The Church in Wales' contributions to Welsh history and culture have been explored in the first volume of a new book series.
The book, titled, Gofal ein Gwinllan: Ysgrifau ar Gyfraniad yr Eglwys yng Nghymru i Lên, Hanes a Diwylliant Cymru, (Care of our Vineyard: Essays on the Contribution of the Church in Wales to Literature, History and Culture) is compiled of 14 essays by Welsh authors focusing on a 200-year period of Church influence between the translation of the Welsh New Testament in 1567 and the end of the 18th Century.
It includes studies on the story of the Common Prayer Book, carols and hymns, classical prose and women’s contributions to religion.
The foreword is written by the Archbishop of Wales, Andrew John. He says: “Although there is a tendency to consider the established Church as one that became increasingly English in its nature and estranged from its roots in different parts of Wales, these excellent essays show an alternative viewpoint by emphasising the contribution of Welsh speakers. It is good to have this collection of essays to record that important story and inspire a new generation of people within the Church in Wales and beyond.”
A launch party for the book, published on behalf of St Padarn’s Institute and the Church in Wales, will take place 3pm, Friday 11 August at the Societies’ Tent at the Eisteddfod. The Archbishop of Wales will be among the speakers.
