The work of the Welsh Senedd has been blessed during an ecumenical service, ahead of its new term.
Leading figures in politics and the church gathered at Llandaff Cathedral on Tuesday to pray for and support those involved in public service, with Members of the Senedd from all parties invited to the service.
It is the first Senedd opening since Plaid Cymru became the largest party. King Charles and Queen Camilla officially started the parliament’s term during a ceremony on Thursday.
Most Rev Cherry Vann, Archbishop of Wales, preached at the service. She said: “It is right that we come together in prayer, reflecting on the responsibilities entrusted to those who serve the people of Wales.”
She added that the service was “an opportunity to pray for all Members of the Senedd, that they may be guided by wisdom, integrity and compassion in their work, and that they will always keep in view the dignity of every person and the common good of our society."
“I pray that this new Senedd term will be marked by a spirit of service, constructive dialogue and renewed hope for the people of Wales,” Archbishop Cherry concluded.
Prayers were offered by Rt Rev Mary Stallard, Bishop of Llandaff, Most Rev Mark O’Toole, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Cardiff-Menevia, and Rt Rev Dorrien Davies, Dean of the Royal Chaplaincy for Wales and Bishop of St Davids. Readings were given by Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Senedd presiding officer, and Sam Rowlands MS, chair of the Cross-Party Group on Faith. Interfaith representatives were also present.
Also in attendance was Cynan Llwyd, general secretary of Cytûn (Churches Together in Wales), who shared her hope that the service represented “a moment of shared commitment to wisdom, compassion and the good of every community in Wales.”
“Serving the people of Wales is a responsibility worthy of gratitude, encouragement and prayer so we hope that the Senedd members will feel encouraged and supported by this service. We look forward to further engagement with the Senedd as we all strive to serve every community in Wales,” Llwyd added.
The Church in Wales has shared a prayer, urging people to join in blessing the Senedd and the country.