A brief history
In 1953 land was purchased by the Newcastle Diocese for future needs as a result of the proposed expansion of Rutherford. In the early 1960’s a “Nissan Hut” was moved onsite and ministry began in the area stemming from Maitland Parish. Church services were conducted and children’s ministry was established at this building called St Christopher’s Church.
In 1977 the building was totally destroyed by fire. However, the community, tenacious and resilient persisted in worshiping within Rutherford due to the generosity of our ecumenical brothers and sisters from the St Paul’s Catholic Church community. Services were conducted in St Paul’s Hall until 1981 when St Christopher’s new church building was consecrated.
The foundation stone for the new church and rectory, designed by F K Ingruber, was laid in 1980. Construction was carried out by skilled members and volunteers of the parish. People gifted their time and talents to bring to fruition the plans of the Parish Council and Building Committee of the time.
Throughout the years, the parish of Telarah-Rutherford has actively sort to minister to the wider community through offering Worship, Parish Pantry, Community Gardens, Op Shop, Friends of the Parish and Mission Group activities.
In March 2021 the Parish of Telarah – Rutherford, in collaboration with the Parish of Maitland, formed the Cluster Parishes of West Maitland. Telarah-Rutherford parish works together with Maitland Parish to provide safe, respectful flourishing communities of faith for the wider Maitland area.