141 years after being built, and 80 years and one week after being first consecrated (that is a separate story) Bishop for the Riverina Don Kirk undertook the solemn duty of deconsecrating St James Church. The Bishop was accompanied by his wife Camryn, the Rev. Helen Ferguson, the last Warden of the Church, Lynne Howard, Graeme and Julie Leckie and several parishioners from the Broken Hill Church.
The Bishops’ address
We who are gathered here know that this Church of St. James’ Wilcannia which has been consecrated and set apart for the ministry of God’s holy Word and Sacraments, will no longer be used in this way. To many of you this building has been hallowed by cherished memories, and we know that some will suffer a sense of loss at it not being replaced at this time. We pray that they will be comforted by the knowledge that the presence of God is not tied to any place or building. It is the intention of the Diocese that the congregation which worshipped here will not be deprived of the ministry of Word or Sacrament but will continue to receive Anglican ministry within the Parish of Broken Hill and the far west.
“The sentence of consecration has been in effect until this present date. I, Donald, by divine permission, Bishop of Riverina, do hereby revoke the said sentence issued by my predecessor and do remit this building and all objects remaining in it to any lawful and reputable use according to the laws of this land. This building, having now been declared deconsecrated, I declare to be no longer subject to my canonical jurisdiction This declaration which is publicly proclaimed before witnesses gathered at the said building is given under my hand and seal of the Diocese of the Riverina this day the first of July in the year of our Lord 2024.”
As the building will be going to auction on the 24th July, there had to be decisions made on church fittings and furniture, some of which had been donated over the years by parishioners.
A couple of items will be taken to St Mary’s at White Cliffs, others stored locally or in Broken Hill, other pieces will be sold.
This article appeared in the Wilcannia News, July 2024.
