The mission based at St. Mary Magdalene's church in the city began its work in 1908. Archdeacon Charles Hornabrook, the rector of St. Mary Magdalene's between 1908 and 1922, was a prominent leader in discussions about social reform within the Adelaide Anglican Church. However, although the Anglican Church was the largest denomination in the state during that time, its approach to social welfare work was largely through small autonomous organisations such as St. Mary Magdalene's Mission, rather than taking a wider co-ordinated approach. Today, the Mission continues to provide meals and other support to people in need through the work of a small but dedicated group of supporting individuals and parishes.