Connect Life Church Celebrates 75 Years of Faith and Community in Caerphilly
In February, Connect Life Church, widely recognised as Caerphilly Elim Church, will commemorate a significant milestone: 75 years since its inaugural service was held in the building on Crescent Road, Caerphilly, in February 1951. This celebration marks decades of spiritual growth and community engagement, rooted in a rich history that began with a humble tent mission.
The Humble Beginnings: A Tent Mission That Sparked a Church
The church's vibrant history traces back to 1948 when P S Brewster, a renowned evangelist from Cardiff's City Temple (now City Church), conducted a series of special meetings in a large marquee situated next to Caerphilly Castle, prior to the moat's later restoration. These gatherings ignited a spiritual movement, leading to the formation of a new, dynamic church community. By 1950, construction had commenced on a dedicated building to accommodate the growing congregation, which was officially opened in 1951.
This period coincided with Winston Churchill's second term as UK Prime Minister, ongoing post-war rationing, and the NHS being just three years old, highlighting the church's establishment during a transformative era in British history.
Seven Decades of Witness and Service
Over the past 75 years, Connect Life Church has served as a steadfast Christian witness in the local community. Thousands have attended services, celebrated marriages, participated in Sunday School, youth clubs, and mid-week activities, with hundreds of adult baptisms conducted. The church continues to thrive today, a testament to its enduring mission and relevance.
Pastor Steve Harris, one of the ministers, reflects on this legacy: "We want this celebration to be a reminder of all that God has done in and through the church over the last 75 years. We have had some amazing leaders over the years, starting with its first pastor, Ron Jones, whom I remember from my childhood."
A Vibrant, All-Age Congregation and Community Outreach
The church boasts a diverse and active congregation, with an average Sunday attendance of nearly 150 people, spanning from young children to octogenarians. Pastor Harris adds: "We have a great team of staff and volunteers, and we are so blessed to have a vibrant, all-age congregation each Sunday morning. Our desire remains unchanged since the beginning: to introduce people to Jesus, who loves them and offers life-changing power."
Beyond Sunday services, the church runs numerous mid-week activities, both in its building and at the Van Community Centre, including:
- Three FoodBank sessions weekly
- Three baby and toddler groups
- Two kids clubs and two youth clubs
- Various mid-week gatherings for the wider church family in homes and the church
Collaborative Community Events and Future Vision
Connect Life Church actively collaborates with other churches in the Caerphilly area to organise larger community events throughout the year. Notably, it hosts an annual three-day free weekend of activities on the Owain Glyndwr fields, fostering unity and engagement across the region.
To mark the 75th anniversary, the church extends a warm invitation to the public. A special celebration service will be held at 10.30am on Sunday, February 8, at the Crescent Road location. Those with memories of their time at the church are encouraged to share their stories via email at connect@connectlife.org.uk, helping to preserve and honour its rich heritage.
