In 1977 the Uniting Church in Australia came into being when the Presbyterian, Methodist and Congregational churches joined together. Since that time, Albany Scots Uniting Church and Albany Wesley Uniting Church have continued to lead independent lives.
After several years of working closely together the decision was made to become one congregation under the name of Albany Uniting Church.
Extensive discussions discerning the future role of the church led to mutually agreeing that worship should be held in the Duke Street property and endeavour to use York Street to raise an income.
On 5 October there was a Service of New Beginnings in Duke Street where symbolically the two churches became one. There were a number of visitors attending, including Rev Nick Sturrstraat, who participated in the service. Nick had served as minister at Albany Wesley Uniting Church for twelve years. Rev Albert Graubner served as minister at Wesley for ten years and Rev Ray Foster had been interim minister for some time at Albany Scots Uniting Church.
A luncheon for all followed where Mrs Gwen Norman, a long standing member, cut the celebratory cake.
This was a mile stone in the life of the Christian community in Albany as we seek to be better stewards of church resources and offer a greater outreach and service to the Albany community.
Elizabeth Burns