RAFT Anglican Church

“Did you know that RAFT Anglican Church wasn’t always here” This building in Rowville is a relatively recent addition to the landscape. Before it stood proudly on Taylors Lane and Kelletts Road it had a much more dispersed history. RAFT Anglican Church is actually a merger of two older congregations St Bartholomew’s Parish and St Andrew’s Rowville Parish. St Bartholomew’s a much older church had its origins way back in 1885 in Ferntree Gully. Imagine a vastly different Ferntree Gully. Then it was mostly fruit orchards not the sprawling suburb we know today. The church moved several times finally landing in Ferntree Gully from 1972 to 2009. St Andrew’s Rowville Parish meanwhile began its journey much later. Its first service was surprisingly held in a preschool in 1986. Later services were held in a classroom and then a gymnasium before finding a more permanent home. The Anglican Diocese of Melbourne bought the current land in 1994. Rowville then became its own parish in 1998 officially named Rowville Anglican Church of St Andrew. The worship center was consecrated in 1997 by Archbishop Rayner a significant moment for the community. Then came the amalgamation. In 2003 discussions began between St Bartholomew’s and St Andrew’s. The decision to merge was made in 2004. The first combined service of the two parishes was held on Advent Sunday 2004. It was a significant step in the history of the church. The parish was renamed the Anglican Parish of Rowville and Ferntree Gully. The name RAFT Rowville And Ferntree Gully Together was born a testament to their unity. Initially the congregations worshipped separately causing some confusion. But in May 2009 everything changed. They finally began worshipping together under one roof in this very building. It became a vibrant center for gospel ministry a place where the community could actively participate in their mission building passionate followers of Jesus Christ. So next time you step inside remember that this church is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a living testament to faith perseverance and the power of unity. It represents a rich history and a bright future a true reflection of the community it serves.