Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Wollombi is one of the oldest functioning Catholic Churches on mainland Australia. On 30th September 1840, Rev John Bede Polding, first Bishop of Sydney, rode in on horseback to lay the foundation stone of the Gothic style Church.

Made by the villagers from sandstone hewn from a local quarry, the Church was located beside the beautiful Wollombi brook. During the flood of 1893, the Church was badly damaged and, stone by stone, was relocated to the position where it now stands. Saint Michaels new foundation stone was laid by Reverend James Murray, Bishop of Maitland on 22 October, 1893. (The original foundation stone is located on the western wall.)

Up to 1991 St Michaels was used as the centre for Mass, weddings, funerals, baptisms and liturgical celebrations. Then, on 7th September, 1991, the Church was put up for auction despite outcries from the whole community. The local community bought back their Church for the reserve price of $120,000. The pews were purchased for $3400 and donated back to the community by the generous bidder. The Friends of Saint Michael’s was formed as the official body and trustees were appointed.

Government assisted grants enabled the Friends of Saint Michael’s to start renovating their Church. When work began on the interior, some gold colour was noticed under layers of paint. Careful removal of these layers revealed the original frieze stencilled around the walls and ornate decorations in the sanctuary. The frieze has now been restencilled and the sanctuary redecorated to its original state. Part of the heritage painting can still be seen on the arch and the western wall of the sanctuary.

The purchase of the Church and its restoration have been made possible by a tremendous ecumenical spirit throughout the village of Wollombi and surrounding districts.

On 3rd October, 1999, Rev. Michael Malone, Bishop of Maitland - Newcastle Diocese, re-opened Saint Michael’s by celebrating Mass. Today, the Blessed Sacrament is reserved in Saint Michael’s and the Church is deemed a private chapel. Mass is held on 2nd and 4th Friday of the month with the Rosary recited at 6.30pm. Reconciliation is also available.