Kibworth Methodist Church

-A Celebration-

This month, Kibworth Methodist Church begins its sesquicentenary celebrations - dictionaries out! (Unless you happened to read the last issue of the Chronicle and therefore know which anniversary we are celebrating).

Until recently, the members knew very little of the history of the church, except the date 1846, which appears on the stone above the entrance. It was assumed that the church opened in 1846 but subsequent research has revealed oblique references in treasurers' accounts of the period which show that the stone-laying was celebrated in September 1846, but the church was not opened until the January of 1847. Our celebrations, therefore, will culminate in a covenant service in January next.

Methodism in Kibworth has a history of over 200 years. When an eighteenth century traveller, Throsby, carried out a series of "Excursions to Villages and Places of Note in the County" in 1790, he wrote in the section on Kibworth that "... those who are called by some 'Methodists' have a little place of worship." After research over a number of years, certificates were eventually found which give us a precise date for the registration of the the first Wesleyan meeting house. This was on 11 August 1787, for the home of John and Richard Markham. Two other homes were similarly registered over the next 25 years. Then in 1824, a building was converted and registered as the first 'chapel'. This was on the site of today's church, and was demolished when the present building was erected.

Since a church consists of people rather than bricks and mortar, it is appropriate that we know a good deal about the congregation in the 1840's - and later. Descriptions of some of these characters, together with events, developments, activities past and present and high and low points in the life and work of the church in spreading the good news about Jesus over 200 years may be found in "KIBWORTH METHODIST CHURCH -A CELEBRATION". This was launched at the Flower Festival held last weekend.(15/16 June). Copies of the book are now available (£5, p & p extra -all proceeds to church funds) from the writer Eileen Bromley.

The publication includes a large number of black and white and colour illustrations, and is arranged by topics, rather than in a purely historical way. Much of the research involved reading books of minutes of councils and committees, one of the most boring occupations imaginable! Occasionally, shafts of unintentional humour brightened the process - so the book includes not only pages of facts but also pages of 'funnies'. There are reminiscences also, of former ministers and others. The author's Christian commitment began in the church some 50 years ago, so parts of the story, including the centenary celebration, are still vivid memories.

Many local families are referred to in the publication - you may find information concerning some of your ancestors. You will certainly discover what goes on within the red brick building on School Lane, not only on Sundays but throughout the week. Do join with us as we celebrate God's goodness to us in Jesus Christ.

©Eileen Bromley 1996

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