MORE THAN 200 people raised the roof of St John's Church, Wellington to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Revd Elsie Howell's ordination to the Christian ministry.

The service at St John's on Saturday was an uplifting and moving occasion and was led by Elsie, former Baptist minister of Wellington, with addresses by long-standing colleagues.

The large and enthusiastic congregation belted out Elsie's favourite hymns and many stayed afterwards for refreshments served in the church hall.

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