Thorpdale farewells a community built church

Thorpdale Uniting Church will hold its final service on Sunday at 11am.

The Thorpdale Uniting Church was built 27 years ago. Funds were raised through growing paddocks of potatoes and rearing calves, along with many generous donations.

A large crowd formed to celebrate its opening, with minister Rev Albert Wicks.

The Childers and Thorpdale Methodist congregations, worshipped in the tennis pavilion, during the building of the new church.

During the buildings construction a lot of people in the community, but not necessarily members of the Uniting Church, took an active interest in the project, many contributing in various ways.

People including businesses were very generous in contributing to financing the new church building. There was a spirit of cooperation as people worked together in support of building the new church.

After 27 years of faithful witness in the current church, the faithful, older and small congregation of Thorpdale Uniting Church have decided to cease being a congregation.

Current Rev. Chris Duxbury said the decision had been a difficult decision and painful one.

“But, in their wisdom they realise that they cannot keep on going as they have been,” she said.

They really love this church and they love this community.

“It has been a significant place for them, but there are simply not enough able-bodied people who are regularly involved in the congregation to share the load.

“The church is the people and the members will continue being the church in other places.”

The final service will be followed by a shared lunch (please take a plate).

Rev Duxbury said a few key people who were historically involved in the building of the church would not be attending because they were sad about its end.

Past ministers have been invited to join the congregation to celebrate.

Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information phone Val Murphy on 5634 6267.