MEMORIALS OF THE INDEPENDENT CHURCH AT BYFIELD.
The village of Byfield, containing more than 1000 inhabitants, has in it
a small Independent Church, of recent origin; but it has struggled with
many difficulties, and a number of changes have taken place during its
short history, of which we can only present some very concise
statements.
About thirty years ago, some persons residing here, who were members of
a Dissenting Church in the vicinity, determined to invite some of the
neighbouring ministers to preach the Gospel of Christ in this place. For
three months the services were conducted in a room, which was rented and
fitted up for the purpose. The Home Missionary Society then agreed to
give L30 as a grant for one year, and recommended Mr. Grey as the
minister, formerly of Oakham, Rutlandshire. During the first year of his
ministry, which was 1827, a neat little Chapel was erected. Mr. Grey
remained three years, during which time his ministry was rendered
useful. A short time after Mr. Grey had left, the place was supplied by
Mr. Kidgell, from Newport Academy, who became the pastor of the Church
in 1831. His ministry was continued here for four years. Mr. Phillips
next supplied the place for three months, under whose ministry things
greatly revived; but through some misunderstanding, he quitted the
pleasing scene of usefulness that appeared to be opening before him, the
Church much regretting his removal. After this Mr. Moses became the
pastor, and continued with them three years. Then a Mr. Sanderson was
invited for twelve months, in consequence of an advertisement; "but
since then," it is remarked, "the Church has had no faith in advertising
ministers." Mr. Kidgell then returned to his former scene of labour, and
remained for eighteen months, but under considerable discouragement.
After his final removal, the congregation was supplied by neighbouring
ministers and occasional preachers for more than twelve months. At
length they invited a Mr. Berrill, who remained with them seven years.
He laboured under many difficulties, weathered many storms, and at
length retired from the situation. For ten months they remained
destitute, having supplies as they could be obtained. In March, 1849,
their present minister, Mr. Robson, came to supply them, and was invited
to remain. He found the place in a very low state, but things have taken
a favourable turn. The Chapel is now well attended, and seventeen
members have been added to the Church. The present number of
communicants is thirty-three. In the Sabbath-school there are thirty
children, instructed by six teachers.