Former minister “saddened” by church battle

Former Pine Rivers Uniting Church Minister Barry Allen has spoken of “great sadness” at moves to take the land it has stood on for more than 100 years.

The State Government has told the Uniting Church of Australia, Queensland Synod, it plans to compulsorily acquire the site at 30 Narangba Road.

A Department of Education spokesperson says the Kallangur site is for a new special school - though the church has a right to object and claim compensation.

But Barry, now retired, says: “The value of the site cannot be measured simply in bricks and mortar. It is measured in the lives touched and strengthened over many decades.

“I fully acknowledge the need for new educational facilities in our rapidly growing region. Schools play a vital role in our community and deserve strong support.

“However, it is difficult to understand why a church complex that has faithfully served the community for 30 years should be removed when there appears to be a genuine opportunity for constructive dialogue about alternatives.

“What saddens me most is the potential loss of a place built with such hope, faith and vision.

“Once destroyed, 30 years of community history, relationships and ministry cannot simply be recreated elsewhere.

“My heart’s in this place. I know all the blood, sweat and tears which have gone into it. As soon as I heard what was going to happen I came here and any help I can be … count me in.

“My hope is a solution can be found that allows the educational needs of the region and ongoing ministry and community service of Pine Rivers Uniting Church to continue side by side.”

The Uniting Church of Australia, Queensland Synod has appealed against the proposed acquisition and is awaiting a decision.

Councillor Yvonne Barlow (Div 7) presented a 61-signature petition to Moreton Bay City Council last month and said: “All I can do is plead for the church.”

Barry was minister of Pine Rivers Uniting Church Parish for 17 years, during which time it amalgamated three churches - in Strathpine, Kallangur and Lawnton - into one.

Work started on the current building in 1995 using five acres of donated land and the first section opened in January 1996.

The congregation grew to around 450 worshippers over three services on Sundays, three full-time staff, four casuals and many volunteers.

Barry retired in 2007 but still lives locally and knows “first hand the vision, commitment and sacrifice” that went into creating the ministry centre.

“Many people gave generously of their time, skills and resources to make that vision a reality,” he said.

“Volunteers worked tirelessly, families made sacrifices, and church members invested in a facility they hoped would serve future generations.

“Over the past 30 years the church has provided a place of worship, community connection, support for families, care for vulnerable people, and programs for children and young people.

“It has partnerships with organisations serving the broader community and with (Pastor) Jason here building the congregation up, it has a good future … on this site.”