The Heart of Bethany
On Tuesday 13 February, Good News Lutheran College, Tarneit, held a ceremony to name and dedicate the Bethany Building (formerly known as the Junior Years Building). The building has been renamed in honour of Bethany Lutheran Church in Sunbury – a church that holds a special place in our community. The church is renowned for its four beautiful lead-light windows, which were designed by Raelene Kempe in 1982. The church was built from mud bricks sourced from a local farm.
Through the dedication of this building, Good News Lutheran College hopes to capture the heart of Bethany. It serves as an inspiration for the College to be resourceful when building facilities and relationships, keep service as an integral part of what we do, and ensure that we learn from the rich experiences of those around us. Just as the Biblical town of Bethany was a place of refuge and renewal, we pray that this building be a sanctuary where knowledge is imparted, character is shaped, and faith is strengthened.
To pay homage to the Bethany Lutheran Church, we have recreated the stunning leadlight window artwork in the Auditorium. This is a beautiful and meaningful reminder of the heart of Bethany. Bethany holds special significance in Biblical history as the town where Jesus spent time with, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Through His actions in Bethany, Jesus exemplified inclusive service leadership in various ways.
May the Bethany Building be a beacon of hope, a haven of learning, and a testament to the enduring values of compassion, integrity, and service. We hope that all who enter here will be inspired to live lives of purpose, wisdom, and grace.
Note: those attending the LCAV District Convention of Synod in July 2024 will be able to see this lovely artwork firsthand, as we will hold our business sessions in the Auditorium.
Photos below were provided by Good News Lutheran College:
Fiona McAuliffe, Principal of Good News Lutheran College (standing), and Pastor Lester Priebbenow, Bishop LCAVD (seated, first on left).
Mrs Rae Kempe, the original creator/designer of the leadlight window designs at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Sunbury.
The recreation of the GNLC Bethany Building windows, with permission of Rae Kempe, was crafted by Maree Svanborg of ‘Madmouse Graphic Design’ in South Australia.
