ancient and historic touch to it.

I suggest...the church gives away pc of paper where the gospels on that day is written especially every Sunday. Or maybe a projector just like other churches here in Melbourne they flash the gospels, responsorial psalms, announcements on the screen.

Conveniently located. It does give me a sense of calmness amidst the madness of working days. Most priests are elderly, they come prepared with good sermons but don't expect lively presentation. The Church needs more prayers & support from us.

One of the oldest Churches established in Melbourne CBD. Feel so serene, peace and blessed even if you just visit and sit down in the Church. Many people come to attend the Holy Eucharist and pray. Must visit when you are in Melbourne CBD.

One of the spiritual and architectural gems of Melbourne. The extensive schedule for their sacramental program, and the beautifully maintained Ladye Chapel make this church a great spiritual pit stop in the midst of an otherwise busy city!

First ever Catholic Church I visited in Melbourne. Ambiance is peaceful even though it’s located in the center of the City. A church that you might want to visit when you’re in town. There is Catholic Book Shop just next to the church.

St. Francis Church. The best place for beholding the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar. Blessed Sacrament Exposed from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Friday. From 8:00 am to 11 am on Saturdays and from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm on Sundays.

A place of tranquility and peace in the middle of noice and buzz of the Melbourne CBD. A quiet abode to experience the divine. If you are in the city make sure you go in and spend a few minutes in silence. You won't get out the same.

It's literally the tiniest church you will ever go in. But still I have been here on the odd occasion with a deeply religious catholic girl and I like it. And, since it's a place I go to worship my god, I therefore give 5 stars.

It's Victoria's oldest Catholic church. With many Holy Masses a day with several special Masses (Indonesian, Filipino etc). With beautiful, well maintained interiors. And a lovely side chapel dedicated to Mary, Mother of God.

Peace tranquil is what i would describe this church. Its ancient sandstone architecture complemented by the modern extension, make it a wonder in itself. There simplicity in everything. The glass panels provide ambient light.

A very special place. St Francis of Assisi is one of my favourite saints and St Mary Mackillop was baptised here. The choir is amazing. There is also a beautiful chapel where candles can be lit. The perfect place to pray.

Amazing church! I love it! The monks are super fantastic. Very pious, helpful and kind. I love that there are masses around the clock and confession every day. Thank God for such a great church with great community...

Like many churches in Melbourne they were built during the gold Rush era and they are grand but this church remains a little humble in presentation. So there is more time to pray without your eyes wondering.

Sermons lacked enthusiasm and the energy that I'm used to from other parishes. The church itself is a little too dimly lit. Otherwise it is an excellent place for mass while you are travelling.

Beautiful place just get away for a couple of minutes to reflect. Lovely place. Evening mass on Sundays is always full so best to get in early to grab a seat otherwise you'll be left standing.

One of the most beautiful churches, I have been to. This church was built between 1841 and 1845 and is the oldest Catholic Church in Victoria. It has regular mass services throughout the day.

A great place to go to for anyone visiting. Unburden your troubles to the Lord with a few minutes in silent prayer and reflection. He has excluded no one whoever or whatever they may be …

I Am Less Of Words To Express The Creation Of This Beauty.Cant Go Beyond These Two To Say As Spectacular And Magnificent Structure.Whoever Thought Of Making This Always Stay Blessed! …

Very holy bleesed service with an amazing Choir n the entire Holy Eucharist was conducted with total Solemity truyl.Felt blessed n experienced Jesus in the blessed sacrament Amen …

Very spiritual experience and loved the mix of congregation.All welcomed whatever their povety or homeless or nationality.A truly Catholic experience as it should be.Amen alleluia.

Peaceful and a place to rest in the spirit. Highly recommend and also love the frequency of masses. In the heart of the city I felt quiet and listened to him my maker and creator.

Loved my time in the choir here. Splendid Catholic church with magnificent sacred art, perpetual adoration, daily Mass and confession. An oasis in the heart of the bustling city.

Located right besides Bourke Street and just outside Melbourne CBD station. Massive place and ages old yet well maintained . Quite a tourist spot being in the middle of the city

Oldest church in Melbourne. Bourke and Wills started from there. Ned Kelly's parents were married there. My mum loved taking her eight children there when we were in Melbourne.

My friend told me that the presence of Holy Mary in the church is very powerful. whatever prayer request you place in this church you will get it. I am a true witness for that.

It's really nice to have a mass in business trip. The church is really close to Ibis & Novotel Melbourne Central.. Worth to stay again when coming to the city... Thanks God..

Best church in the city as it always feels so warm in it . The staff are very respectful and I love the lighting of candles area as it always makes me feel better when I go.

Lovely church in Melbourne CBD Chapel was breathtaking with its wooden decors and glass stained windows You can light candles And super huge knee pad I front of the altar

Peace is here.. I attended sunday morning mass here.. felt nice. People are nice here and do come for prayers with family & friends. Like it..A lot. My first church mass.

One of the best church I have visited across many .Very calm a n d peace full. Go in morning we can feel blessed with adoration of blessed sacrament. Christ have mercy.

Very peaceful catholic church in the heart of melbourne city. Worth a visit if only to light a candle say a little prayer and admire the amazing stained glass windows

The oldest Catholic Church in Melbourne is in the good hands of the Blessed Sacrament Religions Order. Very friendly staff and always crowded by a lot of people.

The music and choir at 11 am every Sunday is outstanding and the church itself maintains its prayerful atmosphere all week long at anytime of the day.

Mass service with choir singing every Sunday 11.30am. Divine voices, Hymn' s include works by Christopher Wilcox Roger Heagney, Heavenly experience.

Attended Thursday morning mass last week. We always visit this church whenever we stayed in Melbourne. There's a religious store next to the church.

They so many daily Mass time options! My husband and I were able to attend an early-morning Mass on a holy day of obligation while traveling.

Nice little cosy church, not as large as the Cathedral but very adequate. There's a beautiful shrine to our Lady with lots of stained glass

Beautiful Church, you light real candles and Church is opened all day, right in centre of the city. Confessions every day. So peaceful

Very well organised. Good reasonable parking next door. Very good location surrounded by restaurants, shops, Melbourne train station

I love going to saint francis it's beautiful my favourite Catholic to pray the Rosary and pray with people proud to be catholic

Beautiful church. Provided me and family with opportunity to pray, seek guidance and gain peace in difficult times. Thank you.

Beautiful church Loved the prayerful atmosphere and graceful Holy Mass on Sunday evening God bless you all …

My partner always likes to travel to this church to pray, even though we have a church within 2 minutes from our house.

A very beautiful church to visit any time of the day . Mass too confession and Holy Communion. A wonderful experience

Great church. Cozy and calm. Design is quite conservative. Strategically located in CBD. Easy and convenient to find.

Beautiful church. I attended the Filipino mass service. I could understand a little. Beautiful singing by the choir.

Beautiful church. So much to be in awe over whilst in there. People that attend the masses are also very lovely

Walking through the city on a Saturday afternoon, alot of people sitting or standing outside. Beautiful church.

Very handy in the CBD if you are staying in Melbourne City area. Lots of masses on Sundays. The choir is great.

It's a nice and tranquil place to go to get away from the noise and bustle of the city for a while.

Lovely old church in Melbourne CBD. (Oldest RC church in Victoria.) Go for the fabulous music.

Exceptional church of prayer, peace, reflection, and respect - Founded in Melbourne in 1839.

I attended mass with my sister. It's a very popular, vibrant congregation. I felt welcome.

Am so glad to experience service in this church. Beautiful church and it’s rich history.

Very beautiful historic church Attach is the latest mass scheduled in June 2023

It's a church. What more can I say. Hoping the 5 stars will get me to heaven.

Very busy place ,looks like everyone wants to visit this place for mass

Beautiful ambience on a Sunday night as it was an Easter mass service

Always a pleasure to attend Mass on my visits. A wonderful church.

Well kept, it's clean and great location in the middle of cbd.

Vigil Mass for Ascension was most uplifting. Wonderful music.

Love this church. Always come here for Vigil mass. God Bless.

Beautiful church and a great place for me to pray …

Lovely people, and the shops us always worth a visit!!

Beautiful church and very nice priest, inspiring.

Wonderful Saturday mass. Beautiful organ music.

Really beautiful church. So calm and peaceful.

Lovely Mass, great homily on Ash Wednesday

The most beautiful stained glass windows!

Good serene catholic church in the city

MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:30am 11:00am

Great place to relax and pray.

Oasis in cbd, very enriching

Beautiful peaceful church

Beautiful church.