Holy Trinity
Pontargothi, Carmarthenshire
Built in 1865 of local sandstone with a Gothic style bell tower, excellent stained glass windows and a series of 25 frescoes decorating the interior.
The land for its building and cemetery to the rear was leased from Edward Abadam Esq, Middleton Hall (now the National Botanic Garden of Wales). One stipulation ordered was the display of the family crest and motive above the entrance door to remind attendees of the family generosity. Saron, along with Bethlehem, Porthyrhyd are quite unique in this respect for non conformist chapels.
We do our utmost to preserve the building due to its connections with one of Wales major national institutions of modern times. Although our congregation is elderly, it provides a continuance of worship as it has done for some families for three/four generations. It also assists in maintaining the use of the Welsh language (some services are in English) and promotes well being and is a good focal point for the older members.
Also, its important in a social gathering for some widows/widowers who rarely meet others as we live in a very rural setting. Occasionally other organisations use the building for concerts/special services. The Young Farmers Club being a case in point of this. We also work closely with Capel y Ddôl, Methodist Chapel at Llanarthne whose problems are similar to ours and on occasions alternate services.
