“What began in Cheltenham?” someone asks. This is the story of Mordialloc Presbyterian Church. It started as St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. It commenced in 1885.
The Mordialloc Presbyterian Church has a rich history. It shows dedication to faith and community. The church first started with evening services in 1886. These services were held in the Mordialloc Church of England. The present church building officially opened in 1889.
In July 2023, something special happened. St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Mordialloc united with Pioneers Memorial Presbyterian Church Cheltenham. Pioneers Memorial Presbyterian Church Cheltenham commenced in 1858. They formed BayChurch Presbyterian. This union came from a desire to more effectively share the gospel. They wanted to reach the local area together.
BayChurch Presbyterian has clear goals. They desire to grow in love for God. They want to grow in love for one another. They aim to share the hope of Jesus. The church has seen growth. People from various ages and cultures have joined. They hope this growth continues. They trust God will use them for His purposes. This includes the bay area and beyond.
BayChurch Presbyterian holds firm beliefs. They are Christian. They believe in one God. This is the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They stand with 2000 years of Christian believers.
They are Evangelical. They believe the good news of salvation in Jesus is for all. They want to see the gospel transform people worldwide.
They are Reformed. They believe in God’s sovereignty. They trust His gracious initiative in saving us. They believe in His ability to finish what He started. With the Reformers, they adhere to scripture alone. They believe in grace alone. They believe in faith alone and Christ alone. Everything is for God’s glory alone.
Several people lead and serve at BayChurch Presbyterian. Paul Huynh realized salvation comes through grace. It is God’s free gift in Jesus. He is married to Zoe. They have four children: Raphie, Cosette, Audrey, and Xavier. Paul began his ministry at Mordialloc Presbyterian in January 2019. He helps oversee the church’s spiritual health. He works with the elders.
Ross McKinnon thought good behavior made him a good Christian. At university, he learned he was a mess. Jesus took his mess and gave him goodness. Ross is married to Emily. They have two children: Robert and Hannah. He is a student minister at BayChurch. He studies theology at the Reformed Theological College.
Bill Buster is married to Jess. He loves reading God’s word with people. In 2024-2025, Bill is doing a Metro traineeship at BayChurch Presbyterian. He focuses on championing mission at the church.
Jess Buster grew up as a missionary kid. She loves seeing children discipled in Jesus. She oversees the kid’s ministry at BayChurch.
Susan Digby serves on the Board of Management. She also oversees the English Ministry. Rosalie Spies serves on the Board of Management as treasurer.
Mordialloc Presbyterian Church is now BayChurch Presbyterian. It stands as a testament to faith. It demonstrates unity and service in Mordialloc. It continues to spread the Gospel.