Bell shifts from ship to church

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 473, 16 February 1993, Page 3

Bell shifts from ship to church

The sounding of a ship's bell on Wednesday heralded the start of a new life of worship for an old church recently re-sited in Waiouru. The Garrison Church of St Mark, formerly St Mark's Church of Ongarue, was consecrated at a dedication service attended by Army and Naval personnel, Church dignitaries and invited guests. The bell - a replica of that belonging to HMNZS Irirangi which ceases operations in Waiouru this year, will eventually reside within a lychgate to be constructed over the entrance path to the church. The building was purchased by the New Zealand Army in May last year, with funds raised from within the Waiouru community and replaces St George's Church that was destroyed by fire in 1988. The church was transported in two pieces, with the roof arriving before the main structure. Commander ATG,

Colonel Clive Sinclair, praised the efforts of the Waiouru community over the past six years. "It is thus a tribute to the people of Waiouru who have made this

Garrison Church possible and donated it to the New Zealand Army as a fitting place of worship, heritage and communion for the people of this community of all

denominations", he said. A commemorative plaque in St Mark's foyer was unveiled by the Commander, Support Command, Brigadier Maurice Dodson.

Local craftspeople have restored the church to its former glory, a focal point being a large feature window, with panoramic views of Mt Ruapehu.