Lights on at Black Mountain

The Tabernacle will remain illuminated throughout December. All are welcome to drive by and enjoy the display at 857 Black Mountain Road, Black Mountain.
10th Dec 2024

The historic Black Mountain Baptist Tabernacle came alive with festive spirit on Saturday, December 7th. For the first time in over four years, the cherished landmark held a service attracting upwards of 70 community members to the Christmas celebration, including Councillor Eli Imad.
The family-friendly event was promoted by Railene Turner, who funded the lighting of the church. Railene wanted to light up the little church to bring a bit of joy to people as they drive by and hopefully remind people of the reason for the season.
Attendees enjoyed a tasty BBQ picnic hosted by the Armidale District Baptist Church and a Christmas-themed service led by Associate Pastor Peter Holford.
Former local Clive Stannard, whose father was a lay preacher at the Church during the 1930s, gave a blessing for the community.
The lighting project was approved by the Armidale District Baptist Church Committee and supported by its Secretary, Robert Dewhurst.
During the evening’s service, Pastor Holford invited the community to express interest in monthly summer services at the church. There is hope that regular gatherings will resume in this historic space, which has been an important home of faith and community in the region since its opening on April 27th, 1902.
The church’s history is deeply rooted in the Black Mountain community. Early Baptist families built the structure by hand using bricks made of local clay quarried on Sharon Collin’s property, ‘Rose Valley.’
There is a brief outline detailing the origin of the Tabernacle on a plaque in front of the building.
Now, with its festive lights shining brightly, the Black Mountain Baptist Tabernacle is bringing the community together once again. It’s a celebration of the true meaning of Christmas and is also a call to action, a reminder to reconnect with the values and traditions that make this time of year so special.

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