Celebrating 300 Years of the Old Meeting URC in Bedworth
The sun shone and the atmosphere in the church was electric as more than 200 people came together on 31 May to celebrate the 300th Anniversary of the opening of the church building in 1726. The Bedworth dissenters had come together to worship in 1684 but it was 40 years before the church was built and the well known and well respected building was consecrated. By then the members had already seen more than 40 years of turmoil but their faith and their belief in God prevailed and still does.
The Anniversary Service was conducted by Rev Dr Allan Smith, present minister of the church and the Pastorate of North Warwickshire. The Moderator of the URC West Midlands Synod, Rev Steve Faber preached the sermon. The newly elected Mayor of the Borough and several councillors, the local MP, and the Town Cryer were among the invited guests along with members of several faiths and none. The worship was uplifting and the hymn singing rousing, particularly the church’s signature hymn for the anniversary year ‘Let us build a house …. All are welcome in this place. Doreen Spencer, a 96 year old member who had been baptised in the church as a baby, contributed some of the music alongside local organist Colin Johnson.
Over a delicious afternoon tea, provided in the church hall and paid for by Believe in Bedworth, many old acquaintances were renewed and new friendships forged. Thanks be to God for the church’s presence in the town of Bedworth for the past 300 years and we pray for our continuing mission and ministry.
Lynda Burton, Church Secretary
Pictures, taken by John Burton, show the church’s Grade ll Listed interior ready to welcome friends, family and fellow citizens and the church hall full of people enjoying afternoon tea and lots of conversion. Our programme of forthcoming celebratory events already planned throughout the rest of the year. (All by permission)
