CHAPTER XXV.
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 £30 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.