Bruce Riding
B.Sc., B.Sc.(Hons), B.D., Dip.Ed., B.Ed., M.Ed.

Bruce Riding grew up in Brisbane Queensland , was dux of his high school ( Wavell State high), and studied science at Queensland University . He was teaching high school science and mathematics when God called him into the ministry. After training in Brisbane in 1974~1976 at what is now the Uniting Church seminary, we was placed in the Callide Valley Presbyterian charge, centred on Biloela, where he was ordained in 1977, the first minister ordained by the continuing Presbyterian Church after union.

He thus saw first-hand the damage to ministers and congregations of not regarding all the Bible as God's Word written. He had his real training for the ministry in his second parish, Inverell in NSW, where he was colleage and successor to Rev.Donald Campbell, a fifth-generation liberal congregational minister, until he was converted to Christ, a Biblical faith, and a reformed theology. As such, he had to rethink many basic beliefs and go back to the Bible on all issues others just assume. This he passed on to Bruce Riding.

Bruce uses his depth of understanding in his preaching, teaching, pastoral work and chaplaincy in the RAAF reserve

Back Row : Ted Scates, Bruce Riding (minister), Les Crofts (session clerk) Front Row : Jan Newgreen, Jennifer Homewood, Irene Blaikie.

Ted Skates

Ted joined St.Andrews' shortly after the war when he and his wife Pauline moved here. He is presently an elder emeritus, still coming to worship with us several times a year from Berwick where he now resides. He continues to support God's work here in many ways. “Ted's Shed�, where much of our equipment is stored, is named after him.

Rev. Bruce Riding

Bruce, the current minister, labours in the two main duties described in the bible, that of teaching God's Word, and pasturing the flock. For the first, he uses computer illustrations projected on to a big screen a couple of times a month, which all ages have found helpful to remember the message. He also visits the congregation regularly to talk and pray with them.

Les & June Crofts

Les & June have been active in the wider Presbyterian church all their lives. Les, our present session clerk, and June married in 1949. In 1959 the Lord used their home to start the Altona Presbyterian Church. After church union they came to Williamstown Church in 1980 and have been here ever since. June has served the Lord in many ways, including organising the morning tea after Church every Sunday.

Jan Newgreen

I was baptised here in St. Andrew's as an infant and so my faith journey has evolved over a lifetime rather than an instant profound moment. I have walked my lifetime with the Lord, putting my trust and faith in Him. The presence of the Lord is in my life, and it is with joy that I profess His glorious name.

Jennifer Homewood

At St. Andrew's I met and married Graham. Our children were baptised here. Many years later Graham's funeral was held here as well. “The sound of silence� ~ Several years ago during a morning service, the minister of the time asked the congregation to pray, silently. It was the first occasion I can remember that happening during our normal worship. One felt at one with St. Andrew's people, a spiritual warmth and a closeness to our Heavenly Father.

Irene Blaikie

My journey in faith began in the Church of Scotland, from Baptism to young adulthood. The years spent at St. Andrew's have given strength to my faith. My hope for this church is that with God's grace, it will continue to grow, looking to the future while remembering the faith and dedication of those who have gone before.

Hans & Judy Kopans

We became the caretakers in 2000 after Hans had been a member of the board or Management for many years. This has been an important era in our life, enjoying working in God's house and sharing with people who use our halls. People can witness to others even when they are cleaners. God has led us to this role I am sure ~ it is part of our life journey. Rev. Bruce Riding, Cherie & family and the congregation have supported us immensely.

Tom & Joan Bryans

Tom and Joan are pleased to be Australians who have come from Ireland . They enjoy worshipping in God's house very regularly and look to God for their everyday strength. Joan is grateful to God for the healing he has given her of cancer. They especially remember the healing service organised by Mrs. Robyn Johnston for Joan.

Murray Hill

Murray was born in Moonee Ponds on the 21-5-25. He was raised in the Presbyterian Church in Port Adelaide until WW2. He was at sea as a ship's engineer for most of his adult life. He returned to the Williamstown Presbyterian Church in 1995.

Denis Legg

Despite being a believer all my life, it was only after hearing the reformed/Presbyterian message from the pulpit that I have felt close to biblical teaching. Through sickness and good health, I have felt God's presence at St. Andrew's. His promises for the future and being with Him and His son give me a great sense of security.

Joan Noordenne

Joan was raised in Holland and the Reformed Church there. She is a member of our board of Management where she has been our treasurer for some years and has now past it on to Denis. Joan is wonderful in the recently commenced daytime Bible study, asking many questions which prompts discussion amongst all there.

Max Atkin

Max has worshipped in this church all his life [his name is on the cradle role]. Max has a love for the Lord that is expressed by his extensive work in the Church. He comes to Bible Study, is on door duty, ringing the bell every week for over 10 years and has been on the board of management for 23 years.