The old and new Anglican churches in Heptonstall aren't the only places of worship in the village. There is also a Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, though it is not now in regular use. Built in 1764, to house a rapidly growing non-Conformist congregation, it clings to the hillside on the north east side of the village, with wonderful views over the valley. The formation of the congregation was overseen by John and Charles Wesley, the Anglican evangelists and preachers, who founded the breakaway Methodist revival movement. Octagonal chapels are unusual though not unique, believed to have no corners for the devil to hide in, and focused around the central pulpit.
We didn't find the chapel open, though I gather some of our members eventually managed to find a keyholder and were allowed inside.
We were graced by a visit from a rather fluffy cat, who stretched out in the sunshine on the warm stone steps, quite oblivious to the photographic equipment sharing its space.
Now that's a "cool cat" who wasn't about to give up her perch even if a tripod was next to her!
ReplyDeleteThe cat rules.
ReplyDelete