Celebrating 150 years witness in the town 

Gilgal Baptist Church in Porthcawl hosted a series of events to mark its special anniversary, writes Liz Rees

In 1872 a small group of Christians formed Gilgal Baptist Church on South Road, Porthcawl. Fifty years later and with a growing congregation they had a vision to build a much larger church on Park Avenue in Porthcawl. That building has just been renovated in time to celebrate our 150-year anniversary. 
 
We had a number of special events including our formal opening which took place on Saturday 11 June when various local community groups, and neighbours were invited. Our local mayor, Cllr. Mark Chegwin, supported the event and cut the ribbon. 
 
On Sunday 12 June we had our official anniversary services led by our Pastor, the Revd Martin Gillard with guest preacher, the Revd Elfed Godding, and this was followed by a very well attended bring and share lunch. The following Thursday 18 June Reverend Yinka Oyekan joined us for an evening where we explored the very interesting topic ‘the man who split time in two’.
 
Saturday 18 June was a family fun day with many from the community attending, enjoying visiting the stalls, participating in games and having fun on the bouncy castles.
 
Our official celebrations concluded on Thursday 23 June when we hosted an evening with Graham Kendrick. More than 220 people enjoyed a superb evening of praise and worship in our refurbished building. 
 
We feel so blessed to have been able to celebrate in this way after such a difficult couple of years for everyone.  May all the honour and glory go to our God.
 

Liz Rees is the church secretary at Gilgal Baptist Church, Porthcawl