I was in tears after the last regular Sunday service this weekend after Mass for churchgoers at the Village Mass between Whitchurch and Wrexham.
About 50 people filled the benches of Betisfield’s remarkable Church of John the Baptist, listening to sermons by Barry Wilson, Archbishop Montgomery and Archbishop Wrexham on the importance of change, the same ones used in their debut service. I listened using the pulpit.
Built in the 1870s and a focal point of the village and its surroundings ever since, the church has discontinued its weekly Mass and is now the Pilgrim Church instead. Visit or organize special services.
But despite the sadness during the day, the head of the church, Philip Jones, hopes that the positivity gained from the decision to allow St. John’s to become a Pilgrim church will continue and breathe new life into the building. I’m here.
He added: “It was a lovely service as we were looking forward to what was to come, as well as looking back at the church’s many years.
“We have a good group of people willing to take it on as the Pilgrim Church.
“If we don’t, the church will have to close, because we have decided not to close.
“It is great that they can come together and continue to be the hub of the village. We are still able to hold baptisms, weddings and funerals.
“It will be a functioning church and will be cared for and hold at least six services throughout the year.
“Now that it’s a Pilgrim church, people have the opportunity to come and visit it. There are seven other churches in North Wales.
“There’s a little tour people can do if they want, another opportunity as George Street, who designed it, and his 200th birthday is just around the corner next year.
“The timing on this is very good, but what’s difficult is that people are hearing that Bettysfield Church is closed. It’s not. They’re just getting on with their new lives and the doors are always open.” It’s open.”
Built by Lord Hammer in 1873, the church hosted its first service on October 11, 1874, was picked up by the Witchchurch Herald a week later, and was officially dedicated in 1878.
His descendant, Sir Guy Hammer, celebrated Mass as part of the service with his wife Elizabeth, Mrs. Hammer, and sons Thomas and George.
“It was so important that we were here as a family,” she said.
“It’s very sad, but I’m also very happy to hear that they’re still using it as a Pilgrim church.
“The church will continue to be loved.”
Members of the church committee joined the worshipers for cake and tea after the service.
