Churchgoers have prayers answered

MULTI-USE: Mangawhai’s new multi-function church building could be ready for Christmas. The existing church is in the background.
 

By Rob Pooley

The new Chapel of Christ the King near the Village on Molesworth Drive will not only be a place of worship as it supports a growing congregation but will also provide a valuable amenity for the whole community says Reverend John Pascoe.

“While some may question the need for a new church,” he says, “ and while reports worldwide show numbers of churchgoers are dwindling, this is not the case in Mangawhai.”

Typical of early community buildings in a small settlement which served a wide area, the much loved  Anglican Chapel of Christ the King began life in Mangawhai as a school in 1885 but was left behind when the school moved to its present site in Insley St. Its status advanced to that of a church, purchased and refurbished by the Anglicans of the district. 

Rapidly falling into disrepair, considerable work was needed internally to replace original hand-forged floor spikes, sanding and oiling of the floor and, of couse, procuring and siting the pews, cross, lectern and vases, some of which were relics from other churches in the area. Total refurbishment cost was believed to be somewhere in excess of $6,000. The Church was named the The Chapel of Christ The King and dedicated by Bishop Simpkin.

About to rise above the surrounding landscape will be the new look church. Though progress has been slowed by the weather, last week cranes could be seen above the skyline putting steel work in place for the octagonal building which is nearest the road. Most notable is the eye-catching raised roof that extends into the main hall which in turn will be divided into spaces suited to the many different activities to be held there – weddings, concerts, flower shows, funerals. 

It is hoped the new church will be completed by Christmas, says Rev. Pascoe.

As the new building progresses, the old one is looking a little forlorn and lonely, obscured and somewhat overshadowed by its modern counterpart. However, while its future is unclear at this time, having now served the congregation for some 56 years, parishioners may be assured that, wherever its resting place may be, its historical significance will be well preserved.