St Margaret’s Chapel Anglican Catholic Church Service

Canon Lex Bell OAM and Pastor Shane St Reynolds at St Margaret's Chapel

A Sunday of Reflection: Returning to St Margaret's Chapel

Finding peace and purpose in familiar sacred spaces

There is something deeply moving about returning to a place where you once shared the Word of God. Today, I found myself back at St Margaret's Chapel in the HOTA Parklands. Walking onto the grounds in Bundall, I was immediately struck by a wave of nostalgia.

For a long time, this chapel was a significant part of my life. I used to preach here every Sunday at the 11:30 am service. Standing in that familiar space today, I could almost hear the echoes of those past sermons and the voices of the congregation from years ago.

A Heritage Treasure: Built in 1877, St Margaret's Chapel is a heritage-listed timber chapel nestled in the grounds of HOTA. Relocated in 1992 from its original home in Nerang, this beautiful chapel seats 50 people comfortably and provides an intimate and welcoming atmosphere for worship and special occasions.

The Traditional Anglican Church in Australia

It's important to note that St Margaret's Chapel 8:30am service is part of The Traditional Anglican Church in Australia. This connection to traditional Anglican worship and values is central to the chapel's identity and the services held here. The Traditional Anglican Church maintains the historic faith and practice of Anglicanism, providing a spiritual home for those who cherish these timeless traditions.

Led by a Distinguished Servant

Today's service was led by Canon Lex Bell OAM, a remarkable figure in both the Gold Coast community and the Anglican Catholic Church. Canon Bell has an extraordinary background—he served as Mayor of the Gold Coast from 1988 to 1994 and was a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly, representing Surfers Paradise from 2001 to 2004.

Born Alexander James Douglas Bell in Brisbane in 1945, he holds a Master of Laws from Bond University and a Bachelor of Law from the University of Queensland. Beyond his political career, he has served as a chancellor with the Anglican Catholic Church, bringing decades of wisdom and dedication to his ministry. It was an honor to worship under his leadership today.

A Moment of Reflection

We spent time reflecting on the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Canon Lex read from the two-minute homilies and reflections—weekly homilies of around two minutes in length by clergy, religious, and lay people from across the archdiocese. These brief but powerful moments to pause and listen to God's word are such a vital way to find spiritual wisdom in our busy lives.

Beyond the liturgy, the best part of the morning was simply seeing everyone again. Meeting with the community and catching up with familiar faces reminded me of why this chapel is so special. There is a warmth here that time and distance haven't changed.

Our wonderful congregation at today's service

Leaning into Faith

Being off work recently has been a challenging transition, but it has also provided me with a unique opportunity. It has become incredibly important for me to lean into my faith during this time. Without the daily distractions of a work schedule, I've found a deeper space for prayer and reflection.

This period of rest hasn't just been about physical recovery; it's been a spiritual journey that has strengthened my resolve and brought me closer to God. In the quiet moments, I've discovered that faith isn't just something we practice—it's something we live, breathe, and grow into.

Looking Ahead

As many of you know, I've been focusing on my health lately. Being back in the pulpit—even just in spirit today—felt right. I am seriously thinking about preaching here again once I am fully back on my feet.

There is a unique peace to be found at St Margaret's, and I look forward to the day I can contribute to its services once more.

I'll be doing the readings again next Sunday at 8:30 AM. If you'd like to come along, you're most welcome to join us!

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Service Details

St Margaret's Chapel is non-denominational and the 8:30am service is part of The Traditional Anglican Church in Australia and is located at HOTA Parklands, Bundall Road, Bundall. Services are held at 8:30 a.m. each Sunday.