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OUR HISTORY

ECM History

The beginning of
Emmanuel City Mission

Emmanuel City Mission began with a simple conviction, that the Church should be a place of refuge, dignity and care especially for people experiencing homelessness or hardship.

What started as a personal calling has grown into a daily, lived expression of welcome in South Brisbane. A place where doors are open, people come first and care is offered freely, without judgement.

Key moments along the journey

Roby - ECM Founder

2003: A call takes shape

During a pilgrimage to Rome, Roby is deeply moved by the life and legacy of Mother Teresa.

Her faith-filled commitment to serving the poor becomes a turning point, shaping a vision of a Church deeply committed to those most in need.

Blind Eye Ministeries

2010: The work begins

“Never see a need without doing something about it” is the motto of Australia’s first saint, Mary Mackillop. In the year she is canonised, the mission is formally established under the name, Blind Eye Ministries.

It starts as a street ministry with the support of Emmanuel Community. In 2014, operations commence at 19 Merivale Street, South Brisbane.

IMG_6044

2020: Support from the community grows

The mission rebrands from Blind Eye Ministries to Emmanuel City Mission to clearly communicate our purpose and to recognise the Emmanuel Community.

The first fundraising appeal is launched, raising much-needed funds to strengthen and expand services. This marks an important step in enabling the work to grow sustainably and respond to increasing need.

EMC 16/12/2025

2024: A new home on Cordelia Street

On 1 July, Emmanuel City Mission moves into a newly refurbished space in the former St Vincent’s Hostel for the Homeless on Cordelia Street, South Brisbane. Our site has missionary DNA going back to 1870.

It is the site of Saint Mary MacKillop’s first school for poor children in Queensland. The move is a significant milestone that allows the work to grow and respond more fully to the needs of the community. Watch the video about our move to Cordelia Street.

sleeping-area

2025: Night Sanctuary begins

Night Sanctuary opens thanks to the support of the community, offering a safe place to share dinner and sleep overnight once a week. This new service extends the mission beyond daytime support, responding to the need for safety and care after dark. Watch the video about Night Sanctuary here.