Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 04 April 1902
Denaby Baptist Mission.
Somewhere about three years ago there came to Denaby a Gospel Mission van. We do not know to whom it belonged, or who was in charge of it, but whoever it was they probably will never know the result of their labours in Denaby.
One immediate result, however, was that one woman was so much impressed by what she heard that it led to her beginning a new life and she had the joy of being joined in this by her husband.
Mrs. Winter, for that was the person’s name began now to think of others, and she was particularly interested in the children. She invited them to her house, and gave them religious instruction, and most gladly did they avail themselves of the privilege, and very wonderful indeed was the progress they made under her tuition.
To the writer it been a treat to hear them recite from memory many portions of Scripture and other useful lessons, as well as to hear them sing. It might be said that children would have been gladly welcomed at the different Sunday Schools in Denaby. No doubt that is true, they would have gladly welcomed, but, speaking for of them, would they have gone, if they had it would not been Mrs. Winter. She had a most remarkable influence over them. They have been quick to perceive how real has been her interest in them and how strong her desire for their welfare, and her efforts have met with a response in their hearts. Missioners tell us that the readiest way and sometimes the only way of access to the hearts of men and women is through their children, be that as it may Mrs. Winter is gaining ground in that way, and the good work being carried on the grown-up ones.
It will be remembered some time ago an article appeared in the “Christian Budget,” in which Denaby was described as “the worst village in England.” That article was no doubt a gross exaggeration of the facts, but it had the effect of attracting to Denaby certain missioners. One of these was a Mr. Day (since dead), who identified himself more or less with Mrs Winter’s work —they were afterwards joined by the pastor of the Conisboro’ Baptist Church (the Rev. R. Martin). The latter continued to assist in the work as long as he held the pastorate, and Mrs. and Mr. Winter became members of this church. In order to better accommodate the children the Winters moved into a larger house, still the work continued to grow, and there was, and is a Sunday school, a band of hope, and a mothers meeting, as well as other services for adults: It been no unusual thing for 50 or 60 to be crowded into one while there were many others vainly desiring to gain admission.
When Mr. Martin left Conisboro’ the church for some time was without a pastor, and the question had to be considered as to what should be done with regard to the work of Denaby, for Mrs Winter’s misson had now come to be regarded as a Baptist Mission. It was felt that a mission which has given so many evidences of success should be provided for and looked alter. It was a big undertaking for a small church, but there were none who felt justified in recommending that it should be given up, so a committee was appointed to carry on the work in conjunction with Mr. and Mrs. Winter. It was soon obvious, however, that such a work could not be permanently carried on in a cottage; it might in one sense be a pleasing thing to see a room crowded with children and adults engaged in a good work, but it cannot be good for the health, and besides within such limits the work could not thrive.
It was evident that a larger place must be provided if the mission was to succeed. This fact was recognised by the committee, and they recognised a brick chapel should be built, expressing at the same time the opinion that there was such a promise of sucess as to warrant such a step being taken. Acting on that recommendation, steps were taken to acquire a site, and plans for a building were prepared; in fact such progress has been made that the chapel is in cause of erection, and is now ready for the roof. It is situate in Balby street, and is intended to accommodate a mixed congregation of 160. Besides the large room there will be two class-rooms, which on occasion by removing a dividing screen may be made into one large class-room.
The site is sufficiently large to allow for a big church to be built when the proper time comes. The chapel now being built, with the site, will cost between £500 and £600. Mr. R. H. Sharp has taken a great deal of interest in the mission and it is through his help that the building scheme has been made possible. Towards the cost he has generosity promised £50. The Denaby and Cadeby Colliery Company, with their usual readiness to help have promised £25, and Mr. Barnes, a prominent Baptist of Sheffield, £25.
There are many other promises of smaller amounts, including £2 from Mr. and Mrs. Winter. Mr. Winter is also presenting a beautiful Bible for the pulpit. It is hoped and expected that many others will help by their contributions. It is expected that the opening services will take place on Thursday. May 15th; and on Whit-Sunday.