Seventieth Anniversary Celebrated at Wesley Uniting Church, Forrest

The 70th anniversary of the opening of the Methodist National Memorial Church in Forrest, ACT, was joyfully celebrated last Sunday. Now known as Wesley Uniting Church, the congregation welcomed past ministers, long-time members, and friends who returned to mark this significant milestone in the life of the church.

Four attendees who were present at the original opening celebrations on November 19–20, 1955, received a special and heartfelt welcome. Among them were the sons of the Rev. Walter Whitbread, the Commissioner of the National Appeal responsible for the church’s construction, and the Rev. Dr George Wheen, who was serving as minister when the building was first opened. Their presence added a touching sense of continuity between the church’s early vision and its ongoing ministry today.

The service was led by the current Minister, the Rev. Dr Geoff Dornan, with the General Secretary, Rev. Dr Peter Walker who served as minister during the 50th Anniversary returning as guest preacher. During his sermon, Rev. Dr Walker proudly held up his Baptismal Certificate, sharing that he had been baptised in the church 16 years after its opening. His reflection connected personal memory with the enduring presence of the congregation across generations.

The celebration not only honoured the past but also reminded the gathered community of the church’s ongoing call to witness, worship, and serve in the heart of Canberra. Wesley Uniting Church continues to be a place where faith, history, and community meet, holding both memories and hope for the years ahead.

From left: Apelu Tielu (who candidated from Wesley), Rev. Dr Peter Walker, Geoff Flynn, David Thiem, Gregor Henderson, Bruce Stevens (currently in part-time supply ministry), Elizabeth Richardson (retired minister), Geoff Dornan, and Ian Diamond (retired minister).