Leaders of five denominations in Queensland will take part in a thanksgiving service to mark the centenary of Gatton College on Saturday, July 19 at 10am.
The 'in the round' multi-denominational public outdoor service will be held in front of the College Foundation Building.
Organised by Pastor Adrian Muller of Ropeley Lutheran Church near Gatton, the service has been designed to give thanks, as well as entertain.
Senior clergy taking part include: the Reverend Peter Overton, co-ordinator of the University Chaplaincy Services at Gatton College, who is president-elect of the Churches of Christ in Queensland; Past Moderator of the Uniting Church in Queensland the Reverend Don Whebell; Anglican Archbishop the Reverend Peter Hollingsworth; Catholic Archbishop John Bathersby; and the Queensland district president of the Lutheran Church the Reverend John Vitale.
Musical performers will include a didgeridoo player from the Toowoomba Aboriginal community.
The Regional Universities Regiment of Queensland will revive memories of the College's role during World War II as the first U.S. hospital opened in Australia. The College hosted the 105th and 153rd field hospitals between 1942 and 1944.
Regiment members will fire a symbolic round of ammunition, to signify the coming of World War II to Gatton College and members will act as 'wounded' soldiers.
Dr David C. Marshall of New Jersey, whose father was stationed at Gatton College during World War II, and who is researching the histories of the 105th and 153rd field hospitals, will attend the service.
Visitors to the service are also invited to join in the Gatton College centenary events, including heritage tours, garden party and fashion parade, centenary dinner, country rock concert and fireworks on July 19.
On Sunday, July 20, commencing at 11am, there will be a cavalcade of transport including vintage cars and horse-drawn vehicles, 'ag day sports', pioneer displays, heritage tours, and an official opening by the Governor Her Excellency Leneen Forde. The College Open Day for prospective students will be held from 8.30am to 1pm.
For more information, contact the honorary director of centenary celebrations, Kevin Saxby, telephone (mobile) 041 7727355.
