The building has remained unused for 25 years and fell into disrepair, however, after much devotion and hard work the buildings are finally up to standard.

The chapel was officially handed over to Catherine McAuley Primary School yesterday.

The event was marked by a blessing conducted by the Bishop Michael McKenna.

Principal Michael Croke said the chapel would be used for class liturgies, a private place of prayer for students and could be used for small weddings.

“It will be used for events connected to religious education and it will add another dimension to the school,” he said.

The convent will be used as an office for Centacare Bathurst.

Centacare Bathurst director Robert George said Orange would benefit from having Centacare based in the city.

“We used to have a service here but it wasn’t as regular as we would have liked,” he said.

“Now we have a permanent base, the whole community will benefit from having closer access to services.”

Centacare Bathurst services include counselling, relationship education programs and parenting programs.

Parish of St Mary and St Joseph priest Father Paul Devitt said he was excited the building would be used again.

“So many groups came and looked at it and just thought it was too hard,” he said.

“I am extremely happy to see the building being used as a place of healing and care.”

Fr Paul said new life would be brought to the building.

“When you utilise an old building in this way it ensures it will last a lot longer,” he said.

nicole.kuter@ruralpress.com