Thank you: Reverend Brian Morgan and Desri Morgan give thanks to a grateful congregation.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
Reverend Brian Morgan and his wife, Desri, dutifully guided his flock through COVID-19 and the 2022 floods.
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Now, the Morgans are leaving Rochester for a quieter life interstate.
“The first two years of our time in Rochester were challenging because COVID prevented us from getting to know the community members easily,” Rev Morgan said.
“Then, of course, there were the floods, which caused a great deal of pain and because many people were displaced from their homes, keeping in touch with them wasn’t simple.”
A quiet gathering: The Uniting Church congregation gather one last time.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
The duo considered staying on for another three years but felt it was time to enter a different phase of their lives.
“We did consider extending our stay if it was right, but retiring is the right thing to do. I think the time has come for us to pull up stumps and do things differently. We’re going to retire in Murray Bridge,” Rev Morgan said.
“I’m coming 81, and after working here for three years, we have decided to retire.
“We conclude our formal ministry on October 31, but we will be in town on and off for the next month as we pack up and move.”
Rev Morgan looked back fondly on significant milestones achieved during his time in Rochester.
“The high is seeing the five congregations, of which Rochester is one, grow together,” Rev Morgan said.
“Another highlight is the remainder of the Tongala congregation forming a faith community in Respect-Tongala Memorial aged care facility,” he said.
“One church closed, and a new one was formed.”
Rev Morgan thanked the Rochester community for being so welcoming.
“We’ve been glad to have been here. We’ve learned so many things in this short stint, and on the whole, we’ve enjoyed our time in Rochester immensely,” he said.
“(But) we have begun to run out of energy, and we think this is what God wants for us.
“We are being released from responsibilities and looking forward to smelling the roses a little.
“Our message to the community is, ‘Thank you for trusting us in your lives during this challenging time. Thank you for the privilege of being here. Whatever things we’ve done that displeased you, please forgive and look kindly upon us.’”
John Weeks and his wife, Lucille, were among those to attend the recent send-off for Rev Morgan and Desri.
“I have been impressed with his involvement in the activities and organisations within the town,” Mr Weeks said.
“I think it will be challenging for the town to attract another pastor to visit Rochester for three years.”
Rev Morgan said he would maintain his Rochy links, even after the move to South Australia.
“Desri and I plan on returning to the district semi-regularly, as we have made many good friends here,” he said.
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