In 1985, something special happened at Mulgrave Uniting Church. This church became a welcoming place for Indonesian-speaking migrants. Let’s step back in time and explore its story.
Mulgrave Uniting Church played a vital role in the lives of many. It all began with six families led by Rev Barnabas Ong. They wanted a place to worship in their own language. They also wished to connect with the wider Australian community.
The Uniting Church declared itself multicultural in 1985. This decision aligned perfectly with the vision of the Indonesian community. With support from key figures like Rev Helen Cox, Rev Joe Fraser, and Rev Margaret Watson, the first Indonesian service was held at Mulgrave Uniting Church.
Jacinda Widjadi, a member of the congregation, shared her experience. She had come from Indonesia 17 years prior. She saw the church as her second family in Melbourne. It helped her remember her roots and Indonesian culture. She especially loved the food.
The Indonesian congregation grew significantly. It expanded to about 130 to 150 worshippers. Around 60 to 70 children attended Sunday school classes. The church thrived with young people, second-generation Australians, young families, and international students. They had a vibrant youth ministry. It included five Sunday school classes and a youth fellowship group.
As the congregation grew, space became a problem. Sunday school activities needed more room. Before a solution was found, the congregation held services in two locations. They had an Indonesian service at Mulgrave and an English-language service at Box Hill. The congregation searched for a new church building. They wanted to fit all the families together under one roof.
Eventually, St Andrew’s Uniting Church Gardiner offered its church to the Mulgrave Indonesian community. The congregation felt their prayers were answered.
The move allowed everyone to enjoy fellowship together. Before, the separate services made this difficult. Being together in one place made a big difference. The Indonesian congregation from Mulgrave moved to St Andrew’s Uniting Church Gardiner.
St Andrew’s Gardiner has its own history. It started in 1911 as a place of worship for the Presbyterian community. The building was reconstructed from the Free Church of Scotland in Carlton. When that church closed, its building was moved brick-by-brick to St Andrew’s.
Members of the former St Andrew’s Gardiner congregation were invited to join the Indonesian congregation. English translations were provided during the Sunday morning service. A contemporary English service was also available.
The story of Mulgrave Uniting Church highlights the importance of community. It shows how faith can bring people together. The church’s support for the Indonesian congregation demonstrates its commitment to multiculturalism. This legacy of welcome and inclusion continues to inspire.