Nearly 100 people gathered to celebrate a centenary of worship at Savernake Uniting Church recently.
A special commemorative service was held on Sunday, October 27 at the church, where people gathered from across NSW, Victoria and South Australia to fill the historic pine building, celebrating 100 years of worship since its opening on October, 23, 1924.
Early worshippers used the original Savernake Hall until it was condemned in 1923. A decision was then made to build their own church using local native pine, to their own design, milling and construction.
Savernake village is typical of small rural communities, where the school and sporting clubs have ceased. Only the Hall and Uniting Church survive, along with local residents and their businesses.
Many families, ministers and associates returned for this occasion. Rev David Sloane, descendant of the pioneer local family, led the service on the theme of Hope: churches in other countries are expanding, and there are ‘green shoots of growth’ in other areas of Australia.
Rev Sloane also planted a commemorative tree in the church grounds.
The gathering then enjoyed a delicious buffet luncheon in the renovated Savernake Hall.
Historic photos and items were on display around the walls and on the stage, which created considerable interest.
The organizers of the event were so pleased to see many reconnections between everyone, and thank all who supported such a significant occasion.