General News
7 April, 2026
Forty years on
When the union of the Baptist and Uniting churches of Speed, Hopetoun and Rainbow was suggested, people laughed at the idea.
But wisdom and creativity prevailed and the local congregations weren’t bound by tradition but opened their hearts and minds to follow the leading of God’s Spirit.
With Rev’s Brian Morgan (Uniting) and Garry Lock (Baptist) at the helm, along with local members, the idea took flight and became a reality.
Over the years many have come and gone and the 40th anniversary of Sunday March 22nd was a picture of those who have been there from the beginning and those who are new.
There were those who live locally and others who came back especially for the occasion.
Many of the over 40 gathered, shared in the Service of Thanksgiving and the lunch afterwards.
Old acquaintances were renewed and new connections were formed.
The joy of seeing life continue in the churches despite the challenging times, was evident as those who came shared how Gods’ Spirit not only led the churches forward then, but continues to do so today.
It was a great day of joy, reunion and thanksgiving, with the Brian Morgan and wife, Desri and Garry Lock present. Returning ministry couples Rev Ken & Robyn Westwood and Pastor Arthur and Debbie Broughton shared, as well as previous members of the congregations from various parts of Victoria.
A particular joy was those new to the congregation who were present, some of whom also shared.
And they said it wouldn’t last!
– SUSAN PEARSE