Cathedral Community
The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is much more than just an architectural gem. It is a place of beauty which inspires many and where you will find a place of spiritual enrichment and a warm welcome whether you come here for worship, a concert, a pilgrimage, or time out from the busy city life. It is a sanctuary open to all.
At its heart the Cathedral Community is a diverse gathering of many groups and each one is integral to the functioning of the church. Together we all have a role to play in delivering an overwhelmingly positive experience for our congregation and visitors.
Would you like to join the Cathedral Community?
If you’re new to the Cathedral, please enter your details here so we can get in touch with you and get you on our database. We’d also love to talk to you about the many roles our volunteers can help with, from guides to those who serve in the Cathedral Masses to sitting on some of our committees. Maybe you’d like to become a reader at our services, or perhaps you have a great voice and would like to join one of our choirs.
Whatever your role, our volunteers tell us that becoming part of the Cathedral community is uplifting and immensely rewarding. So why not come and join us!
Ajith Nissangaratchie
Parish Pastoral Council Chair
Ajith Nissangaratchie
I am Ajith Nissangaratchie, humbly affiliated with the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish for the past 15 years. I serve as the chair of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and contribute to various liturgical ministries. I usually attend the 7 PM mass.
Originally from Sri Lanka, I was raised in a devout Catholic family. I attended St Joseph's College in Colombo, one of Sri Lanka's largest Catholic schools. These played a significant role in nurturing my Catholic faith.
My professional journey began in the field of Accounting, transitioning later to IT. Presently, I serve as an Information Technology Architect for the New Zealand Government. Prior to settling in Wellington, we lived in Singapore for 11 years.
I strongly believe that as a Catholic, it's essential to actively contribute to building God's kingdom, which is why I am deeply involved in serving our parish community. I serve several liturgical ministries, including Communion, Mass coordination, Collection, Projectionist and member of the upcoming Alpha program. Additionally, I've been involved in fundraising initiatives. I joined the Parish Pastoral Council in September 2022, and I am currently involved in activities relating to the reopening of the Cathedral.
During my leisure time, I enjoy listening to music, tinkering with computers, repairing cars, driving, travelling, and engaging in DIY projects.
I am grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us by God, including a loving family, fulfilling employment, and the opportunity to live and serve in New Zealand. A guiding principle in my life is to seek God's guidance before undertaking any endeavour and to express gratitude to Him afterwards.
I look forward to continuing to serve our parish community and building connections with each of you.
Fr Patrick Bridgman
Cathedral Administrator
Fr Patrick Bridgman
It is a privilege to be here at the Cathedral, home of Sacred Heart Parish, and spiritual home for the Archdiocese of Wellington.
The love and faith of parishioners is an inspiration, and to have come in 2024 as the Cathedral reopened after 6 years of strengthening and refurbishment has been a joy.
Jesus came to serve, not be served, and we as a parish seek to follow his example. With the Cathedral nearly complete, it is the time to look to how we can serve Wellington central and beyond.
Having loved ministering in a variety of parishes and ministries, it is good to now be home here in Thorndon.
