St Matthew's Church, Abernant facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Matthew's, Abernant |
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St Matthew's Church
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| 51°43′12″N 3°26′00″W / 51.720134°N 3.433376°W | |
| Denomination | Church in Wales |
| History | |
| Status | Active |
| Founded | 1885 |
| Dedication | St Matthew |
| Architecture | |
| Completed | 1889 |
| Specifications | |
| Capacity | 150 |
| Materials | metal, wood |
| Bells | 1 |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Aberdare |
| Deanery | Cynon Valley |
| Archdeaconry | Morgannwg |
| Diocese | Diocese of Llandaff |
St Matthew's Church in Abernant is a special building in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales. It is one of the few "tin tabernacles" still standing in the country. These churches were often built quickly and cheaply using metal.
Contents
A Unique Church Building
St Matthew's Church is located in the Parish of Aberdare. It is famous for being a "tin tabernacle." This means it was built using a metal frame and outer walls, often made of corrugated iron. These types of churches were popular in the late 1800s because they were quick and affordable to put up.
How St Matthew's Church Started
The church began as a Christian mission by people from St Elvan's Church, Aberdare. A mission is like a new branch of a church. At first, the people met in a tent! This shows how much they wanted a place to worship.
In 1888 or 1889, a man named James Lewis paid for a proper building. He covered all the costs himself. These tin churches were often ordered by mail. They would arrive in pieces, like a giant kit, and then be put together on the spot.
From Temporary to Permanent
The church was only meant to be used for about ten years. However, it has stayed in the same spot ever since! This shows how useful and strong these simple buildings could be.
Inside the Church
From the outside, St Matthew's looks very plain and simple. But inside, it's quite different! The floor is covered with soft carpets. The metal walls are lined with warm, varnished wood. This makes the inside feel cozy and welcoming.
The church also has some beautiful, small stained glass windows. Even though it's a single room (called a nave), it can seat 150 people. It also has a busy Sunday school, where children learn about faith.
The Church's Font
The font, which is a basin used for baptisms, in St Matthew's Church is quite old. It dates all the way back to 1827. Before it came to St Matthew's, this font was used in a church in Port Talbot.
External Links
- Archived page. Accessed 29/04/17
