News

Epicentre Church reflects on 20 years

By Lua Ikenasio

Oct 17, 2025

About 250 people gathered at the Epicentre Church to celebrate its 20-year anniversary. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

The Epicentre Church marked 20 years of worship and faith in Echuca on Sunday, October 12, with about 250 people joining the celebrations.

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Guests included past pastors, church leaders and members who had been part of the church since its inception.

During the celebratory service, heartfelt letters from church members were read aloud, reflecting on the impact the church had had in their lives.

The congregation also watched video messages from past and present members, who shared memories of their journey with the church over the years.

Pastor Robert Wiltshire delivered a special sermon that took a look at the church’s 20-year history. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Pastor Robert Wiltshire then took to the stage to deliver his sermon, which recapped the church’s growth and achievements over the past two decades.

“The sermon was me narrating a story from start to finish,” Pastor Wiltshire said.

“The story of us as a church, our origins, where we started from, what God has done in and through us, what we’ve achieved, what we’ve launched and where we’ve gone.”

The church service was full of music and singing. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

The Epicentre Church officially launched in October 2005, holding its first service at the Adult Education Centre in Echuca, which attracted about 70 people.

Over the years, the congregation continued to grow, particularly through its youth ministry.

To accommodate the growing numbers, services were held at various venues, including the Echuca Moama Uniting Church, Christ Church Anglican Echuca, and the Echuca Performing Arts Centre.

Cherie Hall, Joy Portwine, Leanne Turner and Jenny Turner after the church service. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

In April 2013, the Epicentre board members purchased a building and transformed it into the church they still worship in today.

Throughout its two decades, Epicentre has left its mark on the community through many initiatives, such as the Christmas Spectacular.

The church has also extended its reach into the realm of social justice and fundraising through its Reach and Project Change programs, along with its ongoing support for the Gardens of Hope charity.

Ron Deledio, Ps Lukas Edwards, Paul Parry, Elsie Stevenson, Ps Hannah Stevenson and Ps Chris Stevenson were all smiles. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Pastor Wiltshire said that looking back at the church’s history also provided an opportunity to reflect on the future.

“I think any time you look back at the past, it should be a slingshot for what’s coming in the future,” he said.

“There are more and more youth wanting to connect with the church, engage with faith and develop a relationship with God. There’s a lot of growth, especially among the younger generation, who are seeking more.

“Our op shop is also continuing to expand — along with our food pantry and other ways we can help, support and connect with people.”