Presbyterian Church of Victoria state moderator Ian Hutton delivers his sermon. Photo: supplied by Lynn Wolfe.
Rochester Presbyterian Church celebrated its 150th anniversary on Sunday, November 24, holding a service, guest sermon, luncheon and historical display.
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Church pastor Michael Riske said the event went well and saw a great turnout, with around 100 attendees from the community and surrounds.
Attendees at Rochester Presbyterian Church’s anniversary in the 100-year-old hall.
Steve and Noelene Arbuckle, Dos Hanson and Ivy Igoe at the anniversary celebration. Photo: supplied by Lynn Wolfe.
“We’re a congregation normally of around 30, plus or minus five (people). To have close to 100 people, if not over 100, was greatly encouraging,” Mr Riske said.
Presbyterian Church of Victoria state moderator Ian Hutton delivered a sermon, inviting listeners to think of God, trust in Him and proclaim His goodness.
“It was a road map of remembering. Because we’re celebrating 150 years, it’s continuing to remember who God is and what He has done,” Mr Riske said.
“It’s not just that the church is all about remembering the past. It’s always continuing on with the reason why we’re here, to present the message of hope.”
Jeff Broad, Ian Hutton and Michael Riske pictured with a celebratory cake. Photo: supplied by Lynn Wolfe.
Faye Moon (née Beer), Faye King (Tonkin) and Shirley Button (Taylor). Photo: supplied by Lynn Wolfe.
Mr Riske estimated there were around 500 photos on show as part of the anniversary’s historical display, as well as personal items and mementos from church members.
“The displays were really appreciated. You could have spent more time there than what was allotted for ... it’s just like a museum,” Mr Riske said.
Photos and memorabilia, part of the historical display that will continue briefly in early December.
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
Mr Riske said due to its popularity, the historical display had been extended for public viewing.
The church will now continue with regular Sunday services, and expects to hold a Christmas Eve service on Tuesday, December 24.
Mr Riske said the church was also considering the message of Mr Hutton’s sermon moving forward.
“As we’re exhorted to be thinking about the future and making Jesus known, one of the things we’ll be thinking about is how do we do that better as a church?” Mr Riske said.
“How do we continue to do things we have been doing already? So, continuing to worship God, but also love our community, and how we can do that, even in small ways.”
The historical display can be seen on Thursday, December 5 from 10am to 11.30am, and Saturday, December 7 from 9am to 10.30am at 2-4 Victoria St, Rochester.
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