A special commemorative service was held at the Savernake Uniting Church on October 27, with nearly 100 people gathering from across NSW, Victoria and South Australia to fill the historic pine building.
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The service was to mark 100 years of worship since the church 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,” Ann Sloane said.
“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’, highlighting that churches in other countries are expanding, and there are ‘green shoots of growth’ in other areas of Australia.”
Rev Sloane planted a commemorative tree in the church grounds, after which the gathering 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 organisers were so pleased to see many re-connections between everyone, and thank all who supported such a significant occasion.