Saturday, October 5th 2024 was a day of great joy for the congregation of Maescanner Baptist Chapel, Dafen, Llanelli, when Gruffudd Jenkins was ordained and inducted as the new Minister of the chapel.
It was a pleasure to welcome over 150 friends and members of Gruffudd’s family, as well as a number of ministers and members of local chapels and churches to Maescanner for the service.
The Revd Irfon Roberts led the Ordination and Induction of Gruffudd. We heard the story of Gruffudd’s call to Maescanner, when Andrew Thomas described how God brought Gruffudd and Maescanner together, through prayer and God’s guidance.
Gruffudd shared his own testimony with the congregation; we heard of God working in his life, saving him and guiding him to the point of accepting the call to Maescanner. Following Gruffudd’s confession of faith, the members of Maescanner and the wider congregation promised to support and pray for Gruffudd. The Revd Alan Maskell, prayed for Gruffudd, which was followed by the Laying of Hands by the Revd Ifan George and Gwyon Jenkins, whilst the Revd Irfon Roberts prayed.
After the congregation sang ‘Who can cheer the heart Like Jesus’, we heard words of commendation. Firstly, from Alan Davies representing Gruffudd’s home church Tabernacle, Llwynhendy. Alan spoke warmly of Gruffudd growing up in the church and his experience of God’s love, grace and forgiveness in his life.
Secondly, from the Revd Judith Morris who welcomed Gruffudd on behalf of the Baptist Union of Wales and also from Rosa, Hunt one of the Principals of Cardiff Baptist College, who kindly presented Gruffudd with a Bible.
The Revd Ian Lewis welcomed Gruffudd on behalf of the local churches in the area, and the Revd John Treharne on behalf of the Carmarthen and Ceredigion Association. The Revd John Treharne preached from John 10 – I am the door, I am the good shepherd. He noted that the minister is the under-shepherd and is answerable to the Good Shepherd.
After a joyous occasion we thank God for His love, grace and guidance through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.
We pray for His blessing, and particularly for Gruffudd as he starts his new role as the minister and pastor of Maescanner Chapel. To God be the glory!
Report by Eleri Owen