Published on Monday, 25 November 2024 at 11:37:11 AM
Monsignor John Cyril Hawes was born in Richmond, England, on 7th of September 1876. As a child, he enjoyed reading his bible and attending church. He completed his education at Kings School in Canterbury, where he was described as a “quiet but effective student”. His interest in architecture was kindled whilst admiring Canterbury Cathedral, with its impressive atmosphere and history. This led to a job working for an architectural firm in London, and evening classes at the London County Council Arts and Crafts School, where he learned the craft of stone and wood carving. He became a qualified Architect in 1897, and an ordained priest in 1903, and his architectural work and Christian faith were intertwined for the rest of his life.
He relocated to Geraldton in 1916 and began work on the construction of St Francis Xavier Cathedral, which was finally completed in 1938, and was officially opened with four days of fanfare and revelry. Some of Hawes other works in the Midwest region include St Patrick’s Church in Wonthella, the San Spirito Chapel at Utakarra Cemetery, Our Lady of Mt Carmel in Mullewa and Nazareth House. Monsignor Hawes died in the Bahamas in June of 1956.
Ben Marsh
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