The day started with an English mist, then sunshine and thankfully no rain for the St Stephen’s Church anniversary service in Jerilderie on Saturday.
It marked 150 years since the creation of the Urana and Jerilderie Parish, but two other milestones were also celebrated.
The day also commemorated the 126th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone for St Stephen’s Church of England and, although early, the 125th anniversary of the official opening of the church.
The church was opened on December 20, 1898.
The noon service was attended by about 120 people with the Bishop of Riverina, Donald Kirk, officiating. He was assisted by Father Walter Firth.
The service was attended by local Anglicans and by parishioners from the local Uniting Church and St Joseph’s Catholic Church, St Alban’s Tocumwal, Holy Trinity Finley, St Aiden’s Berrigan and from other surrounding areas.
Special guests included two former local clergymen Father Peter MacLeod Miller now of Albury and Reverend Stephen Davis now of Coolamon, and Nigel Tooth who is the son of a former clergyman of the church who made the trip from Gippsland.
Apologies were received from Reverend Valda Elson and Father Terry Booth from Queensland, as well as from Archdeacon John Gibson who sent a message to be read by the Bishop.
The hymns during the service - To God Be The Glory, Rock Of Ages and How Great Thou Art - were sung with great gusto.
The memorable service was followed by a barbecue lunch at the small church hall, with a marquee beside it to ensure enough seating for all who attended.
The history of St Stephen’s book, researched and compiled by local historian Laurie Henery, was launched by Bishop Donald during the service and was available for purchase during the lunch.
The remaining copies of the limited edition book will be available for purchase from ‘The Market’ (the Anglican Opportunity Shop).
The children were entertained by a pony ride and were able to pat two friendly lambs named Samson and Delilah.
So ended a delightful day of friendship, reminiscing and renewing acquaintances on the special anniversary day for St Stephen’s Church.
~ Contributed by Irene Wells