St Francis in the Forest

The proclamation of Johannesburg as a city in 1886 heralded a period of hectic and almost phenomanal growth, with residential suburbs spring up rapidly all over the Witwatersrand. The housing boom spread northwards from Doornfontein and Braamfontein to the ridges where Parktown and Westcliff offered spectacular views of the Magaliesberg.

Mining magnates built mansions in these suburbs while more modest, but very select, houses became the norm in Forest Town, Parkview, Parktown North and Saxonwold. A group of Methodist residents felt the need for a place of worship in their area and found a hall with stables in Talton road that was been used for a riding school.

Over 87 years St Francis in the Forest Methodist Church has ministered to the needs of the people in the wider community. The picturesque church in the shady suburb of Forest Town has been the spiritual home for many since 1922.

The original group of worshippers met in the hall next to the stables. The church itself was built and opened in 1937 and cost the princely sum of £3 384 to construct. Through the years many have contributed to the furnishings and embellishments in the sanctuary. Some of the more apparent ones are the roughly hewn cross, the stained glass window, the baptismal font and the numerous plaques which bear testimony to some of the founder members and special occasions which have taken place over the years.
During the 1950s permission was given for black worshippers to congregate on the premises. This may have been one of the first authorisations of its kind to have been granted on the Witwatersrand.
The Rees Memorial Hall was constructed in 1962 and, as the Sunday Sc
hool and Youth group expanded, the classrooms were erected in 1972. It was only in 1971 that Forest Town was granted its first fully ordained minister.
It has been said that Methodism was born in song and the small church has always been filled with singing. Various organists, conductors and choirs have excelled themselves over the years, winning Eisteddfods and bringing pleasure to many. Singing still remains a focal point in our worship.

If the building could speak it would probably tell us of the many who have found inspiration and comfort within the sancturary over the years. More importantly it would tell us of the many hours of prayerful worship within its walls. It is a haven from the bustle of life, a solace in times of trouble and a place where we worship Jesus Christ as Lord and Master.