History

“Let us, therefore, be not daunted by the future, but seek God’s will, and do it, knowing that our hope is in Him who is able to do for us abundantly above anything we can ask or think.”
WT Brook Minister 1966-

Hope Valley Methodist and Uniting Church

Hope Valley – In this tree lined suburb nestled against the Adelaide Hills God has placed His church to touch and serve this community. Our history is long and rich, full of incredible testimonies of the goodness of God and his unfailing love. Our heart is to continue pioneering for the kingdom of God through building and being the church. Let the flame burn brightly…..

May 1867

The foundations were laid for a New Connection Methodist Church at Hope Valley. The Gothic style building, which cost £300, is now converted to a medical centre.

1876

The building was purchased by Primitive Methodists for £140 and had 46 members.

1900

At Methodist union the church became part of Modbury Methodist Circuit. Over succeeding years the church struggled financially, but as the district changed from rural to residential the church and Sunday School grew.

1960

The Methodist Home Missions Department purchased 8 blocks on Grand Junction Road.

1967

Morning and evening church services were near capacity. The Sunday School had 160 children and there were successful youth, women’s and senior’s fellowships.

1973

A new church centre was completed to seat 200 worshippers at a cost of $45,000. Former building was sold for $9,000, and heritage items (pulpit bible, bell and lamp) taken to new building.

1976

A large recreation building was constructed for youth activities.

1980

Tennis courts were completed and a manse purchased.

1981

Rev Rob Saunders was appointed first minister. (Previous ministers were shared with other churches.)

1988

The building was enlarged to seat 300 worshippers. During ministry of Rev Dr Graham Twelftree, 500 people attended worship and 200 were in house groups. HVUC becomes one of the largest Uniting churches in Australia. An associate Pastor and Youth, Children’s’ and Worship Pastors were added to staff; also an administration assistant.

1996

Rev Dr Dean Brookes, former Moderator of SA Synod was appointed as minister. Kynan Brookes appointed Youth Pastor and HVUC later Out of the Valley Youth ministries is formed to support youth leadership in the UCA and SA. During this time, church membership strengthened with many young families being attracted to worship.

2001

A partnership with The Protestant Church in Bali was formed. This has resulted in several pastors from Bali visiting the church for English training. This partnership continues with mission trips and continued involvement at various church levels.

2003

Out of the Valley Youth Ministries is formed offering a number of leadership training conferences. Sponsored by the Uniting Church Mission Resourcing network they have attracted outstanding international and local communicators and leaders to participate.

January 2007

Kynan Brookes appointed as Lead Pastor

Nov 2007

Rev Roger Brook joined the leadership team.

April 2008

Building for Life program was launched. Over $1 million given and pledged for enlargement of the church facility. The adjoining house and vacant land is purchased.

God has used Hope Valley Uniting Church to see many lives changed as God’s love has impacted people of all ages. We believe there are still greater things to be done in this valley and beyond……