It was a beautiful sunny day. There were crowds of brothers and sisters, much more than the 500 anticipated. They had come from all over the country, some even from abroad. They had come to enjoy the inauguration of the new Jah–Jireh Home at Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales.

Most came by cars and were directed to the parking area by the hard working attendants. On entering the new Home everyone was encouraged to take advantage of the guided tours available every few minutes. Refreshments were also available in a huge marquee just outside the front door.

At 3pm it was time to listen to the talks that had been arranged. The programme began with song and prayer after which we heard an outline of events leading up to the purchase of the building for a Jah–Jireh Home.

We then heard a talk, with interviews, about the joy of converting the building into the lovely Jah–Jireh Home that it is today. During this talk we also heard from a Welsh choir who sang some of the Kingdom songs. You may remember our newsletter way back in March 2004 mentioning this choir that held a concert in Swansea to raise donations for the home.

Next was a talk entitled: "What of the future?". This covered what was planned for further development in this country and also abroad.

It was then time for the inauguration talk. A good scriptural talk commenced with the fact that there is great happiness in giving as recorded at Acts 20:35 and discussed how our dear elderly ones are being cared for both spiritually and physically in the Jah–Jireh Homes. The value of being in a spiritual environment where our faithful older ones can maintain a good spiritual routine was also mentioned.

Finally, the programme was concluded by introducing us to Brother Andrew Baines as the manager of the new Jah–Jireh Home at Merthyr Tydfil. We also heard a moving poem composed by one of our sisters. The events of the afternoon were then brought to a close with a song and final prayer.

Everyone present were then invited to make their way to the various buffet locations and enjoy some welcome food and drink.

The Home at Merthyr Tydfil will start to take in residents to fill the first 33 en-suite bedrooms shortly. Eventually, when the new wing is completed, a further 18 brothers and sisters will come into the Home. There are also plans for the old ballroom to be converted into a Kingdom Hall.

For more information, please see our Merthyr Jah–Jireh page.