The Welsh Revival of 1904-05 has to be counted as one of the greatest historical events in Wales’ religious history. In this country alone some 100,000 people were saved – most of them in pretty dramatic fashion, with many swooning on the floor under the power of the Spirit and others were wailing their repentance.

Around the world – in countries like India, Korea etc. – the numbers stack up even higher. It became a truly international event. What is especially pleasing that in many of these countries the revival lasted for many years and some have even managed to keep their churches vibrant right up to today.

Many would argue that counting the number of converts during revival is wrong – and in part I would agree. It seems to carry the stench of the business model of leadership so beloved in many westernised nations today. But for the Welsh Revival I am willing to make this exception and for one reason only – Evan Roberts, it is reported, had a vision of being handed a piece of paper with the figure of 100,000 written on it. This he took as a sign that God would give him this many converts during the revival in which he was to take such a leading role.

The story of the vision is by now well known. What is less well known, however, is that Roberts actually received that piece of paper – or at least he showed a piece paper to one of his chief supporters, Reverend D. M. Phillips, claiming it was handed to him by God. In his diary (kept in the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth) Phillips has an entry for 15 September 1904 where he records the moment Roberts gave him the paper and explained how he had come about it. Phillips, however, cautioned the young man not to go around telling other people of his find.

Yesterday – I can exclusively reveal – I found this piece of paper. If you follow my Facebook and Twitter account you will know that I spent the afternoon at the University library in Bangor. It must count as the most fruitful two hours ever spent in an archive room ever! For in a nondescript box among the papers of an unknown Baptist minister from Anglesey I found the document in question. It’s a little frayed at the edges and has a tear down two thirds lengthwise. But the figures are clear enough – 100,000. I hope to get permission to take a photograph next week.

Watch this space!

You did notice when this was published, didn't you?!