Paringa, SA - Holy Cross Lutheran

History and Architecture:

Lutherans in the Paringa area began arriving around 1900 and were mostly younger males looking to take on the challengers of a farming life.

Initial church services were held in the home of William Stoeckel. However by 1910 the Stoeckel home had become overcrowded and the need for a church building programme was discussed. At the first meeting £70 was raised to start a Buiding fund. It must be realized that these people were still struggling for it existence. But a church, although so costly, was much needed so they put their hearts into this project. Land was donated by Mr. William Stoeckel, or father Stoeckel" as he was known. By 1912 the material for a building measuring 40' x 20' had been delivered by paddle steamer and erected by the voluntary labour of members. The total cost of materials, timber and iron was £140.

The first Church building at Paringa was opened on 1.12.1912. The day of this first church was a great day for the Paringa Lutherans. There was seating for 100 people, and not one seat vacant. Two services were held - one in the morning and another in the afternoon. There were contingents traps, horses and a car owned by Mr. J. Hamdorf1 The Nitschke family  came 25 miles by buggy from Bookpurnong of carts,  to attend. Pastor M. Kuss of Loxton brought part of the Loxton Choir to render anthems.

A building fund for the current church was set up in 1948 by Mr T.E. Frahn and work began in 1952. The Church was built from stone carted from Overland corner some 30 miles away. Much was donated for the church included the tiles from India donated by Mr H.E. Lindner a Renmark Lutheran, pews donated by several families and a stained glass window donated by Mrs F.M. Stoeckel and family in memory of he husband and Mr Rup..  

A Foundation stone reads, " We Preach Christ Crucified 1 Cor 1 v 23A - 31st Aug. 1952. A Foundation stone on the Hall reads " 'Behold I have set before you an open door'. Rev 3:8".

A wall plaque in the Church hall reads, " The Paringa Friendship Centre opened March 7th 1999 by Pastor Michael Semmler President of the South Australian District of the Lutheran Church of Australia Dedicated to the Glory of God Let us not give up meeting together let us encourage one and another Hebrews 10:25".