Life Christian Church
Originally the Church of the Rock
later St Kilda Port Phillip Community Church
(Assembly of God)
Elwood Beach Community Centre, The Esplanade, Elwood
David and Rosanna Palmer began the Church of the Rock in about 1985. They were members of a rock band and had recorded an album and were set to go to America but received the call to pioneer a church with a focus on outreach. They held concerts in parks in St Kilda and later ‘church in the park’ which combined music and preaching. These were very popular and attracted young families whose children could play in the park while the service was being conducted. Street people were also attracted to the services and various other activities. Once, the Easter story was being re-enacted and when the person playing Christ suffering on the cross said, ‘Will no-one help me?’ a man in the audience was so engrossed by the drama he shouted out, ‘I’ll help you, mate’.
Over the years, the church leased various locations for the church and its office, including Elwood Secondary College.
Tania Harris was called to this congregation in 2000. The congregation moved to its present location at The Esplanade in Elwood and adopted the name of Elwood Life Christian Church. It is non-traditional and focuses on having a contemporary feel which appeals to the younger generation. A Children’s Program is also being developed. The congregation organises Carols by the Beach at Christmas time and is involved in the Elwood Community Festival. Mark and Judy Corrigan are the new pastors in 2003.