Salem Moravian Church facts for kids

Salem Moravian Church was a special place of worship in Oldham, Lancashire, England. It was started in 1825 by a man named John Lees. He lived in the Clarksfield area of Oldham and was connected to another Moravian community called Fairfield.

History of Salem Church

Early Moravian Work in Oldham

The Moravian Church began its work in the Oldham area a long time ago, in 1772. At that time, Moravian ministers preached in a place called Greenacres. Many people from Lees and Oldham came to these services. This led to a new preaching spot being set up in Clarksfield. This new spot was supported by the Moravian community in Dukinfield.

John Lees and the New Chapel

In the 1820s, John Lees, who was a successful member of the Fairfield Moravian Settlement, decided to help the church grow. He rented a large room in Clarksfield for Moravian services. In November 1822, reports showed that the room was full of people. John Lees offered this room to the church so they could continue to share their message.

Arrangements were made for preachers from Fairfield and Dukinfield to lead services every Sunday. A woman named Elizabeth Smith also agreed to teach at a girls' day school. This school was planned to be part of the new church community.

John Lees and his two brothers decided to build a chapel. They also included two school rooms in the building. They paid for all of this themselves. The first stones for the building were laid on June 28, 1824. The chapel was officially opened and dedicated on August 7, 1825, by James Liley. The first minister who lived there was John Smith, starting in 1827.

Growth and Closure

In 1865, Salem Moravian Church played an important role in starting a new Moravian church. This new church was in Westwood, also in Oldham.

The original church building from 1825 was later replaced. A newer church building was constructed in the late 20th century.

Salem Moravian Church continued to serve its community at Lees Road, Clarksfield, for many years. However, the last service was held on August 21, 2022. After this date, the building closed. The people who attended Salem Moravian Church then joined the Moravian Church in Royton.