Patron Saint:

In the Old Testament St Gabriel, the archangel, helps Daniel to understand his visions (cf. Daniel 8:15 and 9:21).

In the New Testament Gabriel appears to Zechariah to announce that he and his wife Elizabeth are to have a son. Their son was John the Baptist. Gabriel visits Mary to announce to her that she was to be the mother of Jesus – God’s own Son. Gabriel also appears to Mary’s betrothed, Joseph, to reassure him of Mary’s fidelity - she has conceived the child within her by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The name Gabriel means The Strength of God.

The sculpture of St. Gabriel (facing Viola Street) was unveiled and blessed on October 13, 2002. It is constructed of steel and designed to oxidise slowly. The design is based on the traditional Christmas angel of nativity scenes and reminds us of the role played by Gabriel in announcing the conception and birth of the Lord Jesus.

The sculpture was designed by Melbourne architect, Arthur Andronas, who was also responsible for the renovation of the church in 1999. Ben Fries, a Melbourne silversmith and craftsman, made the sculpture. He also made the sanctuary lamp, candlesticks, lectern sculpture and organ rail inside the church.

The archangel, symbolising us as a parish, is depicted as a messenger of good news to the wider community, proclaiming God is Strength by the banner he carries. This banner (in stainless steel) is not subject to the elements; for God is all-powerful, God is with us, and we are not afraid.

Gabriel proudly carries a lily (also in stainless steel) proclaiming the perpetual virginity of Mary, the Mother of God, and reminding us of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ for our salvation - the eternal Son of God made flesh in her womb by the power of the Holy Spirit. The three flowers on the one stem symbolise the Trinity.