Merger set to close The Patch church

THE Patch Church of Christ is moving towards greener pastures next year amalgamating with Monbulk Uniting Church.
The two churches will merge and open at the Monbulk Uniting Church’s current location on the corner of Moxhams and David Hill Roads.
Spokeswoman for the project steering committee Rosemary Russell said in a historic move, the congregation of both churches had voted to join forces to create a new inter-denominational church in Monbulk.
Mrs Russell said the first service of the new church was set for March next year.
Parishioner of The Patch Church of Christ, Jim McPhee said it would be a challenge building up a new church, but financially there was no way around it.
Mr McPhee said there were a number of reasons that the decision was made to amalgamate the two churches.
He said a few people had left The Patch Church and that numbers had dwindled to about 30 people, whereas the church once had up to 60 members.
Mr McPhee said the building located adjacent to the church, which used to be the Minister’s residence, is now rented out and that it costs the church a considerable amount to maintain both the chapel and the residence.
He said as a result of the amalgamation The Patch church would be able to operate as a church without the constant worry that there was not enough money in the kitty to pay for all the maintenance that was required.
Mrs Russell said the new church would not only provide a place to worship God, but that it was also anticipated to provide after school care.
Mr McPhee said the Monbulk Care Network an outreach branch of The Patch Church of Christ would continue.
The MCN provides counselling services such as marriage and general support, for members of the church.
Following the amalgamation it is expected that The Patch church would be sold.