The building adjacent to a cabinetmaker and plumbing business will be the community’s long-term worship building.
RCF pastor Anne Strate is delighted with plans for the new building.
“We are looking forward to meeting for worship in a brand new building,” she said.
Mrs Strate and her husband, James have owned lots 68 and 70 since 1999 and sold lot 70 to nearby Rochester Veterinary Service in October 2023.
The vet business will take over the more significant site with the enormous building, while the vacant land at 68 Lowry St will be the new home of the RCF.
“Before the 2022 floods, the vets approached us to see if we would sell them the lot located at 70 Lowry St. After nine months, we agreed to sell them the land,” Mrs Strate said.
“The vets need a larger building for their business, while we only need a smaller one.”
Fellow parishioner Frank Harrison of Rochester eagerly awaits the church being built.
“The congregation looks forward to the new church where we can gather together and pray,” Mr Harrison said.
“It will also be a place where the wider community can meet.”
A report titled Proposed place of assembly (church) was submitted to council by Rochester-based business Wilplan’s Leigh Wilson.
“The Rochester Christian Fellowship Incorporated intends to use the site as a place of assembly, with the primary use as a place of worship (church),” Mr Wilson said.
“Since 1997, the RCF has been located at 70 Lowry St (adjacent lot) for assembly and meetings associated with the proper function of their Christian organisation.”
If the plans are approved, Rochester-based business Southern Cross will build the new church.
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