With more than 140 years of ministry at the 38 Croobyar Road home, it is with sadness the building will be auctioned on Saturday, February 4.

Milton Uniting Church Reverend Tony Davies said an increase in costs and visibility are reasons behind the sale.

“The congregation has taken the very difficult decision to consolidate its life and witness to the community on the one site in Ulladulla,” he said.

“Its obviously a difficult decision to make.

“There is a lot of tradition and story linked with the site for many in the community, but we realise its the best decision for the people.”

Rev Davies said the sale will allow the congregation to develop their Ulladulla site.

Considerations were made to move to the Milton location, but it was deemed too expensive.

The new home will be at Uniting Church’s Outreach Centre, located on the Princes Highway, Ulladulla, which has 700 to 1,000 customers each week.

In addition to major repairs at the Ulladulla location in 2011, the Uniting Church intends to build a larger worship space on the existing building, said Rev. Tony Davies.

“Our vision is the site becomes a meeting place for the community, and where as a congregation we can better serve,” he said.

“It will include space for coffee and a chat, better facilities for our wonderful volunteers and more space for our clothing and goods.” 

There is the possibility of developing a community garden, with outdoor worship opportunities such as a labryinth and peace garden.

Early planning is underway for an open day on Saturday, February 25, when the community can share their memories of the Milton Church.

It will be a time where everyone can share their memories of the place, whether it be a wedding, baptism, Sunday School or simply playing on the lawns.

On Sunday, February 26 the final service, Thanksgiving, will be held.