How about a story that began in a humble cottage? In 1863 nine people gathered in Thomas and Elizabeth Porter’s cottage in Whitten’s Lane. This marked the beginning of the Doncaster Church of Christ.
The Doncaster Church of Christ has grown significantly since its humble beginnings. The church started with the simple act of sharing the Lord’s Supper. This act defined the church and its way of being. Robert Taylor, James Read, Jane Lawford, and Sarah Lawford joined the Porters at that first gathering. Mary Anne and John Rigby Norris may have also been present. Mr JW Webb from the Church of Christ in Melbourne presided. Henry William Crouch brought them all together. He became the first church secretary.
A year later, the growing congregation moved to a small weatherboard chapel. This chapel was on the present site of the Doncaster Church of Christ. By 1865 membership had grown to eighty. In 1889 a brick chapel was opened. This brick chapel still stands and now functions as the western foyer.
For almost a century the Doncaster Church of Christ served an agricultural community. Orchards stretched out for miles around the church. In the mid-1900s urban sprawl reached Doncaster. The church met the challenge and became one of Victoria’s largest Church of Christ congregations. In the 1990s the church underwent an extensive building program. This accommodated the needs of the growing church.
Today the Doncaster Church of Christ is a diverse community. It has around 300-400 people from many backgrounds and interests. All age groups are represented. The church is open, tolerant, and accepting. Love, grace, and care for the individual are high values here at Doncaster Church of Christ.
The Doncaster Church of Christ maintains a core biblical focus centered on Jesus. It is willing to explore questions to deepen understanding of the Christian faith. The church actively participates in the wider Churches of Christ ministry. It supports the collective ideals expressed by the movement. The Doncaster Church of Christ interacts with people from different faith traditions. It especially works with fellow Manningham churches. This celebrates oneness as the Body of Christ.
The Doncaster Church of Christ is governed by a Council of Elders. Church members elect these elders. The church is financed through contributions from members. While a close community, the church thinks beyond itself. It seeks better ways to engage with the rapidly changing society. The Doncaster Church of Christ strives to be the light of the world. It embodies the teachings of loving God and loving your neighbor.
As you stand here take a moment to appreciate the enduring spirit of this church. From its humble beginnings to its present-day vibrancy the Doncaster Church of Christ has been a beacon of faith, hope, and love in the community.