Castle Street Evangelical Church, Tredegar
Rev. John Palmer was inducted to the pastorate of Castle Street on 16 June. This is a further manifestation of the Lord graciously blessing this fellowship with sound evangelical ministry; beginning in the late 1960s with Bruce Powell, then followed by Vincent Tracey and – when we were without a pastor – Ken Stockley bringing regular ministry and oversight.
The church’s links with the north west of England have continued. Our previous minister Vincent Tracey was from Preston; and John Palmer ministered for 20 years in Parbold. Due to the failing health of their respective parents, John and his wife Rose made the difficult decision to move south to be nearer them.
Last year, Andrew Holland (another Lancashire man!) passed on John’s details to us and in October the fellowship invited John to preach. It soon became evident that the Lord was leading us to him. He was unanimously called to be pastor in February and began his ministry here in April.
The day of induction was a wonderful day. We were challenged by the preaching charges to pastor and congregation, given by Andrew Holland (Abersychan). Ian Parry (Bay Church, Cardiff) chaired the service. We were encouraged by those who supported us, especially representatives from Parbold. We are sure the links with Lancashire will continue!
