Parish Profiles: Church of St. Mary & St. Peter, Bagillt

A few weeks ago Daniel wrote the first post in a series about the churches in which we work [technically they aren't parishes but part of the mission areas; we kept the name for alliteration's sake]. Now it's my turn!

My title is pioneer priest, which means (as far as I understand it) that I assess the needs of the mission area (sort of like a deanery, but we work more closely together and are tied financially) and see where my skills/gifts can help meet those needs. In addition, I have primary pastoral responsibility for the Church of St. Mary & St. Peter, Bagillt. I also help out with my colleague Lorraine and her five churches, sharing services as well as partnering in special events/projects. Since the pioneer part is just in the assessment stage, I will begin by describing the church in Bagillt. 

Bagillt is a small village of around 4,200 people (as of the 2011 census) that overlooks the Dee Estuary (and on a clear day you can see the cathedrals in Liverpool). It used to be a thriving industrial town, with factories, 11 coal mines, and a railway station. But the Great Depression resulted in the factories and mines closing, and in 1966 the railway station was also closed, making transportation difficult for the residents who relied on it to get to work in Manchester, Chester, and Liverpool. 

The foundation for St. Mary's Church was laid in 1837 (the year that Queen Victoria began her reign). Local farmers and labourers donated their time and effort to assist in building the church. It was consecrated on July 18th, 1839 and became an independent parish church in 1844 (before it was considered part of the parish of Holywell). 

Because of the booming population in the town, St. Mary's created a mission church in 1883, which became St. Peter's. They were known as the "Welsh Church" because services and Sunday School were done in Welsh. Eventually the congregation dwindled and what remained of the congregation of St. Peter's joined St. Mary's. I'm unsure of the official date this happened, but I believe it was within the last 5 years. 

Services at St. Mary's and St. Peter's are 11am on Sundays and (beginning in September) Wednesdays. Right now there are about 30 faithful attendees (which is pretty large for a non-Cathedral!). We are very fortunate to have our own organist, so that we don't have to rely on cds in our services (the cds are good quality, but it's always nicer to have live music, when able).

Now for some pictures!

This is the view as you drive up to the church.

 This spring St. Mary's and St. Peter's finished a reordering (renovation) project. They removed the back pews, put in a toilet and kitchenette, and made the church wheelchair accessible. They are now able to host small events, including tea and coffee after special services.

This organ was originally in a church in Flint (nearby town), if I'm remembering correctly.

This chair comes from when Bagillt hosted the National Eisteddfod, the Welsh literary, music, and performance festival that dates back to the 1100s! 

The Raising of Jairus' daughter. Inscription: In memory of Margaret's born September 25th died September 29th, 1861. Also Mary Ann born January 7th, 1848 died June 5th, 1865. Erected by the Rev. J.E. and Anne Jones in affectionate remembrance.

From over the altar (left side): The Garden of Gethsemane 

From over the altar (center): The Crucifixion

From over the altar (right side): The Sepulchre (tomb where Christ was laid)

Inscription: In memoriam Joseph Howell, late of Hawarden. Born 21st February 1807 died 13th January, 1865. This window is erected by Louis and Septimus Howell of Bagillt 24th May, 1874. To the Glory of God and in affectionate memory of the above. 

To the right of the altar: The Resurrection 

Inscription: In memory of Catherine wife of Leigh Howell, Bryn Merllyn, Bagillt who died 23rd September, 1866 aged 34 years. Also their infant children Joseph and Joseph Dutton Howell.

Ascension window on the side of the lady chapel.

Inscription: To the Hounour and Glory of God and in affectionate memory of Henrietta Eyton of Cornish in this Parish. Third daughter of Thomas Eyton esq. Pen-y-Palmant also in this Parish. Who died 31st August, 1873 and was buried at Bodfari.

Triptych in the lady chapel. 

Light coming in from the Ascension windows.