Restoring an old gem for a caring community
It is always heartening to see people from different walks of life and different institutions coming together to work towards a common aim – especially when that aim has a positive impact on others.
The Baptist Church Hall on Bathurst Street in Grahamstown, which is over 175 years old, has recently undergone an impressive renovation, inspired by the involvement and guidance of Harry Rama, member of the Master Builders Association, who oversaw the project. Reverend Dirk Coetzee, Brian Marx and Paul Greenway worked on site with Rama, giving considerable time and input.
The project also received kind assistance from a number of local businesses and individuals, whom Rama has dealt with over the years.
The church itself, a quaint, charming building situated next to the church hall, was built in 1843 and this is the first renovation of the attached hall.
The pictu pictures give a glimpse of the fine workmanship behind this pr project.
Moreover Moreover, this initiative has served as a wonderful community outreach project. out All the materials taken out of the hall during renovation, including various woods and large, oldfashioned w windows perfect for bringing na natural light into a place, are in the process of being donated to those in need in the communitycom – namely local churc churches, creches and NGOs.
Rama hasha been involved in commu community engagement with organi organisations such as the SPCA and R Rotary for a number of years years, and although he is now prim primarily enjoying his retirement, he is still active in community projects in his personal capac capacity.
Inspired by this particular church and its keen involvement in helping members of the community, Rama took a special interest and decided to assist with the building renovations. “In a time where churches battle to get numbers, it’s amazing to note one (that) has the ability, the resources but also the inspiration and inclination to be involved in outreach,” Rama told Grocott’s Mail.
And there’s a special end note to this:
The Baptist Church displays a plaque dedicated to Thomas Henry Grocott, who inaugurated The Penny Press, for his contribution to the Baptist Church – a tribute to the ongoing involvement of Grocott’s Mail in bringing stories of community outreach to the public.