KINGSCOTE

Methodist worship on Kangaroo Island began in 1836, when lay preacher Samuel East conducted the first service in a carpenter’s shop in Kingscote. Church life grew and declined with the Island’s changing population, and the first missioner was appointed in 1880. Penneshaw Church was built in 1883 as a Wesleyan chapel.

A chapel built at Cygnet River in 1885 was moved to Queenscliffe (Kingscote) in 1896, but later closed when the township’s growth stalled.

In 1905 Moses Gabb was sent to revive church life across the Island, travelling long distances in difficult conditions. His work led to the reopening of the Kingscote Chapel in 1906 and renewed growth.

This growth prompted the construction of a new stone Methodist Church in Kingscote. Designed in Gothic style to seat 200 people, the limestone building’s foundation stone was laid on 11 November 1907 and it officially opened on 19 April 1908. It was later named Ray Caust Memorial Church in honour of the young minister who helped lead the project.

Early ministers lived in Penneshaw until accommodation was created at the church, and in 1937 a manse was built nearby. Following the formation of the Uniting Church in Australia in 1977, the congregation became Kingscote Uniting Church.

While church life has changed over time, its members continue to offer ministry in Jesus' name as a response to His great love.