Barnby Dun Chapel 150yr Anniversary

Barnby Dun Chapel – 150th Anniversary – Sesquicentennial

Barnby Dun chapel was founded in 1875 and was originally a Primitive Methodist church. Historically, Sunday School and Women's Fellowship were a large part of church life. Currently held are a weekly coffee morning (weather dependent in winter), with popular fayres in Spring and at Christmas and a weekly 10.30 am service. A new bible study group is now being held every third Saturday following on from the coffee morning.

The sesquicentennial celebrations started on Saturday 14th June 2025 with an open house. Over 22 visitors attended over the course of the day, with refreshments served and plenty of photographs and memories shared. A new cross erected on the outside of the building has been made and generously donated by the Friday Men's Club, bunting hung and other decorations and artifacts to stir the memory on display.

On Sunday 15th June 2025 the service was led by Rev Tom Read (who taught us the word sesquicentennial). Not only a service of celebration for 150 years of Faith, Discipleship and Mission but also Pentecost. A reading from Acts 11 reminded us that the tensions and fears we hold today, are the same as those felt all those years ago; a tension of what we have always done and are comfortable with wrestling with what the Spirit is leading us to do.

Reverend Tom reflected on the excitement that must have been felt on the opening day of the new Primitive Methodist Chapel by the farmers, labourers, farmhands, and their families in their village. He expressed gratitude to all those who came before us and recognised the faith they held and passed down through successive generations.

How many baptisms, weddings, funerals? How many hymns sung, prayers said, sermons preached? How many friendships forged? How many cups of tea served over 150 years!

How do we celebrate 150 years but move forward? Consideration should be given whether we still understand the purpose behind long-standing traditions or if their meanings have been eroded over time and merely upheld out of habit. Feelings of disorientation and defensiveness may arise in the face of change or challenge. It is important to prayerfully reflect and consider what the Spirit is leading us to do. "Who am I to think that I can stand in God's way?"

After Holy Communion was shared, the congregation left the building to stand outside when Rev Tom led a short dedication to the new Cross, donated by the Friday Men's Club, now on display on the Chapel Wall. A fitting end to a celebration service.

Wonderful cakes and drinks were served following the service – more memories and fellowship shared.