General News
6 March, 2026
We Are One in the Spirit
40th Anniversary of the Southern Mallee Co-Operative Parish (1986-2026).
On February 16, 1986, the Southern Mallee Co-Operative Parish was formed, with the joining into one church of the Baptist and Uniting Churches in Rainbow and Hopetoun.
Brainchild of Uniting Church Minister, Rev Brian Morgan and Rev Garry Lock of the Baptist Union, together the folk came together to realise a dream that we are one faith, one church.
And the Southern Mallee Co_-Operative Parish was born.
To recognise this special milestone, the Rainbow and Hopetoun congregations will join together in a service of worship on Sunday, March 22 at 10.30am in the church in King Street, Rainbow.
This will be followed by a shared luncheon, stories and sharing of milestones and memories.
Among people returning to share together are founding ministers, Garry Lock and Brian Morgan and Baptist Pastors, Ken Westwood and Arthur Broughton.
Mrs Lois Grigg, an original member hopes to be present and there are a number of current members of the congregations who were there ‘in the beginning.’
As well as various contributions in the service, it is hoped that people will have stories to share over lunch.
There are many people wo attended the SMCP over the last 40 years and it is hoped that as many as possible will return for this joyous occasion.
Enquiries can be directed to Rev Susan Pearse on 0403 760 328.