There was a faithfull congregation and enthusiastic officers supporting the cause during the 1950's and 1960's. Although the congregation was decreasing slowly it was decided to continue to hold the services in the Welsh language and to do what was possible to maintain the buildings. Gwynfa was sold in 1966 which provided proceeds to continue to sustain the cause in Tabernacl.
In 1968 the members of Tabernacl and Bethlehem, Gwaelod y Garth decided to join under one minister. But no Minister was appointed at that time.
In 1969 there were 59 members supporting the cause including at least six new members.
GERAINT ROBERTS’ MEMORIES
We came to live in Efail Isaf in 1963. Tabernacl was a very traditional, independent chapel. An English service was held every month, but still with Welsh hymns being sung. A congregation of 40 was considered a well attended meeting. But within about five years the congregation had dropped to about fifteen, as members died. The remaining faithful were certain that Tabernacl was a Welsh chapel. Despite the small number there was fervour in the singning. It was a period of despair and anxiety about the chapel’s viability. Gwynfa had been sold, it was impossible to use the vestry and the cemetery was overgrown and neglected. It was often difficult to find preachers and the standard of the sermons often left much to be desired.
We as a family held a “Byrdwn Gweddi” on Tabernacl’s behalf, a prayer asking for a young minister, one who could dedicate himself to missionary work in the neighbourhood. We placed everything in the hands of the One who could answer prayers. It was such a surprise one day to meet Eirian and his family on the wayside - old friends from our youth; how much more our surprise to understand that they were coming to live in the village. Was this the person we had prayed for?
