The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Wales will tonight make a desperate plea to Nonconformist Christians in Wales to leave behind decades of jealousy and unite to save their tradition.

In an address to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Wales in Lampeter, the Rev Gwenda Richards will say that selfishness has resulted in jealousy and strife among Welsh Christians and churches.

She will say: “The great tragedy of Nonconformism in Wales is the unhealthy competitive approach that has thrived between denominations, between churches and even between members.

“Since the beginning of the last century we’ve lived off competition – and I daresay that jealousy and stubbornness arising out of competition will be the death of us.”

Rev Richards will tell members of the General Assembly that Nonconformists need to find their unity in God.

“As a Church we have precious property: our chapels and chapel houses and colleges.

“What’s important is that we remember that all of this, including ourselves, is God’s property, and that it is all tools in his hands to carry out his work on this earth.

“Isn’t ‘co-workers’ the key word here?” she will say.

Rev Richards will also thank members of the Church across Wales for their hard work and service.

“Without them and their constant and unfailing dedication, much of the work going on would not be possible. And the work on the ground is difficult. There are elders and laypersons in our churches who have given an age of tireless service to the church of Jesus Christ and are continuing to do so.”

The Presbyterian Church of Wales has around 30,000 members in more than 700 churches. Its General Assembly is currently meeting at Trinity Saint David University, Lampeter.

Before the end of the Assembly tomorrow, the Rev Iain Hodgins will be invested as the Church’s new Moderator for the 2010/11 session.