Orthodox Parish in Wales Purchases Historic Church in Abercarn

Lady Llanover’s Welsh Church now to be converted into an Orthodox church. Photo: jlb2011.co.uk

ABERCARN, WALES — The Parish of St. Theodore & St. Teilo Orthodox Parish has purchased a historic church building in Abercarn, marking an important step toward establishing a permanent Orthodox presence in the Welsh Valleys.

The nearly 200-year-old former Presbyterian church became available for sale earlier this year. The parish—currently worshipping at Conway Road Methodist Church—was able to acquire the property thanks to the generosity of a donor in the United States. The Grade II listed structure, surrounded by more than an acre of land, is well suited to serve as an Orthodox church and community gathering place.

Parish leaders say significant work remains before the building can be fully prepared for liturgical use. Nevertheless, the acquisition has been welcomed as a major milestone for the community and a hopeful sign for the growth of Orthodox Christian life throughout Wales.

Donations to the building fund can be made via Paypal to the following account: sstheodoreandteilo@gmail.com

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Orthodox Church saw rapid parish growth across Western Europe.

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