In one of Sydney’s least religious suburbs, Rev Matt Davies is leading an old church into a season of new growth — both as rector of St Mary’s Balmain and as an Army Chaplain serving the Australian Defence Force.
When asked how a parish reaches people in a community where more than half the population identify as having “no religion”, Revd. Davies’ answer is simple: love.
“We’re seeking to be the heart of the village,” he says. “Opening the doors of the church through community events and during the week allows people to wander in, chat, or pray. We’ve seen people entering St Mary’s with a genuine hunger and desire to know more about Jesus.”
That open-door approach has seen St Mary’s quietly transformed. Growing by around ten people each year, the congregation now spans from newborns to a much-loved centenarian. Children’s ministry has increased fivefold since 2022, and the church has become a hub for community life — hosting local groups, partnering with the nearby primary school, and holding prayer nights and evangelistic courses.
As an Army Chaplain, Revd. Davies brings the same pastoral care and compassion to Defence members as he does to his parishioners — meeting people where they are and sharing Christ’s love in word and action.
St Mary’s also holds significant historical ties to Defence. Inside the sandstone walls stands a beautifully crafted war memorial, including stained-glass windows installed in honour of parish members who served in the First World War. The memorial was re-dedicated by Bishop to the Australian Defence Force, Grant Dibden during the church’s ANZAC Day Service in 2024, renewing the parish’s connection to remembrance and service.
As St Mary’s prepares to celebrate its 180th anniversary in 2026, Rev Davies says the milestone is both a privilege and a reminder.
“We’re custodians of a legacy that’s over 180 years in the making. Many faithful people have served and sacrificed here. Our vision is to see the love of Christ known, lived, and shared — in Balmain, and wherever God sends us.”
The church’s reclassification as a full parish from 2026 was met with joy at the recent Sydney Synod — an affirmation of new life in an old community, and of the faithful service of its rector, who continues to minister both to his local parish and to the men and women of the Australian Army.
“Please pray that God will build up His church in the Balmain Peninsula and among the saints at St Mary’s,” Revd. Davies said.
This article draws upon and adapts content originally published by Sydney Anglicans on 7 October 2025. Read the original story, “Old Balmain church celebrates new growth”
