The inaugural Seventh-day Adventist Church, believed to have originated in the late 1940s, reached completion during the early 1950s. This sacred space, integral to the community, encompassed a back room that evolved into the inaugural church school. Notably, Viv Will assumed the role of the first teacher in this educational venture, later marking a significant chapter by marrying Graeme Will in 1958. Their union added a familial dimension to the foundations of faith and learning within the church's history.
Further research is being sourced in regards to the first church which now resides as the church hall for activities, potluck lunches and events held in that area. The church hall as we know today still looks the same as it did in the 1950's, the old font where baptisms were held has now been covered with floor boards to match the rest of the flooring and if you were told, you would not even realise the now church hall was once a church. The very first school room became the Sabbath school room for Kindergaten and Primary school for many years, however today it is now the room where the Youth reside.
First Rotorua SDA Church
Church Completed
Our Aging Church
Our Current Church
As the number of believers swelled within our church, it became imperative to extend our sanctuary, welcoming new families and those finding solace in Christ. The children who once witnessed their parents and grandparents lay the foundations of our inaugural church now took on the role of assisting or builders for its expansion.
Among the dedicated individuals who played pivotal roles in erecting the new church were Nelson Haora, Fred Gill, Gordon McLean, Kene Passione, and Royce McDonald, to name but a few. Their collective efforts and commitment stand as a testament to the collaborative spirit that shaped the growth of our cherished congregation.
On the 08 December, 1973, a momentous occasion unfolded with the official dedication and opening of the extended church—a joyous celebration marking a new chapter in our spiritual journey. 50years later on the 09 December 2023 a service was held to commerate the dedication of the church, please click here to watch the service "live".
A debt of gratitude is owed to Nelson and Linda Haora, whose photographs vividly capture the various stages of the building process from May to October in 1972. These images serve as a visual chronicle of the dedication and hard work invested in the transformation of our church.
Church 50th Anniversary
Our current church was dedicated on the 08 December 1973 - on the 09 December we commerated with the 50th Year Anniversary taking us back in history.
