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Methodism
first came to Lower Darwen in the form of John Wesley
who preached from the steps of the barn that used to be
adjacent to the Methodist Church on Fore Street (picture
below). However the first Methodist Society met in a barn
half way to Blackburn at the Top of the Coal Pits: a site
now covered by a housing estate.
In
time the Society built the Fore Street Church and became
a large and very wealthy congregation. However, as industry
has declined within the area so too has the Church. Although
their days of glory have passed the memories of their
influence on village life is still strong with the Memorial
Bowling Club being a living reminder. Due to escalating
repair and maintenance costs a decision was taken early
in 2001 that worship at this church should be suspended
and the congregation would move to Belthorn with Lower
Darwen URC on Sandy Lane where they found a very warm
welcome.
On
12 January 2003 the two congregations formally united
to form Trinity United Church. The two congregations have
come together very happily and are now concentrating on
being the Free Church witness to Lower Darwen
Services
Sunday
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