Canolfan Bethlehem, Newport, Pembrokeshire: A New Welsh Heritage, Culture & Arts Centre for Trefdraeth
Bethlehem Baptist Chapel, now being developed into Canolfan Bethlehem aims to become a vibrant Welsh heritage, culture & arts centre dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich history and Welsh language of the Newport, Pembrokeshire area, or "Tydrath" as it is known locally. This achievement was made possible through the unwavering support and generosity of local residents and investors, raising an inspiring £145,000 in just 14 days. Following the successful purchase at auction in October 2024, the management group has been working steadily behind the scenes to begin to develop its aims, secure funding, and arrange upcoming events at the old Chapel building.
Chapels have played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the Welsh language in Wales. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, they served not only as places of worship but also as community hubs where Welsh was the primary language of preaching, singing, and education. At a time when English was increasingly dominant in official and educational settings, chapels became strongholds of Welsh identity, fostering literacy and cultural continuity. Their influence extended beyond religion, shaping literature, music, and political movements that championed the language’s survival. Today, chapels such as Canolfan Bethlehem continue to serve as cultural centres dedicated to maintaining Wales’ linguistic and cultural heritage. Chapels therefore represent powerful symbols of Welsh resilience, identity, and the enduring strength of the language.
Upcoming Events at Canolfan Bethlehem
Canolfan Bethlehem is excited to begin its programme of events celebrating Welsh history and culture. On February 26th at 7pm, historian Angela V. John will present Becoming Visible: Statues and Plaques of Welsh Women, exploring the stories behind commemorations of influential Welsh women. On March 1st at 10.30am, Hefin Wyn will give a talk on Pembrokeshire Radicals, shedding light on the region’s history of activism and change, as part of our Bore Coffi Dewi - St David’s Day Coffee Morning, where the community can come together to celebrate Wales' patron saint over a welshcake and a sing-song. Looking ahead, on March 21st, Emyr Phillips will deliver a fascinating talk on the history of the Cardi Bach Railway.
Canolfan Bethlehem, Newport, Pembrokeshire: A New Welsh Heritage, Culture & Arts Centre for Trefdraeth
Bethlehem Baptist Chapel, now being developed into Canolfan Bethlehem aims to become a vibrant Welsh heritage, culture & arts centre dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich history and Welsh language of the Newport, Pembrokeshire area, or "Tydrath" as it is known locally. This achievement was made possible through the unwavering support and generosity of local residents and investors, raising an inspiring £145,000 in just 14 days. Following the successful purchase at auction in October 2024, the management group has been working steadily behind the scenes to begin to develop its aims, secure funding, and arrange upcoming events at the old Chapel building.
Chapels have played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the Welsh language in Wales. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, they served not only as places of worship but also as community hubs where Welsh was the primary language of preaching, singing, and education. At a time when English was increasingly dominant in official and educational settings, chapels became strongholds of Welsh identity, fostering literacy and cultural continuity. Their influence extended beyond religion, shaping literature, music, and political movements that championed the language’s survival. Today, chapels such as Canolfan Bethlehem continue to serve as cultural centres dedicated to maintaining Wales’ linguistic and cultural heritage. Chapels therefore represent powerful symbols of Welsh resilience, identity, and the enduring strength of the language.
Upcoming Events at Canolfan Bethlehem
Canolfan Bethlehem is excited to begin its programme of events celebrating Welsh history and culture. On February 26th at 7pm, historian Angela V. John will present Becoming Visible: Statues and Plaques of Welsh Women, exploring the stories behind commemorations of influential Welsh women. On March 1st at 10.30am, Hefin Wyn will give a talk on Pembrokeshire Radicals, shedding light on the region’s history of activism and change, as part of our Bore Coffi Dewi - St David’s Day Coffee Morning, where the community can come together to celebrate Wales' patron saint over a welshcake and a sing-song. Looking ahead, on March 21st, Emyr Phillips will deliver a fascinating talk on the history of the Cardi Bach Railway.
For more information about Canolfan Bethlehem and our upcoming events, please visit our facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/canolfanbethlehem or email canolfanbethlehem@gmail.com