Monday 30th September 2024

In spite of an unsettling start to the day, with weather warnings issued across the country, our Michaelmas Volunteer Day was a tremendous success! Through wind and rain, a dedicated group of volunteers worked together to clear far more of Penuel Chapel’s overgrown and neglected graveyard than Erik and I had thought possible.

When we took ownership of the chapel back in August, we were saddened to discover the graveyard had been left in a terrible condition by the previous owners. Not only was it thickly blanketed by brambles, but strewn with waste also. And so, it was delightful — and moving — to see people, previously strangers, come together to cut back brambles, strip ivy from walls, and remove old, discarded ovens, plastic, carpet, and other garbage from Penuel’s long-mistreated graves. Indeed, at one point I had to remove myself discreetly indoors after a mound of rubbish (including an oven) was rolled off the shared grave of two infant children. It should never have happened, but I am so very glad to see dignity begin to be restored to the final resting place of so many men, women and children.

In addition to the selfless hard work of volunteers both from the local area and further afield, friendships were formed, with people connecting over shared interests and experiences. It was magical to behold — and entirely in the spirit of what we hope to bring to Penuel Chapel through our museum. A true privilege to share coffee and cake with you all!

Sincere thanks to everyone who took part. You should all be so, so very proud of yourselves. You really did have eyes on you from the other side! What goodness and gratitude! We look forward to welcoming you back to the museum before too long.