Beneath the steeple of Rosebank Methodist Church lies a story of faith. It is a story of community and perseverance. This is the Rosebank Methodist Church. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Methodism in Cape Town.
Let’s step back to the mid-19th century. In 1835, Reverend T L Hodgson bought land. He used his own money. It was part of the farm “Zorgvliet”. This very ground beneath our feet became the foundation for the church.
A humble Sunday school began to flourish. It had 101 children. A day school followed. In 1845, the first chapel opened. Today it is known as Hodgson Hall. This hall is a reminder of the church’s early days.
Fast forward to the turn of the century. In 1901, a new church building was inaugurated. The foundation stone laying was a grand affair. Four Methodist mayors from neighboring towns participated. Thomas Ball was the Mayor of Cape Town. Mr G B Attwell was the Mayor of Mowbray. Mr G S Withinshaw was the Mayor of Wynberg. Mr G Wunder was the Mayor of Sea Point. Their presence showed the influence of Methodism.
The Rosebank Methodist Church continued to grow. In 1961, the Clifford Storey Hall opened. It honored Reverend C K Storey. He was an outstanding minister. He was also a former President of the Conference. Sadly, he passed away while serving at Rosebank.
Also in 1961, the church acquired a cottage. It was originally called “Kismet.” It was renamed Elloughton House. This name honored Reverend Barnabas Shaw. He named his cottage at Rosebank Elloughton in 1848. Elloughton was his birthplace in Yorkshire. Elloughton House now serves as the church’s office block. It provides space for small meetings.
The Rosebank Methodist Church has a rich heritage. It is a heritage of dedicated ministers and lay leaders. They have served the community faithfully.
The church is located at 2 Chapel Lane, Rosebank. Its phone number is +27 021 686 3271.
Rosebank Methodist Church stands as a beacon. It is a beacon of faith. It is a testament to the power of community. It shows the enduring legacy of those who came before us.