St John’s Methodist Church
Opened in 1782, St John’s Methodist
Church is the only non-conformist chapel in Hayfield, and is
one of the oldest Methodist churches in the world. Research at
the time of the church’s bicentenary celebrations established
it as the 13th oldest in the UK, and it was in all probability
opened by John Wesley himself. For this, and for its simple beauty,
the chapel is now a Grade 2 listed building.
The exterior of the chapel has changed
little since then, with only a porch and a small rear extension
added. The interior is illuminated by lovely stained glass windows,
and is currently characterised by polished pine, box pews facing
an elevated pulpit
More than just a building, St John’s
is a living church. It has a small, but regular, and caring congregation
meeting every Sunday at 10.45am, and boasts an active Sunday
school and youth group. The members play a full part in the life
of the local community, and the premises are widely used by village
groups midweek.
words by Colin Smith photo's Phil Gee
(c) hayfield.uk.net Please respect
the generosity and rights of the people who have contributed
to this site All Rights Reserved, no material is to be copied or used for any
purposes without first obtaining their permission via info@hayfield.uk.net