Cardiff Deaf Church Celebrates ‘Homecoming’

Cardiff Deaf Church has celebrated a significant milestone as Bishop Mary joined the community to bless their new worship space in the heart of the city centre in Newport Road Deaf Hub. She was accompanied by her chaplain, Rev’d Emma, along with Deaf Community Outreach Worker Nicola Roylance and Rev’d Canon Tim Jones, Director of Ministry and Discipleship.

Bishop Mary led the Eucharist with the support of BSL interpreter Rachel, ensuring that the service reflected the full inclusivity at the heart of the Deaf Church’s mission. The occasion was described as deeply uplifting and moving, marking the culmination of a long journey to restore the Deaf Church’s presence in the city.

During the service, Bishop Mary reflected on the significance of community, reminding those gathered that “where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20). She continued, “God leads us, always, not to a building but to one another. May this church, this community of people always be marked by welcome, truth and joy, and may Cardiff Deaf Church continue to be a sign of God’s faithful love rooted firmly at home.”

Nicola Roylance spoke of the importance of this moment for the Deaf community, saying, "It was so emotional and heartwarming to see the Deaf Church coming home, as it were, to the Deaf Hub.

We are thankful to everyone who helped get us back into our rightful home.

The service was made all that special by Bishop Mary blessing the space and leading us in our first Eucharist in our new home.

We are so very grateful for all the support provided to us by the Diocese and are looking forward to making plans for the future.”

As the church begins this new chapter, the community is seeking clergy who can sign or who are willing to preside at the Eucharist alongside an interpreter. Those able to support this ministry are invited to contact Nicola Roylance at nicolaroylance@cinw.org.uk.

Please continue to hold the Deaf Church in your prayers as they step forward with renewed hope and purpose.