The completion of the ceiling project at the Bunbury Aboriginal Christian Fellowship in Western Australia has been an example of real partnership in action. The process has shown the members of the church and the local community that through God anything is possible.
Many Aboriginal Fellowships do not have the blessing of owning their own church or even worshipping in one. Groups meet in houses or gather in shared spaces like community halls and schools. “Our Fellowship started off the same way,” Pastor Greg Little, of Bunbury Aboriginal Christian Fellowship, reflected. “To have a church of our own is a true blessing to our community.”
The church building was purchased in 2005 with the support of Churches of Christ and Australian Churches of Christ Indigenous Ministries (ACCIM). Today ACCIM is now Indigenous Ministries Australia (IMA), a program area of GMP. Over the past years, the building has required various maintenance projects, and most recently the entire ceiling was replaced. The Bunbury Fellowship are now again meeting for morning and evening services in their own building. With a new ceiling!
A local Noongar man in the community was approached by the church to paint the ceiling. He painted the ceiling over a weekend with two co-workers. Now, his two daughters and their children attend the Bunbury church services every Sunday! “We praise the Lord every time we see his family and are reminded how amazing our God is,” Greg said.
Since the ceiling repairs have been completed, the congregation continues to be motivated to improve the facilities. “It has led us to fundraise for new carpets and an industrial oven,” said Greg.
The renovations of the ceiling taught Greg a valuable lesson in patience and faith. “Sometimes we try to do things in our own strength and time, and we know that God's timing is the key.”
Bunbury Fellowship is thankful for your support. “We praise the Lord for generous offerings and funding; support that has enabled the completion of all repairs,” Greg said with gratitude. The church members also have appreciated all the support and prayers in working towards the renovations.