Compare to: Original Scan
AS your Pastor in this centenary year of your Trinity Lutheran congregation of Doncaster, it is my duty and privilege to introduce this booklet to you. It shall tell you, the third, fourth, fifth and sixth generations of descendants of your pioneer forefathers, something of the history of the Doncaster Lutheran congregation through 100 years. It shall bring before you the pastors who preached and taught the Word of God to old and young; you will see their pictures and read brief summaries of their work in this district. It will bring before you the pictures of a number of founders, pioneers and officials of the congregation, and, as you read, the story will unfold which they helped to write. It will try to let you see, behind these men, the women whose pictures do not appear, but who nobly played their part in home and field, in family and in church. It will tell you cf the church your forefathers built on Waldau Hill and of the joy they had in worshipping there. It will tell you how the second church was built, then the manse and finally the hall. It will tell you something of the history of the congregation down to the present time written by men and women who are close to you. You will learn something of the difficulties and trials met with by congregation and pastors as one generation took over from another, as the language changed, as the organisations emerged and grew, each making their contribution to the growth of the congregation as a whole. You will see and read a great deal about men and women; but behind them this booklet would have you see God working with them, through them and sometimes without them to guard, keep and strengthen the congregation so that it might bear living witness to Him.
Pastor H. Pech, B.A.
The over-all impression may be that of a struggling congregation and of pastors working against odds for greater growth and progress. But keep in mind, too, that that here a candle of the Lord, lit by Himself, has, by shining forth in good days and ill, done much to fulfil the Lord's command: "Go ye therefore and preach the Gospel to every creature." Here in Australia were mission fields, too, just as truly as in India or China. In a new, harsh, lonely land men, women and children needed the encouraging, strengthening fellowship to be found in a Christian congregation no less than in any other part of the globe. Knowing the blessings of Chris-
tian fellowship maintained in the face of trials and despite their own failings your forefathers were ready to share this blessing with unknown fellowmen far away by supporting the Missions of the Church: Basel Mission, Her-mannsburg Mission, New Guinea Mission. Even while they had but little they gave'* of that, so that the rich spiritual blessings that were theirs might be known and shared by the needy souls of men. The example of our forefathers has a lesson for us. While we strive for our livelihood, our house and home, for friendship and a sense of belonging, let us give and share of what we earn, that as we are served by the Word of God and the Sacraments, so may others be. As we remember our forefathers' coming to this land to start a new life here in Australia, let us remember the immigrants of today, extend friendship and a helping hand, bearing in mind that our forefathers once were immigrants, too.
And now we turn to their story. But first let me introduce to you those men whom God appointed as shepherds to the people, the Pastors who have served your congregation.
Pastor Matthias Goethe (1858-1867) spent his early life in Neuendorf near Coblenz, in Germany. As a young man he trained for the priesthood in the Roman Catholic Church, but at the age of 20 years he joined the Lutheran Church, then went to England. From there he received an invitation to join the teaching staff of the newly-formed Australian College in Sydney. While there he ministered to a small Lutheran congregation. On a visit to Melbourne he met several Lutheran families, who had been conducting their services in Scots Church without the aid of a pastor. At their invitation he conducted Divine Service on Christmas Day, 1852. On 25th March, 1853, he accepted a cal! to become the first Lutheran Pastor in Melbourne. His parish included congregations at Thomastown, Berwick, Harkaway, Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong, as well as the groups scattered throughout the suburbs. He also visited the Lutheran settlers at Doncaster and conducted services from time to time. He continued to minister to the congregation which was organised at Doncaster until his departure for California in 1867.
The strain of labours in this large field took toll of his health, and extended leave of absence was granted him on two occasions. During the first he paid a visit to his aged mother in Germany; on the latter he visited California in the hope that he would there regain his health; however, to the sorrow of the congregation his six months' stay there did not restore his health and he resigned the pastorate. On 25th October, 1876, this faithful servant of God was called to higher service and he was buried in Sacramento,
California, on the following day.
Apart from his ministerial and pastoral duties, Pastor Goethe still found time to write for European papers and magazines. He founded the first Lutheran church paper in Victoria, "Der Pilger" (The Pilgrim), which was pub-
lished at irregular intervals, and then because of the difficulty of obtaining German typesetters, it ceased publication. But after a lapse of two years it appeared again as "Der Christenbote" (The Christian Messenger); this paper ivas to endure as a much loved and welcome visitor to Lutheran homes for fifty years.
Pastor Hermann Herlitz (1868-1876). Trained at the Basel Mission Society Seminary, Switzerland, he came to Grovedale in 1862 in response to a call made by Pastor Goethe to Prelate Kapff, of Stuttgart. In spite of some dissension he laboured faithfully there for six years until in 1868 he accepted a call to serve the Melbourne parish, where he had been locum tenens during the absence of Pastor Goethe in, America. He was installed on 25th March of that year during the meeting of Synod and later was elected President of the District. In this office he acguitted himself with zeal and dignity for over 40 years. . The parish then consisted cf the following congregations; Melbourne, Thomastown, Berwick, Scoresby and Doncaster.
The Church paper, "Der Christenbote" now came under his control, and under his editorship it was twice enlarged until from a four-page.folder it became a large-sized twelve-page paper covering a large field of interest and exercising an influence for good in all States.
The care of the Melbourne parish, with the oversight of the many congregations attached to it, the editorship of the "Christenbote" and the office of President were proving a heavy task for the shoulders of one man. Paster Herlitz, therefore, began to seek someone who could help, either as vicar to him, or as Pastor to a new parish to be formed by dividing off portion of the present parish.
Pastor G. Hegelou
Pastor Richard Held (1908-1912). After the resignation of Pastor Schramm some difficulty was experienced in obtaining the services of another pastor. Finally a Call was sent to the Basel Mission Society, Switzerland, requesting the authorities there to send a candidate to fill the vacancy. At a result Pastor Held was sent, who, arriving in Melbourne on 2nd July, was inducted in Doncaster on 12th July. During a ministry of only four years much was undertaken to increase the membership; Bible Classes were started and a Choir organised. The new commodious manse was built in 1909. This ministry ended when in 1912 Pastor Held accepted a call to St. John's, Tanunda, South Australia.
Pastor Max von Schramm (1876-1908). At the Synod which met in Ballarat in 1876 an approach was made to form a new parish at Doncaster, and a request was made that Mr. Max von Schramm, who had acted as teacher in the district for sixteen years should be ordained to become its first Pastor. After passing the required examination this ‘was done, and on 5th November he was ordained in Melbourne and inducted in the newly-formed parish by President Herlitz on the same day. Besides Doncaster as his main charge Pastor Schramm conducted monthly services at Bayswater (Scoresby) and visited the remaining members of a once flourishing congregation at Berwick-Harkaway-Narrewarren. Much of the history of this area is closely interwoven with the life of Pastor Schramm himself. He was an "interested visitor at the dedication of the first church in 1858, he became the first schoolmaster in 1860, he supervised the transfer to the new school on the Main Road in 1864, and during his pastorate the new Gothic church was built in 1891-92. After an association of over forty-six years as Teacher and Pastor (he relinquished his office on 1st July, 1907), only a brief retirement was afforded him before his Home call on 21st November, 1908.
Pastor M. von Schramm
Pastor Gottlieb Hegelau (1912-1915). From Toowoombd, Queensland, came Pastor Hegelau, an old acquaintance of the parish, for he had served the Victoria Synod as Home and Itinerant Mis-sioner for many years, during which time he had often conducted services at Doncaster. However, his ministry was not to be of long duration as early in 1915 he felt called upon to tender his resignation.
Poge Four
Pastor Albrecht Fehlberg (1915-1920). Trained at Neuendettel-sau, Germany, his first pastorate was at Jeparit from where he was sent to Bismark, Tasmania, to do pioneer work among the descendants of Lutheran immigrants. This proved to be hard and thankless work. On coming to Doncaster he re-organised the Sunday School, arranged regular meetings for the Youth (Lutheran Endeavour Society) and established a Church Choir. He was the first pastor to conduct English services in the congregation; for this task he was well-fitted through the masterful command of the English language that he had acquired since coming to Australia in 1907. With the introduction of divine services in English it also fell to him to introduce the Common Liturgy, which was accomplished in part during his pastorate. In 1920 an exchange was arranged with Pastor Simpfendorfer, of Eudunda, South Australia.
Pastor A. Felberg
Pastor John Simpfendorfer (1920-47). Trained at the Basel Mission Society Seminary in Switzerland, Pastor Simpfendorfer came to Doncaster from Eudunda, S.A., and began his ministry in 1920, being installed by the President, Pastor K. Gutekunst, on 31st October. Besides paying due attention to the Sunday School and the Youth Society he, with the help of Mrs. Simpfendorfer, organised the Ladies' Guild which grew into.another vital, active group within the congregation. He also fostered interest in Missions, especially in the Luth-
Pastor J. Simpfendorfer
eran Mission, New Guinea. As Secretary of the Victoria District Synod for many years, and as General Treasurer of the U.E.L.C.A. from 1928 till the time of his death in 1947, he was well able to instruct the congregation on the affairs of the larger Church. Pastor Simpfendorfer ca'rried on his ministry in Doncaster during a time of transition from the use of German to English as the language for congregational worship.
Pastor Philipp Scherer (1948-54). Trained at the Immanuel Seminary, North Adelaide, S.A., Pastor Scherer had previously served in the Finke River Mission, Central Australia, being the first resident missionary at Areyonga out-station, before accepting the call to the Doncaster congregation. He was inducted on 11th April, 1948, by the President, Pastor E. Sprengel.
In an effort to encourage attendance at church services by the children Pastor Scherer introduced regular Children's Services and
jDec/inningd
In the early 1850's several German families migrated to this district purchasing properties of 20 to 30 acres.
The land was covered with thick scrub and it was from the sale of this timber as firewood that the first income was earned. These were indeed hard times as the roads to Melbourne were very bad, there being only one wooden bridge over which the carts and drays could carry produce to the city! In winter time the badly cut-up roads were almost ■ impassable. Yet so hard did the pioners work that as early as 1854 some plantings of fruit trees and vegetables had been made. The income from this source added to the sale of firewood, gradually increased the livelihood of the majority, and as the families grew, better homes were built and more cultivation was undertaken.
Something of the hunger for home and the land they had voluntarily relinquished is found in the name, Breslau, as the settlement founded in 1853 was first called. For the most part the settlers were farmers from the district of Goerlitz in Silesia. They had given up a settled existence there not with the hope of bettering their position in a new land, as some later migrants did, but because of strong religious conviction which, for concience sake, would not allow them to accept a State imposed system of worship contrary to their Lutheran tradition.
It would appear that the first Lutheran settler was Mr. Gottlieb Thiele who was, by profession, a military tailor. He arrived on the good ship, "Wappaus," out of Hamburg, and soon settled himself in business in Bourke Street as a tailor under the Vice Regal patronage of Governor Latrobe. After an excursion to the "diggings" at Bendigo, he came to Doncaster and bought ten acres at ten pounds an acre, and later another ten at twenty pounds an acre, from a Mr. Collins who owned a square mile of land in the area now including King, George and Victoria Streets. Other Lutheran settlers were Messrs. Walther, senior and junior, Straube, senior and junior, and J. G. Simon; Within the next two years a further contingent arrived including Messrs. C. Finger, Gottfried Thiele, A. Aumann, C. Aumann, senior and junior, C. F. Tuche-band, H. Finger, and then a third party including H. From-hold, A. Fuhrmann, E. Wittig, A. C. Lenkersdorf, C. F. Hanke, W. Zander, A. Zander, V. Gunther, C. Gunther, G. Berger, F. Meyer, F. Stecher, J. G. Leber, J. Pump, G. Ubergang, G. Schuhkraft and A. Rosel. These were the
principal groups of which records are available. Many others of like persuasion settled in the district.
In much of the heavy labour of those early days, the women played their part. Whilst the men were away clearing, grubbing or taking the heavy laden carts to the city, they began the plantations of vegetables and berry fruits in the narrow clearings between the tall Box and Stringy Bark. Often with the assistance of their children, it was not uncommon for them to carry water over a mile distance from the creek for domestic and garden use. Add to this the day to day care of a growing family without the assistance of any modern appliances and modern medical care and we may well see that the strength of a community lies in the moral fibre of its mothers. Every penny earned by whatever means—wood, vegetables, butter or eggs—had to be returned to the land. There was little money in those early days for comfort, but what the settlers could build, and did, was Christian homes.
As early as 1856 it would appear that an organised congregation existed, Messrs. G. Thiele and J. F. Straube acting as lay readers. Weekly morning and evening services were held in a large room, first in Mr. Straube's, and later in "Father" Aumann's house.
The name of the settlement for some reason not apparent, was now known as Waldau (Forestville) in Bul-leen, for at the first Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Victoria held in 1856, among the fifteen elders present, Gottlieb Thiele represented Waldau and Christian Finger, Hawthorne. At this synod a report showed that Pastor Goethe served the congregation from time to time for preaching services and the administration of the Sacraments, while at other times the Sunday services were
0
G. Thiele
J.. F. Straube
E. Straube
J. 0. Walther
J. F. Walther
conducted by Elder Thiele and Mr. Straube, Sunday School being conducted by Mr. Straube. It is .also recorded that a day school, founded by Mr. Mueller, "unfortunately closed down again." And at the second synod, held 6th-7th January, 1857, the same two elders were present and among the delegates were Carl Aumann, Hawthorne, Johann E. Fankhauser, Hawthorne, Max Schramm, Salt Water River (Footscray), and from Waldau, Friederich Straube, Gottfried Johann Thiele and Johann Walther. In the report it is noted that there is still no house of worship at Waldau, but that weekly morning and evening services and Sunday school continue to be conducted in private homes.
Clearly it can be seen from those few records available to us, that this early group of pioneers did not lightly regard the reason for their long journey: ing to Australia, but amidst the struggle and heartbreak of the earliest days, they yet found time to praise God for His goodness, and to meet together to worship Him in common faith.
FIRST CHURCH
On 30th April, 1858, a meeting was held in Father Aumann's home, attended by eighteen of the settlers, and it was there resolved to build a House of Worship. This was to be 40 feet by 20 feet by 12 feet high, built out of wood and plaster with a shingle roof. A burial ground was also selected. F. Straube donated one acre of land for the church property. Some old records give us the following information regarding the cost of this building; 8 windows £7, 2 doors £1, 1,500 palings £15, 500 feet laths £4, 3,000 shingles £4/10/-, incidentals £3, wages £13, total cost £48. The contractor for the building was carpenter Lenkersdorf. Much voluntary labour was contributed by most of the members and it was not long before the chief desire of this little community was an established fact, for on 26th December, 1858, the completed church was dedicated to the Glory of God by Pastor Goethe.
Many visitors from far and near joined with the congregation to celebrate the great day, and in the evening a tea meeting was held. This building became the centre of activity for the district. Regular services were held each Sunday morning and evening, and on festival days. When it was not possible for Pastor Goethe to be present, the service was conducted, and a sermon read by one of the lay readers. In the afternoons our English neighbours used the church for divine service and Sunday school.
The journeys of Pastor Goethe were quite an event, indeed many times they took on the atmosphere of a pilgrimage. Often he would come on foot from Harkaway, calling on struggling beginners en route leaving with them words of comfort dnd help. In the summer months he thought nothing of walking out from Melbourne arriving in the afternoon, but in the winter months members of the Melbourne congregation would bring him by carriage as far as the metal road went, between Penquite and Myrtle Park. There he would be met by a local member, usually Mr. W. Hanke, who would bring him the rest of the way. The roads were so cut up by the drays and carts of the wood-cutters that often this kind-hearted pastor thought it was expecting too much of the horse to pull the dray and the two men, so they would walk, leaving the horse to bring only the cart.
At the end of 1859, a verger (Kirchendiener) was appointed, who for a modest sum had quite a list of duties to perform.
CHURCH SCHOOL
We have seen how the settlers did everything possible to establish Christian homes in a Christian community. Although apparently some attempt had been made to establish a school as early as 1856, this was not successful, and the education of the children reverted to the home. But now, in 1860, the congregation aagin met in Father Aumann's house and resolved on 29th April to found a school ahd invited Max Schramm to become the teacher. He was to be reimbursed from the fees paid by the scholars, but before he was
C. Aumann, Sen.
A. Aumann
C. Finger
Pajjje Seven
C. Aumann, Jun.
C. Hanke
W. Zander
A. Zander
J. Pump
A. Zerbe, Sen.
inducted into this position, he was examined by Pastor Goethe to test his suitability for this position. Messrs. C. Aumann, senior, F. Meyer and Gottlieb Thiele were chosen to act as school committee and the induction duly took place, on Ascension Day, 17th May. School was held in the church. Beside the teaching for three hours of the ordinary schobl curriculum, special attention was devoted to the upbringing of the children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. School commenced with the singing of a hymn, a short devotion and prayers. More importance seems to have been laid on the spiritual than on the secular education of the children. The school committee -elected by the congregation was charged with the duty of inspecting the school every month. At the first picnic held on Boxing Day, 50 children attended.
After a few years the school had enrolled quite a number of children other than those of the Lutheran settlers. Because of this the curriculum was modified to meet the demand for a more practical education. Several subjects were now taught in the English language, and the committee was enlarged by the inclusion of men who were not members of the congregation. Because of the very bad seasons about this time and the resultant arrears incurred by many of the parents, the Government was approached for a school allowance, and towards the end of 1864 a special grant was received from the Board of Education for the erection of a new school on Doncaster hill. In the; same year a sewing mistress was appointed. So from 1865 school was no longer held in the church at Waldau hill but in the new school building on the main road in Doncaster.
This was taken over by the Government in 1867 and continued as a State School. The new Education Act of 1873,'stressing "free, compulsory and secular" education, abolished any type of religious training. This made it
impossible for Mr. Schramm to continue as teacher in the State School, and he established a congregational school, in the house he owned, next door. On 6th November, 1876, this school was dedicated and opened by the teacher, now Pastor Schramm,- 32 scholars attended; each day school opened with singing of a hymn. Scripture reading and prayers, as had been the custom in the State school, until religious instruction had been abolished. With Messrs. H. Finger, W. Hanke, J. Pump, G. Thiele and A. Zander acting as a committee, this school continued until it was forced to close, because of the increasing demands of the Board of Education, and the resultant rise in cost, together with the competition provided by two State schools, one at East and another at West Doncaster. Up to 43 children attended this school, which was held for the last time as a day school on 8th August, 1884. Pastor Schramm still continued to give instruction in the German language, Bible history and Catechism, for many years afterwards on Saturday mornings. The original school on Main Road is now part of the E.S. & A. Bank.
With the closing of the day school more emphasis was placed on home instruction, and the work of the Sunday school, so that the Christian character of education was never lost to our children.
THE NEW CHURCH
Before we leave the old Church on Waldau Hill, with its fine growth of trees, shading the last resting place of many of those early .pioneers and many more of their children, let us view in retrospect the scene on the first Christmas Eve celebrated in the then "new" Church; it is 24th December, 1860, and gathered under the trees near the Church are the members of the congregation and their "English" visitors, including two J.P.'s. Some 50 children are there, the centre of attraction, and a festival is in
G. Fuhrmann
W. Hanke
G. Schuhkraft
C. Rosel
J. G. F. Winter
progress, there is fun and games and merry-making, and such a lovely meal enjoyed, picnic fashion, under the trees. Then the bell rings, summoning all to Church. In they go, ana' what a sight greets them-—there beside the altar rises splendid to ;the ceiling—a lighted Christmas tree. Amazing to the stranger, full of tearful, blessed memories for the exiles, but to the children a thing of beauty and a joy for ever; and underneath —presents for all. None, says the record, went away empty-handed. After the presents there were prayers and singing, and so with carols and good cheer, good-will was spread abroad, by this little band who, in less than ten years, had brought all this to pass. Starting with little else than a love of freedom and the faith of their fathers,, they‘were no longer strangers; they had embraced the land that gave them shelter, they had established a reputation for Christian living, they were respected and welcome in the community. In 1861 even more attended, presents were given to over 70 children, many could not gain admission,- the Festival was again, a success, with all the notables glad to be there, to celebrate the Birth of Christ with their Lutheran friends, and again none went away empty-handed. So this scene of open-hearted good fellowship may serve to hold for us in memory, something of what the old church meant to our fathers, in terms of achievement and of "belonging" in a new country and environment.
By 1891 the cost of keeping the old Church in repair was so great that it was decided by the congregation to build a more substantial Church, and a piece of land from the estate of the late Mr. C. Aumann, senior, was purchased. So strong was the attachment for the old Church, and so many had become used to climbing the hill each Sunday, that there was a strong desire to see the new Church erected on the old site, but through the efforts of Messrs. Winter and Zander, it was eventually decided to go ahead with the new plan; a great deal of significance attaches to this because the Church is now built very near to where the first services were held.
The total cost of the building, furnished, was £1,303/4/4. More than four hundred pounds sterling had already been collected against the day, and the people with renewed enthusiasm and willing hearts, soon had the money needed. The architect, Koch, and contractor, Freeman, had the Church ready for Dedication on 21st April, 1892. This ceremony was performed by the President, Pastor Herlitz, in the presence of a very large gathering; visitors came from Lutheran congregations throughout the Melbourne district and beyond. The procession from the old to the new Church was led by the brass band of the congregation which also accompanied the hymns in the Church. So many English people attended that a service in English was held in the afternoon, for their benefit. All these visitors were liberally entertained by the .congregation, a tradition the Doncaster folk established in those early days and which has continued with us still.
Another of those episodes from the past, which sweeten the memory, and lend glamour to the "good, old days," is the record of the Mission Festival, held at Doncaster, in connection with the District: Synod, in March,
1893. This was a splendid affair,'attended by 13 pastors, and a large number of visitors, the singing was led by the band and refreshments were served in the barn. Again
TRUSTEES, 1933 E. Hanke, A. Thiele, W. Blobel, W. Rieschieck. Inset: E. A. Aumann.
in 1899 in connection with the Synod held in Melbourne, another Mission Festival is in progress. The band again led the seinging, but the barn proved too small, so meals were served in Fromhold's "bush paddock." Mission addresses were given in the Church, over a hundred visitors swelled the congregation, and commented most favourably on all the arrangements.
What happy, bustling times they were, how proud and tired and glad, was the congregation, when the remnants had been gathered, the last crust cleaned up, and the very last cup packed away,
THE MANSE
Following the retirement of Pastor Schramm in 1907 the question of building a Manse became one of paramount importance. Mrs. Mary Fromhold presented a half acre of land for the purpose; this land formed part of the
H. Fromhold
F. Zerbe
A. Zerbe
late "Father" Aumann's former property, the new Manse occupying the place where his old residence had stood, in which some of the first congregational services were held.
Plans prepared by architect Koch were brought to fruition in a few months, and the present spacious Manse was ready for the first occupant. Pastor Held, in 1909, at a cost of only £750. Since that time it has been kept in good repair and has been redecorated several times, but the original structure remains the same.
NEW ORGAN
In 1917 the old organ, which had served faithfully over many years in the old Church was found to be in such a state of disrepair that it was replaced by a Spenser University type, three manual, and Pedal Organ. This instrument, which is now housed in the Choir gallery, continues to lead our worship, with undiminished volume and tone. Is it too much to hope that soon an organised choir will, from the same place, add further harmony to beautify our services?
CHURCH HALL
For many years the need had been expressed for more adequate accommodation for the Sunday school, as well as the need for a meeting place for other Church groups, and in 1932, during the pastorate of Pastor J. Sipnpfendorfer, these hopes were realised, when architect P. J. W. Murfett was called upon to design a Church hall. This building was the first major project for some time, and at a cost of £645 it was erected by Mr. S. F. Hunt in time to be dedicated by the District President, Pastor A. Jericho, on 2nd October, of that year. Situated at the rear of the Church, the building has proved of untold benefit to the congregation, through the years; true it may now be on the small side for major functions, yet it is adequate and friendly for those frequent meetings so essential to the proper running of an active Parish. Some Sunday school classes are housed there, while it has become a part of the life of our Young People's Society, Ladies' Guild and Brotherhood.
'Qnglidk becomes tke language u6ed for worship
J. Finger
B. Bruche
F. Finger
Like all other Lutheran congregations in Australia, Doncaster, too, had to change from the use of German as the language for worship and the whole devotional life to the adoption of English. As invariably in all other places, so here, too, difficulties and tensions arose in the congregation when it came to making the change-over. The view seems to have been generally held, especially by the pastors, that the Lutheran traditions could only be upheld if the German language was maintained. Those
of the laity who shared this view naturally were at variance with those who were ready, usually by the third generation, to adopt English as their spiritual mother tongue. Inter-marriage, with English families made* the holding of at least some English services a condition of remaining in the Lutheran Church for those immediately concerned. On account of tardiness in this regard many members were lost to other denominations; this also happened at Doncaster where the situation in this regard was
already becoming critical at the turn of the century. There could be no turn of the tide until pastors were trained in Australia instead of calling them from Germany or sending young Australian men overseas for their theological training. This did not happen in the U.E.L.C.A. until 1920.
The first mention of the desirability of conducting services in English at Doncaster was made when the congregation was seeking a new pastor after the retirement of Pastor Schramm in 1907. When eventually a Call was sent to the Base! Mission Society for a suitable young pastor to fill the vacancy it was stated-that he should preferably be able in case of necessity to conduct services in English alsb. However, it was not until Pastor Fehlberg came to Doncaster in 1915 that English services were begun alongside of the German, and English was used for instruction in Sunday School and Confirmation classes as well. It was high time, for though the children still memorised the catechism, hymns, Bible passages, etc., and learned the order of service it meant little to them because at no other time and for no other purpose was German spoken and used. Until 1915 all minutes of Elders' Meetings and Congregational Meetings were kept in German, written in flawless Gothic script by Heinrich Thiele, grandson of Gottlieb Thiele, the first Lutheran settler in Doncaster. From 1915 onwards the minutes were kept in English, written ' in Latin letteringian the same excellent handwriting and in good English style by the same Heinrich Thiele, who continued in office as Secretary until 1929. It appears that in adopting English as the official language
Tor meetings, Doncaster was progressive compared with other congregations, for in 1922 the congregation put a motion on the agenda of the District Synod—that'the business of Synod be in future conducted in the English language.
Begun in the time of Pastor Fehlberg the transition to English was gradually made during the pastorate,of Pastor Simpfendorfer. By the nineteen thirties attendance at German services was dwindling and already before World War II they had lapsed altogether because of lack of support. By that time Doncaster congregation, as well as many others throughout the land, had learned by experience that the L.utheran Church could survive and Lutheran traditions could be handed on equally well per medium cf English as previously in the German language. In fact only from now on could Lutheran congregations hope to make an impact on the English-speaking community. Regarding those who left the Lutheran congregation on account of language difficulties and took up membership in neighbouring Protestant churches we may say with a certain amount of pride that many of them became pillars in the congregations of their adoption.
HOLDING THE LINE
During the twenties and thirties congregational ; life and activity moved along at a pretty even tempo. While the Sunday School made good progress' and thje Youth Society and Ladles' Guild developed a healthy activity in church and social interests, congregational life, as evi-
OFFICIALS, 1933
Standing: E. Thiele, F. Rieschieck, V. Rieschieck, B. Bruche.
Sitting: H. Thiele, A. Aumann, Pastor J. Simpfendorfer, H. Aumann, A. Rieschieck.
Page Eleven
denced by church attendance and participation in congregational meetings, appears to have been rather static. At one annual meeting the pastor drew attention to the "meagre attendances" at services and at another only eight laymen and the pastor were present. Congregational finances, too, were operating on very slender credit balances, and we find the Treasurer appealing to younger members, especially, to support the finances to the best of their ability.
However, when extensive repairs, renovations and repainting to all church properties became urgent in 1929 the necessary money was found, ® appears, without difficulty. Likewise when it came to the building of a hall in 1932 the members rallied strongly behind this cause even though the effects of "the depression" were making themselves keenly felt, and many orchardists were unable to decrease their overdrafts from .one year to the next. It must be said that in the matter of erecting buildings for
its church plant the congregation built solidly and well.
In April, 1933, there were special celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary of the congregation, and a special souvenir booklet was published. In 1938 the membership of the congregation stood at 132 baptised members and 108 confirmed members.
OUR SERVICEMEN
Men from the Doncaster congregation rallied to the country's colours in both world wars. In World War I, Ferdinand Thiele, Harry Fromhold, Hermann Zerbe, Fred Zerbe and Walter Rieschieck enlisted in the Army. Of these Walter Rieschieck paid the supreme sacrifice. In World War II, Allan Rieschieck and James Aumann joined the Air Force and Olof Soderlund, Ray Simpfendorfer and Victor Thiele served in the Army.
Here we might well mention those who became "Servicemen" in the Church. One pastor has come from this
congregation, Franz Finger, of Kalbar, Queensland; also one pastor's wife, Marjorie Petering (nee Rieschieck), now at Hermannsburg, Central Australia; Edward Rieschieck has also served a number of years in Central Australia with the Finke River Mission. We trust that more men and women of the congregation will become full time "Servicemen" in the Church of our Lord, and that others will, if necessary, join the Servicemen of our Country.
BRANCHING OUT FROM DONCASTER
The time came to compensate for the loss of such congregations as Bayswater and Harkaway. Doncaster became the base of operations for serving congregations in Melbourne and in 'Tinamba. Gradually these congregations grew and today both have become separate parishes and centres for further growth in the Church.
RECENT YEARS
Changes were made to introduce the Common Order of Service more fully, both for the regular Sunday service and also the Holy Communion Liturgy. When receiving the Holy Communion men and women now commune
together thus opening the way for communing by families. The ladies were invited to attend any annual meetings; in 1953 seven ladies attended as the first ones, and were given the right to vote. Since then the number of ladies attending has increased. Children's services were also introduced by Pastor Scherer to encourage children to attend church services. For a normal entry into adult membership children need to be trained by regular attendance in the company of their parents. A revised constitution was accepted in 1953 which has proved to be very useful in administering the affairs of the congregation.
Considerable improvements have been made to the church properties:—1954, re-wiring of church arid manse and concreting of the driveway; 1955, waterproofing of the west wall of the church and renewal of manse verandah; 1956-7, renovation and alteration of church interior; 1957-8, renewal cf cement rendering on church north wall and exterior painting of church, hall and manse. All these projects together cost over £2,000, but it was very worthwhile indeed, and in regard to the renovation of the church interior the result proves, that to get an effect that
F. Thiele
N. Semmler
is harmonious, beautiful and pleasing, it is necessary for one man who knows his job well to have the oversight, Mr. E. Pawsey, fu/nishing consultant, was^the man in this case. As far as possible the original furniture of the san'c-tuary was used again, but a new, large crucifix, carved out of Canadian cedar by Lutheran immigrant, Alfred.Schubert, is the crowning centrepiece of the rebuilt sanctuary. The crucifix was donated by Robert Thiele, great-great-grandson of Gottlieb Thiele. The Sunday School children donated communion candlesticks, the Youth donated three-branched candlesticks, and the Ladies' Guild, besides donating £80 from money it had collected for years into the general fund, also donated altar and pulpit paraments in the five liturgical-^colcurs. The exquisite needlework in these paraments has been done by Miss Frieda Hoffman, of Tanunda, a woman suffering from a severe physical handicap. The church, with its altered and new sanctuary appointments, was re-dedicated on 26th May, 1957, by Pastor N. Keller, Acting President.
R. Thiele
P. Keppler
W. Aumann also served the congregation as Elder.
Since 1957 mid-week-Lenten services have ben held and services on Reformation Day, New Year's Eve and Ascension Day are being added. For the last three years the congregation has raised the budget quotas allotted to it and this year is making strenuous efforts to raise a much higher amount. Last year seven adults were admitted to membership after taking part in a membership discussion group for seven weeks. The membership of the congregation at present is—Confirmed members, 11 1; baptised members, 173.
During September and October, 1957, the Doncaster congregation was privileged to share with the St. Mark's congregation a four weeks' ministry by Pastor David Fetter, B.A., who with telling conviction presented to the congregation and all its organisations the stirring challenge of Stewardship and Evangelism to the congregations of today. Some preliminary work has been done to make our response to this twofold challenge. After several months of preoccupation with -preparations to observe the centenary of the congregation by worthy celebrations, the promotion of Evangelism and Stewardship in our midst will be taken up again. Therein lies the hope that this congregation, now one hundred years old, may "renew its youth like the eagle's" and yet fulfil its destiny before God.
^/te ^adieA ^uiid
The beginning of the Ladies' Guild goes back to 1921 when the late Pastor Simpfendorfer called together the ladies of the congregation to form what was then known as "The Ladies' Missionary Band." The aim of this group was to increase its knowledge of the church's mission work in the various fields and to stimulate interest, love and support for the work.
During the early years, meetings were always held in the manse or in the homes of different members. Since the completion of the Church Hall all meetings have been held in the Hall.
Activities during the early years included sewing, knitting and handwork of all descriptions which was sold, and the monies raised were used for the Missions. The ladies also made Christening and Confirmation garments for the New Guinea natives, rolled large quantities of old linen into bandages, sent Christmas cheer to New Guinea and Hermannsburg, and in later years also to Areyonga and Haast's Bluff.
The meetings held fortnightly from Easter to the beginning'of November have always been part devotional and part social. During these later years a sale of gifts is held after every meeting. The Guild has been instrumental in raising well over £2,000 for all purposes since its inception.
In the domestic affairs of the church the Guild has shown a vital interest in the furnishing of the church and the care of the sanctuary. They replaced the Altar carpet, provided the then pastor with a Communion Set, and arranged for coloured bookmarks. A considerable amount of work was done and a substantial amount cf money was raised by the Guild towards the alterations and renovations to the interior of the church in 1957. Beautifully executed seasonal paraments for the Altar and Pulpit were purchased.
This organisation of the congregation has proved itself of invaluable assistance to the church and its various works, and with God's guiding hand and blessing may it continue to prosper and bring forth fruit for the furtherance of God's kingdom on the earth.
Present officials are:—President, Mrs. E. Pech; Vice-Presidents, Mesdames F. Rasmussen and V. Thiele; Secretary, Mrs. .5. Bogle; Treasurer, Mrs. D. Aumann.
Lutheran ^Brotkerkood
At a meeting of Lutheran laymen held on 20th June, 1954, a motion "That a Brotherhood be founded in association with the Lutheran Brotherhood of Australia" was carried unanimously. The previous meeting, called by Pastor Scherer, had deferred the decision to give time for consideration of the constitution.
With the first President, Ed. Aumann, at the helm, the new association got away to a good start, and although the numbers were few at times, the spirit of informality and friendliness always made the meetings enjoyable. Seed-time and harvest must always affect attendances to some extent in rural areas.
A wide variety of subjects have been covered by the various speakers; three of the most notable from local brethren were:—A Travelogue from Paul Keppler, on his tour abroad to Europe; a talk and film evening given by Ed. Rieschieck on his work at Haast's Bluff; and movie films on the Victorian coastline by Paul Fisch. Visits by
outside speakers, clergy and laymen, were also very enjoyable. Regular sessions of Bible study, conducted by both Pastor Scherer and Pastor Pech, sometimes illustrated by film strips, were found most helpful.
Although some talks on Stewardship had been introduced into the programme as early as August, 1955, perhaps the highlight of our Brotherhood was reached in association with Pastor David Fetter, B.A., the Consultant on Evangelism and Stewardship, who came to the Lutheran Church in Australia from the American Lutheran Church under the auspices of the Lutheran World Federation. On the several occasions we were privileged to hear him, this gifted speaker unfolded his subject with infinite skill and patience. We believe that the impact of his message will stay with us for many a year and urge us on to more consecrated living, giving and serving in the Church.
The Brotherhood now meets under the Presidency of V. Aumann, and still . endeavours to bind men of the Church together for Christian fellowship and mutual advancement; it is always ready to welcome new members.
OFFICIALS, 1958
Standing: Lay Readers P. Keppler, N.
Semmler, H. Aumann and Pastor H. Pech.
Sitting: Church Committee, E. A. Aumann, D. Bogle, E. Thiele, R. Soderlund, V. Aumann.
Inset: E.
Rieschieck.
^/te Sunday ^School
The Sunday School of the Lutheran Church, Doncaster, was founded in 1878 by Pastor Schramm with an enrolment of fifty-one children, and a staff of six teachers. As only 32 children were attending the day school we see thdt a Sunday School was started in order to give all the children of the congregation religious instruction; an added reason was to train the children in the habit of Sunday worship and regular church attendance. For the same purpose regular children's services have been held in recent years.
Over the years enrolments have varied greatly, the highest being 65 children in 1865 and the lowest 22 in 1914 and 1915. The latter figures indicate.the difficulty experienced by the congregation in holding its children while German only was used as the medium of instruction. The change to the use of English in 1915 was a measure long overdue. . In 1933 42 children were enrolled which is also the number attending at present. We hope that as the population around Doncaster grows the congregation will meet the challenge of welcoming the children of newcomers into the fellowship of its Church and Sunday School life. Already one migrant girl is attending and she is the forerunner of many who will need our help in the near future.
The following were on the original Sunday School staff:—Gottfried Thiele, Wilhelm Zander, August Reiche, Henry Thiele, Anna Zander and Wilhelm Zander, junior. These have been followed by a succession of devoted
teachers, who by their example and precept have nurtured the little ones in the Faith and so brought them forward to the pastor for preparation for Confirmation. As generation has followed generation, so there has never been any lack of teachers to carry on this work. The following have supervised the work of the Sunday School:— Mr. Henry Thiele, Mr. August Aumann, Mr. L. Soderlund and Mr. Paul Keppler, the present superintendent. Many will be known to you who have served as teachers for longer or shorter periods. The full staff at present consists of the following:—Mr. P. Keppler, Miss J. Aumann, Mrs. V. Aumann and Misses M. Soderlund, R. Keppler, B. Aumann, and Pastor.
The importance of teaching aids has been recognised and their number has been gradually increased—picture charts, blackboards, a sand tray and flannelgraph are being used to add interest and appeal and to press home the aim of each lesson to the children. Of equal importance are aids for the teachers in preparing the lessons and thankful use is made of outlines and suggestions in the Teacher's Guide published by the Church for all Sunday School teachers. Limited use has been made of film strips, a very valuable aid indeed, but to build up a library involves considerable expense.
In 1953 a library of books was started which is very popular with the children; many books contain Bible stories told from a different angle, or provide a background of knowledge which makes the lessons more meaningful to the children. Actually there was a library very early in the history of the Sunday School and it was well used, too, judging by the record books.
The church records tell of Christmas festivals for the children and to this day special Christmas services are held for the children and by the children—a complete programme built around a theme being learnt and presented by them. Since 1952 Christmas concerts have also been held, usually about five weeks before Christmas, teachers and children working hard to produce the items which are much appreciated by parents and friends.
Having a school hymn for the year, to be sung whenever the time was appropriate, has been tried. In 1957 the song chosen was "Hushed was the- Evening Hymn."
It has been the custom to donate part of the children's weekly offerings to the Missions of our Church. Last year an amount of £10 was donated to the Gaubin Native Hospital in New Guinea and on a recent Sunday the children had the pleasure to see pictures of the work done at this hospital, and have the medical missionary who runs it speak to them himself. Their gift had helped to buy a scales for the infant welfare clinic.
So in many ways the Sunday School tries to train the children of the church, in the ways of discipleship, in the habit of worship and in the joy of sharing with others their love and trust for Jesus by giving their offerings to help the work of missions.
We trust that as we enter the second century our Sunday School may increase in numbers of children who are eager to learn, and in teachers who are willing and able to teach them. We trust that the congregation may show increased interest and be willing to provide still better aids and facilities—and even school rooms as the need for them grows. God bless the Sunday School, the congregation of the next generation!
t^utkercm ^Society
The first youth organisation within the congregation to see the light of day was the Lutheran Endeavour Society, started during PastorFehlberg's ministry. On, 22nd July, 1915, it was put onrecord: "We have decided to form a Lutheran Endeavour Society." According to the rules, that were immediately drawn up, the fees were to be sixpence per month.
The subjects chosen for discussion appear to us to be somewhat heavy, but the youth of that day evidently enjoyed them and came to the next meeting for more. Meetings were held once a week during the winter months —provided the weather was not too wet and the roads impassable. Meetings were held in the schbol-room or in the manse, but later, when the Sunday School Hall was completed, it was used for this purpose.
There appear to be breaks in the meetings, or perhaps minutes were not recorded; however, there is a record of a picnic down the bay to Mornington on New Year's Day, 1922, being enjoyed by all; also of a trip by bicycle to the Grampians made by three young hearties who lived to tell the tale at the next meeting.
In 1922 the Youth bought for £7 a ne,w carpet to place around the altar in the church.
Four members attended the Youth Rally, held in Dim-boola, in 1929, and brought back a photographic record to prove it.
We find the Youth holding a concert in the Athenaeum Hall in 1930, to aid unemployment relief; and they paid £2 for the foundation-stone of the new hall.
TRUSTEES, 1958 Standing: W. Blobel, F. Rieschieck. Sitting: E. A. Aumann, V. Aumann, W. Rieschieck.
LADIES' GUILD
Sitting: R. Soderlund, D. Aumann, E. Pech, S. Bogle, F. Rasmussen, V. Thiele.
1st Row: A. Aumann, C. Fromhold, A. Blobel, B. Rieschieck, G. Reeves, G. Aumann.
2nd Row: A. Aumann, D. Aumann, D. Semmler, M. Rieschieck, I. Aumann, A. Thiele.
3rd Row: R. Beavis, L. Aumann, A.
Thiele, R. Keppler, I. Rieschieck. 4th Row: P. Soderlund, J. Aumann, L. Aumann.
These are only small things perhaps, but they suffice to show that the Lutheran Youth Society has a vigorous and vital background. Meeting in the Hall or in private homes the Society provides a very necessary part in the Church's life. If provides a common plane where youth speaks to youth, where they can discuss their problems, participate in good, wholesome fun, improve each other's outlook, learn to live together amicably and to worship together in spirit and in truth.
Meetings are now held once a month throughout the year. They are opened, usually by Pastor, with the singing of a hymn, a Bible reading and prayer. After business is dealt with the topic for the evening is taken. These may vary from the viewing of travel films and slides to giving impromptu speeches or a discussion on church doctrines or the topic may be dispensed with in favour of a games evening. Visiting speakers are engaged from time to time to address us on their work or hobby. Meetings usually end informally with supper.
Once a fortnight Badminton is played in the Church Hall and much pleasure and many bruises are derived from these evenings.
Office-bearers for 1958 are:—President, Harold
Aumann; Secretary, Christel Bogle; Treasurer, Frank Noel-ker. These, plus yerena Fisch and Ian Fromhold, make up the entertainment committee.
As our congregation advances to claim the promise of the next century the Youth of today will be in the fore-
front and will need our support and prayers. We look to them to build a strong church, given to unstinting service to the Lord in. the land which welcomed our Fathers, which is our Native. land', and which we would win for Christ.
€ ariy <~PaMorA
(Continued from page 5)
these have been continued with profit to the present time. He was also instrumental in increasing the number of times Holy Communion was. celebrated from four to eight times per year; familywise communing was also b6gun. Title deeds of the congregation that had gone astray were located after much searching, and a new constitution was drafted and finally accepted in November, 1953. A Renovations Committee was also elected to go into the matter of altering the interior of the church. Pastor Scherer also started a Brotherhood within the congregation.
He continued to serve the Melbourne and Tinamba congregations, started by Pastor Simpfendorfer, adding preaching centres at Trafalgar and Croydon. Before resigning his pastorate in November, 1954, to return to the service of the Finke River Mission, he saw the St. Mark's congregation well established in the fine church erected in East Melbourne by the Victoria District of the U.E.L.C.A.
BROTHERHOOD
Standing: R. Soderlund, A. Aumann, N. Semmler, L. Soderlund.
Sitting: R. Thiele, E. Thiele, Pastor H. Pech, E. A. Aumann, V. Aumann.
■Q,lp'docfu
The first hundred years of Trinity Lutheran Congregation, Doncaster, are now a part of history; they are there to look back on, reflect upon, learn from; and then facing full square into the future it is. for us to write the next chapter of the unfinished history of this church and its members.
What will the future bring? It will bring change. Some changes will come without we being asked whether we would like it that way or not. Doncaster is already becoming a suburb and so are surrounding areas where our members live. Some have already been compelled to sell their properties and buy others further out. Others are saying to themselves: The writing is on the wall. Move we will have to; it is only a matter of deciding how soon and where to?
There is the further question: From how far out can we keep up our connections with the Home Congregation? And not only we, but our children also? Will not some of us have to look for another Church Home? Will we be able to form new groups among ourselves further out?
t
Will it mean that some of us will have to come together, perhaps at Croydon, perhaps at Scoresby, and ask ourselves the same question that our fathers had to face 100 years ago: Shall we build a church?
And what of the membership here at Doncaster? Will it decline through families moving away as orchards are cleared and houses spring up where fruit trees stood?
These are questions to be faced and pondered seriously. These are questions to be acted upon after prayerfully seeking God's guidance. The questions facing the church here in this area and the questions facing families who move further out, should, however, not be considered pessimistically. Out of every seeming setback Christian men and women—and Christian families—can with the courage born of their faith in the triune God reap blessing and profit. From experiences in his family, and in pastoral leadership, and from experiences of God's guidance the writer of this epilogue is absolutely certain of it. It is true that without the guidance and support of Christ, the Lord of the Church—and of this congregation too—
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Seated: R. Soderlund, R. Pech, A. Soder-lund, K. Soderlund, B. Soderlund, R. Fisch, M. Pech, J. Fromhold, M. Pech. 1st Row: Miss M. Soderlund, R. Reeves, J. Pech, L. Soderlund, K. Fromhold, A. Reeves, R. Reeves, R. Schultz, D. Aumann, M. Thiele.
2pd Row: Pastor H. Pech, Miss B. Aumann, Miss R. Keppler, H. Schaper, M. Bogle, D. Semmler, D. Soderlund, J. Soderlund, P. Keppler, Miss J. Aumann, L. Aumann, Mrs. V. Aumann. 3rd Row: N. Rieschicck, S. Hillhouse, J. Aumann, D. Hillhouse, O. Thiele, B. Schultz, Mr. P. Keppler.
4th Row: L. Rieschieck, L. Aumann, B. Aumann, R. Fisch, J. Semmler.
we cannot succeed. But with Him we can do much and shall do all that is necessary to assure the future of this congregation and any daughter congregations that might be founded in the future.
This congregation has the opportunity at the present time to renew its youth like the eagle's, and to grow in numbers and in inner spiritual strength. A modest beginning has ben made; with God's help we can do better this year and next year. However, it appears to me that there is one weighty condition to be met if there shall be continuing growth and progress. This condition is the acceptance of a programme of Evangelism and Stewardship and the readiness to begin now. Given this readiness and given an honest attempt to demonstrate our faith by love—in Evangelism, by sacrifice—through proportionate giving, and by personal service according to our talents.
then the triune God Himself will underwrite the growth and progress of this congregation.
What aims shall we set before us?
To become a self-supporting parish within two years.
To expand our Sunday School work and to provide adequately equipped rooms for its classes.
To establish a Visitation Evangelism Committee.
To increase our giving for the synodical programme of the U.E.L.C.A.
In home and church to "grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ." To Him be the Glory!
PRESENT OFFICE-BEARERS OF THE CONGREGATION—
Pastor: H. Pech, B.A. Secretary: W. R. Soderlund. Treasurer: D. C. J. Bogle.
Summary o/ <~Ylotable ‘Abated & ^-[appening6
1853—First Lutherans settle at Doncaster, calling it Breslau.
1856— One elder attends first synod of Ev. Luth. Church of Victoria. The settlement now" called Waldau.
1857— One elder and three delegates from Waldau attend 2nd synod.
1858— 30th April: 18 settlers decide to build a church. 26th December: Pastor Goethe dedicates first church (£48).
1860—Founding of Day School. Teacher: Max Schramm. Christmas festival for children in new church..
1864—School moved to Doncaster Hill, Main Road.
1867— School taken over as_ State School. Teacher: Max Schramm. Ministry of Pastor Goethe ends.
1868- 76—Ministry of Pastor Herlitz.
1876—Max Schramm ordained and inducted as Pastor of Doncaster congregation. Pastor Schramm's Ministry—1876-1907. Doncaster now independent parish. New Day School started, 32 pupils; teacher, Pastor Schramm.
1892—21st April: New Church dedicated by Pastor Herlitz (£1,303).
1893 & 1899—Synod holds Mission Festivals at Doncaster.
1908- 12—Ministry of Pastor Held.
1909— Erection of Manse (£750).
1912-15—Ministry of Pastor Hegelau.
1915-20—Ministry of Pastor Fehlberg.
1915— First use of English for Divine Services, Sunday School and Minutes of Congregational Meetings. Lutheran Endeavour Society founded; later called Lutheran Youth Society.
1916— Electric light installed in Church and Manse.
FIRST WORD WAR—Five men from the Congregation enlisted in the army.
1917— New organ purchased (£175).
1920-47—Ministry of Pastor Simpfendorfer.
YOUTH SOCIETY
Seated: M. Soderlund, S. Fisch, R.
Keppler, B. Aumann, H. Semmler. 1st Row: L. Aumann, J. Aumann, L. Riescheick, M. Rasmussen, L. Kuhne, C. Fisch, C. Bogle, S. Schey, Pastor H. Pech.
2nd Row: G. Beavis, R. Fisch, B. Aumann, M‘. Schaper, F. Noelker, F. Beavis, M. Schey.
1921;—The Ladies' Missionary Band founded; later called Ladies' Guild.
1928— Australian Lutheran Hymn Books introduced.
1929— Repairs and Renovations to Church and Manse.
1932— Church Hall erected (£645).
1933— Seventy-fifth Anniversary celebrated; souvenir booklet published.
1940—Motor driven organ blower installed.
SECOND WORLD WAR—Five men enlisted in Army and Air Force.
1948-54—Ministry of Pastor Scherer.
1953— Ladies attend Annual Meeting for first time. Have right to vote. Adoption of new Constitution.
1954- 58—Improvements and Renovations carried out (over
£2,000).
1954 __Lutheran Brotherhood founded. Hot water service
installed in Manse, also washing machine.
1955 _Pastor Ruwoldt was Relieving Pastor for three
months. Induction of Pastor Pech, 15th May, by President J. Stolz.
1957— 26th May: Re-dedication of altered sanctuary; dedication of new furnishing's.
September-October: Four Weeks' Parish Development Programme by Pastor David Fetter.
6th October: Public Service in Athenaeum (Pastor Fetter, speaker).
1958— Centenary Celebrations of Trinity Lutheran Congregation, Doncaster.
30th April: Commemorative Service.
2nd May: Concert and Social Evening in Athenaeum.
4th May: Special Services at Old Church Site, Present Church and Athenaeum.
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