BEWDLEY Methodist Church will celebrate its 230th birthday this weekend with two open days, a special concert and a service of celebration and rededication.
The church – the newest one in the historic town centre – was opened in 1795 and today’s congregation is inviting visitors to look around the Grade II listed building and share in the anniversary celebrations.
The church (pictured), next door to the Jubilee Gardens entrance, will be open on from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, May 10, and between midday and 4pm on Sunday (May 12).
The events will feature exhibits about the church’s history, its support for the local community and beyond, its musical heritage and current activities. The organisers are particularly keen to welcome anyone with a past connection to the church, perhaps through baptism, marriage, Sunday School or youth club.
Then, at 2.30pm next Saturday, May 17, there will be a special ‘Music in the Chapel’ concert, featuring talented soprano soloist Ruby Thorne. And next Sunday at 10.30am next Sunday, May 18, there will be the anniversary service of celebration and rededication..
Tickets for the concert, which include light refreshments, cost £10 but all other events are free.
Other Bewdley churches
Bewdley’s Quaker Meeting House was built in 1691, the Baptist church in 1764 and, what is now Holy Family Catholic Church, was originally a Presbyterian chapel built in 1778.
St Anne’s Parish Church has a tower dating from 1695 and the main body of the church was completed in 1748. Riverside Elim church meet in a converted snooker hall.
Visit the Bewdley Methodist Church website at: bewdleymethodists.org.uk for more information on the 230th anniversary events.
