UCA SA - Wesley Kent Town celebrates 150 years

Wesley Kent Town celebrates 150 years

Posted Sep 7, 2015 in News

Over 100 people gathered at Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church on Sunday 9 August to celebrate the church’s 150^th anniversary.

The church opened its doors in 1865, and quickly established itself as a site for grand events and celebrations. Over the years since its establishment, the heritage building has hosted numerous ordinations, weddings and musical events, as well as providing strong Christian witness and community within the local area.

Many of those who attended events or worship at the church during its long history were present at the 150^th anniversary service. Included amongst the attendees were Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer, Uniting Church SA CEO/General Secretary Rev Nigel Rogers, and the current Wesley Kent Town minister, Rev Beth Seaman.

The gathering heard from Rev Keith Garner AM, Superintendent/CEO of Wesley Mission, who was invited to the event as a guest preacher. In his address, Keith spoke about the importance of not only celebrating the past, but approaching the future with a fresh and new confidence.

Focussing on the Great Commission at the end of Matthew’s gospel, Keith spoke of the mandate from Jesus Christ to go into the world, on a mission to make disciples, and to communicate – to baptise, teach and integrate a new generation into a community of faith.

In closing, Keith spoke about the “wonderful roundness” of the Great Commission, which touches the whole of life and resonates with the way we understand word and deed.

Following the sermon, the Wesley Uniting Church choir shared traditional songs, finishing with a spine-tingling solo from the church organist. This was followed by a delicious light lunch and anniversary cake.

The anniversary service is just one of the events Wesley Kent Town has held to celebrate this significant anniversary – a number of other events will be held later in 2015.

For a full list of the Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church 150 year celebrations to be held in 2015, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au/celebrating-150years