St Joseph's Catholic Church First and Second World War Memorial Foyer, Cessnock Middle Image 0 / 0 - Prev Next Description / Background Inside St Joseph's Catholic Church in Cessnock is a memorial foyer. It was established in honour of those who died while serving in the First and Second World Wars, as well as those who died working in the town's coalmining industry. The foyer features a timber shrine, positioned around a doorway that leads to a set of stairs. The shrine is decorated with two golden figures. On the right is an Australian soldier and on the left is a coalminer. They represent the memorial's themes of 'Defence' and 'Work'. Below each figure is a shelf, made of the same timber. Each houses a book listing the names of the veterans and miners respectively. The large brick church was built over three years, and was officially opened on 24 October 1954. The memorial foyer was finished prior to the event, which was attended by more than 1,000 people. The building also contains the St Joseph's Catholic Church First and Second World Wars Memorial Tower. Inscription Doorway shrine - top We have served God and country unto death Doorway shrine - left panel Work Doorway shrine - right panel Defence Related memorials St Joseph's Catholic Church First and Second World Wars Memorial Tower, Cessnock Related links Bishop Gleeson to open new Catholic church on Sunday (22 Oct 1954) News from the churches (23 Oct 1954) Over 1,000 at opening of new Catholic church (26 Oct 1954) Do you know more about this war Memorial? Click here to learn how you can contribute Sidebar Address St Joseph's Catholic Church 2 Cumberland Street Cessnock NSW 2325 Local Government Area Cessnock, City of Setting Building – inside Location status Original location Memorial type Other Recorded by Cessnock City Council Library Year of construction 1950s Dedication date 24 October 1954 Conflict/s First World War, 1914–18 Second World War, 1939–45 Materials Other Timber