11 July 2007

Fersiwn Cymraeg yma

CIVIC SERVICE TO COMEMMORATE 700 YEARS OF WORSHIP IN St.MARY’S CHURCH

A special Civic Service was held today at St. Mary’s Church, Caernarfon, to commemorate 700 years of its existence. In 1307 the King gave an order for a Church to be built within the town walls and since then religious services have been held there regularly.

Even though the Parish Church of Llanbeblig is far older and dates back to the 6^th century, St. Mary’s is the Church associated with the town’s Administration and with Law and Order since its early days. Amongst today’s guests there was a good representation of those who provide praiseworthy services in various fields to the community.

The service opened with the singing of “God Save the Queen” followed by the Welsh hymn “Molianned uchelderau’r nef”. The lesson was read by the Rev. Canon Geraint Meirion-Jones and after the singing of the English hymn “All people that on earth do dwell” the Rector, Rev. Canon R. F. Donaldson gave the address. He took his text from the Book of Ezekiel and with the emphasis on the importance of observing and guarding our community, remarks exceptionally relevant to us today. The Vicar, Rev. Jeffery Hughes led the reading of the Creed and the Bidding and following Prayers by the Rector, the last hymn “Un fendith dyro im” was sung and after the Blessing the service ended with the singing of “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau”.

After the service the guests retired to Gwynedd Council Headquarters in Shirehall Street where they were invited to partake in refreshments by The Gwynedd Council Chair, Councillor Meinir Owen.