Here at Point Chevalier Road stands a testament to community spirit. Point Chevalier Cooperating Church is more than just a place of worship. It is a hub woven into the very fabric of Point Chevalier.
The Point Chevalier Co-operating Parish formed in March 1979. This happened when the Pt Chevalier Associated Churches of Christ and St. Philips Presbyterian Church joined. The Presbyterian congregation of St Philip’s dates back to 1917. However, it only became a fully sanctioned church in 1950. The Auckland West Church of Christ was established in 1928. It incorporates Church of Christ congregations from Ponsonby and Mt Albert.
These two churches had a good relationship. When St Philip’s minister retired in 1977 the Church of Christ helped. They supplied the pulpit and gave pastoral oversight. Over two years, the congregations found ways to work together. This culminated in the agreement to become a Co-operating Parish. The Church of Christ minister was appointed for the first five-year term in 1979.
Over time worship services and groups merged. All services were held in St Philip’s. Smaller meetings took place in the Fellowship House. Larger functions were held in the Homestead Auditorium. With different church backgrounds, Point Chevalier Church embraced diverse views. Over the years they ceased to be separate denominations. They became part of the body of Christ.
Now I want to tell you about the Homestead. The Point Chevalier Homestead is a community facility. It is owned and operated by the Homestead Community Church. This is part of the Point Chevalier Co-operating Parish. The 2015 building suits community needs. It has meeting rooms of different sizes and a kitchen. There is also an Op Shop.
The Old Homestead, also known as Ridgemont, started in the 1880s. Two old cottages were joined. This made a larger home for the farm property. Besides being a homestead it was once a school. Later, the Hankin Estate was managed by the Public Trust. It sat vacant for years and became prey for gangs.
In 1974, the Pt Chevalier Church of Christ got a five-year lease. After renovations the Old Homestead became a Community House. Since then it has grown. It now receives over 20,000 visits each year. Because of its success the Pt Chevalier Co-operating parish bought the property. This ensured its permanency as a community facility.
The Homestead began as a drop-in center. It offered courses and activities. Over the years it evolved to suit changing community needs. Since the 1990s a successful opportunity shop has operated. It offers low-cost goods. It replaced the need for a drop-in center. Community groups hire the premises at reasonable rates.
The Parish decided to demolish the old building in 2011. They rebuilt another Homestead with the same outside look. This replica building was finished in December 2015. The Church Parish Council manages it.
The Sunday morning worship service is Christ-centered. It is based on scripture. It follows a traditional style with organ music. Holy Communion is celebrated each month. The service includes a family news time. Members offer thanks and ask for prayers. About 60 worshippers attend the 10.30 am service.
The Parish council manages the church’s affairs. It meets monthly to discuss pastoral care, finances, and reports from the Homestead. They also discuss Girls Brigade and other church matters.
The church celebrates Christian events. Sometimes this is with other churches in the area. Social events and barbecues are organized. The Church supports a Girls Brigade Company. These events are outreach into the community. The Point Chevalier Cooperating Church stands as a beacon. It represents faith, community and history interwoven into one.