The History of
the Apostolate in Canberra

The apostolate of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter (FSSP) in Canberra commenced in 2002, initiated by an invitation from Archbishop Francis Carroll. He recognized the need to cater to the spiritual needs of the faithful in his Archdiocese who had a deep devotion to the Traditional Latin Mass. Responding to this call, the first priest from the Fraternity to serve this growing community was Fr. John Fongemie, who arrived from the United States towards the end of 2001.

Fr. Fongemie took up residence at the Archbishop’s House and began his ministry by celebrating Mass at Sts Peter and Paul in Garran. Alongside his liturgical duties, he also provided catechesis to children and pastoral care to the sick in hospitals. His dedication quickly garnered a growing congregation, as more families, attracted by the promise of strong catechetical formation for their children, joined the community. Over the years, this congregation saw a steady increase in numbers.

In 2006, after five years of dedicated service, Fr. Fongemie returned to the United States. He was succeeded by Fr. Webb from Canada, who continued to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor until his return to Canada in 2009. Following Fr. Webb’s departure, Fr. Dominic Popplewell, who had been ordained in the same year, took over the pastoral duties. Fr. Popplewell moved into Ephesus House, a property rented from the Archdiocese, and expanded the community’s reach by introducing an additional Sunday Mass at St. Thomas More in Campbell.

The leadership of the Latin Mass community saw another transition in 2014 when Fr. Christopher Blust assumed pastoral care. While fulfilling his responsibilities as regional superior based in Parramatta, Fr. Blust managed a rigorous schedule, commuting regularly between Canberra and Parramatta. During his tenure, the priests relocated from Ephesus House to a new residence in Kambah, a house generously bequeathed to them by a parishioner named Margaret Clifford.

Under Fr. Blust’s guidance, the community continued to flourish. More adults began seeking instruction in the faith and baptism, indicating a deepening commitment to their spiritual growth. Furthermore, the community members extended their dedication to the pro-life cause, organizing monthly Rosary prayers in an open space to advocate for the protection of the unborn.

In 2020, Fr. Blust returned to Canada, and Fr. Paul Leung succeeded him, continuing the mission of the FSSP in Canberra. Throughout these years, the apostolate has not only provided for the spiritual needs of its faithful but also fostered a robust and active community dedicated to traditional Catholic values and the sanctity of life.