Historical Highlights

Historical Timeline of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit

1872: The first Mass in Palmerston North was celebrated by Father Delphin Moreau, a French Marist Priest, on St. Patrick's Day with six families present in the surveyor’s office.

1875: Father Moreau settled in the Manawatu area, forming the Parish of St. Patrick’s.

1877: The first St. Patrick’s Church was built on Broad Street (later Broadway Avenue).

1890: A second St. Patrick’s Church was opened on the same site.

1925: The third St. Patrick’s Church was opened at its present location on Broadway Avenue.

1913-1962: Father James MacManus served as Parish Priest, overseeing the construction and maintenance of the Cathedral building.

This photograph shows the present St. Patrick's church before the scaffolding was taken down after the completion of the work on the tower. Standing on top of the scaffolding are Fr Mac Manus and Mr Michael Hickey. 

1980: The church became the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit following the establishment of the Diocese of Palmerston North.

1988: The Cathedral underwent renovations to meet the needs of the liturgical changes brought by Vatican II, incorporating Māori carvings into the building.

2000: The Gathering Area, a circular structure inspired by monastery chapter houses, was opened by Bishop Peter Cullinane.