Thomas Johns (minister)

Thomas Johns (26 November 1836 – 1914) was a Welsh Independent (Congregationalist) minister, best known for his pastorate at Capel Als, Llanelli, one of the largest chapels in Wales, from 1869 until his death in 1914.

[3] Rees also states that the source of contention was Johns's insistence on electing more deacons than some members of the congregation thought necessary and also his efforts to abolish certain traditions deemed incompatible with Christian belief.

[4] His ministry coincided with the 1868 General Election, when the Liberal candidate, Love Jones-Parry defeated the Conservative, who happened to be the son and heir of Baron Penrhyn.

A new schoolroom was built early in his pastorate, and in 1875 a group of members were released to form a new church at Tabernacle, towards the cost of which Capel Als contributed a significant sum.

[8] Johns did not confine his activities to the pulpit and became a leading member of both the Llanelly School Board and Carmarthenshire County Council.