Christian Churches of Rowville Gathering
Hundreds Celebrate Centenary
A few hundred people gathered at the Rowville Community Centre on the afternoon of Sunday October 16 to commemorate the Centenary of Rowville. Representing a number of local churches they reflected on the past, celebrated the present and looked forward to contributing to the future of their community. The full complement of the suburb’s political leaders – Federal, State and Local - was in attendance.
Singers from the Peppertree Hill Retirement Village presented a couple of traditional hymns before a young adult band from Rowville Baptist led the gathering in two contemporary songs. A children’s segment encouraged those present to share God's love with others. The multi-racial nature of Rowville was reflected as the congregation prayed the Lord’s Prayer in their various “mother tongues”. A multimedia presentation highlighted the churches’ histories and community activities.
One of the organisers, Rev. David Devine, said he was encouraged to see so many people coming together for the event. This showed something of the significance of the Church in Rowville. The service reflected the diversity yet unity of the local congregations. He said: “For most residents, Rowville is a really good place to live. We have much to give thanks for. I look forward to us rising to our calling to continue enriching the lives of our neighbours in the years ahead.”