Connah’s Quay Salvation Army marks 135 years with weekend of celebrations
The Salvation Army’s leaders for the UK and Ireland are returning to Connah’s Quay this weekend, where they once led the town’s church, to mark its 135th anniversary.
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main led the Connah’s Quay church for four years between 1988 and 1992, and both of their children were born during that time.
Their ministry in Wales continued with later appointments in Wrexham and at the church’s Divisional Headquarters in Cardiff.
The anniversary weekend begins on Saturday 13 June with a free community barbecue from 11am to 1pm at the church on Dee Road.
A quiz and buffet follows at 6pm, with donations towards costs welcomed, and everyone in the community is invited.
The Commissioners will lead worship at the church on Sunday 14 June.
Commissioner Jenine Main said: “It was a real privilege for us to serve as corps leaders in Connah’s Quay as the church marked its centenary in 1988 and to share in a small part of its long and faithful witness. As we return, we thank God for all that has gone before – for his faithfulness, for the lives transformed, and for the dedication of so many people who have served this community so well. We also look ahead with hope, trusting that God will continue to lead and strengthen his people here as they serve with commitment and love in the years to come.”
The church’s own newspaper, The War Cry, reported on its beginnings in the town in 1892.
It said: “The Army commenced here in an old barn, fitted up for a barracks. There were large congregations from the first, the place being crowded. The weather seemed to be at war with them − rain, hail and snow.”
The church has served the town from several locations since, including Chapel Street from 1916 and Cestrian Street from 1928, before moving to its current home in the former Welsh chapel on Dee Road in 1970.
The church is now led by Captains David and Eveline Haines, who arrived in 2021 just after Covid restrictions lifted.
Recent additions at the church include a coffee morning, a Parent and Toddler group and a Friday Drop-In run with a drug, alcohol and mental health support service.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Roberts, leader of The Salvation Army in Wales, said: “For 135 years The Salvation Army in Connah’s Quay has met people’s spiritual and practical needs in countless ways. This anniversary is a moment to honour that history and to renew our dedication to serving the community into the future.”
Captain David Haines said: “We are thrilled to welcome Commissioners Jenine and Paul back to Connah’s Quay for this milestone. The anniversary is a celebration of the welcome and support people have found at The Salvation Army for generations. This weekend is an opportunity to thank all who have shaped our church’s story and to look forward to what God has planned for us next. Everyone is invited to join us at our barbecue on Saturday and the service on Sunday.”
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