150th YEAR SOUVENIR WITH ADDITIONS
Upon this three times golden jubilee
To God our heartfelt thanks and praises be,
For He who kindly gave amazing grace
To those who built this now old worship place
Still lives as in those distant days long gone
And gives us life today in Somerton.
Here, where the banners hang upon the wall,
And friendly greetings welcome all who call,
Here, in the worship, service, praise and prayer,
In sermon, singing, fellowship and care,
Here Christ we find, himself the Living Bread,
Our life, our way, who raises from the dead!
John Young 1995
Minister at Somerton 1990-1993
GREETINGS
REV. DR. LESLIE GRIFFITHS, M.A.
To friends at Somerton Methodist Church
I'm delighted to receive word of the celebrations which will mark the 150th Anniversary of your Church. May is the month of poets; Spring gives full expression to the beauties of the English country side; and Somerset will be the jewel in the crowd of beautiful Britain
With warmest good wishes,
Yours sincerely,
LESLIE GRIFFITHS
President of the Conference
GREETINGS
REV. IAN T. WHITE
The District joins with me in sending you 'Greetings' on the occasion of the 150th Anniversary of Somerton Methodist Church. We celebrate with you the years of worship, witness and service offered through the life of the people called Methodist'.
Anniversaries are occasions for recalling events that have moulded the life of the church and community. We give thanks for the vision of those who established and developed the work. Anniversaries are also for celebrating the present and looking, in faith, towards the future. We rejoice in the challenges set before us, our sharing with pilgrims from sister churches, the participation in the wider life of the community and the fellowship we experience together.
We pray that Peace of the Lord goes with you as you celebrate 150 years and offer, in faith and hope, the present and future witness to God.
IAN T WHITE
from our Minister
Dear Friends at Somerton,
It gives me great joy to send you this greeting as you celebrate your 150th Anniversary. I felt the very moving presentation of "From Pharaoh to Freedom" on Palm Sunday was a rousing launch to your celebrations.
Sometime ago I came across a quotation that I’d like to share with you.
"Many churches need new shock absorbers, but have efficient rear view mirrors.
Perhaps special anniversaries are opportunities to look back in those rear view mirrors and celebrate what God has done. Often however, we are tempted to look back with nostalgia to the 'good old days" hoping to move the clock back. But we cannot do this.
Rather our celebrations should be the launching stage from which to send the church into its next 150 years. This will mean change. In a changing world the last place we want to find change is in the church to which we cling as a place of security. When the winds of change threaten us we batten down the hatches and hope to ride out the storm. There is always the temptation to turn our vessel into a house-boat rather than dare sail in uncharted waters.
Going out into the deep means being willing to take risks; it means openness; it means constantly waiting on God as we learn to be obedient; it means being led and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
I wish you every blessing in your celebrations and as, you go forward.
Yours very sincerely, ELIZABETH
GREETINGS
MR DAVID SAWYER
It is a great privilege for us to be able to share in the life and witness of our church as another milestone is reached in its history. It is our firm hope that as we all celebrate and praise God for the past, we will resolve to go forward on our Christian journey together, secure in our relationship with God, developing our worship and service to the community in which God has placed us.
SHEILA and DAVID
METHODISM IN SOMERTON - The Early Years
WESLEYAN METHODISM IN SOMERTON
1814-1945
1814-1945
Although there is no mention of Somerton in the writings of John and Charles Wesley, John was often in the neighbourhood during his frequent journeys from Bristol to Cornwall
Thomas Connock is believed to be the founder of Methodism in Somerton. He was actually commissioned as a class leader by John Wesley himself, but the knowledge we have of Connock is very limited. Connock is buried in St Michael's churchyard, and the inscription on the headstone reads "To the memory of Thomas Connock, born at West Camel on February 20th 1761 and died in this town June 14th 1843. He was for 56 years a consistent member of the Wesleyan Methodist Society. He was appointed in 1788 to the office of class leader by the Rev. John Wesley. This office and that of Local Preacher he sustained to the time of his death which was peaceful and triumphant. "This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners." This stone was erected by public subscription as a token of general respect to the late Mr Connock."
The only other information we have on Mr Connock is the account of his death which was given in the Western Gazette in June 1843. The account read - "Died at Somerton, aged 80, deeply regretted by his numerous acquaintances, Mr Thomas Connock, druggist, who was upwards of 29 years a local Preacher of the Wesleyan Society, having been the first to establish the cause in that town."
From this information it is possible to ascertain that Connock was the founder of Methodism in Somerton but unfortunately the information doesn't tell us the point in time at which Connock came to Somerton.
It is believed that the Wesleyan's were in Somerton as early as 1810. But it was at this time that the meetings were held in private houses. This information is from Rev. W. Watkinshaw, who in a brief account of Wesleyan Methodism in the Glastonbury Circuit from 1814-1914 stated that the first Wesleyan chapel was in a carpenter's yard in West Street
Before 1816 it is thought that Somerton was a part of the South Petherton Circuit. However, in 1816, Somerton became the head of the Glastonbury
William Kaye, Thomas Eastwood and Matthew Day were the superintendents from 1816 until 1845, although it is not known whether they lived in Somerton from 1816-1820 or from 1822.
A Mr James Bartlett died in March 1828, but in his will he left £100 for use in building a Wesleyan chapel on the site of Peddles Pound where he lived, but a flaw was found in the will and the bequest was subsequently declared to be void. However, Wesleyan Missionary funds did benefit. The information from this will makes it clear that in 1828, the Somerton Wesleyan's were intending to build a church of their own.
In 1805, the property where the present church is built was owned and occupied by Betty Keats, whose brother Wiliam left it to her. During this same year, Betty made it over to George Hurd but still retained the rent during her life. At Betty's death, half of the property was to go to Hannah Cross, but Catherine Chapman,
William Somers and John Cross also came into occupation or ownership.
It is thought, through a popular local legend, that a public house called The Nag's Head once stood on the site of the present church and apparently a man was killed there in a drunken brawl which lead to the license being withdrawn. The deeds do refer to the property as the Nag's Head but also mention that it was a dwelling house.
The property was bought in 1845 for £230 for the purpose of building the present church. The Deed of Conveyance to the original trustees is dated May 23rd 1845. This suggests that the foundation for the church was not laid until later in the same year and it is therefore, highly probable that the church wasn't actually opened for worship until 1846. The date, 1845, which appears on the front of the building obviously refers to the laying of the foundation stone as both Mr J. Seymour, the oldest trustee and Kelley's Directory of 1897 give 1846 as the date in which the chapel opened.
The property was sold to the trustees by Thomas and Stephen Crosse and William Somers and the first trustees of the building were - George and Joseph Masters, Samuel Barnard, John Talbot, Benjamin Hawkins, George Weech, Vile, Pittard, Thomas Feltham - all of Somerton - and George Jarvis (Babcary) John Haine and John Day (East Pennard) Robert Harding (Charlton), John Harris (Keinton). The Superintendent was James Pilley who actually signed the deeds and three of the signatures were witnessed by the second minister in the circuit - a Mr Alexander Puddicombe.
When the foundation stone was laid, a glass scent bottle in the form of a boot was presented to Charles Wheeler to mark the occasion. This bottle is now in the possession of Charles' granddaughter, Mrs George Haines.*
One of the original trustees of the church was a Mr Samuel Barnard. Samuel was born in 1812 and died at the age of 57 on October 9th 1869. Samuel was both a local preacher and a class leader and it is his signature which is contained on the legal document which registered the building as a place of worship on April 26th 1869 and it also appears on the document which registers the building for marriage.
It is thought that after Barnard died, the dead man's ghost appeared to Mr C.R. Parsons as he went to Bible Class one Sunday. The ghost informed him that the trust owed Mr Barnard's estate several pounds. A detailed sum was stated. Parsons had absolutely no idea about this until he examined the books and found it to be exactly correct.
Another member of the original trust was a Mr John Talbot, who had an extremely interesting history. John was born early in the 19th century, became a poor farm labourer, married when he was 20 years old and lived at Maypole Knapp. There's nothing very interesting in that, you might be thinking to yourself, but it was during his youth, that Talbot's interesting part of his life began.
During his youth, Talbot put his heart and soul into absolutely everything he did. He was popular with the local men and women and could sing, dance, drink, play cards and wrestle with any other man. But something began to happen in his soul and this led him to join the Methodists. But his old companions were not particularly sympathetic and couldn't understand what was happening to their old mate John, who had always enjoyed a laugh and a drink. This behaviour climaxed at the time when John's companions invited him to a drink and a dance. But John reacted by banging the table with his big fist and saying, "No! No! I will not go with you to hell. Christ for me."
Then later, in a barn, John had a vision of entering through the door into the Kingdom and of troops of angels coming to rejoice over a sinner born again. When he arose from lying prostrate in the barn, the world seemed a far better place and he a new man.
Another interesting event which took place in Talbot's life, was the time he put down the first 15 to build the present church. Talbot had hoped to get the money by setting aside a pig and her litter but they were still unsold a day or two before the money was due and Talbot was beginning to panic. But he needn't have worried for on the morning that the money was due, a passing farmer gave him the £5 for them that John had desired. "Farmer John" as he was known to the local community always dated his prosperity from this time.
John went on to become one of the most popular men in the community. He became one of the largest farmers in the district and subsequently a man of considerable wealth. He was often sought for his advice and judgement and his opinions were trusted by both the rich and the poor alike. But John never allowed his success to spoil him. He read the Bible aloud at family prayers each day and although he had no children of his own, the children of the Sunday School of which he was superintendent for 49 years loved him. John was also the circuit steward for 28 years.
John died on December 5th 1895, but the impact that Methodism had had on him was generously reflected in his will. John left £340 for "Wesleyan Methodist Chapel purposes". £2 from the interest from this sum of money was to go to the Sunday School and the remainder was to be used to support the junior minister providing that he lived in the same parish. This probably refers to the many lay pastors who resided in Somerton for many years.
A large sum of money had to be raised to buy the property in 1845 and it is most likely that a great number of people, other than the trustees must have played a part in this. This includes a young woman called Ann Pilney who was wheeled round in her chair and managed to collect the sum of £50.
A new trust was formed in 1882 and the following people were added to the original trustees:- C.F. Parker, Geo. Haines (senior), Geo. Pittard, Robt. Bailey, Henry Hawkins, Job Godden, James Thompson, J. Seymour. J. & G. Masters, John Talbot, John Day and John Haine remained of the first trust.
The new members of the trust were noted for their own special contributions that they made to Methodism. Geo. Haines (senior) is remembered for his notable contributions to the Monday Fellowship. Henry Hawkins did a fine job as the superintendent of Lambrook Street Sunday School and Job Godden was both the son of a local preacher and one himself Both Godden's were rather slow of speech which allegedly led to the elder Godden being refused the loan of John Talbot's horse because of the fact that his long sermons had caused many a sore back within the congregation.
Job Godden's trial sermon was heard by Mr J. Seymour who found the old saying "Like father, like son" to be true. Perhaps it would be appropriate to quote another old saying here "variety is the spice of life" which can certainly be applied to local preachers and their methods of preaching the word.
Mr Seymour is the oldest surviving trustee and the only living trustee who was appointed in 1882.
Once again, the trust was renewed in 1896. At this point, fifty one years after the original trust had been set up, only three of the original trustees remained, these being John Day , John Haine and George Masters. To these people and those who had survived since the 1882 trust were added Gaius Walter, Edward Smith, Henry Haines, Isaac Garrett, Henry Clark, William Holland and James Haines.
Edward Smith was a Local Preacher and Society Steward with George Haines whose widow Sarah Haines is still happily with us from West End Farm and is now our oldest member. Gaius Walter was also a Society Steward and Isaac Garrett who worked as Sunday School Secretary and who was also renowned for his knowledge of Somerton which was reflected by the help he gave to Watkinshaw in his history of the Glastonbury Circuit. Another new member of the trust was William Holland (father of John Holland of St. Cleers), who was a Chapel Steward for a number of years as well as being a most regular member of the prayer meeting. The Superintendent Minister in 1896 was J. Willie Harbord who lived at Summer House and whose signature was witnessed by Reuben and Jane Pittard.
In 1911, the trust was renewed for the third time which was when W.G. Corke was the Superintendent whose signature was witnessed by F.S. Collihole and A.R. Peters. At this time,
only one of the original trustees - George Masters - was able to take office. John Haine was still alive but required his discharge. To George Masters - the original trustee and to the others who had survived from the later trust renewals, the following people were added: H. Woolf, W.W. Case, G. Hannam, G. Sims, F. Wheeler, G.H. Westlake, F. Hodges, G. Crossman, G.W. Eglinton, R. Bown and C.V. Heaphy. These names are really too recent and too well known for me to embark on any comment at this point apart from saying that Mr Heaphy has been chairman of the Chapel Anniversaries for about 43 years - without a break - and hopes to preside over the Centenary meetings in October.
The trust was renewed for the fourth time in 1934 at which point there were no original trustees alive and J. Seymour was the only member of the 1882 renewal to be re-appointed. George Haines (senior) was alive but had desired to be discharged. At this time H. Bullough, M.Sc. was Superintendent and his signature was witnessed by F. Peddle and R. Withecombe.
The following people were added to the trust:- W.G. Smith, W.H. Holland, H.F. Easton, T.H. Law, H.J. Weech (Jnr), A.B. Smith, H.G. Lawrence, W. Wheeler, G.H.R. Haines, W.J.J. Bartlett, J.G. Bartlett, S.H. Bartlett, H.G.N. Crossman, P.J. Westlake, R.A. Chave, E.G. Sams, W. Burford. G. Sims and G.H. Westlake have died, but all the others are living although some have left the district.
Other matters of Interest
Men's Bible Class - 1865
The Bible Class was founded in 1865 by a Mr C.R. Parsons. Parsons was a most talented writer which could only be reflected in the booklets he wrote about the Class. Parsons led the Bible Class for 12 years before moving to Bristol Bristol
Annual Festival
The Christmas Festival, which was usually held on Boxing Day, was the event which the lads in the Bible Class geared themselves up for throughout the year. The Festival certainly had some importance within the local community as occasionally the local squire - a Mr Fred Pinney - would preside and present the prizes and the eleventh festival was fully reported in the local paper. On this event, some 200 people sat down for some tea in a newly decorated schoolroom and amused themselves afterwards when the members of the Class led a public conversation on a Biblical subject.
Around 600 men passed through the Class when C.R. Parsons was leading it and a considerable number of young men were converted through its strong influence. Some of these men went to the USA
It is unclear as to who took Parsons place when he moved to Bristol
After Mr Woolf left, a number of attempts were made to continue the Class but all to no avail and so finally the Class was discontinued.
Women's Bible Class
In comparison to the men's Bible Class, very little is actually known about this Class, although it does seem that it was founded by Mrs Parsons and a Miss Coggin also played an important part in it. The Class met at Mrs Parsons home until the Class rooms were added to the Church. The group then began to meet in the left hand class room, after decorating it appropriately and rather better than the lads did their decorating.
However, the two Classes met a point when they began to weaken and subsequently became one.
Organ and Choir
Just after the turn of the century, the present organ was installed at a cost of £80. Before, this installation had taken place, the harmononium and the choir were rather curiously accommodated in the gallery - to allow their music to rise and fill the church perhaps. There have been a number of devoted and most talented organists who have used their musical gift to take part in worship.
The first organist that is known is a Miss Corp, who was the niece of Samuel Barnard. She was followed by George Pittard who was such a loyal organist that, as the story goes, he once paid a man 10f- to get his horse out of a ditch to allow him to get to church on time. Other organists over the years have included Miss Ralph, Mrs James Haines (whose husband was youngest brother to Geo. and Henry), Mr Bartlett (jeweller of The Triangle) and Mr Woolf who also held the position of choirmaster. Our current organists are Mrs H.G. Lawrence, Mrs Olive Fair and Miss W. Jarvis. Mr Jarvis who was for many years the choirmaster of the Seaman's Mission , London
Alterations and Renovations
Around the year 1915, the back of the chapel was re-seated, only the old box pews remained in the front few rows. Just a little later the slow combustion stove was replaced by the present low-pressure heating apparatus.
Approximately 10 years later, in the year 1924, the church was redecorated at the cost of 1113. Then, the present side windows were fitted by Mr W.W. Case at the cost of 133,
10
Some years later, to the joy of the members of the congregation, more convenient sanitary arrangements were made. It was also at this time that the caretakers cottage was repaired for about £100.
A Mrs Durston who moved from Somerton some years ago donated the electric lighting system at a cost of about 130. Mrs Durston died in Street in the February of 1945.
Circuit Changes
The Mid-Somerset Mission came about in 1905 as a result of the Glastonbury Circuit joining together with the Castle Cary Circuit. The main consequence of this move to the people of Somerton was the fact that the Lay Pastors who had lived in Somerton for a number of years were discontinued as a third minister who lived in Street worked the Society. These pastors included:- Pope, Johnson, Leadbeater, Benny, Biggs, Hicks, Franks, Radden and Bunt.
Methodist Union and Further Changes
The year 1932 saw the three main Methodist Churches in Great Britain
Sunday School
It is thought that the infamous John Talbot was the first superintendent of the Sunday School that we know of and he held the position from 1846 until his death in 1895. As you can imagine, a number of people have held the position since John and this includes George Haines (Snr), W.Case, H. Woolf, H.G. Lawrence and H. Easton. H. Easton and H. Lawrence are currently in charge with assistance from W. Bishop. Mrs J. Chant is the head of the Primary School and the secretaries are L. Chant and Miss B. Bartlett.
Wesley Guild
The Wesley Guild has more recent roots, both locally and in the Methodist Church
Recreative Club
This club was founded by the Rev. F.E. Morton and was most popular until 1939 when war broke out and the members didn't feel like going out at night to play games. As a result of the war, most young people were called up to the armed forces or were made busy in industry or agriculture. Mr R. Martin, the secretary left almost at once to join the navy. All of these events led to the club being discontinued although there is some hope for the present young people in the Church as a result of the new emphasis on Youth Work.
Women's Bright Hour
This club was started to give the women of the church a chance too-meet - without the men - and exchange greetings and share in some Christian Fellowship. It became of great interest to both the local people and the evacuees and Mrs P. Davies became the first president until her death in 1943. The present secretary is Mrs S. Bartlett and the treasurer, Mrs J.Chant. Mrs Paramore and Mrs P. Westlake have also held the position of secretary. Mrs W. Bishop is the secretary of the missionary section.
These days, the meeting is run jointly with the Congregational Women's Friendly Hour.
Ladies Trust Committee
This committee was formed with the object of creating a nucleus of a Renovation Fund from the pennies of interested members, during the ministry of the Rev. F.E. Morton. As a result of the penny-a-week collection, approximately £70 will have been contributed before the end of the Centenary year. Mrs Grossman and Mrs J.Chant have been treasurers of this fund.
Trust officers - Mr S.H. Bartlett (sec) Mr J. Chant (treas.) Society Stewards, Mr G.H.R. Haines and Mr H.G. Lawrence.
Centenary Celebrations
At the beginning of 1945, the trustees hoped to raise a fund of £300 towards renovation, the sum of £150 is already in hand.
A Socials and Concert Committee with Mrs K. Westlake as secretary and treasurer raised nearly £50 as a result of their hard work.
A subscription list with Messrs S. Bartlett, G. Haines and J. Chant as collectors will probably reach about £80 or £90 before it is closed.
A number of events have been held or are planned to allow us to celebrate our centenary in style. This includes a bazaar organised by Women's Bright Hour (S. Bartlett , G. Haines - sec., J. Chant - treas.) which was opened by Mrs T. Pretor-Pinney on 30th May and a Silver Tree which was stripped by Mrs T.Watson raised over £120.
Mr & Mrs Taylor have given us kind permission to hold a Garden Party at their home in Pinewood which is hoped will raise a considerable amount of money to add to the fund (Mr Bishop, sec. & Mrs Feltham, treas.). This Garden Party will be opened by Mrs Clowes.
As well as these events, T. Law and W. Bishop have organised a calender of quotations.
The celebrations for our Centenary year will climax on October 31st when the then President of the Methodist Conference - Dr. A.W. Harrison, M.C., will visit Somerton. Mr C.V. Heaphy, of Glastonbury
Here then ends the story of some 130 years or so of Wesleyan Methodism in Somerton. To write it has been an interesting task. I hope it may not be without interest to local Methodists. And, possibly, when some more able writer comes to weave local Methodist history into the pattern of his more ample work, he will not be ungrateful for the facts here offered to him without further search.
(written by) Rev. Percival Davies
* In 1995, this scent bottle is in the possession of Mr & Mrs John Haines.
The only picture of Mr John Haine – The oldest Trustee
LOOKING BACK ..... over FORTY YEARS
Forty years ago my wife and I were comparative 'newcomers' to Somerton Methodism - we had missed the Centenary celebrations by a few months - and out of our first six years residence half of them had been spent quite happily in the 'enemy' Manse. Forty years may be a long time, but at a glance at the Minute Books quickly shows how the old and the new are still intimately connected.
1952 a new TRUST is formed and 25 years later that same Trust holds its final meeting. (The first meeting passed a payment of 2/6d for one years postage!)
1952 that same Trust discussed at length 'Polished' or 'Varnished' regarding the brackets that carry the Church lights and 25 years later members of the Trust discuss as to how the Church lighting might be improved.
ERIC BOWER was our Minister in those far off days to be followed just one year later by ALAN FREEMAN in 1953. In 1954 Zion Chapel was sold to the Salvation Army and its pews moved to West Street
1955 The platform in the Schoolroom becomes a real stage and the Trust gratefully accept the gift of curtains. How many times over the years has that room echoed to the sound of laughter from shows produced by The Street Friends, The Beachcombers (remember them?), the Youth Club Musical, Harvest and Sausage Suppers etc. etc. 30 years later we need the extra room and the stage is to be removed to provide it.
1956 At a Trust Meeting in that year 2 gentlemen asked for permission to begin a Table Tennis evening for Juniors and through these two (Harold Easton and Bob Holland) the seeds of the Youth Club were sown.
1956-7 Alterations to our premises take place - a new kitchen and new toilets.
1957-8 This is frequently referred to as 'THE YEAR OF THE MINISTERS'. The REV. MORGAN arrived a sick man and stayed one day. Then came REV. ERIC MARLEY (that breath of fresh air which swept away many a cobweb). Early in 1958 we were joined by REV. MICHAEL APPLEYARD (en route for foreign fields). After three months he was replaced by REV. DEREK WHEELHOUSE Oust home from overseas service), and then in August 1958 came REV. RICHARD HEAFIELD. This year saw the installation and dedication of our new pipe organ.
1961 Very daringly the Trustees agreed (after long deliberation) to have the Church Clock repaired - how long it had been stopped or just when it had last been going, no-one seemed to remember. When the clock was collected from Langport, the watchsmith there presented us with a key - nothing was wrong with the clock IT JUST NEEDED WINDING !!
1963 This year when we said a very reluctant farewell to Richard and Aileen Heafield and THANK YOU for five devoted years of work for West Street
During the next few years many important things took place - the premises were re-wired by the Electricity Board - the heating system was changed to oil fired boiler - the rear rooms were decorated. Gifts of pelmets and curtains for the Schoolroom and an electric kettle for the kitchen and at the end of it all the Carters leave and the BURCH family arrive.
1969 Good work carried out by Hayes & Son in repairing and reglazing the side windows.
1970 We celebrated our 125th Church Anniversary in May and held services on the same weekend as the Deed of Conveyance to the original Trustees was dated.
1971 Conference in its wisdom (?) decrees that the Staff of the Somerset Mission shall be reduced by one and so we bid farewell to Arthur and Mrs Burch. (We only let them retire to Yeovil -close and handy when required!)
1971 With the letting of Chapel Cottage and the Opening of a Playgroup in the Schoolroom, finances were easier and talks began for the enlarging of the Vestibule. One year later the proposals of the sub-committee were approved and in 1973 Messrs PARAMORE and SPILLER did a great job of work. REV. ERIC JONES based at Street now became our Minister. In May 1974 an evening meeting brought together three former Ministers. The Bowdens (from Taunton), the Heafields (now at Verwood), and the Burch family from Yeovil. It was during this service that various alterations were dedicated to the memory of Mr W.J.J. Bartlett (Will) and Mr & Mrs Joe Bartlett, the table in the Vestibule was dedicated to the memory of Mrs Ada Lawrence and all this took place in a newly decorated Church. That week the Western Gazette carried the headline: 'SOMERTON METHODISTS CELEBRATE'.
1974-80 We are still without a minister in Somerton but we have been wonderfully served by IRVING PENBERTHY from Street since the departure of Eric Jones at the end of the seventies. These two Ministers saw these years as a period of consolidation of all that has gone before and during this period young familes joined us and each and everyone of them brought their own personal contribution. The first seeds were germinated when Barry and Valerie King arrived and began the 1st Somerton Boys' Brigade. In 1977 the name of Shaw and 'The Wessex Singers' are synonymous and others have followed in their wake.
1981-85 Deeper roots were sent down with the introduction of a regular Prayer meeting and Bible Study Group. Mission England
So , many other things might have been mentioned - the gift of a Wall Clock and Table in memory of an old friend Tom Law - the Notice Board a gift in memory of Joe Chant - the chaotic success of the 1st ARTS AND CRAFTS EXHIBITION (as this is written the 5th Exhibition is about to go on show) and mention must be made that A WEEK OF JOY has been arranged to celebrate our 140th Anniversary and the Rally will have as its Guest Speaker Rev. Amos Cresswell (83/84 Conference President) and just a month later (19th June) we have the Vice President of Conference with us for the Circuit Rally). Balmy days - its great to let our minds drift over the past years - that was the reason these words were typed—BUT don't let us stop there. As we move forward towards out 150th let us thank God for the wonderful way he has been working among us over the past years - let us thank Him for the stalwarts of the Past and let us ask His Blessing and His Guidance on those who will carry His Light into the future.
Ten years have flown quickly by and, once again, my wife and I (no longer newcomers I would add!) look back over the years which lead to the completion of one and a half centuries of Methodism in Somerton.
1985 A long overdue discussion by the Property Committee decided the kitchen was in need of a face lift. The first job was the removal of the old chimney breast to provide extra room. Volunteers carried out the work and did a grand job - they immediately qualified for the Black & White Minstrel Show! The final result, however, was a kitchen the envy of many a Church in the Circuit.
Chapel Cottage continues to be a 'thorn in the flesh' as we endeavour to regain possession.
1986 As a result of both a change of Staff and Policy within the Circuit, Somerton moves, once again, into the Castle Cary Section, RAYMOND SARGENT being our new minister. This change was not welcomed - Castle Cary seems so far away.
Murmurings in the air that urgent work is necessary on the Cottage. Chapel Cottage is a listed building which briefly means that if we do not put it in order then someone else will, and charge us!
1987 John Haines retires after more than a quarter of a century as Chapel Treasurer - a considerable portion of that time being coupled with that of Church Property Steward. Mrs Mary Chapman takes on as overall Treasurer of Church Finances.
1989 After a long and costly struggle we regain possession of Chapel Cottage and a detailed report of all essential work was called for.
This year we said farewell to Rev. Sargent and for one year our, new minister will be REV. W.A. HOLDEN (Uncle Bill to many) a Supernumary in the Glastonbury
1990 We welcome the arrival of REV. JOHN YOUNG and his wife Hilary - once again we are back in the Castle Cary Section. Members
heard of all that needed doing to Chapel Cottage and wisely decided to tackle the exterior work first, namely roof and walls to provide us with waterproof premises. A specially convened meeting authorised Mr T. Shore
1991-2 Phase I of Chapel Cottage has now been completed and Phase II was tackled and after almost two years our 'house was put in order' thanks to voluntary labour and the untiring, and inspired example of our two Property Stewards - Barry and Valerie King. A report in the Church News Sheet reads:‑
Extract from CONTACT November 1992
"I wonder how many reading this really appreciate what a great job has been done by a few willing workers ably led by our Property Stewards in renovating Chapel Cottage.
When re-occupation of the cottage was eventually obtained after much hassle, the two upstair rooms were in a sorry state and major repairs were necessary. As you are well aware priority was given to the roof and when this was finished our two stewards had visions of just how these upstair rooms might be renovated and used. (Many at that time doubted their sanity!)
In spite of many setbacks - coping with new joists for the floor - new ceilings - new electric wiring and considerable plastering - steady progress was maintained. At one time to walk across the floor was a major risk to life and limb! At this point assistants were brought in to aid those who had already carried out stirling work. Two old walls were demolished and replaced with new - if you could hit a nail you were detailed for hardboard panelling - if you could hold a brush you were detailed for sizing the walls or painting the ceiling - painting and wall-papering drastically changed the image and when carpets were laid and curtains hung the transformation was complete.
Without mentioning names (it would be impossible to name them all) let me say the assistants came from all departments of the church - young and old -'Sunday at Seven' and the over seventies -newcomers and old stagers - amateur or professional - Barry found them a job - if he couldn't then Valerie did!
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed working together but without enthusiastic leaders the project would never have been finished. We say 'THANK YOU' to our Property Stewards CLASS ONE "
1993 It was during this year that Rev. Young was taken ill and his work load had to be reduced, so once again Somerton is transferred back to the Street Section with the Superintendent, REV. ELIZABETH MAYES, as our minister. In order to assist her and ease her responsibilities, MR DAVID SAWYER was appointed Lay Pastor in charge of Somerton - a move that was welcomed by one and all.
This year saw our Church redecorated and carpeted throughout. West Street
1994 Towards the end of the year we said farewell to one who had been a Trustee and one who had served as a Steward for many years. Bob Holland was a very special person and West Street
The Anniversary Committee is now hard at work and besides Programme Planning, advertising material by way of Mugs, Pens and Pencils, Bookmarks, etc. are on sale.
The Programme is an ambitious one and includes 'From Pharoah to Freedom' in April followed by the main events from end May onwards. Thomas Connock, was the man who brought Methodism to Somerton and a short service of dedication will take place at his graveside in the Parish Churchyard.
CONNOCK'S TOMB.
150th Celebrations
During our celebrations we shall be joined from time to time by three former ministers, Dick Heafield, Irving Penberthy and Eric Jones. We hope to use Chapel Cottage as a 'Museum' at the end of May.
At the end of the year an announcement in CONTACT states 'The Church loses its gardener ater 25 years'. Bert Lukehurst will be hanging up his gardening gloves and lawnmower at the end of December.
1995 As the New Year gets under way our Property Stewards have itchy fingers once again. Following numerous complaints regarding our toilet facilities, they have come up with a plan whereby we could have 'Inside Loos' by building an extension where the Boys' Brigade cabin stands at present. A shower unit will be incorporated to cater for any groups staying over weekends.
This is a project which will be of great benefit to our Church and it is part of our vision to ensure that Methodism continues to grow in Somerton for the next 150 years.
(The Methodist Church
The focal point in the life of a Church is when the whole family meets together on Sunday for corporate worship. A family, it must be remembered, is made up of a wide variety of people and personalities, of all ages, each bringing with them their own hopes, fears, joys, sadness, successes, failures, etc. - whatever is most important to them at that particular time.
When the church family worship together, as the living, breathing, Body of Christ, everyone has the opportunity to
Acknowledge that God IS , the one true God, who is worthy of respect, adoration, praise and thanksgiving.
Open their hearts and minds to Jesus, and accept His love and forgiveness into their lives.
Learn more about God's purposes for His world and its peoples - in particular their Church and themselves.
Offer their whole lives to God to be used in serving Him and other people.
Receive a blessing, given by the Holy Spirit which will enable them to grow and develop in the Christian way of Life and so encourage others to join the family.
There are many and various ways in which these opportunities can be given during an act of worship and we endeavour in our church to keep a balance between using the traditional ways as well as exploring new ones.
This is done by ensuring that we have a balanced approach to those planned to lead our worship, who are made aware that members of the congregation are willing to share in its presentation.
Music and singing is an important part of our worship, with a small group leading an informal sing-song at the very beginning of the Service. The Singing Group which meets on alternate Friday evenings plays an important part in Special Services as well as presenting complete works. Here again a balance is held between traditional and modern hymns and songs. All are welcome to join these groups.
- It is essential that children and young people have the same opportunities as the adults and the 'Partners in Learning' resource book for all ages used by the Junior Church helps in this respect, as does the fact that all ages now have the opportunity to share fully in the Sacrament of Holy Communion.
- The Worship Group meets regularly, on behalf of the Church to discuss all aspects of worship as well as planning services with set themes - sometimes to cover a number of weeks, e.g. Advent/Lent. This group is made up of our Local Preachers, Stewards and Music-makers but can be extended to include anyone who is keenly interested in this aspect of the life of our Church.
Someone once said that on occasions in worship, they felt like a goldfish in a glass bowl of water, swimming endlessly round and round, seemingly going nowhere but if they weren't in the water
Women began meeting at Somerton Methodist Church
The Women's Fellowship Meeting is thriving at Somerton. We meet on alternate Wednesday afternoons with an average attendance of 25 ladies; one of which is Mrs Olive Law, who was one of the founder Members of the Bright Hour - 55 years ago.
Several of the ladies who attend our meeting are Members of other churches in Somerton, but we join together in a true ecumenical spirit.
Most of our talks are based on the Bible, but we try to bring in the needs of the Community with Speakers from The Samaritans, National Children's Home, Methodist Homes for the Aged and Lepra, etc. We also give these organisations our financial support. We also support Network Circuit Events.
In March of each year we join with the other churches in Somerton to organise and take part in the Women's World Day of Prayer Service. A very uplifting, yet humbling experience.
Many of our Members live alone and we feel this hour of Fellowship, away from life's tribulations in the middle of a busy week provides an oasis of support, friendship and a shared cup of tea!!
1994/5 celebrates the 17th year of the 1st Somerton Boys' Brigade Company. Formed in 1977 by Barry and Valerie King. Our numbers have kept fairly steady over the years and at one time we thought the Anchor Section would only have half a dozen boys, but our prayers have been answered and now we have a waiting list again!
Having a Junior Section Open Evening at the end of the Spring Session has been a great eye-opener for all who have come along to see what goes on at BB. It has been especially helpful to boys being promoted to the Junior Section from the Anchor Section, as they realise it really is just as much fun, even it if is a bit more hard work.
The Company Section had a great Adventure Holiday Camp at Lydney, Glos, last year, -when the week included activities such as abseiling, rock-climbing, caving, canoeing (and defending themselves against an attacking swan!!), raft building, walking, swimming - and dozens of other amusements! Five of the boys spent a night out rehearsing for the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, and hopefully, this will be continued and gained during the coming few months. In July, the Company boys will be going away for a Canvas Camp this year with Chelmsford Company, to Wales
Many of our 'old' boys have kept in touch, and it is good to see Jamie Taylor and Matthew Shaw sharing in various events when they are home from University. We have also been blessed with many willing female helpers to help with the younger boys.
We hope that during the coming years, 1st Somerton Company of The Boys' Brigade will continue to serve and fulfil the Object: The advancement of Christ's Kingdom among boys and the promotion of habits of obedience, reverence, discipline, self-respect and all that tends towards a true Christian manliness.
Church Fellowship
The Church Fellowship meeting grew out of the'Home Fellowship' group, which started originally way back in the 70's, meeting in different people's houses for a time of bible study, discussion or listen to a speaker, etc.
Because the numbers at these meetings grew less and less, we decided to have a break and start afresh as the 'Church Fellowship', mainly meeting in the Cottage, hoping that the title would reach out to those who felt they couldn't offer their home, and encourage a wider age range. The first year we had a programme set out for the whole year, on the Guild idea, of one meeting a Fellowship night, one a Study night, and one a Social evening. The year went well, and at the end of '94 we started the group again ending with skittles, a week before Christmas.
However, 1995 being such a busy year with all the 150th Anniversary Celebrations and preparatory meetings we have decided to postpone any meetings until at least the end of the year. Hopefully, 1995/6 will see again a meeting for all ages, with a varied programme.
The circle began back in 1986, and consists of 12 people who pray for someone specifically. Each person contacts the next until the circle is complete. For a really urgent prayer request, the message is sent in both directions. Each member has a book to write the message in so that no-one is forgotten. The prayer request can come from anyone, about anyone who is in need of prayer, whether they are a Christian or not, or known personally or only through someone else.
The Youth Club
The present club is the newest of our organisations. It started at the end on 1994, mainly for the young people of the Anglican, United Reform and Methodist Churches
Somerton Methodist Church
150 Years
Wednesday May 17th 2.30pm
WOMEN'S RALLY
Circuit Easter Offering Service 10.30am
Sunday May 21st Rev. E. Mayes.
Communion
Family Lunch 2pm Dedication of
of Thomas Connock grave.
6.30pm Sing Sankey
Wednesday May 24th
7.00pm Circuit Rally
Rev. I. White / Rev. R. Heafield 10.30am
Sunday May 28th
10.30am
David Sawyer
Costume Service 150 Years
2.30pm Street Party
6.30pm Celebrity Service
Saturday June 10th
7.30pm
Warehouse Dance with Refreshments
Sunday June 11th
10.30am
Rev. 1. Penberthy
6.30pm Rev. I. Penberthy
Saturday September 16th
7.30pm
Harvest Supper and
Entertainment by members 10.30am
Sunday September 17th
10.30am Harvest Festival Rev. E. Jones
6.30pm Rev. E. Jones
May 21st-28th Methodist Museum
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