The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held two special community events over the weekend to mark the opening and dedication of its new chapel on the corner of Army and Murphy Roads, Pakenham.
Prior to their occupation of the new building, members and friends of the Church had met for 12 years in a modified childcare centre opposite Pakenham Consolidated School.
On Saturday 13 December, the Chapel Open Day warmly welcomed local government councillors Jack Kowarzik and Trudi Paton, Cardinia Interfaith Network representatives, and residents who toured the new meetinghouse between 10am and 1pm.
Guided by local Church members, visitors explored the building’s various rooms and learned about different Church organisations: the Primary program for children, Youth programs for those aged 11 to 18 years, a women’s organisation called the Relief Society, and Elders Quorum for men who wish to provide service at Church and in their wider community.
Visitors also discovered how the various programs help people come closer to Jesus Christ and emulate His virtues. The day offered an opportunity for open discussion, connection, and a deeper understanding of how each group contributes to the spiritual and social life of the congregation.
Local Church leader President Matthew Phillips said that the past weekend’s events reflected the purpose of the new meetinghouse. “This chapel will not only help us draw nearer to Jesus Christ but also bless the wider community. Through worship, service, and our self-reliance programs, we hope to strengthen individuals and families and encourage faith and resilience in everyday life,” he said.
The Pakenham congregation leader, Bishop Aaron Skipwith commented, “It’s really special to see so many people here. We’re grateful to our local community and want to contribute more to it. The Church’s self-reliance initiative offers workshops and mentoring in areas such as personal finance, education, and employment pathways, helping participants set goals and gain practical skills to improve their circumstances and better serve others.” These workshops are open to the wider community.
The following afternoon, Sunday, 14 December, members and friends united for the official Chapel Dedication from 2pm to 3pm. Elder Damon Page of the Church presided and offered the dedicatory prayer, formally setting the building apart as a house of worship and service.
These events marked a significant milestone for the growing Pakenham congregation and reflected the Church’s ongoing commitment to fostering faith, family, and community within the Cardinia region.
Regular meetings are on Sundays at 10am and at various times during the week. All welcome. For further details, please consult: https://pacific.churchofjesuschrist.org/.
