St Tydfil’s Well church
A small church originally intended as a chapel of ease at an ironworks’ quarry celebrates its 150th anniversary this weekend (Oct 13).
The Archbishop of Wales will join parishioners at St Tydfil’s Well Church, Merthyr Tydfil, for a special service on Sunday evening to mark the event. Also there will be seven former clergy from the parish and representatives from uniformed organisations.
Locally known as the Quar Church, St Tydfil’s Well is in one of the oldest parts of the historic town. The surrounding streets of small terraced houses were built for workers at the Cyfarthfa Ironworks around a former quarry. The Second Marquis of Bute granted a living for a “chapel of ease at the quarry” in recognition of missionary work in the district.
The small, barn-like building was kept simple with plain walls and glass windows and a simple table upon which to celebrate Holy Communion. All services were originally in Welsh. Over the years, the church has been lovingly enhanced through generous donations by devoted worshippers.
Although built to seat only 250 people, St. Tydfil’s Well has had a full and vigorous history both spiritually and socially. It is still held with deep affection within the parish and celebrations continue throughout the week. With its more modern approach to Anglican worship, this little church is well equipped to bring its teachings well into this new century.
The Archbishop, Dr Barry Morgan, says, “I am delighted that we are able to celebrate 150 years of worship at this church. A church is a symbolic building and symbols are important because they convey what we believe. Anyone coming to this place can see that worship takes place here and will continue to be offered for future generations. Here is a community of Christians who believe that the Gospel has something to offer them and to the wider world.”
The 150th anniversary service takes place on Sunday (Oct 13) at 6pm. It will be followed by a buffet where people will also have the chance to buy commemorative mugs. All are welcome.
