HOME Ground Church in Westville has always been passionate about young people. That passion will be celebrated this weekend at their 60th anniversary. On Friday, there will be a carnival and market held in conjunction with the Church Alliance for Social Transformation (CAST) Christmas Market fundraiser, and on Sunday there will be celebration services.
Reverend John Benn said the church was started after the need for it was recognised due to the growing suburb.
“It started as a Bible club in 1946 – a project of love formed by three families: the Munros, the Harlands and the Mitchells. The church soon grew to include a Sunday School, Mothers’ Meetings, SCAs, Youth and Bible Studies,” said Benn.
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On December 5, 1963, 58 people signed a document as founding members of what was known then as the Highway Baptist Church.
“It later became known as the Westville Baptist Church. The church first met in the Town Hall, then moved to the MOTH hall with the vision to one day have our own church building.”
On May 25, 1968, the church celebrated the opening of their first premises on Church Road.
“Soon, congregants outgrew this building, and in 2001, they walked across the road to their current home. We have been involved in deeply impacting and uplifting our local community, and we aim to only reach more as we believe this is our Home Ground.”
Benn, who has been the pastor at the church for the past 14 years, said they work regularly with the youth and children.
“The church has made many sacrifices over the years, and many people have been involved in its growth. A church is never about one person.”
He said CAST has been one of their successful programmes.
“Through the alliance, we partner with other churches to help meet the social needs of the people.”
The church has also recently started a recovery programme for people struggling with addiction. The pastor said they have also recently opened another campus in Pinetown.
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“We work with other Westville churches to empower and uplift more underprivileged people. Working with other churches has always been important to us. I can proudly say, the churches in Westville work incredibly well together.
He added that they are happy with one of their biggest changes: becoming a multicultural church.
“A church should reflect its community. We are happy to reach this milestone, and we hope to continue serving the community for at least another 60 years and more,” said Benn
Supporting the Just Leaders Programme
The celebrations and market will be held on Friday, December 1, from 17:00 to 21:00, and Saturday, December 2, from 08:00 to 14:00. They will be held at 2 Church Place, Westville.
The funds raised from the event will go towards supporting the Just Leaders programme aimed at training young leaders who are passionate about leading people, churches and communities towards social justice.
“Bring your family and friends along to find the perfect gifts for loved ones, and tuck into some delicious food. Children are sure to have a ball at the carnival on Friday night! Small business owners are encouraged to take advantage of this awesome opportunity to gain exposure and boost product sales,” said CAST communications officer Rolan Gulston.
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