A new era began for Monmouth Methodist Church in St. James’ Street on Sunday 6th September when Revd Ruth Lownsbrough led morning worship for the first time.

At a Faith Lunch after the service, Monmouth’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Terry Christopher, welcomed her to the town, which he described as a “very friendly town with very friendly people.” Ministers from churches across Monmouth attended the lunch and also welcomed her.

Ruth and her husband Richard moved from Reading to Monmouth during the summer to take up the new appointment, Ruth’s first as a minister. As well as Monmouth church, Ruth takes responsibility for the Methodist churches at Trellech, Broad Oak, Gwehelog, Gwern-y-Saint and Llancloudy.

She replaces Revd Barry Smith, who served in Monmouth for 17 years.