A friendly church welcoming all. That’s the reputation of St Stephens Wainuiomata Union Church. This unassuming building on 108 Main Road Wainuiomata holds a rich history. It’s more than just a place of worship. It’s a community hub.
St Stephens Wainuiomata Union Church wasn’t always here. Its story begins much earlier. In 1866 a Wesleyan Church opened on the Wainuiomata Coast Road. Services continued there until 1958. That year marked a significant milestone. The current St Stephens building opened its doors. It was a union of sorts. Methodist Congregationalist and Presbyterian members worshipped together. Even Baptists and Salvation Army attendees joined the congregation.
The church’s history is interwoven with the community’s. A hall on Devon Street served as a temporary space. Sunday school and church services were held there until St Peter’s Church was completed in 1963. Another Sunday school existed at Arakura School before merging with St Peter’s in 1971. Yet another Sunday school found a home at Rata Street Hall. It later moved to the Holy Trinity Anglican Church. The congregations of St Peter’s and St Stephen’s eventually combined. They now worship together at St Stephens Wainuiomata Union Church in the old village area.
Today St Stephens Wainuiomata Union Church continues its legacy. It offers a full schedule of services. These include Sunday services followed by morning tea and fellowship. Sunday school runs concurrently with the main service. Communion is held on the second Sunday of the month. A Tongan language service is offered on the third Sunday. The church choir practices Sundays at 930 am. The church even boasts an Allen digital computer organ.
Beyond the regular services there’s an active community spirit. A prayer group meets every Tuesday. There’s adult and youth Bible study. Even an indoor bowls group meets weekly. The former Sunday school building is now an op shop. It sells affordable clothing and household items. Profits benefit local community groups and projects. The church facilities are available for hire. You can contact Heather and Roger Ricketts for more information.
St Stephens Wainuiomata Union Church is more than just a building. It’s a testament to the enduring faith and the strong community spirit of Wainuiomata. It is a place of worship a community center and a vital part of the town’s history. It stands as a beacon of hope and fellowship for all who enter its doors.