“Ninety years,” Aunty Bon chuckled. “Who would have thought our little church would last this long?” Welcome to the Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church. This church stands as a testament to faith and community. Established in 1877, the Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church is part of the Presbyterian Church of Victoria. It is a welcoming community for all.
Let’s step back to the early 1930s. Imagine a small group of devoted women. They gathered with a shared vision. These women wanted to establish a Presbyterian presence in Mount Evelyn. The times were tough. The Great Depression cast a long shadow. Yet, their determination never wavered. These women formed the Ladies Guild in June 1933. Their express purpose was to acquire property. They wanted to build a church building.
Many advised them to buy land with wide frontage. They should plan for future growth. Look around you. This very property is what they secured. It’s a testament to their foresight. The Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church was constructed by local builder George Pitt. It was dedicated in 1933. Only the Presbyterian Church continues to worship in its original building.
Now, let me introduce you to three remarkable women. Miss Alice Kemp was the first Church Secretary. She also served as a Sunday School Teacher. She had the honor of opening the new church in October 1934. Mrs. Hazel Lloyd served as a Deaconess for many years. She influenced many young women. She guided them in their faith in Christ. Bonnie Nielson was affectionately known as Aunty Bon. She lived to be over 100 years old. She dedicated her life to the church. She was a Sunday School student. Later she became a teacher. She was a wife and mother of five children.
The Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church has always focused on teaching children. From the very beginning, training youth was at its heart. The church wanted to teach children the truths of the Gospel. This commitment continues to this day.
In July 2023, the Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church celebrated its 90th anniversary. About 150 guests attended the afternoon tea. They shared stories and church history. Former ministers attended. Community members joined in the celebration. Casey MP Aaron Violi and Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence were present. They spoke about the church’s role in the community. Bonnie’s daughters cut the 90th cake.
Reverend Miles Fagan said the church demonstrated the Gospel through words and actions. It reached out to the wider community. It supported its own members. The women of Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church have made great impacts. They continue to make the gospel known. The church offers prayer meetings and Bible studies. There are youth groups and community outreach programs. These cater to people of all ages. The Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church provides a safe environment for all.
So, as you stand here, remember the legacy. Remember the women who laid the foundation. Remember the generations who have found solace and community within these walls. The Mount Evelyn Presbyterian Church is more than just a building. It is a family. It is a beacon of hope. It is a testament to enduring faith. The doors are always open.