A church congregation in Wales is distancing itself from their former building, now transformed into a supernatural museum and seance space.
In a statement on Facebook, Penuel Chapel in Carmarthen declared they were “unaware” of the buyers' intentions at the point of sale.
Laura and Erik Rowton, who have more than 540,000 YouTube followers, told the BBC their vision for the museum, inspired by the chapel’s paranormal history, which they acquired in August.
"At the end of the 19th century, it was known for faith healing, particularly under Rev. WS Jones," Ms Rowton explained. "The congregation witnessed what are recorded as supernatural manifestations, and he experienced divine power that enabled him to heal people."
The couple has gathered a collection of "supernatural" artefacts for display in their museum, including a "cursed" Ouija board. Ms Rowton clarified that they had informed the estate agent of their intention to create a "museum of spirituality."
However, the congregation disputes this, stating they were told it would serve as a “historical museum.”
Their statement on Facebook reads: “We had been informed that the building would be used as a historical museum. However, in recent weeks, our church has sadly become aware of some other intentions of the current owners. We were unaware of these intentions at the point of sale.
“We, as Penuel church, firmly believe in the truth of God’s Word, the Bible. We therefore wish to state that the future intentions for the chapel site, as we understand them, are not in keeping with our church’s ethos, values and beliefs. We would like to make clear that, as a church, we are in no way associated with this “museum”.
“We believe that the church is not a building; it is the people of God. We therefore rejoice that the Lord dwells in and among His people, wherever they are. We pray that His Kingdom would be furthered here in Carmarthen for His glory, that we would endeavour to uphold the truth of God’s Word, and that we would be a light in our community.”
Ms Rowton expressed her disappointment that the church had not approached them personally to discuss these concerns. "I think a lot of their worries could have been alleviated," she said.
The chapel will host exhibits featuring angels and relics of saints, while seances will be conducted in an adjoining building that was previously a schoolhouse.
The Rowtons hope to open their Museum of the Paranormal and Spirituality by Halloween.