Blessing of the Jeparit Front Hall Renovations
It was on a beautiful winter’s day, 2nd June 2024, that the members of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Jeparit and visitors officially opened, gave thanks and blessed the newly renovated hall.
Following the Second World War, it became obvious that a church hall was essential to serve the increasing needs of the congregation. So, in 1946, a Hall fund was set up. In early 1952, tenders were called to build a 43ft x 23ft concrete brick structure. The winning bid was 3,200 pounds. Members assisted with digging the foundations and the Jeparit Brick Kiln locally made bricks. The hall was completed in 1953, and a dedication service was held on July 5th.
The Women’s Guild established a fund to equip the hall with a stove, crockery and cutlery for the kitchen. By 1954, the hall had been furnished for use by the Sunday School, and the debt had been paid out.
By 1967, the lack of teaching space was a concern as there were 90 students! So, an extension was needed. Renovations included new side walls, leaving the front façade as is, with the extension of a stage, kitchen, meeting room and several Sunday School rooms. The extension was completed in 1971, and a concert was held to celebrate. It was so popular that they had to repeat the concert in the Jeparit town hall to accommodate the people attending.
Jumping forward 48 years, in July 2019, the church began the long process of looking into renovating the front façade as it was in much-needed repair or replacement. PAREL Construction from Geelong was approved as the builder. Construction began and was completed in February 2024, and with several working bees, we officially opened and blessed the Hall at a dedicated service on the 2nd of June 2024. Cutting the ribbon was Marjorie Werner, a long-time member and one of the oldest members living in Jeparit and Gaye Golder, daughter of Marie & David Livingston, who donated the church bell and crucifix from the Anglican Church, and who is also the sister of the builder.
Members of St John’s would like to thank the following for their kind donations/grants and help:
Hindmarsh Shire Council, Members of St John’s Jeparit, Members of St Paul’s Nhill, Jeparit Lions Club, Nhill Lions Club, Donations of firewood, Donations of 10c recycling cans/bottles, Ladies Guild, Keller family, Gawith family and Pipkorn family.
