Barnabas column - Stories of Encouragement
Alice Sackett from Woodbridge was presented with a Bishop's Emeritus Award. Photo Colin Hocking
Bishop John with members of the congregation and visitors who joined the procession from the Woodbridge jetty to St Simon's and St Jude's Church. Photo Colin Hocking
Woodbridge
With its distinctive high pitched roof, St Simon's and St Jude's Anglican Church in Woodbridge is representative of early buildings in the Channel.
The cornerstone was laid on 27 October 1884 and the building consecrated in 1885.
On Sunday 1 November 2009, Bishop John Harrower arrived at the Woodbridge Jetty on the Marine Discovery Centre boat, the Penghanaunder the guidance of Captain Tim (Nossiter), and processed with a large number of locals and visitors along the Channel Highway through the village to the Church - as was done by the earlier Bishop of Hobart in 1844 - to mark the 125th anniversary of St Simon's and St Jude's Church.
This time they were accompanied by the Bruny Island Jazz Band playing When the saints go marching in.
The anniversary service in the church was led by the Revd Julie Kelley.
During the service there were various items such as a skit on the Parish Buildings Committee, and historical details of past parishioners were provided by Leonie Beaumont (Edwards). David Edwards was interviewed by Julie about his family's long involvement with the church - his Mother was married there in 1915.
Bishop John showed some of the historic documentation of the church, including a description of the laying of the initial cornerstone and Alice Sackett (Edwards) was presented with a 'Bishop's Emeritus Award' in recognition of her many years of service to the church and the local community.
The service was followed by a luncheon at the Woodbridge Hall where a large gathering had an enjoyable meal , with entertainment provided by the Bruny Island Jazz Band. With all tables taken, some even had to resort to the side aisle seating!
Julie and Leonie, with graphic artist Kim Deane, have written a booklet about the Channel Mission over more than 125 years. Graham Rae launched the booklet which is available for $12. Contact Julie to purchase your copy.
Colin Hocking