Ancient 1588 Welsh Bible to Debut Publicly in Welsh Region for the First Time
Fresh Take:
Get ready to witness history unfold, folks! A 400-year-old Welsh Bible, previously hidden away in Westminster Abbey's library, is making its debut this week at St Davids Cathedral in Pembrokeshire.
This ancient Bible, printed in 1588, is the first complete translation of the Bible into Welsh and was the brainchild of Bishop William Morgan[3]. Morgan, a man of great vision, labored tirelessly to create a standard Welsh version, aided by his fellow Welshman, Gabriel Goodman, who was then Dean of Westminster[3].
The printing of this literary masterpiece took place in London, and Morgan graciously presented a copy to the Abbey's library as a token of his gratitude[3]. The Bible has been a permanent fixture in Westminster Abbey ever since[1]. For the first time, this cherished artifact will leave its London home and journey to Wales[2].
From June 17 to July 9, you'll have a unique opportunity to lay eyes on this historic volume in the treasury of St Davids Cathedral[1]. This is a rare chance to appreciate this marvel up-close[1].
It's interesting to note that the Bible has never been publicly displayed before, although it was used in a service at St Benet Paul's Wharf, a church with a long-standing association with the Welsh community, in 1988[2].
Dr. Tony Trowles, librarian and head of Westminster Abbey's collection, views the loaning of the Bible as a testament to the "rich collections of printed books and manuscripts that have been carefully preserved and studied over the centuries"[4]. He expressed great pleasure at collaborating with St Davids Cathedral to make this loan possible[4].
The Right Reverend Dorrien Davies, Bishop of St Davids, first caught sight of Morgan's Bible during his visit to London for St Davids Day this year[4]. He praised the Bible as a "special treasure of the Welsh language" and felt honored to have it in St Davids Cathedral[4].
The Very Reverend Dr. Sarah Rowland Jones, Dean of St Davids, believes it's only fitting that the Bible's first visit to Wales would be to the sanctuary of its patron saint[4].
Historical artifacts like this 1588 Welsh Bible are reminders of the rich cultural heritage that has been carefully preserved and valued over the centuries[4]. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to witness this significant piece of history firsthand.
[1] - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-57353596[2] - https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jun/15/first-ever-public-display-of-1588-welsh-bible-in-wales-westminster-abbey-loans-rare-copy-to-st-davids-cathedral[3] - https://www.bbc.co.uk/History/Historic_Figures/William_Morgan.shtml[4] - https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/iconic-1588-welsh-bible-heading-22680794
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During this historical event, take a break from your home-and-garden duties to venture out and witness the 1588 Welsh Bible, an unprecedented display of our valuable cultural heritage, at St Davids Cathedral in Pembrokeshire from June 17 to July 9. After its long-standing residency in Westminster Abbey, this ancient artifact is promising to offer a refreshing lifestyle experience, immersing you in the rich history of Wales.
