PONTEFRACT IN 1952

31st October 1952
New Chapter for Methodism in Pontefract

Methodism at the height of its power and glory was recalled in Pontefract, on Tuesday, when a part of the first church built in the town for a lifetime or more was officially opened. It is the Central Methodist Church, Newgate, which is to replace the Horsefair Church and the Newgate Mission. The first fruit of an ambitious scheme, the new building comprising a large hall and Sunday school, is only a promise of the shape of things to come. But the promise is big. Modern in its outline and in its interpretation of present needs, the building gives from the outside an impression of solidity derived from its forebears, rugged little village chapels, stone built and low pitched roof. Constructed in brick with concrete facings it shows to Newgate and Ropergate a blank east wall, which ultimately will be screened by a block of offices and shops. Erected at a time when the cry is of empty pews, it is an act of faith, for it is large enough to cope with swelling numbers from future generations of children but present hopes are that the new project itself will increase the congregation.

Severe, austere, in its interior lines and decoration, some may say it is a comfortable place. Lofty, its height enhanced by the tall sweep of its windows, the main hall is restful, and without decorative trivia to lure the attention of a child or adult from worship. An annex built on to the hall is to be used as a chapel for subsidiary services. It has been fitted with the pulpit and Communion rail from the Newgate Mission, and is admirably suited to its intended purpose. The pulpit from the Horsefair Church is to be used in the main hall. The building might have been the principle hall of some new community centre. It might have been - until the eye fell upon a plain, full sized cross behind the stage. That is to be mounted on the stage and used with dimmed lighting, as the focal point in solemn moments of the service.

The opening ceremony and dedication were performed on Tuesday afternoon. The commodious hall was filled with members of the two churches and other churches in the Horsefair Circuit, as well as worshippers of other denominations. Some of the congregation found seats in the aisles; others were accommodated on the platform, with the participants in the service.

The building was opened at the main doors by Mrs J.H. Turner with a key handed to her by the architect Mr. J.G.L Poulson. Mrs G. Poppleton unveiled a plaque in the entrance hall, which contains the names of those who laid the foundation stones and shared in the opening ceremony.