On the 2nd of April, the new Werribee and Karen Church was consecrated: the fulfilment of our vision to build a lighthouse church, an eye-catching church for the people of Werribee and beyond.
Pastor Nikola Trajkov officiated at the opening, while Pastor Danijela Trajkov and Pastor Nan Myat Kyaw of the Werribee Karen church gave the opening and closing prayers respectively. Pastor Craig Gillis, who deputised for the Victorian Conference President, Pastor Graeme Christian (COVID isolation), cut the red ribbon, unveiled the plaques, and delivered a timely sermon on the need for love. Pastor Graeme Christian, in his absence, sent a video, praising all those involved in the project, as being faithful servants for God. Galen Gan, our project manager, also sent a video, expressing gratitude to the many who gave of their time and resources. A letter from Pastor Brian Lawty was read out, documenting the early history of the church, while Pastor Gungadoo, who was present, spoke about his time as pastor of Werribee, thanking all those who showed him love.
There were also slideshows, documenting the activities of both churches through the years. Andrew Wanke (Finance Manager, South Pacific Division) spoke about how Werribee’s submission attracted all of the funding for the entire region, while our builder, Jonathan Talpan, discussed the tight budget and thanked those who were charitable when it came to supplies and labour. Three councillors from Wyndham council were in attendance: Crs Hill, Marcus and Szatkowski. There were beautiful special items by the Werribee Karen church, the Talpan boys on violin, as well as the Vi family singers. Seddon Church received a special mention for allowing Werribee to use their facilities for a fund raising event. The day finished with a fellowship meal for an over capacity congregation, a congregation that recognises that, ultimately, Jesus is the Corner Stone of any church.
Robert Bryson