The Church of the Resurrection in Shenton Road Swanbourne, formerly known as St Oswald’s, is celebrateing its centenary year despite a fire that all-but destroyed the church building in 2004. A mass celebrated by Archbishop Kay Goldsworthy was be held on October 22nd, followed by a lunch for invited guests. Other events are planned throughout the coming centenary year, such as an adult nativity play written by Elizabeth Black on December 10 and a centenary concert celebrating each decade in the life of the church.

From its founding in 1923 the Parish of St Oswald’s was supported by the congregations of Christ Church Claremont and St Phillips Cottesloe until 1951 in many ways, including sharing clergy until a full-time minister was appointed in 1951. Choirs from both those churches sang at the laying of the foundation stone of St Oswald’s on October 13, 1923.

During the 100 years since then, the number of parishioners has waxed and waned, but there has always been a core group of dedicated parishioners. Life and activities associated with the parish have also waxed and waned, with memories still vivid for many in the community, from music halls, a tradition that lasted 26 years, to the Church of England Boys Society which had a membership of up to 95 at one stage, and Scotch College boys attending Sunday services in the 50s and 60s. Fire almost destroyed the church on Sunday April 4, 2004, with only three walls and the hall left standing. A piece of stained glass featuring the face of Christ was discovered by accident when sifting through the ruins. It was later embedded in a window during the rebuild. From 2004 until 2011 parishioners had to battle financial pressures with building costs escalating, made worse by a staggered start to the rebuild, presenting a case to the diocese to rebuild rather than decommission, managing the amalgamation with St Michael’s in Mt Claremont, and having a series of part-time clergy.

The appointment of a full-time priest in 2009, and a significant bequest from a long-time parishioner, kick-started the rebuild to the tune of $2million. The result is a beautiful lightfilled church incorporating the three fi re-damaged walls. The church is not only a worship space but now hosts many concerts and musical recitals. It is home to the St Cecilia Singers, with their director of music and four to eight choristers who lead singing on Sundays. The upgraded hall facilities cater for many community activities such as zumba, karate, stretch classes, film evenings, reading groups and dinners. The rebuild won the 2011 Civic Award for the best adaptation of a heritage place. The Church of St Oswald was officially decommissioned in 2011 and renamed The Church of the Resurrection.