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From 1957 to 2024 the Prospect Chapel in Adelaide, Australia, was a hub of faith and fellowship for all who attended worship services and other activities in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Elder Craig Raeside, Area Seventy (regional leader) for the Church of Jesus Christ, addressed members of the Church at a farewell program marking the closure of the chapel. Elder Raeside said, “Many of us are second-generation members, and the faith passed down to us is something we continue in every step we take. The faith of those before us is a guiding light for future generations.”
“It’s not the building; it’s what happened to us while we worshiped and served together in this building, and that’s what we’ll take with us. It ‘s more than bricks and mortar; the foundation of this chapel is in it’s families and the lives touched, through the ordinances and covenants we’ve made,” Elder Raeside said.
In a video shared at the farewell program, members who attended church meetings in the building reflected on fond memories and events. In 1957, fundraising took place with entertainment, cakes, and auctions to pay for the building of the chapel.
Gordon Thackray, a long-time member of the congregation, said, “The ward was like a family. It was warm and friendly. And we enjoyed going there on Sunday, seeing old friends and acquaintances, all the children and the youth. Everyone seemed to get on with each other. There was love and harmony within the walls of the Prospect Chapel.”
In concluding his remarks, Elder Raeside commented, “This chapel is a foundation built upon shared faith and love, and it has made a lasting difference in our lives. Just like a house is not a home, this building is more than just a structure – it’s what happened to us here that matters.”