Montmorency Community Church

Standing before the Montmorency Community Church, its history unfolds like a tapestry woven from generations of faith and community. This unassuming building on Mayona Road holds within its walls a legacy that stretches back to 1932. It all began with two Salvation Army ladies in Para Rd, spreading the Christian message to their neighbors. They initiated a Sunday School work in the Butter Box Shed, a humble space behind the local store and post office. Their efforts caught the attention of preachers from the city who joined them in establishing and encouraging this new congregation. Walter Mathieson, Bert O’Connor, and Will Thomson were some of the city preachers who lent a hand. For a short while, the fledgling church gathered in a tent, walls reinforced with thin wooden planks, on land across from the Post Office. The Sunday School flourished, attracting children from the surrounding area. Annual Sunday School anniversaries became a highlight, with the community decorating the tent with homegrown chrysanthemums. As the church grew, the tent proved too small, and services were eventually held in the Briar Hill Primary School. In 1935, a shed was moved to a triangular piece of land next to the railway line on Mayona Rd, where the church stands today. This land and the shed were generously donated by Councilor Price. The first service on Mayona Rd was a midweek service on May 22, 1935. Back then, baptisms were conducted in the Plenty River, a much cleaner waterway than it is now. Later, a building block was purchased adjacent to the triangular piece of land – the result of the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Seidel, long-time members of the church. The church’s Gospel Hall was constructed in 1955, and officially opened on June 18th of that year. Through the years, the church has expanded and been renovated to accommodate its ever-growing needs. Despite its humble beginnings, Montmorency Community Church has been a beacon of faith in the community, reaching out to its young people through Boys and Girls Rallies that were renowned in the area. Today, its legacy continues, with playgroups running for over twenty years, providing support and encouragement to new mothers. The rear of the church is currently planned for redevelopment to modernize and improve its usability, particularly for the playgroup. Children’s ministries include Kids Club, a fun-filled program with games, singing, puppets, and other activities for primary school-aged kids. The Youth Group caters to high schoolers with interesting activities and outings. The church’s history is not just about buildings and events, but about the people who have joined together to create a welcoming and supportive community. From the pioneers who laid the foundation to the generations that have followed, Montmorency Community Church continues to serve the needs of its community, offering a timeless message of hope and faith. So why not join the Montmorency Community Church? You are welcome.