Origin And History Of the Baptist Church Cinderford

At Coleford, Gloucestershire, in the year 1808, on October 14th, a son was born to a family by the name of Rhodes. The parents gave him two christian names, William Frowen. This son was afterwards better known as William Rhodes, the second Christian name generally being dropped. In the year 1817 when 9 years of age, he received a book as a reward from the Baptist Sunday school where he attended. On the inside of the cover of that book is the following:- "Best boy of the school, William Rhodes. Reward from Coleford Sunday School." Eleven years after receiving the reward, in the year 1828, he was baptised in the chapel, and joined the Baptist Church at Coleford. He continued in his fellowship at Coleford until 1843, but he left town the in 1840 and came to reside at Cinderford. On settling at Cinderford, which was then better known as Woodside, he began business as a grocer in high street, on the premises where the Rhodes family now lived. He was also the first postmaster of Cinderford, being appointed soon after he came here to reside. At this time there was no Baptist Church in the village, but William Frowen Rhodes was the man to do what was needed to form one. He opened his own house for Preaching Services and Prayer Meetings, and it was in this way, and almost entirely by his own efforts, that the Baptist Church at Cinderford was formed. On the 27th January, 1842, the first religious service was held, from which the work developed. It cannot be stated with anything like certainty who conducted the first service. One would think that Mr. Rhodes had a hand in this, as he was the first in most things. One of the first preachers was Mr. Richard Tyndall, said to be a descendant of the family of William Tyndall, the Bible Translator and Martyr - who hailed from Dursley. For some time he continued to take services at the rate of one Sunday per month. A providential hand led Mr. Tyndall to Cinderford. He spent some years in London, being induced to go there by a Mr. Sanigear, who with his wife (who was a descendant of John Bunyan), were members of a Baptist Church over which the Rev. Abraham Booth presided. Mr. Tyndall secured a situation in the grocery business with a Mr. David Bligh, with whom he lived. One of the privileges enjoyed while in this situation was the opportunity of having books from the excellent library of his master. While here he was led to the Saviour through the preaching of a Mr. Stephens. The text was Isaiah liii, 5, "He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities, &c." At the age of 18 he was baptised, and joined the Church of which the Rev. Dan Taylor was previously pastor. After some years residence in London, Northumberland, and Durham, Mr. Tyndall returned to his native village, Dursley. He at once began Christian work, preaching two Sunday's a month in the village of Cambridge, Glo's., and another Sunday at Littledean. By preaching at Littledean he became known to the friends at Cinderford, and was secured by them for the only Sunday in the month he had open. He continued to serve the cause in this way until a minister was called to the Church in 1847. He was then presented with his salary - a Bible - for the services rendered for five years. After this Mr. Tyndall continued to serve the Church as local preacher, deacon, and in other spheres of labour. He died in 1875. The first year of the services in the house of Mr. Rhodes was crowned with success. Five who had decided to follow Christ, were baptised, and joined the Church at Coleford. These five, with some other Baptists in the neighbourhood formed the nucleus for the Church. The formation took place on January 17th, 1843, ten completing the members. The names were:- William Frowen Rhodes, Thomas Cooper, William Cooper, Elizabeth Baker, Myra Cooper, John Tingle, George Meridith, (all transferred from Coleford), George Ind, Sarah Ind, (transferred from Shortwood), and Edward Hurcomb, (transferred from Uley). The minister that superintended at the formation of the Church was Mr. Rhodes' pastor the Baptist minister of Coleford, Rev. Robert Brewer. The Sunday school was also established in Mr. Rhodes' house, with about 12 scholars, Mr. Rhodes being superintendent, with Mrs. Eliza Chivers and Mr. William Attwood Minty as teachers. Two of the scholars are still alive at this date (1910). Early in the same year a piece of land was purchased at a cost of £20, from Mr. William Tingle. One of the first things to be done after the land was secured was to hold a religious meeting on it. This took place on January 11th, 1843, when Mr. Rodway, of Gloucester, preached in the open air. The services - continued in Mr. Rhodes house until the Chapel was built, have been described by one of the first members as simple and hearty, but successful. To use his own words, "They then had one lesson, one sermon, and sang three times, which I think much more to the praise and glory of God than the ceremonies of present day." Apparently one very important item has been omitted in the description of the early services. No Church could succeed as this did without prayer. The element entered largely into all their work and worship. As soon as possible the new Chapel was begun, and on November, 9th, 1843, it was opened for Divine worship. The dedicatory sermons were preached in the morning and at night by the Rev. Jenkin Thomas, of Cheltenham, and in the afternoon by the Rev. Joseph Hyett, of Gloucester. On the following Sabbath three sermons were preached by the Rev. T.Nicholson, of Lydney. The collections for the opening services amounted to £60. The cost of the Chapel was £384. The seating accommodation was 300. The Trustees were the following :- Mr. William Frowen Rhodes, Rev. Thomas Nicholson, Mr. John Trotter Thomas, Rev. William Nicholson, Messrs. Benjamin Wilmot Provis, John Locke, George Barry, Joseph Cooper, junior, Joseph Chivers, Thomas Cooper, William Attwood Minty, George Marfell, George Waite, Peter Constance. As far as can be ascertained the first Diaconate was composed of the following :- William Frowen Rhodes, Richard Tyndall, Thomas Cooper, Joseph Chivers. In those early days of Church life no Church would be considered complete without a creed fully stated and entered on the Trust Deeds. Doctrine of the Church:-

One living and true God. Three equal persons in the Godhead. Original sin. Eternal and personal election. Particular redemption. Free justification by the imputed righteousness of Christ. Regeneration, conversion and sanctification by the Spirit and Grace of God. The moral law, or the rule of conduct of all believers. Final perseverance of the saints. The resurrection of the body to eternal life, the future judgement, the eternal happiness of the righteous, and everlasting misery of such as die impenitent. Baptism by immersion in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost to such only as are of years of understanding, upon their own confession of repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

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There were several baptised at the end of the year 1843, or the beginning of 1844. Among them were some who are remembered by the present (1910) members. The first to join the Church by baptism after its formation was Mrs. Eliza Chivers. She was followed by Thomas Chivers, Samuel Thomas, Mrs. Thomas Cooper, William Taylor and others. The first baptismal service held in the new Chapel was on July 14th, 1844, when seven were baptised by Rev. T.Nicholson, Lydney. Mr. Nicholson took for his text Acts viii, 36, "See here is the water, what doth hinder me to be baptised ?" As might expected the first service of this kind attracted a large company, the Chapel being filled to its utmost capacity. On August 18th, 1844, Rev. J.Hall, Gorsley, preached from Romans vi, 4, and baptised five more. The Church that began in January, 1843, with ten members had grown by August, 1844, to 52. After the opening of the Chapel until July, 1845, neighbouring ministers occupied the pulpit. From July, 1845, Mr. Fisher, from Longtown, was the preacher, but apparently was never ordained as pastor. In November, 1846, it was thought that Mr. Fisher would be leaving for a pastorate elsewhere, and he was presented with a Bible. He did not actually leave the Church for another sphere of labour until about six months after. Mr. Joseph Hume supplied for three months, from January to March, 1847, after which he received a very unanimous invitation to become pastor. This was the second invitation that he received, the first was when he came for three months at the beginning of the year. These months were signalised by baptisms each month. In January 5, February 2, and March 9 were immersed. One of the historians says about these services, that among the baptised were "two householders, but no infants." On the second invitation being given, Mr. Hume was disposed to accept, on condition that the work should be reduced if possible. At this time there were three preaching services on the Sunday. The request was that the afternoon service should cease, and more attention paid to school work, and prayer meetings. Mr. Hume's recommendation was, that " two prayer meetings to be held in different parts of the town, to pray that God's blessing may rest on the school work, and the preaching of the word." One was held at the house of Mr. Thomas Sims, who was the first sexton. This suggestion was agreed to. The Church numbering less than 80, offered their first settled pastor an annual salary of £80. The Rev. Joseph Hume was trained by the Baptist Theological Educational Society, London. He hailed from Devonshire Square Chapel, London, the Church which Rev. H.Hinton presided.Mr. Hume entered upon his labours on July 11th, and was ordained soon after, when his Pastor, Rev. J.H. Hinton, delivered the charge. Before the pastorate had been in operation long the place was found to be too small, and a gallery was erected, and opened on November 8th, 1947. The cost was the modest sum of £35. The year 1847 was also significant by the fact that on October 8th the chapel was licensed for the solemnisation of marriages. The first choir was formed during Mr. Hume's ministry; various instruments were used, and anthems were first introduced, to which Mr. Hume objected. They all loved their minister, even though they did not agree with him. Six members of this choir are still alive, namely: Mrs. Miriam Wood, Mrs. Ann George, Mrs. Sophia Teague, Mr. Thos. Weale, Mr. James Minty, MR. Joseph Cooper. Rev. J. Hume's ministry lasted for two years and six months, his faithful work being blessed with great success. His death took place on October 9th, 1850, and he was buried in the graveyard attached. An infant son was also previously buried there, being the first interment, Mr. Hume himself being the second. His last letter, and last message written to the church was an earnest appeal to the choir that they all should decide for Christ. His last sentence in that letter was, "I charge you, meet me in heaven." This was written four days before he passed away. About the close of the year 1850 a very hearty call was given to the Rev. Henry Webley, of Bradford, Wilts. The invitation was accepted, and he entered upon the pastorate in January, 1851. Mr. Webley retained the pastorate until July, 1856 when he accepted an invitation from a church at Corsham, Wilts. His Labours were held in high esteem, and greatly blessed. During his pastorate Mr. Webley had the misfortune to lose his first wife, who was buried in the old graveyard. His family were all members, and workers in some way, and two of his sons and one daughter are alive in New Zealand, and one daughter at Bradford-on-avon, at the present time (1910). The total number of members that had been received into the church since its institution was 136, and as far as can be ascertained 41 had been erased, leaving a membership of 95. The last member baptised and received into the church in the year 1855 was Mr. Benjamin Stepheus. He is regarded as one of Mr. Rhode's converts. Soon as he joined the church he began to preach. It is said that he would sit up night after night, and when he felt sleepy he would put his head in cold water and return to his study again. He generally attended the week-night prayer meeting on his way home from work. He turned in to prayer in his pit clothes, and with his bread bag and bottle. He was called the spurgeon of the Forest. He received and accepted, a call to the Ryeford Baptist Church and laboured there until 1870. He burned his candle at both ends and died at the early age of 45, but not before God could write on his epitaph "Well done, good and faithful servant." In the year 1854 there was another transfer from the Coleford Church. Like the founder of the church he too, was a grocer, and a Baptist. This was George Waite. Mr.Rhodes established the church, but it was Mr. Waite who succeeded in making the Psalmody of the church what it was afterwards to be. While still a member of the Coleford Baptist Church Mr. Waite was made a trustee of the Baptist Church property here. Soon after he came to reside at Cinderford, he began to work, and was made a Deacon and Superintendent. He was a good reader of character, an incisive debater, and had a good working knowledge of the Bible, all helping in his work of dealing with the teachers and scholars of the school. His ambition was to elevate the Church and School, and to secure this he saw that it was necessary that there should be an improved Psalmody, a greater reverence in the sanctuary, a better staff of teachers, and a more thoughtful membership. There were two events that had taken place previous to the last year dealt with, viz., 1854, that may be of sufficient interest to chronicle. On April 2nd, 1848, the first wedding took place. The contracting parties were Mr.C.Jones and Miss S.Jones; Mr. Hume officiated. As this was the first marriage in the building, the bride was presented with a Bible. On June 1st and 2nd, 1852, the Association Meetings were for the first time held at Cinderford. The President of the Association was the Pastor at Cinderford, Rev. H.Webley. Sermons were preached by the Rev. S.Dunn, Winchcomb,and the Rev. E.Steene, D.D., Camberwell. Addresses were delivered by Revs. H.Clarke, M.A., Monmouth, R.C.Le Maire, Uley, and S.Walker, Ryeford. From the close of 1856 to June 1858, the pulpit was supplied by students from the Pontypool College. Among the supplies was a young man who hailed from Carmarthen, and was undergoing a course of training at Pontypool Baptist College. His name was Phillip Prees. After the church had heard Mr.Prees preach a few times they gave him a very hearty invitation to the Pastorate. The invitation was accepted on condition that the church would wait until his college course was completed. This was agreed to. At this period the church was pastorless for two years with the exception of a month. On June 6th, 1858, Mr.Prees began his work with the people, among whom he laboured for 14 years and 8 months, and then was called to higher service above. The pastor's recognition services were held on July 4th and 7th, 1858. On Sunday, July 4th, three sermons were preached by Rev. Thomas, D.D.,President of the Baptist College, Pontypool. On Wednesday, July 7th, the first service began at 11 o'clock a.m. The following is the order of service, with the names of those who took part. Reading of scripture and prayer, Rev. John Hall, of Gorsley; introductory discourse, Rev. N.Thomas, of Cardiff; questions by Mr. Nicholson, of Lydney; statement by Mr.Prees; ordination prayer, Rev. E.E.Elliot, of Lydney; charge, Rev. Thomas Thomas, D.D.; concluding prayer, Rev. J.Hurst. Afternoon service 2.30, reading of scripture, Rev. W.Collings, of Gloucester ; sermon to the church and congregation, Rev. John Penny, of Coleford ; concluding prayer, Rev D.Elliston, of Blakeney. Tea at five o'clock. Public meeting at 6.30. Mr. Nicholson, of Lydney presided, and addresses were delivered by Rev's. N.Thomas, Thomas Thomas, D.D., John Penny, and W.Collings. If the quality was equal to the quantity, the friends had a good day. The collections taken were for the funds of the new chapel. During his ministry great progress was made, both in the church and Sunday School. In less than twelve months from the beginning of his pastorate, it was discovered that the building was too small to hold the ever growing congregations. All sorts of questions were asked. Among them - Shall we enlarge the present chapel ?, Shall we build a new chapel ?, Where can we build ?, One Sunday night after a service which had been held in a crowded chapel, and many had to be turned away, on the premises where the church was instituted, the question was again asked, what can we do ?. Mr. Moses Boey, who was then the servant in the employ of Mr. Rhodes, a single young man, and not a member of the church, said "Why not buy the little field next to the chapel, and build a new chapel ?". Mr. Rhodes replied by clapping his hands, and saying " Good, Moses ! a capital idea !" Mr. Prees, who was present, confirmed Mr. Rhodes opinion. But the difficulty was how to get the cash to buy the field and build the chapel. More, perhaps, as a joke than anything else, Mr. Boey was asked how much he would give for the purpose. After a little consideration he replied that he would give £5, on condition that he was the first to be married in the new House of God. At that time Mr.Boey had no idea of being married, was not even engaged, and had not seen the woman who afterwards became his wife, but strange to say Mr. Boey was the first to be married in the new building, paid his £5 towards the chapel, and received a bible, which now (1910) in his possession with the names and dates of the children born to them. £50 were paid for the piece of ground, purchased of Mr. Wm. Tingle. Learning the position from Mr. Wm. Minty, who with his sons erected the boundary wall, denying themselves necessaries to do so, a Miss Tanner, interested in one of the local collieries, generously gave the £50 urgently needed for the ground. Two enthusiastic leaders in the cause at this time - Joseph Chivers and Edward Hurcomb - got the "sack" from a noted colliery owner then resident in the district, but it was a blessing in disguise - and the church flourished all the more because of petty persecution. The foundation stone of the new Chapel (which is the present) was laid on August 10th, 1859, by T. Batten, Esq., of Coleford. It was intended that the building should contain double the seating capacity of the old one. With an end gallery 600 could be accommodated. The estimated cost was £2,400. This was no small undertaking for a few, the membership at this time being only just over a hundred. Before an appeal to the outside public was made the church and congregation set themselves the task of raising £500. Of this amount £300 was quickly secured. The opening services were held on July 31st, 1860. In the morning Rev. Hugh Stowell Brown, of Liverpool, preached from Isaiah lii, 3, "Ye have sold yourselves for nought ; and ye shall be redeemed without money." At the afternoon service Rev.James Smith, of Cheltenham, preached. For the tea and evening meeting a big tent was erected on the green, about where Messrs. William's Timber Yard now stands. At the tea there were 1,200, each paying 1/-, and all provisions were given by the members, a net profit was made of £60. The Rev. H.S.Brown preached again at night in the tent, which was crowded in every corner. At this service the preacher promised the church that he would come and preach the funeral sermon of the debt, which promise he redeemed in a very short time, and once more rejoiced with the Cinderford people in having a chapel free from debt. Mr. William Morgan was the builder, and Mr. Amos Morgan helped his father. During the erection of the chapel a very bad accident happened which it was thought would end fatally. Mr. Amos Morgan fell from the building, and hung for a long time between life and death. Happily he recovered and lived to serve the church in a variety of ways. After 50 years the brother is still engaged in christian work, and doing service for Christ on the spot where he had his terrible fall. He has served the church as a teacher, local preacher, Deacon, and Elder. He now has charge of the oldest female class in the school. During the 14 years and 8 months of Mr. Prees' ministry splendid work was done. Increase in every department was reported. The membership at the close of his pastorate numbered 192. This was an increase of 97 during his ministry. The school also made rapid progress in teachers and scholars. Mr.Prees was a man held in high esteem. He laboured with many tokens of prosperity. He enjoyed the support and sympathy of a large and attached congregation, and by his zealous and faithful ministry he built up one of the healthiest and strongest Baptist Churches in the Forest. His influence was wider than his own church and town. By all the Nonconformist churches of the district he was constantly sought after, and kindly spoken of. His presence on the platform at a public meeting being a guarantee that one good speech at least would be heard. He was the friend of young and old, and by his thousand act of brotherly kindness he had endeared himself to all. When he died there was a loss to the Baptist Denomination, a greater to the district in which he lived, but greatest of all to the church over which he presided for nearly 15 years. He died on February 10th, and was buried on February 13th, 1873, in a new vault, specially prepared by Mr. Albert Ridler for himself and family. The remains were carried to the grave by members of the Baptist Church, while among the pall-bearers were two clergymen of the Church of England, and four Baptist ministers, viz.; Rev. W.Barker (Vicar of Holy Trinity), Rev. -. Butlin,Curate (representing Rev. G.A.Allan, (Vicar of St Johns),Revs. T. Harris, J. Waters, T. Nicholson (Lydney) and W.H. Tetley. The funeral service was conducted by Revs. T. Nicholson, W.H. Tetley (Coleford) and J. Bloomfield (Gloucester). Funeral sermons were preached at Cinderford, on the following Sunday, by Rev. T. Thomas, D.d. his colleague tutor, and the gentleman who preached and delivered the charge to him when ordained and by Rev. W.H. Tetley, at Coleford. Mr. Prees's ministry was not long, but it was well spent, and where he began his work he continued until the close of his life. The church up to this period had had three regular pastors, and two of them had died on the scene of their labours, but both of them are remembered today as men of god. a singular incident occurred in connection with Mr. Prees' successor. At the May meetings before his death, Mr. Prees, Mr. Rhodes, and the Rev. C. Griffiths, with others, were sitting at a table, and Mr. Prees remarked that if he died soon, Mr. Griffiths was the man to succeed him; and this actually happened, without the slightest pre-arrangement on the part ofanyone. The Pastorate of Rev. Cornelius Griffiths began on the first Sunday in September, 1873. Between the death of Rev. P. Prees and the commencement of the ministry of the Rev. c. Griffiths there was a period of only seven months. Like Mr. Prees, Mr. Griffiths was a Welshman, and trained for the ministry at Pontypool College. His first pastorate after he left the College was at Aberavon, where he laboured for three years. In the year 1860, Mr. Griffiths received a call to Merthyr Tydvil, and remained there until he came to Cinderford in 1873. The recognition Services took place on October 9th of the same year. The first meeting began at 2 p.m. when two addresses were given by the Rev. N. Thomas, of cardiff, on "The christian Ministry" and Rev. J. Bloomfield, on "The duties of the Christian Church." Public Tea followed at 5, and the Meeting at 7, presided over by T. Batten, Esq. of Coleford. The speakers were Revs. t. Owen, of Pennydarren; J. Lewis of troedyrhiew; J.G. Phillips, of Builth; D. Howells, of glasbury, and neighbouring ministers. During the pastorate of the Rev. C. Griffiths progress was recorded in every department. The membership at this time was about 200, but by the year 1881, the year Mr. Griffiths resigned the pastorate, it had reached 300. During the seven and half years of his ministry Mr. Griffiths received 27 more than an average of 1 per Sunday, or 52 per year. About this time there were several who joined the church and afterwards to a leading part in church matters. In the year 1873 Mr. James Ridler came from Lydney, and brought his transfer. Four years after Mr.Ridler was baptised. Both of them were useful members, contributing largely by their efforts and gifts. Mr. A.Ridler occupied the positions of teacher, Deacon, Elder and Superintendent. He also acted in other useful ways, and rendered to the church wholehearted services. His death on October 15th, 1903, came as a great blow to the church and school. Mr. William Harvey and family walked from Herbert Lodge to the chapel regularly. They came in the morning at the service which began at 9 a.m., and remained the day, returning after the last service at night. It was their custom to bring their food with them, and remain on the premises for the whole of the Sabbath. This was the kind of service about which God will say "Well done ! good and faithful servant ! ". Mr. Samuel Thomas was also about this time taking an active part in the work. He was made a deacon later, but served as a teacher and District Visitor faithfully. This brother was earnest, quiet, and quaint. On one occasion he was praying, and the burden of his prayer was, that the power of the Devil might be curtailed, when with pathos and power he exclaimed " O Lord cut off his tail." In addition to those already mentioned there were others, such as William Attwood Minty, Joseph Chivers, James Roberts, Tom Rhodes, and Samuel Jones, "Who through faith subdued kingdoms,wroughtrighteousness, obtained promises . . . having a good report through faith." Not many months of Mr. Griffiths' pastorate had gone by before it was seen that the chapel was too small to accommodate the increasing congregations. A building committee was chosen, and a new site was procured to build an entirely new chapel. For this purpose plans were drawn up and tenders invited to build a chapel to seat 1200. However, before any tenders were received a strike took place, and a general depression in trade was the result and the building of the new chapel was deferred for a while. Soon after, another move was made to increase the seating capacity, as the people thronged to hear the Word. Steps were taken to erect two side galleries in the present chapel. This was done at a cost of œ330, and opened in September, 1875, free of debt. During the pastorate of the Rev. C. Griffiths, the two chapels at Greenbottom and Steam Mills were built. The services at Greenbottom were first held at the house of Mr. James Leadbeater. At the close of the year 1876 the building was commenced. The foundation stone laying took place on December 14th, when four ladies, who were members of the church at Cinderford, took part, namely, Mrs. E. Hadley, Miss A. Chivers, Miss P. Tyndall, and Miss K. Waite. The chapel was completed, and opened for worship on Sunday, April 29th, 1877. Its seating capacity is 100. There were two new classrooms added to the premises during the pastorate of the Rev. John George,and there has been a good work done among the young by a faithful band of workers, who have most of them gone there from Cinderford, often walking there twice on a Sunday and once during the week. The meetings at Steam Mills began at the house of Mr. Willis. The cause there grew, and it soon became necessary to build. In 1879 a piece of land was purchased from the Crown, and in 1880 the chapel was built and opened for divine worship. Miss Ann Chivers laid the first foundation stone, Miss Annie Tyndall, Miss Annie Chivers, and Master Thos. Chivers laid others. At this station also an extension took place during the Rev. John George's pastorate. The chapel was enlarged, and now seats 280, and three new classrooms were added for the accommodation of the Sunday School. Here also a good number of scholars are gathered, and taught by earnest and devoted teachers. The church at Cinderford has also supplied most of the teachers and workers for this station. The chief feature at both of the stations is the Sunday School work. In addition to the ordinary classes, there are some good adult classes. There were preaching services held also at Ruspidge, Walnut Tree, and Newnham. The year 1877 was an important one in the history of the church, as the founder, Mr. W.F. Rhodes, attained his 70th birthday. This was made the occasion of presenting him with a gold watch and chain, a chair, and an address. On the chair was a silver plate with the inscription, "Presented to the Founder of this Church, W.F. Rhodes, on his 70th birthday. Cinderford, 16th October, 1877." The chair has been handed back to the church, and now occupies the central position on the rostrum. As the address is rather a long one, only parts of it can be given. "An address presented to William Frowen Rhodes, Deacon of the Baptist Church, Cinderford, by his fellow members and friends, upon his attaining his 70th birthday . . . . Signed on behalf of the committee, Cornelius Griffiths, Pastor, Joseph Chivers, Thomas Chivers, Thomas Cooper, George Waite, Deacons ; Alfred Ridler, Secretary ; E.P. Walker, Treasurer. Cinderford, October 16th, 1877." The presentation was made by the venerable Mrs. E. Chivers, the oldest member of the church at the time. In the body of the address are some items of interest,among them being " that 34 years had passed since the formation of the church, and for the whole of this period Mr. Rhodes had been deacon." "That the school numbered nearly 1,000." It appears that all the organisations of the church were in good condition at this time. There were bible classes held at the houses of Mr. J. Baggett, Mr. C. Eve, and Mr. J. Webb, while prayer meetings were held at seven different places, one of them being conducted chiefly by females. There was also a Mutual Improvement Society held weekly, with the Pastor as President, Mr. G. Waite and Mr. John Taylor as Vice Presidents, and Mr. H. Dawes as Secretary. About this time an old custom which had prevailed fell into disuse, namely the turning of the back, standing or kneeling, towards the minister, when prayer was offered. The pastorate was vacant between the resignation of Rev. C. Griffiths and the call of the Rev. William Thomas, for 13 months. The Rev. W Thomas received a call, and began his ministry in June, 1882. Mr. Thomas had held pastorates at Glascoed and Llandewi Rhydderch before coming to Cinderford. The recognition services took place on Thursday, August 31st. Two sermons were preached in the afternoon, first by Rev. R.S. Young of Abergavenny, from 2 Timothy i,8, "Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner" ; the second by Rev. Nathaniel Thomas, of Cardiff, on 2 Cor. ix. 15 "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." At five o'clock there was a public tea, when a large company assembled in the Schoolroom. A public meeting followed in the Chapel at seven, when the building was crowded. The Pastor announced hymn 242, "Awake m soul, in joyful lays, &c.," after which Rev. J. Thomas, of Drybrook, offered a prayer. Rev. Cornelius Griffiths was voted to the chair. Mr. W. Rhodes gave particulars of the formation of the Church, and the call of Mr. Thomas to the pastorate. After the Pastor gave his reasons for accepting the call, addresses were given by Revs. N. Thomas, T. Nicholson, E. Fison, J. Thomas, J. Bloomfield, S.R. Young, T. Reeves, J.E. Perrin and J. Guy. The first item of importance after the settlement of Rev. W. Thomas, took place in 1885. It had been felt for some time that there was a great need to build classrooms for the increasing school, but for this purpose cash was needed, and there was none in hand. The Rev. G. Gange paid a visit to Cinderford and conducted services, when £20 was netted as a nucleus for the new building. At the Tea there were 600, each paying 1/-. The sum of £20 was not much to begin a job which would cost £600, but the faith of the members was equal to the occasion, because their faith was accompanied by works. On May 15th, 1885, the Foundation Stones were laid of the "Rhodes Memorial Classrooms." Mr. W.F. Rhodes had died the previous year on July 21st. There were to be 12 Classrooms and two Vestries, or smaller Classrooms. The services began in the afternoon, when the Rev. John Jenkyn Brown, of Birmingham, preached from Matthew xix, 13-14. After the sermon the congregation made a move for the scene of the Stone-laying. There were four laid, and in one were encased a copy of the "Local Baptist Magazine," and the "Dean Forest Mercury." The first stone was laid by Thomas Blake, Esq. ( who was the Liberal Candidate for the Dean Forest Division ). After placing a œ5 note on the stone, he declared it well and truly laid in thename of the "Father, Son, and Holy Ghost." Richard Cory, Esq., of Cardiff, was called upon to lay the second, which he did, and put 10 sovereigns upon it. Arnold Thomas Esq., laid the third, and the fourth was laid by Rev. W. Thomas (Pastor). The sums placed on the various stones, and the collection taken amounted to œ26 15s. A very large meeting followed after the tea, at which 500 sat down, when T. Blake Esq., presided. Those who addressed the meeting were Revs. J. Bloomfield, T. Stephens, B.A., T. Williams, B.A., C. Griffiths, J.J. Brown, W. Thomas and R. Cory, Esq. The Choir led by Mr. Crisp, rendered several anthems. Miss Tyndall was the accompanist. The collection at the evening meeting was œ7 18s., making for the day £34 13s. When the rooms had reached the first floor the funds run out and the work was stopped. Mr. R.R. Taylor came to the rescue and put a little heart into the rest of the members. He said "I will lend you £50 free of interest." Others took shares, and some helped in some other way. Among the outside helpers was Alfred Thomas, Esq., M.P. (now Sir Alfred), who sent a truck of lime. The Classrooms were finished and opened on March 17th, 1887. Again the Rev. J.J. Brown was the preacher, and took for his text Daniel ii, verses 16,17 and 18. Following the sermon was a largely attended Tea, and at seven o'clock a Public Meeting. Mr. A.D. Williams was expected to preside, but wrote to say he could not possibly get away, and the Pastor took his place. After an address from Rev. J.J. Brown, the event of the evening came. Mr. T.F. Rhodes came to the platform, when he was presented with a silver key to open the rooms. The following inscription was engraved on it : " Presented to Mr. T.F. Rhodes, to open Classrooms, his father's memorial, at the Baptist Chapel, Cinderford. March 17th, 1887." Mr. Rhodes at once proceeded to open the doors, and after his return to the platform said "Mr. Thomas, my dear friends, I think it is a great honour to have been requested to perform the ceremony of formally opening these Classrooms, erected in memory of my dear father. One of his chief joys was to see the Sunday School prosper, and I am sure that had he been asked he would have desired no better memorial than to be remembered in connection with this Sunday School. I trust that with the increased accommodation many more may be induced to attend here, and that much good may result. I now declare these rooms to be opened for the use of the Cinderford Baptist Church and Sunday School, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, Amen." The following Sunday, March 20th, Rev. J. Bloomfield preached, and on Tuesday, March 22nd, Godfrey B. Samuelson, Esq., (Liberal Candidate for Dean Forest), opened a Bazaar, which was continued on Wednesday and Thursday. During the months of March and April, of 1887, Mr. Opie Rodway, of Stroud, conducted a series of special evangelistic services, with great success, resulting in a larger accession to the church membership than had previously taken place in any one year since the origin of the Church. On the first Sunday in April 33 were given the right hand of fellowship, and on the first Sunday in May, 66. Among the last batch baptised on April 27th, was Rev. Alfred Enoch Phillips, who entered the Pastor's College, and after spending five years there, received a call to Wellingborough, where he formed a new church, built a beautiful chapel to seat 500, and raised the membership to over a hundred. He resigned the pastorate in July, 1907, and settled in Arkwright Street, Nottingham, in September of the same year. The Rev. W. Thomas resigned the Pastorate in September, 1887. He preached his farewell sermons on Sunday, September, 25th. In the morning his text was Phil. ii. 14-15-16. The sermon at night was based on Acts xx, 26-27. At the close of the evening service the Lord's Supper was administered to a very large number. The Church remained without a Pastor from September, 1887, to December, 1889, when the Rev. John George began his ministry, after receiving two invitations to the pastorate. Mr. George was trained at Pontypool College, and had three Churches before he came to Cinderford. His first was at Llanddewi Rhydderch, where he laboured for 10 years ; the second at Crickhowell, where he spent 7 years ; and next Ponthir, where another 10 years were spent. The recognition services were held on Thursday, Feb, 6th, 1890. In the afternoon Rev. C. Griffiths, of Bristol, preached from Hebrews xi, 22, "By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel ; and gave commandment concerning his bones." Between the sermon and the meeting a 7, a public tea took place, when 200 sat down. The evening meeting was presided over by Rev. W. Thomas. After singing " All hail the power of Jesu's name," and prayer, the Chairman called on Mr. G. Waite, one of the senior deacons ( in the absence of the Church Secretary, Mr. H. Dawes) to state the circumstances under which Mr. George was invited to the pastorate. The Pastor was next asked to speak, which he did, giving further particulars of his call. The other speakers were Revs. C. Griffiths, J.D. Rees (Pontrhydyrun), T. Williams, B.A. (Coleford), E. Davis (Lydney), C.J. Reskelly (Littledean), E. Watkins (Ryeford), W. Davis (Blakeney), and A.W. Latham (Lydbrook). During the service the Choir rendered three anthems. For just over eight years Mr. George was the Pastor. As we have already indicated, during those eight years the two stations were improved by building classrooms for the elder scholars, and the Chapel at Steam Mills was enlarged. It was during this period that two more young men, who are now doing good work as Baptist Ministers joined the Church. They were the Rev. Joseph Phillips and the Rev. John Isles The Rev. J. Phillips spent some years at the Pastor's college, and has since held pastorates at Burwell, Woollaston, and now at Denborough. The Rev. J. Isles received his training at Harley College, and now at Houghton Regis. Another member at this time was Rev. G. Willstead. He went, first to Chard as Colporteur, and from there to Fawley as Pastor of a Church. Mr. George conducted a serviceable Class for Teachers while here. His resignation was tendered and accepted in April, 1898. The Church remained without a pastor for ten months between the resignation of Rev. J. George and the beginning of the Pastorate of Rev. W.W. Wilks. On several occasions Mr. Wilks preached as a Supply, and also conducted a very successful Mission. The Christian League invited Mr. Wilks to conduct the Mission. This auxiliary of the Church, which had been in existence for some years, was now doing a good work. Two Missions previous to this had been managed and financed by it. The Mission conducted by Mr. Wilks gave the Church an opportunity of both hearing and seeing him in another capacity than that of preaching. At an adjourned meeting on Sunday, Dec, 18th, 1898, the ballot took place which decided to invite the rev. gentleman to the Pastorate. This was accepted, and his ministry began on Feb. 5th, 1899. Mr. Wilks was trained for the ministry by the Pastor's College. He had one pastorate only before coming to Cinderford, which was at Alnwick, where he spent six years. His first sermon as Pastor preached in the morning, was from Galatians vi, 14, " God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." The evening sermon was from Hebrews xiii, 8, " Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever." The Recognition Service took place on Thursday, March, 23rd. In the afternoon the Rev. D.J. Hiley, Bristol, preached from Matthew v, 47. The preacher laid special emphasis on "Extra," indicating that the Church which did, and lived the "Extra" would be the ideal Church which alone would tell on the masses. A Public Tea followed which was the largest gathering of its kind for several years. The Public Meeting began at seven o'clock, with the Pastor (Rev. W.W.Wilks in the chair). Mr Amos Morgan gave a brief account of the call to the Pastorate, which was supplemented by Mr. Wilks. The other speakers taking part were Revs. A.W. Latham, G. Neighbour, V. Thurston and C.J. Reskelly. The choir rendered several anthems, Mr. H. Dobbs being the conductor. During the first period of Mr. Wilks' pastorate several items of more than ordinary interest took place. In October, 1901, a very interesting Sunday School Anniversary was held. On Sunday, October 20th, Rev. W. Thomas, of London, preached. In the morning from Matthew xvi, 10, "And I will give unto thee the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven." At the night service the sermon was based on Matthew xix, 22, " But when the young man heard that saying he went away sorrowful : for he had great possessions." On Monday, Rev. Cornelius Griffiths, of Bristol, preached in the afternoon from Acts xi, 23, " Who when he came, and had seen the grace of God, and exhorted them all, that with the purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord." A Public Tea followed, when 400 sat down. The meeting at 7 was presided over by the Pastor. Mr. Alfred Ridler was first called upon to speak, who stated that in the School there 515 scholars over 15 years of age, 377 under 15, and 316 infants, making a total of 1,208, with 49 teachers. The above figures did not include the two Stations, where there were 306 more, well staffed with teachers. The Revs. C. Griffiths and W. Thomas gave very helpful addresses. Mr. Thomas remarked that "he hoped before he came again, to see the end of the Chapel out, so that they might have more Classrooms, with the choir behind the minister, and a good pipe organ." The choir contributed to the enjoyment of the services by giving several anthems. Mr. W.M. Everett was the conductor. The proceeds for the School amounted to œ20 from collections, and in addition a good sum from the Tea. During the absence of the Pastor, in August, 1901, the Church resolved to give an invitation for another term of 3 years, with an increase of £20 in his salary. This was accepted, and the second term began in January, 1902. At the Annual Church Meeting of January, 1902, a special committee was elected to take steps for building 7 more Classrooms, an organ loft, and erecting a new organ. Mr. A. Ridler was the treasurer, and Mr. A.D. Williams secretary. There were collecting cards, and share certificates issued, and a good sum was raised, which enabled the committee to begin. The contract was let to Messrs. Collins and Godfrey for œ960, including extras. A good second hand organ was purchased at œ175, and another œ75 was paid for erecting. With some other items the debt incurred amounted to £1,400. On Thursday, March 19th, 1903, the opening ceremony took place. In the afternoon, after singing the hymn " Our God our help in ages past," reading the Scripture , and prayer by Rev. W.W. Wilks, Mr. W. Prothero, of Pontypool, gave an organ recital. At the evening service a "Sacred Concert" was given by the Choir, Mr. W.M. Everett conducting. On Sunday, March 22nd, there were special services conducted by Master Willie Powell, the Boy Preacher, of South Wales. In the morning he preached from John i, 14,15 and 16. The evening service was a very crowded one, and hundreds were unable to get into the Chapel. The sermon was based on John xii, 23,24. There was an afternoon service, when an address was given by the Pastor, who also conducted, and the Sunday School Choir contributed the musical portion. Thursday, March 26th, the Rev. Cornelius Griffiths, a former Pastor, preached in the afternoon from Daniel iii, 16,17,18. At the evening meeting, Mr. Ridler opened the Classrooms. On the following Sunday, March 29th, Mr. Griffiths preached twice. The cash taken for all the above services amounted to £56 3s. 3d. A Bazaar followed in June, and during the three days a sum of £124 5s. 9d. was raised, making altogether for the organ and classrooms debt £180 9s. 0d. The Gloucestershire and Herefordshire Baptist Association held its Annual Meetings at this Church in 1873, President, Rev. T. James (Blakeney); in 1884, President, Rev. D.R. Morgan (Chalford); in 1903, President, Rev. S.J. Elsom (Yorkley). Rev. C. Griffiths was for several years Hon. Secretary. He died at Cardiff, Nov. 6th, 1905. In September, 1904, the Pastor (Rev. W.W. Wilks) had a sudden breakdown in health, and could only take one service on the Sunday for the remaining portion of the year. He tendered his resignation, and closed his ministry on the last Sunday in 1904. In the opening of the Classrooms by Mr. Ridler, he made special reference to Mr. Benjamin Morgan, who had been a Sunday School teacher for nearly 50 years, and had not missed 20 times in that period. After the death of Mr. Ridler, which took place on Oct. 15th, 1903, Mr. Morgan was appointed Superintendent of the School. Soon after this he celebrated his half century as Sunday School Teacher, when he was presented with a testimonial in cash, and an address, for his exceptionally long and faithful service. He continued to take his class after his appointment as Superintendent, and, in fact, up to the time of his death, which took place in June, 1906. He was 76 years of age, was a native of the place, and connected with the Baptist Church and School almost from its commencement. Truly he could be described as a "Father in Israel." He was for many years a member of the Choir, and was generally relied upon to start the tunes at the prayer meetings. By the death of Mr. Morgan one of the few remaining links of the past was broken. Mr. F.J. Preece succeeded him as superintendent of the Sunday School, having previously acted as Assistant. In the month of January, 1905, evangelistic services were conducted by the Rev. G. Neighbour, of Mountain Ash. These services were very successful, and a large made confession of their faith in Jesus as their Saviour during the meetings. Out of these services grew a desire to do something at the Stations. Greenbottom made the first move, and without any special missioner, a splendid work was done, when about 80 decided for Christ. Steam Mills followed, and about 50 made a profession of faith. As a result of these meetings, on March 5th, 25 ; on April 2nd, 41 ; on May 7th, 11 ; and on July 2nd, 5 - joined the Church. When the balance sheet of 1904 was read, it showed a debt on the current Church account of œ80. to meet this large deficit it was resolved early in 1907, to ask each member to contribute one penny per week extra, specially for this purpose. It was taken very heartily, and one was appointed for each district to call weekly for the coppers. By the time of closing the accounts for 1905, the scheme had succeeded so well that not only had the œ80 been paid off, but a balance was left in the bank of £24. As the two station had during the early part of 1905 added very considerably to their roll of members, they felt the need of having the opportunity of participating in the sacrament of the "Lords Supper" without having to go to Cinderford every month. They, therefore, asked that they should have a Sacramental Service on the second Sunday of each month, and that one of the local preachers should administer it. This request was granted to Greenbottom in April, and to Steam Mills in August. Mr. J. Cooksey presented to each of the Stations a chalice for use at the service, and other friends provided what else were necessary in the shape of plates and tables. In the month of February, 1906, it was decided to adopt the "Marriage Act of 1898." It was felt that while this Act did not give to Nonconformists all that was needed, it did give to them the opportunity to keep their own "Marriage Register," and appointing their own "authorised person" to attend all weddings, in place of the district Registrar. Mr. S. Jordan was asked to act as the "authorised person." The first wedding after the adoption of the Act was on June 4th, 1906. The March Church meeting of 1906 has the record of another scheme for raising money. Funds were needed for the Organ and Classrooms debt, and Mr. E.J.Reece made a suggestion that ten member should be asked to give £5 on condition that the other portion of the Church raised another £50. the ten names necessary to give the challenge to the rest were secured, the scheme was enthusiastically adopted, and Mr. Reece, with the Secretary, were asked to get the promises and collect the cash. The whole membership had the privilege of giving, and most of them accepted the opportunity. On April 30th, a special Church meeting was called, when a statement was made,showing what progress had been made in the month, and that only £ 10s. was needed to make the £100. This was immediately subscribed at the meeting, and the Doxology was sung as an expression of thanks. During the year 1906 the Church had been talking about giving aninvitation to a minister for the pastorate. The necessary steps were taken, but without success until Jan. 3rd, 1907. On this date the members voted by ballot on Rev. A.T. Matthews, of Brecon. The vote was such that the Church sent an invite, and after sometime a response was received accepting the pastorate, and deciding to begin as Pastor on March 24th, of the same year. The Rev. A.T. Matthews received his college training at Bristol, under Principal W.J. Henderson, B.A. He received a call to Kensington Church Brecon, in 1899, which he served for nearly seven years. During the two years the Church was pastorless, the activities of the cause were well maintained ; as indicated both by the income and increased membership. The recognition service of Rev. A.T. Matthews took place on Thursday, May 9th. The first service was held at 4.30, when professor W.J. Henderson, B.A., Principal of the Bristol Baptist College, who was also the President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain and Ireland, preached from Colossians i, 28-29, "Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom ; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus ; Whereunto I also labour, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily." A public tea followed, when about 200 sat down. The public meeting began at seven o'clock, Mr. John Cooksey (elder) presiding. This appears to be the first case of a member of the Church presiding at the Recognition Service of its Minister. After singing "Far down the ages now," Rev. A. Barnard offered prayer. The Church Secretary, Mr. S. Jordan, was first called upon to give an account of the circumstances which led up to Mr. Matthews' call. Mr. F.J. Preece, Superintendent of the Sunday School, followed, and gave a word of welcome on behalf of the School. Mr. F. Brain, J.P., a friend of the Church, who had known most of the ministers, gave a welcome for the Congregationalists. The Revs. O. Ayres (Ross), A.H. Horlick (Coleford), D.O. Griffiths (Brecon), J. Meridith (Hereford) - four Baptist Ministers - gave the next addresses. The two first - named were college chums of Mr. Matthews', while Mr. Griffiths and Mr. Meredith were both very intimate friends. Mr. Wright, a deacon of the Brecon Church, wished God speed to the Church and Pastor, and Mr.G.H. Rowlinson, J.P., gave a very hearty welcome on behalf of the Primitive Methodists. Mr. Matthews, after thanking those who had taken part in the meeting, said that he came not to work for, but to work with them for Christ. Some might expect him to speak of his creed, but he was not going to do so. He had no creed, but he had what was infinitely better, he had a living Christ, the Christ of Calvary, the Christ of Easter morn, and it would be his business to make Him Known. During the evening the Choir sang, "Lift up thy light," and "The radiant morn," Mr. H. Dobbs was the leader of the Choir, and Miss E. Bingle presided at the organ. Mrs. S. Dykins sang as a solo " How beautiful are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings." With the advent of Mr. Matthews a matter that had been discussed many times some of the members, was again set going, viz., the desirability of having an Institute, for the young people particulary. On May 8th, 1907, it was decided to take steps to this end, and a Committee was formed, with Rev. A.T. Matthews, President ; Mr. R.R. Taylor, Treasurer ; and Mr. S. Jordan, Secretary. It was resolved to ask the Crown for the price of a piece of land at the back of the Chapel. Before, however, any steps could be taken to purchase, it was discovered that St. Annals House was in the market, and that it could be purchased for œ1,000. At a meeting on May 30th, a resolution was passed to purchase at the price named, and œ50 was raised at the meeting in 10 £5 shares. The name is " Cinderford Baptist Institute," but it is not controlled by the Baptist Church ; the Committee is made up of all sections of the Christian Church represented in Cinderford, and is worked on unsectarian lines. When the promoters of the Institute met Mr. J. Cooksey, the owner of St. Annals, they were informed that it was his desire to give as a Manse the dwelling house attached to the building, and he would sell the remainder for £700. This offer was at once accepted, and at a Church meeting on June 12th, Mr. Cooksey was thanked for his liberality. On April 17th, 18th, and 19th, 1907, another Bazaar was held in the Town Hall, for the Organ and Classrooms Fund, and the net proceeds handed over to the fund amounted to œ129 2s. 7 1/2d. During the year 1907 there were several items of repairs and alterations that were needed, and also rather expensive, which included the enlargement of Mr. F. Cooksey's Classroom. The lobby between the Schoolrooms and Classrooms was improved by erecting a wall and doors at each end , and adding a gas burner in the centre ( with some other items of expense incurred late in the previous year), amounting to over œ20. It was discovered that the baptistry which had been in use for over 40 years, was getting thin, and was not water-tight. A new one was necessary, and a lead tank was built into the old one, at a cost of £16. In November, 1907, Mr. Herbert Booth (son of General Booth) visited the Church, and conducted a Mission. It was very successful in certain phases of Church work. The Lectures on " The Early Christians," on the last night of the Mission, surpassed anything of the kind ever held before. It was a record in attendance, in the interest created, and in spiritual power. Having come to so recent a date, a few words will suffice to indicate the sequence of events down to the Jubilee Celebration of 1910. In 1898 it was deemed necessary to acquire land for a New Burial Ground, and six and three-quarter acres of "Long's Ground" was purchased for a sum of £600. In June, 1908, £100 of the mortgage was asked for by the mortgagee, and a special effort was made necessary. The mortgage on the Burial Ground had to be reduced by that amount, and there was nothing for it but to set ourselves to raise the money. An appeal was made, and Whit-Sunday set aside as a special day. We were fortunate in securing the presence of Sir George White, M.P., an ex-President of the Baptist Union, and a leader of the Nonconformist Party in the House of Commons, who conducted the services with acceptance. The Burial Ground as a Church asset, does not meet with the general approval of the Church unfortunately, and as a consequence the appeal failed to realise the amount needed, but something like œ40 was contributed, the remainder had to be drawn from the Bank, and still remains in addition to the mortgage, as a debt. Against this, of course, must be put the value of the land, which ought to be a good asset. he next big affair was a Bazaar. It has already been recorded that Mr. J. Cooksey set apart a portion of St. Annals for a Manse. In order to effect alterations and additions a considerable sum was required, and it was decided to hold a "Manse Bazaar." This took place at St. Annals on June 10th, 11th and 12th, 1908. The openers were - first day, Sir George White, M.P., with the Right Hon. Sir Charles Dilke, M.P., presiding ; second day, Sir William Wedderburn ; third, Ivo W. Baldwin. Esq. The proceeds amounted to over œ80. The work in the district had been very bad for some time, and this amount was considered under the circumstances to be splendid. Up to the present time no further proceedings have been taken with the Manse and the amount is in hand, and forms a substantial beginning to the Manse fund. Some day, and we trust at no very distant date, the Church Manse will be an accomplished fact. In November of the same year, the Schoolroom was thoroughly renovated, by the free labour of a few members of the Church, who not only did the work, but collected the money needed for materials, so the finance of the Church was not drawn upon, and a much needed brightening up effected. About this time we learned with deep regret that one of our former pastors, the Rev. John George, had rather suddenly passed away. He left Cinderford and settled at Magor, where at the age of 74 he entered into rest. The beginning of the year 1909 was characterised by a special series of Prayer Meetings, which were very largely attended, and much of the blessing of God was enjoyed, and some souls brought into the Kingdom - a splendid spirit of unity and concord prevailing. An event worth recording was the visit of Rev. Wm. Cuff, of London, who came to us and lectured on " the life and work of Charles Haddon Spurgeon." In this year there also took place an Election of Deacons, which resulted in the whole of the former deacons being re-elected, with the exception of one who was not able to continue. This brings us to the present year, 1910, our Jubilee year, the outstanding event of which was the Jubilee Celebrations. Before we refer to these, however, there is one item which we desire to record, namely, the completion of the term of three years for which the present Pastor was invited. At the Annual Meeting in January the Church decided to request the Pastor to continue his ministry. Much heartiness and enthusiasm characterised the proceedings, and the doxology terminated the consideration of the question, the Pastor was consenting to remain, and we trust the union will ever be marked by happy, hearty, and holy fellowship.

JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS. ---------------------

The Jubilee Celebrations, with the record of which we close this history, began with a Special Thanksgiving Day, on Anniversary Sunday, May 22nd, when a special offering was asked for of œ50, to meet necessary expenditure chiefly connected with the cementing of the outside walls of the Classrooms. Mr. E.G.P. Cotelingham, an Indian gentleman, was the special preacher. The day was a great success, and the whole of the amount was realised. A feature of it was the securing of 50 half-crown collectors for the services by Mr. J. Cooksey, in two days, all being descendants of early members. Out of this idea grew the larger scheme of trays and subscriptions from old families, members, and descendants, for the principal celebration in September. The collectors on May 22nd were as follows :-

Gwendoline Rowlinson, and Henry Willstead, great grandchildren of W.F. Rhodes, founder of the Church. Catherine Rhodes, granddaughter of same. Walter Rhodes, grandson of same. Ida Long, great granddaughter of Mrs. Eliza Chivers, the first baptised member, and granddaughter of George Chivers, one of the early members. Howard Ridler, grandson of Mrs. Eliza Chivers, and Mr. and Mrs. James Ridler, early members, and son of late Alfred Ridler. Doris Forty, great great granddaughter of Edward and Mary Hurcomb, first members. Hilda Taylor (daughter of William), Kitty Taylor (daughter of Enos), and Ray Taylor (son of Reuben), grand-children of William and Mary Taylor, first members. Phyllis Cooper, granddaughter of William Cooper, a first member. Gladys Cooper, granddaughter of Joseph Cooper, a first member. Harold Tyndall, great grandson of Richard Tyndall, one of the first members. Ethel King and Ivy Boey, granddaughters of Mr. and Mrs. Moses Boey, the first to be married in the Chapel. Cissie Trotter, great granddaughter of John Davis, one of the first members and principal supporters of the new Chapel. Harold Young, great grandson of William Morgan, early member, the builder of the Chapel. Edna Preddy, granddaughter of one of the early members, William Preddy, Mrs. Preddy being still alive. Addie Dobbs, granddaughter of Luke and Lydia Dobbs, early caretakers and members. Ernest Morgan, grandson of Benjamin Morgan, one of the first Sunday School teachers. Cissie Tingle, granddaughter of Joseph Tingle, first choir-leader of the Church. Frank Niblett and Eric Fagence, grand and great grand-children of Thomas Cooper, a first member. William Hunt, grandson of Mrs. Mary Martin, early member. Edith Baldwin, daughter, and Doris and Gladys Reece, granddaughters, of Mr. and Mrs. James Baldwin, early members. Kathleen Harris, granddaughter of Thomas Weale, early member of church and choir. Frank Cooksey, son of John and Agnes Cooksey, grandson of Sarah Cooksey, early member. May Gardner, great granddaughter of Edward and Caroline Gardner, early members. Gertrude Bennett, granddaughter of Mrs. Martha Bennett, early member. Samuel Worgan, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Worgan, early members and sometime caretakers. Eunice Thomas, granddaughter of Samuel Thomas, early member. Kathleen Woolford, daughter of Wm. and J.M. Woolford, granddaughter of John and Margaret Woolford, and great granddaughter of Griffith and Margaret Cooper, early members ; and great great niece of Myra Cooper a first member. Horace Ashmead, grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Baker, early members. Albert Barnard, great grandson of Henry Baker, one of the first members. Edith Barnard, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Beard, early members. Misses B. Wood, Elsie Webb, L. Bryant, Olive Young, Dorothy Dykins and Master Leslie Miles, represented other old members of the Church.

There were a few other subscribers - including Misses Hardy and M. Emery, Messrs. J.S. Hewlett, H. Barter, A. Stubbs, F. Preece, jun., Harold Addis, Walter James, Alfred James, Philip Giles, and Master Alec Matthews.

The Success of the Jubilee Anniversary Services, decided the deacons to hold a Special Thanksgiving Service, which took place on Sunday evening, June 12th, and there was a very large congregation. The service was out of the ordinary order, for Mr. J. Cooksey (elder( was asked to read the 100th Psalm, followed with a brief and interesting statement with regard to the Church history to date, Mr. Jordan (Church Secretary) read Phillipians iv, 4-9, and also made some suitable remarks. Mr. Amos Morgan (elder) offered prayer, and the Pastor (Rev. A.T. Matthews) preached an appropriate and excellent sermon from Col.iii. 15, "Be ye thankful." The Choir, conducted by Mr. H. Dobbs, organist Miss Bingle, sang three anthems, and a memorable service concluded with the doxology. Circumstances prevented the conclusion of the Jubilee Celebrations until Sept. 25th and 29th. Sunday Sept. 25th, synchronised with the Harvest Thanksgiving Services, and the chapel was decorated with the "fruits of the earth" for the occasion. The special preacher was the Rev. A.H. Horlick, of Coleford - pastor of the mother church - who preached a very appropriate sermon in the morning from Ecclesiastes xi, 1,6. Mr. Horlick prefaced this by a brief reference to the origin of this church in particular, and the Forest of Dean and district Baptist Churches generally. The hymns at this service were appropriate to the occasion, as was the anthem " The eyes of all wait upon thee." There was a good attendance, - In the afternoon there was a mixed service, in lieu of the Sabbath School. The principal item was an address by an "Old Member and Scholar," in the person of Edward Beard, Esq., of Bridgend, who gave an excellent address to young men in particular, but young people in general, on "Opportunities." The Sunday School Choir, conducted by Mr. H. Hale, besides old hymns and tunes,sang two pieces, "Lift up your heads," and "Marching beneath the banner." Mr. Amos Morgan offered prayer, and Miss E.F. Cooksey sang a solo, "Shepherd of the fold." - In the evening the Chapel was packed, a feature of the attendance being the attendance of old members, worshippers, and scholars, from far and near. The Pastor conducted the service, and preached a most effective and appropriate sermon, from the text : John iv, 38, "Other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labour," and Hebrews vi, 12, "Be followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises," in the course of which he spoke first of the debt owed to the past, and secondly of the needs of the present and future, their hopes and prospects. - A feature of the service was the fine singing by the Choir, as well as the hearty singing of the old hymns and tunes selected. The anthem was "Jerusalem, my happy home, " and "Worthy is the Lamb" (from the Messiah.) It was a memorable and effective service altogether. The collections for the day amounted to œ11 8s. 2 3/4d., the greater portion of which was to form the nucleus of a renovation fund. The Jubilee Services were continued on Thursday, 29th, under very favourable circumstances as to weather. They began with a sermon in the Chapel, at 4p.m., the preacher being the Rev. W.W. Wilks, of Barnstaple, a former much - beloved Pastor, whom a large company of friends assembled to hear, and were glad to see. He chose the opportunity to make yet another earnest appeal on behalf of his Master, and his text was Matt. xix, 30th verse. This was followed by a memorable tea. It is almost certain that there has never been such a gathering before of old folk in particular - old members of the Church or Sabbath School, or worshippers, from far and near, some having to come from long distances to be present and take part in these meetings. There were two or three friends from abroad, who happened to be in this country at the time. There were quite a lot of old friends over 70, and a few over 80 years of age. The halt, the lame, the blind, the deaf, the decrepit were there, and the waiters and waitresses were delighted to serve them and make them happy and comfortable. The large Schoolroom was filled twice - it was the largest tea meeting in point of numbers, held for many years. All the provisions for the meat tea were provided by means of "trays", given by old families connected with the Church now or formerly, including some in Australia, New Zealand, America, and various parts of England and Wales - about 35 different families, who gave 55 trays between them. Representatives of nearly every one of the families were present to preside at their respective "tray." The tables were beautifully decorated with flowers, etc., and added charm to the occasion. It was altogether a unique gathering, and one that will not soon be forgotten. An interesting item in the proceedings was the formal presentation of 25 dozen "Jubilee" plates to the Church, to match the present Church tea service. This took place at the tea. The plates were obtained by Miss Cooksey's Class. The presentation was nicely made by Miss Clara Morgan, on behalf of the Class, and the Rev. A.T. Matthews thanked them on behalf of the Church for their kindness and interest. After tea, there was a largely attended public meeting in the Chapel, presided over by E. Beard, Esq., of Bridgend. After an hymn, the Rev. A.H. Horlick read a scripture and offered a prayer. The Chairman, in his opening remarks,said his first word was one of thankfulness to God that both his wife and himself - who were at the opening of that place of worship 50 years ago - were spared to be there again, to rejoice with them and praise God for His goodness to them as a Church over the past 50 years. He then gratefully reviewed the past and entreated for the future. A telegram was received from the family of the late Rev. C. Griffiths, a former pastor, offering heartiest Jubilee congratulations and best wishes for the future of the Church. The following letter was also received from the Mother Church at Coleford :- "To the Baptist Church, Cinderford. - Greetings. - Dear brethren and sisters in Christ Jesus : We desire on this important occasion in your history to unite with you in thanksgiving to our heavenly Father for the many tokens of His love and favour during the last 50 years. Sixty eight years ago there were only a few Baptists in Cinderford, and they, as you know, united with us in worship and fellowship. We rejoice that God's blessing on the work at that time led to the formation of a separate Church, but we desire always to bear in mind the affectionate relationship which existed between us , and that our two Church sprung from a common past, with its traditions of sacrifice and service which should ever be a great incentive to us both. We praise God for the success that has rested upon your labours in the Church and Sunday School, and especially in connection with the latter institution, the way you have won and held the young life of Cinderford. Many of the faithful toilers, dear not only to you but also to us ,have been gathered home to their eternal reward. 'They rest from their labours, and their works do follow them.' We realise that the past however bright and prosperous, must not be something to rest upon, but as a great inspiration to more consecrated service. As churches and individuals we must never forget that the best has yet to be. We take this opportunity of wishing for your Pastor, officers, and workers every encouragement in our Lord's service. Mat the next fifty years surpass those that are gone in the stream of Christian influence which shall go forth from you, and may large numbers be brought into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, through your manifold activities. Passed at a Church meeting held Sept. 28th, 1910. - Signed on behalf of the Church : A.H. Horlick (pastor), T. Terrett Taylor, Charles Salter, Richard Bradley, Ben Morris, Arthur Brown, Frank Smith, James Blake, James Kilby, Emmanuel Gardiner (deacons)." The Rev. A.T. Matthews, in the unavoidable absence of Mr. John Cooksey, through illness, who had acted as secretary for the services, read a detailed and interesting report for him, which after reviewing the past history of the Church, concluded as follows :- "During the Church's history, I find that there have been six superintendents of the Sunday School, namely, William Rhodes, Joseph Bevan, George Waite, Alfred Ridler, Benjamin Morgan, and F.J. Preece. 50 years ago the School numbered 300 scholars and 32 teachers ; to-day, there are about 1,500 scholars at these schools, and nearly 70 teachers. During the same period there have been nine choir leaders, namely, Joseph Tingle, George Waite, John Edwards, John Chivers, Joseph Crisp, Robert Dobbs, Wm. Everett, Henry Hale, and Henry Dobbs. Mr. Waite was leader at several periods, and I think he first introduced the Tonic Solfa into this side of the Forest, being a friend of Benjamin Wilmot Provis (Coleford) who first introduced it into the Forest of Dean. The early choir had instrumentalists - three of whom are still alive, Mr. Cooksey took the opportunity of thanking all who had so readily responded to the appeal, at home and abroad, for trays and subscriptions, and for the kindness and help he had received in personal interviews. Addresses were then delivered by Revs. W.W. Wilks, A.H. Horlick, A.T. Matthews, Messrs. Amos Morgan (elder), F. Brain, J.P., and S. Jordan (Church secretary). Miss Woolley, of Gloucester, very kindly came down on purpose to sing, and she sang "Nearer my God, to Thee," with effect. The Choir also sang with much effect and appreciation "Sun of my soul," "Worthy is the Lamb" (by request), and "Hallelujah Chorus." Votes of thanks were accorded those who had assisted to make the Jubilee a success, and a vote of sympathy with Mr. Cooksey in his enforced absence was also passed. The collections amounted to œ4 9s. 0d. May the next 50 years be even more glorious than the past. Let the young men and women of to-day remember that they must carry on the work. The leaders of the future must come from their ranks. We have the same God. " Our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come." To him be all the Praise and Glory.

It will be interesting to give a statement of accounts, with list of subscribers, etc., in connection with the Jubilee, previous to and since the celebration :-

TRAYS AND ATTENDANTS. --------------------- The following is a list of Family Trays, and those who presided at the tables :-

The Rhodes Family 2, Miss Rhodes and Mrs. Rowlinson, granddaughter of Wm. F. Rhodes ; Thos. Cooper Family 1, Mrs. Niblet, daughter of Thos. Cooper ; Tyndall Family 4, Miss P. Tyndall, daughter of Richard Tyndall, Mrs. T. Williams, Mrs. F. Tyndall, granddaughters of Richard Tyndall ; The Taylor Family 2, Miss Elsie Taylor, Miss Edith Taylor, granddaughters of Wm. and Mary Taylor ; Eliza Chivers Family ?, Mrs. M. Wood, daughter of Eliza Chivers ; Hurcomb Family 1, Mrs. E.J. Baldwin, granddaughter of Edward Hurcomb ; Cooper (Enos) Family 2, Mrs. H. Morgan, daughter, Mrs. J. Fernley, Daughter of John Chivers ; Boey Family 2, Mrs. H. King, Mrs. W. Boey, daughter and daughter in law of Moses and Eliza Boey ; Barnard Trump Families 2, Mrs. J. Barnard ,Miss E. Barnard, daughter and granddaughter of Wm. and Ellen Beard ; Trafford Family ?, Mrs. A. Webb, Mrs. J. Parsons, daughters of Sarah Trafford ; Trafford Baggs Families 2, Mrs. John Trafford, Mrs. A. King, daughter and granddaughter of Charlotte Baggs ; Trotter Family 1, Miss Trotter, great granddaughter of John Davis ; Benjamin Morgan Family 1, Mrs J.A. Baggett, daughter ; William Morgan (mason) Family 3, Mrs. Amos Morgan, Misses S. and N. Jones,daughter in law and granddaughters ; Tingle (Joseph) Family 1, Mrs. W. Tingle, daughter in law ; Gardner Family 1, Mrs. Clara Bevan, daughter of Edward and Caroline Gardner ; Baldwin Family 1, Mrs. James Baldwin ; Cook Family 1, Mrs. David Clark, daughter of Mrs. Anna Cook ; Martin Family 1, Mrs. L. Webb, daughter of Charles and Mary Martin ; Dobbs (Robert) Family 1, Mrs. M. Williams, Granddaughter of Luke and Lydia Dobbs ; Bryant Family 2, Mrs. F. Bryant, Miss Ethel Bryant, daughter in law and granddaughter of John and Harriet Bryant ; Hale (John) Family 1, Mrs. W. Wakefield, daughter of John and Harriet Hale ; Dykins Family 2, Mrs. Probert, Mrs A. Miles, daughters of Enoch and Emma Dykins ; Reece Family 2, Mrs. S. Baldwin, Miss E. Baldwin, daughter in law and daughter of James and Elizabeth Baldwin ; Fox Family 1, Mrs. Edwin Fox, daughter in law of Wm. and Henrietta Fox ; Williams (John) Teague Family 1, Mrs. S. Teague, daughter of Eliza Chivers ; Berry Family 1, Mrs. James Berry ; Cooksey Family 2, Miss S.J. Cooksey, Miss Winifred Cooksey, daughter and granddaughter of John and Sarah Cooksey ; Wheeler Family 1, Mrs. F. Wheeler ; Miss Julia Gardiner (Cinderford), an early teacher and member, 1. There were besides unrepresented - Henry Roberts Family (Exmouth) 2 ; late Rev. C. Griffiths Family (Cardiff) 2 ; James Minty Family (Australia) 2 ; Mrs. James Bennie, Mrs. Charles Caddy, and Miss Clara Minty, daughters of the late Wm. M. Minty (Australia), elder son of Wm Attwood Minty, one of the first members and first Sunday School teacher, 2 ;

DONATIONS FROM OLD MEMBERS OR FRIENDS. --------------------------------------

The following also gave donations :-

Mr. E. Beard (Bridgend), early member, œ1 1s. ; Mrs. E. Beard (Bridgend), early member, œ1 1s. ; Mr. B. Sims and Family (Gloucester), descendants of Thos. Sims, early member, œ1 1s. ; Mrs. Eliza Strange (Bristol), daughter of Samuel Hurcomb, early member, and granddaughter of Edward and Mary Hurcomb, first members, œ1 1s. ; Mr. T.T. Taylor, J.P. (Coleford), an old friend, œ1 1s. ; Mr. Frank Brain, J.P., C.C. (Trafalgar), an old friend, œ1 ; Two Aged Friends (Cinderford), one member of first choir, œ1 ; Mr. Richard Jones (America), œ1 ; Rev. W. Thomas (London), former Pastor, 10s. 6d. ; Mr. E.P. Walker (Clifton),a former Sunday School Secretary, 10s. ; Mr. T. Happs (Yorkshire), an old member, 10s. ; Rev. W.W. Wilks (Barnstaple), a former Pastor, 5s. ; Mr. W. Wilce (London), an old scholar, 5s. ; Anonymous (Cinderford), 5s. ; Mrs. Harris (Chesterfield), an early member, 5s. ; Anonymous (Wigan), for blessings received under Rev. W.W. Wilks, 5s. ; Mr. and Mrs. George Crisp (Bassaleg), old members, 5s. ; Mr. C.A.J. Hale (Cinderford), 5s. ; Anonymous (Cinderford), 2s. 6d. ; Miss Smale (Lydney), 2s. 6d. ; An old Member, 1s.

HALF-CROWN COLLECTIONS ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 25th -------------------------------------------------

William Trafford, Cinderford, son of John and Charlotte Trafford, grandson of Sarah Trafford and Charlotte Baggs, early members. Sidney Baldwin, Cinderford, son of James and Elizabeth Baldwin, early members. Mrs. Annie Davis, daughter of Richard and Lucy Worgan, and granddaughter of Martha Lees, early members. Ethel King, daughter of Henry and Annie King, and granddaughter of Moses and Eliza Boey, early members. Howard Woolford, Cinderford, son of William and J.M. Woolford (members), grandson of John and Margaret Woolford. great grandson of Griffith and Margaret Cooper, early members, great great nephew of Myra Cooper, first member. Wilfred Cooper, son of Charles Cooper, and grandson of the said William Cooper, and great grandson of the said Griffith and Margaret Cooper. Norah Baggett, Cinderford, daughter of John and K. Baggett, granddaughter of Benjamin Morgan, early member. William J. George and Edwin George, sons of William and Mary George, and grandson of the said William and Henrietta Fox, old members. Dessie Fox, Cinderford, daughter of Edwin Fox, and granddaughter of William and Henrietta Fox, old members. Winifred Cooksey, daughter of Fredk. Cooksey, and granddaughter of Sarah Cooksey, early member. Mrs. Sarah Worsfold, Cinderford, granddaughter of Mrs. Fanny Meridith, early member. Miss Hilda Oakey, Cinderford, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Jenkins, early worshippers. May Cooksey, daughter of John (elder) and Agnes M.B. Cooksey, and granddaughter of Sarah Cooksey, early member.

ROLL OF HONOUR. ---------------

The following have given subscriptions of not less than 2/6 each, for enrolment in the list of early members or their descendants :-

Fanny Elizabeth Rhodes, Cinderford, daughter of Tom and Naomi Rhodes, early members, and granddaughter of William Frowen Rhodes, founder of the Church. Mrs. Emma Florence Rowlinson, Cinderford, daughter of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and granddaughter of the said W.F. Rhodes. Mrs. Rose Margaret Willstead, Cinderford, daughter of T. and N. Rhodes, granddaughter of W.F. Rhodes. Bessie Susan Rhodes, Cinderford, daughter of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and granddaughter of the said W.F. Rhodes. Catherine Annie Rhodes, Cinderford, daughter of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and granddaughter of the said W.F. Rhodes. Wm. Frank Rhodes, Ramsgate, son of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and grandson of the said W.F. Rhodes. Harry T. Rhodes, Cinderford, son of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and grandson of the said W.F. Rhodes. Walter Edwin Rhodes, Cinderford, son of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and grandson of the said W.F. Rhodes. Tom Cooper Rhodes, Bedford, son of the said T. and N. Rhodes, grandson of the said W.F. Rhodes. Ernest William Rhodes, Cinderford, son of the said T. and N. Rhodes, and grandson of the said W.F. Rhodes. Henry Roberts, Exmouth, son-in-law of William F. Rhodes (founder of the Church), and early member. Esther Lilian Roberts, daughter of Henry and Emma Roberts, early members, and granddaughter of the said Wm. F. Rhodes. Theophilus Cooper, Keighley, son of Thomas Cooper, one of the original members. Fredrick Cooper Fagence, of Cirencester, some time Assistant Secretary of Sunday School, and grandson of Thomas Cooper, early member and deacon. Lilly Fagence, wife of the said Fredrick Cooper Fagence, and some time organist. Thomas E. Chivers, Cinderford, son of Thomas Chivers, and grandson of Eliza Chivers - a first member. Mrs. Lottie Bray, Southsea, daughter of Alfred Ridler, and granddaughter of James and Frances Ridler, and Eliza Chivers, early members. Mrs. Edith Beckingsale, Brighton, daughter of Alfred Ridler, and granddaughter of James and Frances Ridler, and Eliza Chivers - early members. Mrs. Kate Ellis, London, daughter of William and Miriam Wood, and granddaughter of Eliza Chivers, early members. Fredk. William Ellis, London, son of the said Kate and Henry Ellis, grandson of the said W. and M. Wood, and great grandson of Eliza Chivers. Mrs. Adeline Locke, Blaenavon, daughter of the said W. and M. Wood, and granddaughter of Eliza Chivers. Mrs. Adeline Gough, London, daughter of George Chivers, and granddaughter of Eliza Chivers, early members. Frances Lilian Chivers, Devonport, daughter of Winter Chivers, granddaughter of the said George Chivers, and great granddaughter of Eliza Chivers. Charlie Chivers, son of George Chivers, jun., Yorkshire, grandson of Geo. Chivers, senr., great grandson of Eliza Chivers. Fred Chivers, London, son of the said George Chivers, grandson of Eliza Chivers. Albert Teague Sinclair Russell, Birmingham, grandson of Sophia Teague, great grandson of Eliza Chivers, early members.

Priscilla Tyndall, Cinderford, younger daughter of Richard Tyndall, early member. Ebenezer Tyndall, younger son of the said Richard Tyndall. Archibald Hector Button, Aldershot, son of Annie Button, grandson of John Tyndall, and great grandson of the said Richard Tyndall. Lily Jones, New Zealand, daughter of Wm. Tyndall, granddaughter of John Tyndall, and great granddaughter of the said Richard Tyndall. Captain Joseph Tyndall, S.A., India, son of Mrs. Mary Tyndall, grandson of Mrs. Sarah Dawson, and great grandson of said Richard Tyndall. Tom Dawson, Canada, son of Mrs. Sarah and Thos. Dawson, and grandson of said Richard Tyndall. Florence (Cissie) Tyndall, Cinderford, daughter of Samuel Tyndall, granddaughter of John Tyndall, and great granddaughter of said Richard Tyndall. John Mountjoy, Cinderford, son of Joseph and Sarah Mountjoy, Mrs. Mountjoy was an early member : Mr. Joseph Mountjoy was founder of Ruardean Hill Baptist Church. Reuben John Henry Watkins, Cinderford, grandson of Reuben Meridith, and great grandson of Timothy Mountjoy, early member. Benjamin Samuel Stubbs, Cinderford, grandson of Samuel and Caroline Stubbs, early members. Mrs. Harriet Jane Martin, Cirencester, only daughter of Fanny Thomas, early member. Tom Thomas, Cinderford, son of said Fanny Thomas. Mrs. Bertha Miranda Thomas, wife of the said Tom Thomas. Kenneth Sidney Thomas, Cinderford, son of Sidney Thomas, great grandson of Fanny Thomas, early member. William Henry Thomas, Cinderford, grandson of the said Fanny Thomas. Frances Alice Pope, Cinderford, granddaughter of Joseph and Sarah Pope, early members. Fredk. George Sinderby Freer, Leominster, great grandson of John and Harriet Bryant, early members. Mrs. Clara Freer, Leominster, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. Bryant, and granddaughter of the late John and Harriet Bryant, early members. William Tingle, Cinderford, son of Joseph Tingle, first choir leader. Bertha Annetts, London, daughter of Mrs. Florence Elizabeth Annetts, granddaughter of Joseph Tingle, first choir leader, great granddaughter of John Tingle, and great great granddaughter of Jos. Tingle, of whom chapel land was bought. Florence Reece Taylor, granddaughter of Wm. Tingle, and great granddaughter of Wm. Rowse, and Patience Williams, early members. Miriam Cooksey, Cinderford, daughter of Sarah Cooksey, early member. Agnes Mima Cooksey, Aberdare, daughter of John and Agnes Cooksey, members, and granddaughter of Sarah Cooksey, early member. Emilia Florence Cooksey, Cinderford, daughter of said J. and A. Cooksey, and granddaughter of the said Sarah Cooksey. Mabel Ashley, Gloucester, granddaughter of Charles and Charlotte Ashley, granddaughter of the said Sarah Cooksey. Charles Hunt, Cinderford, son of Chas, and Mary Martin, early members. Fredk. Waite, Pittsburg, U.S.A., son of James and Jane Waite, early members. Kate Elizabeth Harding, Cinderford, granddaughter of James and Jane Waite, early members.

Charles Workman, Alvington, an early member. Richard Wood Jenkins, Coleford, grandson of Wm Cooper, great grandson of Griffith and Margaret Cooper, first members. Mrs. Phebe Hobbs, Cinderford, an early member. Mrs. Rosetta Parsons, daughter of Daniel and Sarah Shillall, early members. William John Hale, Cinderford, grandson of John and Harriet Hale, early members. George H. Robins, Norwalk, U.S.A., son of Leonard and Ann Robins, early members. Mrs. Emmeline Robins, Norwalk, U.S.A., wife of G.H. Robins, and daughter of John Drew. Mary A. Robins, Norwalk, U.S.A., daughter of the said G.H. and E. Robins, and granddaughter of the said Leonard and Ann Robins. Ethel F. Robins, Norwalk, U.S.A., second daughter of the said G.H. and E. Robins, and granddaughter of the said L. and A. Robins. George Wilfred Robins, Norwalk, U.S.A., son of the said G.H. and E. Robins, grandson of Leonard and Ann Robins. Mrs. Edith E. Sperry, Connecticut, U.S.A., daughter of the said G.H. and E. Robins, granddaughter of L. and A. Robins. Henry Albert Sperry, Conn., U.S.A., grandson of the said G.H. and A. Robins, and great grandson of L. and A. Robins. Dorothy Edith Sperry, granddaughter of G.H. and E. Robins, and great granddaughter of L. and A. Robins. Edward Hurcomb, Wilkesbarre, U.S.A., son of Samuel Hurcomb, early member, and grandson of Edward and Mary Hurcomb, two first members. Elsie Bowkett, daughter of Fredk. and Sarah Bowkett, great great granddaughter of the said Edward and Mary Hurcomb. Mrs. Rosa Willey, Bradford, daughter of George Waite,early member, teacher, choir leader, deacon and superintendent, and granddaughter of Joseph Chivers, early member, deacon and elder. James Attwood Minty, Melbourne, Australia, member of the first choir and first scholar, son of William Attwood Minty, an early member, and one of the first Sunday School teachers. Mrs. Catherine Minty, wife of same Martha Elizabeth Minty, daughter of same, and granddaughter of William A. Minty. Catherine Janet Groat, Melbourne, step daughter of James A. Minty. Mrs. James Bennie, Victoria, Australia, daughter of Wm. Minty, and granddaughter of William Attwood Minty, a first member and Sunday School teacher. Mrs. Charles Caddy, Victoria, Australia, daughter of Wm. Minty, and granddaughter of Wm. Attwood Minty. Miss Clara Minty, Victoria, Australia, daughter of Wm. Minty, and granddaughter of Wm. Attwood Minty. Joseph Webley, of Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand, an early member and teacher, son of the Rev. H. Webley, Pastor of the Church 1851 - 56. John Webley, Auckland, New Zealand, a younger son of Rev. Henry Webley. Mrs. John Webley, wife of same. Mrs. Geo. Long, New Zealand, daughter of Rev. H. Webley. George Long, son-ni-law of Rev. H. Webley. Mrs. Sarah Anne Beaven, Bradford-on-Avon, wife of Ebenezer Beaven, both early teachers and members, and elder daughter of Rev. H. Webley. Winnifred Elizabeth Beaven, of Rochester, New York, U.S.A., granddaughter of Rev. S.W. Beaven, Tacoms, U.S.A., and great granddaughter of Rev. H. Webley. Mrs. Lizzie Chapman, London, daughter of John Weale, member of first choir, and early member. Mrs. Sarah Light, Lydbrook, an early member. Olive Baggett, daughter of John W. Baggett, Essex, and granddaughter of of James and Elizabeth Baldwin, and great granddaughter of Benjamin Morgan, early members. Clifford Hampton, son of Hubert Hampton, of Hereford, and grandson of the said James and Elizabeth Baldwin. William Baldwin, South Africa, son of the said James and Elizabeth Baldwin. Mrs. Dew, London, daughter of William (carrier) and Sophia Morgan, early members. Mrs. Tate, King's Langley, daughter of the said William and Sophia Morgan. Minnie Morgan, London, daughter of the said William and Sophia Morgan. Gladys Thomas, Cinderford, daughter of Walter and Kate Thomas, granddaughter of William H., and Ellen James, members, and great granddaughter of Phebe James and Fanny Thomas, early members. Benjamin Dobbs, Cinderford, son of Luke and Lydia Dobbs, early chapel keepers and members. Mildred Sarah Dobbs, Widnes, daughter of Benjamin and Annie Dobbs, granddaughter of said Luke and Lydia Dobbs. Mrs. Eliza Rhodes, wife of Harry T. Rhodes, and daughter of John Chivers, former choir leader, and Mary Ann Chivers. Mrs. Mary Ann Dobbs, wife of Henry Dobbs, Cinderford, daughter of the said John and Mary Ann Chivers. Josiah Chivers, Cinderford, son of the said John and M.A. Chivers. Mrs. Mary Morris, Cinderford, early member, wife of Wm. Morris, and daughter of Ann Mortimer, early member. Mrs. Harriet Cann, Drybrook, daughter of Sarah Trafford, early member. George Holder, Steam Mills, son of Joseph Holder, early member, and both members of early choir. Eliza M. Holder, Cheltenham, daughter of Joseph Holder, an early member of church and choir. Alfred Beddis, Cinderford, son of John Beddis, grandson of Mary Ann Richards, early member. Mrs. Gladys Virgo, Lydney, daughter of Thomas and Clara Bevan (old members of choir), and granddaughter of Edward and Caroline Gardner, early members. Thomas Edward Bevan, Lydney, son of the said T. and C. Bevan, and grandson of the said E. and C. Gardner. Hubert Webb, Worcester, son of Abraham and Jennie Webb, and grandson of Esther Webb, old members. Edwin Fox, son of Henry Fox, Cinderford, grandson of William and Henrietta Fox, old members. W. Arthur G. Embling, Cinderford, son of George Embling, and grandson of the said William and Henrietta Fox. Mrs. Louisa Artus, Cinderford, daughter of Joseph Lane, early member of the choir. Timothy Leadbeater, Lethbridge, Alta, North West Territory, Canada, an early scholar. Mrs. F. Wheeler, Cinderford, a former teacher. John J. Poole, Birmingham, grandson of the late John Brain, early member and deacon, and Mary Ann Brain, early member. Norman Vincent Jellyman, Hednesford, Staffs, great grandson of of the said John and Mary Ann Brain. Mrs. Edith Cooper, Andoversford, daughter of Daniel and Hannah Bodenham, early members. The Misses C.J. and G.A. Penn, New Southgate, London, grand nieces of Miss Sims, early member. Mrs. Hannah Chivers, Cardiff, daughter of Mrs. ("Grannie") Lane, Cinderford, one of the first worshippers. Mrs. Sarah Leighton, Pontefract, Yorks, daughter of Mrs. Mary A. Hodgins, an early member. Wm. Leighton, Cinderford, son of Mrs. Eliza Leighton, an old member.

IN MEMORIAM. ------------

In affectionate remembrance of the Rev. John George, Pastor 1889 - 98, by his niece, Miss Annie George, Cwmbran. In affectionate remembrance of Thomas Tingle, an old teacher, by an old scholar. In affectionate remembrance of James Roberts, an old teacher, by an old scholar. In affectionate remembrance of William Harvey and Elizabeth Harvey, old teachers, by an old scholar. In affectionate remembrance of Henry Dawes, sometime Church Secretary and teacher, by his wife Sarah Critchley. In affectionate remembrance of Sarah Ann Weale, Ruspidge, an early member, and member of first choir. In memory of my dear father, Samuel Thomas, an early member, teacher and deacon, by Peter Thomas, Ruspidge. In memory of my dear father, Samuel Thomas, an early member, teacher, and deacon, by James Thomas Nelson, New Zealand. In memory of my dear father, Walter Goode, an old member, teacher, and deacon, by Lily Goode, Cinderford. In memory of my dear mother, Pamila Davis, by Ethel Caroline Trafford, granddaughter of Martha Bennett, early member ; and of my dear father, Levi Trafford, an old member, by Harry Trafford, Cinderford. In loving memory of my dear sister, Pollie Wilkes, early member, by S.J. Jones, Fernhill, Treherbert, Glam. In remembrance of Rev. Philip Prees, a beloved Pastor, by Mrs. Sophia Teague. In remembrance of Miss Sarah Chivers, by her sister, Mrs. Sophia Teague. In remembrance of Edward Teague, an early worshipper, by his wife Mrs. Sophia Teague. In remembrance of Peter Constance, an early member and teacher, by an admirer of his kindness to the Sunday School, when at Latimer Lodge. In remembrance of our old teacher, Mrs. Sarah A. Cook, an early member and teacher, by an old scholar. In memory of James and Jane Waite, early members, by Henry Jenkins, Cinderford, grandson. In memory of Samuel Clements, an old teacher, by an admirer. In memory of Mrs. Smith, an old member, by her daughter, Mrs. T. Graham, Coatbridge, Scotland. ------------------------- In affectionate regard for Richard Worgan, early member and teacher, by an old scholar. In thankfulness for blessing received through the Rev. C. Griffiths, by an old member. In gratitude for blessing received through Rev. W. Thomas, by Walter Williams, Cinderford. In gratitude for blessing received through Rev. W W. Wilks, by Mrs. Walter Williams, Cinderford.

The history of the Church was compiled by Mr. S. Jordan, Secretary, in 1907, and published then in the magazine. 25