Thanksgiving and Dedication Service for Disability Housing at St John’s Lutheran Church

On Sunday, 8th September, St John’s Lutheran Church in Tea Tree Gully celebrated a special service of Thanksgiving and Disability Housing Dedication. This milestone marked the completion of three new residences alongside the church property, specifically built to support those living with disabilities.

The journey began in 2015 when the people of St John’s started prayerfully considering the best use for the surplus land facing Chinner Street. After much discernment, the congregation unanimously resolved in January 2022 to build three individual houses dedicated to providing homes for those with disabilities. While challenges arose along the way, the congregation remained steadfast, trusting in God’s guidance to fulfill our Ministry and Mission objectives.

Throughout the process, our congregation demonstrated incredible support through financial contributions and prayer. With the assistance of various external agencies, including Urban 3 builders, Cornerstone, TTG Council, LLL, the SA-NT District, and DCC, we were able to bring this vision to life. The three homes will soon house six residents, along with their carers, who will benefit from their proximity to a major shopping center and accessible bus routes.

This project was made possible through collaboration with Lutheran Disability Services (LDS) and the Lutheran Laypeople’s League (LLL), leveraging the NDIS Special Disability Accommodation scheme. Each of the three houses features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious kitchen, living, and dining area designed for comfort and accessibility.

The dedication service was a joyous occasion, attended by members of our congregation, four of our new residents and their carers, as well as their families. We were also honored to welcome distinguished guests, including Mr. Tony Zappia MP, Federal Member for Makin; Olivia Savvas MP, State Member for Newland; and Mayor Marijka Ryan, Mayor of Tea Tree Gully. Additionally, we were joined by Angela Rogers, Administrator for the SA-NT District; Mr. Michael Kromwyk, CEO of Lutheran Disability Services; and Mr. Scott Ross and Mr. Jason Phelan from the Lutheran Laypeople’s League.

After the dedication service, we gathered for a fellowship lunch in our church hall, generously sponsored by the LLL and lovingly prepared by members of St John’s.

We pray that the new residents will feel a warm welcome into the St John’s family and that meaningful relationships will blossom between them and our congregation. May these homes be a blessing to their occupants, a testament to God’s love and grace, and a reflection of our church’s commitment to serving our community.