The Sigatoka Gospel Chapel will celebrate the opening of its new building at Lawaqa in Sigatoka on Saturday.

The church was founded by a missionary late Wilton Crampton with his wife, Ella and two children, son Ashley and daughter Gaelyn.

In 1958, a parcel of crown land at the Lawaqa junction was donated by the landowners of Yavulo Village for the Cramptons to build their church.

Ashley, then 16, was part of the special occasion.

In May, this year, Ashley who is the elder of the church with other elders built a new church complex and demolished the old one.

Now 82 years old, Ashkey said he carried on the legacy and vision of his late parents.

Ashley Crampton and his wife, Gillian. Photo: Mereleki Nai

“I have followed on in my father’s and mother’s vision and legacy,” he said.

“As a resident, I endeavour to be on the ground as much as possible with my Radini – Gillian. We stay six months of each year in Sigatoka.

“The church members are excited with the official opening of the new auditorium, and it will serve the holistic needs of many and the wider community.”

There are 50 members in the church congregation though they have a wider circle of adherents throughout Nadroga.

The new chapel auditorium is at stage one and the cost to build is estimated around $20,000.

Feedback: mereleki.nai@fijisun.com.fj