Hear the echoes of a loving tribute within these very stones. Carlotta Tye Memorial Anglican stands as a testament to enduring love. This beautiful church was built of local stone in 1938. It was a gift from Mr Alan Tye. He dedicated it as a memorial to his wife, Carlotta. The full name of the church reflects this devotion. It is All Saints’ Anglican Church: The Carlotta Tye Memorial.
Imagine Selby in 1939. Disastrous Black Friday bushfires raged through the hills. This little church became a refuge. Women and children of the district sought safety within its walls. The Carlotta Tye Memorial Anglican offered solace amidst chaos. It was a beacon of hope during a terrifying time.
Alan Tye, a furniture businessman from Melbourne, chose Selby as his home. His generous donation created a place of worship. It also created a sanctuary for the community. For over 80 years, the Carlotta Tye Memorial Anglican has maintained an unbroken tradition. It has been a place of worship and service to the community.
In October 2018, All Saints Anglican Church in Selby celebrated its 80th anniversary. The family of Alan Tye, one of its founding members, returned for the occasion. Felicity Podger, the church secretary, shared the story. The land and church were given to the people of Selby. It was a loving gesture in memory of Carlotta.
The church wasn’t always known as All Saints. For many years, it was simply called the Carlotta Tye Memorial Church. In 1985, the name was updated. Despite the change, the essence of the memorial remained.
Services at Carlotta Tye Memorial Anglican are welcoming. Sunday mornings offer a sung Eucharist at 10.30am. This is followed by a sumptuous morning tea. Midweek, a quiet reflective Eucharist takes place on the first and third Wednesdays. Taize services are held every second month. Children are particularly welcome. The church regards them as full members.
Candles are available at all services. You can light a candle as a form of prayer. This is for yourself or someone you love. This can be done before the service begins or during communion.
The Carlotta Tye Memorial Anglican also has a gardening club. It meets most Monday mornings. It is an opportunity to care for the church gardens. It is also a chance to swap plants and share gardening tips.
In 1981, the Selby church hall tragically burned down. Despite this loss, the church persevered. It continues to be a vital part of Selby. The Carlotta Tye Memorial Anglican stands as a symbol of love, resilience, and community spirit. Its history is woven into the fabric of Selby. It is a place where faith and remembrance intertwine.