Local church finds new home after fire

A NEW chapter has begun for the Bellarine Anglican Parish, which has found a new home after the St Paul’s Anglican Church was destroyed by fire at last year.

Parishioners and the St Leonards community were able to come together over Easter as they celebrated Jesus’ death and resurrection in a new location.

Reverend David Willsher acknowledged the new space was very different to the congregation they had in the past, but it was an exciting new way to gather.

“As Jesus was raised to new life after three days, we celebrate meeting in a new building proving there is hope after disaster,” he said.

“Every disaster is an opportunity to demonstrate how great our God is in adversity.”

The Catholic Church also played a role in getting the St Paul’s congregation into their new home and were quick to provide help and hospitality following the fire.

Reverend Willsher expressed his gratitude for the kindness and support of Father Raymond and the Catholic Congregation.

The almost 110-year old St Anglican Church building and its adjoining hall were significantly damaged by the fire in November 2024.

The hall has since been demolished.

Following a police investigation into the blaze, four youths were charged with arson.

St Paul’s Anglican Church now meet in a new shop front at 2 Bluff Road, St Leonards.