Church's first baptism in 35 years - in original baptistry

One of the country’s oldest Baptist churches opened its baptistry for the first time since 1990 this Easter

Broseley Baptist Chapel in Shropshire dates from 1741, and still retains its original baptistry. It hadn’t been used since 1990, was covered up and few people were aware of its existence. 

However, that all changed in for the Easter weekend, when it was once again filled up for a special baptism service of Sue Pritchard and her niece Lucy.

The congregation were joined by family and friends to help celebrate the occasion, which was led by visiting regional minister David Ellis.

It is thought that the pool was originally filled from an underground spring next to the church. This was diverted long ago, so a hosepipe was used for the latest baptism. 

Sue said, ‘It was a wonderful and uplifting experience, and the perfect way to celebrate Easter. I was grateful though that the pool was slightly heated this time. The spring water must have been an experience for the truly hardy believers!’  

Despite having little or no work done on it over the years, the pool still held water. With the plug for the drain hole in the corner is long lost, a bung had to be fashioned from wood and rubber to do the job. 

After the service, testimonies, and baptisms, everyone celebrated with tea and cake.