Mapping Methodism – Degibna Wesleyan Chapel

Degibna Wesleyan Chapel is not far from Carminoe Creek, the eastern end of Loe Pool. This profile of the chapel has been compiled by Terry Moyle.

Degibna is a hamlet and farm in Helston Parish and the chapel is now in the Lizard and Mount’s Bay Methodist Circuit. The present building, dating from 1904, was built on the site of a previous Wesleyan chapel.

1861: Build date.

Cornishman 18 February 1886 – Degibna Wesleyan Chapel is an ancient structure not far from Carminoe Creek, the eastern end of Loe Pool. The number of members is small and they are not of the richest. The old thatched roof is out of repair and the society has resolved to employ a thatcher for a few days. Reed for the purpose is already on the spot.

Cornish Telegraph 28 February 1889 – On Tuesday evening several members of Garras Free Methodist Band of Hope paid a visit to Degibna and gave an entertainment. The Misses Reed and Lugg led alternately on the harmonium. The place was filled with a very appreciative audience.

1903: New chapel built.

Easter 1904: Official opening.

The old chapel was put to farming use.

West Briton 22 April 1954 – Easter marked the Golden Jubilee of Degibna Chapel, one of the smallest in the Helston Circuit and one of the prettiest. A three-tier iced cake weighing 20 lbs was made by Mesdames J.H. Angove and T. Oliver and was placed on a silver tray beside the pulpit. The Rev. C. Burge (Penzance) preached on Easter Monday afternoon and at the subsequent tea Mr. N. Dale, the oldest trustee, cut the cake which was distributed to all present. On Easter Day Mr. J. H. Dunn (Somerset) was the special preacher, Mrs. June dale (Penzance) the soloist and Mrs. T. Oliver the organist.

West Briton 11 June 1987 – Mr. Bill Scott, a former Mayor of Helston, who has been a regular worshipper at Degibna chapel for some years told the West Briton that there was only about 12 in the congregation but with 8 registered members and the generous support of other people the upkeep and well – being of the chapel is assured. The highlight of the chapel year is the Easter celebration to celebrate the anniversary of the new chapel opening in 1904.

West Briton 24 November 1994 – Another glimpse of Helston’s history has been provided by former Mayor, Franklyn Moyle, who has found photographs of the chapel dating from 1954. There has been a chapel in the area for at least 150years. The original was thatched but was replaced by a new building in 1904. Congregations now average about 10 and there are 5 children who attend. Mr. Moyle is a steward of the chapel as were his parents before him.

West Briton 22 December 1994 – Degibna Chapel Christmas Party was enjoyed by a full house on Sunday when the morning service was conducted by Mrs. M. Vincent of Porthleven. Children of the Sunday School read the lessons. The organist Joyce Oliver was supported by three members of Gweek Silver band – Naomi Hosking, Melanie Jilbert and Emily Jilbert. After lunch entertainment was provided by the Sunday School scholars under Mrs. Hosking’s direction. The party continued with tea and ended with the exchange of cards and presents. A vote of thanks was given by John Bilkey.

West Briton 8 May 1997 – Members and friends of Degibna Chapel held a coffee morning at Helston Guildhall and over £100 was raised for chapel funds.

West Briton 21 October 1999 – On Monday evening the Harvest Home was held at Degibna Chapel when a harvest songs of praise was given by Revelation of Camborne. Franklyn Moyle gave the welcome and thanks was given by John Bilkey. A sale of produce was auctioned by Ray Wearne followed by a supper. On Sunday morning the service was conducted by Chris Smith of Helston. The organist was Joyce Oliver.

Helston Packet 26 July 2011 – On Saturday Degibna Chapel played host to a large number of walkers who were taking part in an ecumenical pilgrimage around Loe Pool. Led by the Bishop of Truro and the Chairman of the Methodist District, the group arrived at Degibna just after 2 p.m. A sumptuous cream tea was enjoyed by all.

A shorter evening walk will take place on Friday 19^th August at 7 p.m. concluding with prayers at the chapel.

Wednesday is the occasion of a midweek Healing Service led by the Rev. Andrew Hill.

Today, Degibna Chapel and Garden, supported by Friends of Degibna Prayer Chapel, is a resource for the Circuit, District and ecumenical use. It is part of the Cornwall Prayer Initiative.

Degibna Prayer Chapel