Closure of Holy Trinity, Leopold
J. Paech, secretary of St Johns Geelong Lutheran Congregation, at the opening of the Leopold Chapel in 1976, noted that, “The Spirit of the Lord is undeniable. It is only through His mercy and grace that this church has managed to continue and grow. ”
On 22nd October 2023, the members of Holy Trinity celebrated the 50th Anniversary, which recalled much history in the Lord’s mercy and grace. Now, eighteen months later on 27 April 2025, we came together to observe the Rite of Closure. There may be sadness and a sense of loss in closing this consecrated place of worship. Yet it is with thanks that we acknowledge the Lord’s mercy and grace in the work of the founding members, and life of the Congregation.
We look back to learn, to gain endurance and encouragement, so that we can look forward with unity and hope. Our celebration honours God encourages hearts and fosters belonging. When we celebrate the past, it is easier to believe in a bright future. There has been so much life and ministry happening over five decades. The most important thing you can do is lean on prayer and scripture.
The Old Testament records many festivals and holidays. When the church celebrates together, life is more fun. Do not underestimate the value of fun in the health of the church. In January 2025, we joined the Living Faith Lutheran Church Greater Geelong, together with St Davids Freshwater Creek, St Johns Geelong and St Pauls Grovedale. We take the memories that we hold, along with a new vision of the future. We have new energy for our ministry, new enthusiasm for what the church can accomplish. Celebrations help to bring out the gold and the gifts in the members as they offer their best to the Lord and His people.
Today we thank Pastor Boyd for leading the Closing Rite for this church building. We thank the Pastors throughout the years that have encouraged us in the faith here. We fondly remember Pastor Fritch who passed from this life on 8 February 2023. We recognise and celebrate the lives of people who are making, or have made, an impact on our lives. We acknowledge R. Pearce, J Pohl, J Paech, L. Hepner, E. Schultz, R. Bothe, S. Cioch, I Stasinowsky.
Our association with St Johns has always been there. Records show some of the ways they helped with their skills and talents. For example, a St Johns member audited our Treasurer’s books for us. Since 2014, when our treasurer asked for assistance with the Telco Towers, a St Johns member has helped us, also helping with land sales, etc. We are deeply indebted to him for his mentoring and commitment, using his God given skills. We have so many people to thank who have helped in various capacities over the years. We have also benefited from St Johns musicians and Lay Readers; Holy Trinity and St Johns have both been blessed with many resourceful members.
The old quarterly minutes and documents give us a walk down memory lane. They record a wonderful, accomplished group of Holy Trinity and St Johns members using their God-given talents to help each other throughout the years. What a blessing on our doorstep! This celebration is enriched by recognising that where we are now, is the fruit of St Johns ministry, which God worked through them and their investment of time and resources.
Thank you to both congregations for 50 years of friendship.
Scripture has lots of verses about worship, prayers, relationship, etc. It does not say much about closing a church. Thats because God sees church differently than we often do; we might focus on the beginning and end of a legal entity or a building, however, Jesus said, “I will build My church, and the gates of HELL will not prevail against it.” The church, as the Body of Christ, will never fade away, it will never be defeated.
Let us pray:
Lord grant us the wisdom to make decisions that honour You and benefit our community.
Help us to live with integrity, humility and compassion, reflecting Your everlasting love in all our actions.
May the power of Your Holy Spirit guide us in our work and cause us to listen to Your voice in every decision we make.
We ask for Your blessing in our efforts and that Your spirit will empower us to fulfill our responsibilities with grace and strength.
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen
We acknowledge and celebrate the ministry of Living Faith Leopold worshipping centre that is coming to a close. We close the church building with integrity and hope.
A walk down memory lane…
Photos supplied by Leopold Congregation.
