Bethany's Beginning
Bethany English Baptist Chapel started in the vestry of Libanus Welsh Baptist Church, Bute Street. Bethany was the vision of Rev. Henry Rosser, and it all began in 1868 with the baptism of eight persons, who were baptised in the local river.The company of members met regularly during the building of the Church.
Plaque in memory to the Founder Rev. H. Rosser
Opening of the Church
The work of building the chapel was completed in 1873 and Bethany held their first meetings the following year. It is reported that 18 women and 22 men requested Baptism by the Rev. Rosser, many more were to follow, with as many as Fifty on one occasion during the 1890's. Earlier photographs of the chapel show that it was smaller than the present building which was enlarged in 1910
Photograph inside Bethany Baptist Church
Not without its Battles
Following the opening, one of the local's attempted to claim the land on which the chapel stood. Members had to take turns on watch and outwit the neighbour, while the work was being completed. The local police could do nothing and would not intervene, even although there were incidents during this trying period.
1904 Revival
During the 1904 Revival the membership increased so much, that a schoolroom had to be built to house the extra numbers, the vestry was pulled down and work commenced in1905. On January 29th 1906 the schoolroom was opened with a thanks-giving tea. The land was first leased from the Marquis of Bute and later purchased. The cost to build the schoolroom was £2000 and represented a real spirit of sacrificial giving and faith on the part of the members. During this period a Band was formed which resulted in many charitable events being held.
Photograph of Band 1912
Photograph of Schoolroom with Manse
The Great War
The 1914 War came and many of the male members were affected,resulting in the Band being disbanded in 1914. Other groups emerged over the years, including, The "Band of Hope", "Christian Union", "Baptist Women's League", "Choirs". The present day Church still has a ladies choir and often takes part in Gamanfa Ganu's.
Completion
The financial commitment was not complete until in 1920 it was decided to purchase the Freehold on the chapel, the schoolroom, and caretaker's house.The debt was eventually cleared in1944 at which time there was much celebration.
Pastors of the Church.
Rev.Rosser
Rev Meredith 1893
- 1896
Rev. John Lloyd Williams 1892 1907
Rev. C.C.Hughes 1907
- 1909
Rev. Samuel Jones
1912- 1921
Rev. Ceufanydd Jones
1922 - 1925
Rev. Moses S.Young
1928 - 1932
Rev. Colin S.Crole 1933
- 1937
Rev. Gwilyn H.Williams 1945-1949
Rev. William Davies B.A 1952-1963
Rev. Michael Evans
1964-1969
Rev. Peter Griffiths B.A 1976-
1992