Mission fo holy innocents, Pentre, (Saltney) Possibly 1895 - 1896

This is a photograph of the Mission of Holy Innocents in Pentre, Saltney, captured in an early publication. The image and accompanying text offer a glimpse into the religious and social structures of a parish, and the global reach of missionary work. The listed missionaries in South Africa and Borneo reflect the far-reaching influence of the church during the height of British colonialism. Meanwhile, institutions such as 'The Mothers' Meetings Society' and 'Order of Church Messengers (Men)' reveal the gendered division of labor within the parish. Consider the emotional weight carried by these roles – the call to spread faith across continents, the domestic duties of women, and the sense of community fostered through local religious organizations. In documenting these structures, the photograph serves as a reminder of how religious institutions shape identities, enforce social norms, and extend their reach across geographical boundaries.