Jacqueline Nicholson and her son Nathaniel light a cake to symbolise the shape of the new church.A CRANBOURNE parish has its sights set on a prosperous future.
A community campaign is well underway to raise money to refurbish St John’s Anglican Church in Cranbourne, which is almost 150 years old.
As part of the plans, the historic brick church and original part of the timber hall will be preserved.
The new facilities will include a worship area for 300 people, four meeting rooms, large spaces for fellowship and modern offices and facilities.
The fund started in July last year and $275,000 has been raised so far, with the figure expected to rise to $300,000 during the next few months. The Diocese of Melbourne will contribute $700,000 to the project.
The Reverend David Powys said the parish would welcome a second ordained member of staff next year, Rene Pfitzner, with a new house being built for him and his family near the church.
“Building the bricks and steel church will only be part of our challenge.
“The more major challenge will be to grow the congregations and their work in the wider community,” Rev Powys said.
Plans for the upgrades are awaiting approval by Casey council, with the parish hoping construction would start by spring next year.
