Once known as the ‘hidden church’ as its building sat behind a large tree, Bethesda United Reformed Church in Tongwynlais on the outskirts of Cardiff has become a well-known place in the village for a ‘cuppa and a chat’ about some of life’s most challenging issues. How did this ageing, dwindling congregation come to play such a crucial role in the life of its local community?
With the main sanctuary demolished long ago following a roof collapse, the people of Bethesda chapel meet in what used to be the schoolroom back in the days when the church offered educational services in the local community. The congregation clearly has a place in the history of the village, but in modern times, four or five people gathering in a hall with chairs set out for 70 or 80 simply isn’t viable. Looking around the community, members realised that other organisations, including other churches in the area were already doing a lot to serve the needs of the village, with a strong emphasis on radical welcome, especially for those affiliated with LGBT+.
One thing that was missing, though, was a place to simply relax, have some refreshments and talk openly about the challenges which life can throw at you. This is where the people of Bethesda chapel found their purpose.
They pushed the communion table, lectern and other church equipment to the extremes of the room and rearranged the chairs around tables to create a more relaxed feel. The facilities to make tea and coffee were already there, along with enough crockery to serve it with. All they needed were some kind people who were willing to listen openly and help to create a safe place for people to share their stories. This was something the congregation, regardless of its demographics and status, knew it could do.
Bethesda is now known as the ‘cuppa and a chat church’ because it is a place of fellowship and worship where we you will receive a warm welcome and meet people who, through their own experience of life, will be able to listen with compassion as you open up about mental health concerns, issues of isolation and rejection, poverty and any other worries which they face.
Simon Peters, project manager for Walking the Way says ‘making tea and talking to people are two activities which Christians have been good at for centuries, yet we so often forget the difference which these simple acts can have in showing the love of Jesus in a tangible way. Through our hospitality, we can help people make the connection between God and their own, everyday lives by being the presence of Jesus amongst those around us.’
Is this something your congregation could do on the Way of Jesus? Have a look at Holy Habits, especially eating together and fellowship. These could help your congregation to better understand the significance of even the simplest of actions as we seek to live the life of Jesus today.
