The Christ Church Anglican Echuca will celebrate its 160th anniversary this Sunday. Photo: Supplied.
The Christ Church Anglican Echuca is preparing to mark 160 years since its first church service in 1865.
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While Anglicanism in Echuca can be traced back to the 1840s, the church’s construction did not begin until 1864.
Christ Church Anglican Echuca Reverend Phil Zamagias said it was amazing to reflect on the building’s history.
“It’s quite amazing how the building has held up,” he said.
“It’s showing some signs of its age, but it’s in remarkably good condition for a building that’s been standing there for 160 years.
“The vision of the people back then to build something that would last well into the future and serve us well — you just have to marvel at the way that they were forward-thinking, visionary and willing to invest for the future, not just for the now.”
The Anglican Diocese of Melbourne started in 1847 and regular Sunday services began in Echuca in 1863 in the Court House.
In 1864, a large parcel of land was formally designated as a church reserve, where the Christ Church Anglican building still stands today.
Many prominent names were involved in its construction, including well-known Bendigo architects Vahland and Getzschmann, who were commissioned to design the church building.
Generous brick donations were also made by notable Echuca figures such as Henry Hopwood, George Redman and M.J. Webb.
The building also includes original stained-glass windows, with those in the apse possibly created by famous stained-glass artist William Montgomery.
The central stained glass window in the sanctuary, depicting Christ the Good Shepherd, was donated by W.W. Moore, and is flanked by two floral windows, which were donated by parishioners.
Although the church was not finished or fully furnished at the time, the first public service was held on September 7, 1865.
The church remains in good condition despite its age. Photo: Supplied.
As the 31st minister of the church, Mr Zamagias said it was an honour to be a part of the 160th celebrations.
“I really feel honoured to be here at this time. It’s a privilege to look back,” he said.
“I’m the 31st minister that has looked after the church here. It’s quite a legacy that has been laid down from those early visionaries.
“We get a lot of people complimenting our church for being a place where they feel welcomed and comfortable, and that’s really nice, and my wife and I have felt that too since we moved into Echuca.”
To celebrate the milestone, the church will be holding a special service at 10am on Sunday, September 7.
The service will be led by the Bishop of Bendigo, Matthew Brain, with a few church members also completing their sacrament of confirmation, making the day even more special.
Once the service is over, a light lunch will be held, with special celebratory cakes to mark the occasion.
Mr Zamagias said all were welcome to celebrate the anniversary.
“Everyone is welcome, absolutely. It’s open to the public,” he said.
“There are lots of people in the community who have either been baptised or married there or confirmed there. So, it’s an opportunity for them to come back and say hello.”
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