Welcome to St. Maelrhys’ Church, which stands aside from the coastal path, above the sea cliffs at Porth Ysgo, where the view through the clear glass of the East window is unique.
The services are predominantly in Welsh to which visitors are warmly welcome to join in. In addition to the Sunday service we have the monthly ‘Reflections’ CLICK HERE for details.
St Maelrhys is listed within the Small Pilgrim Places Network [SPPN] and Trip Advisor.
Maelrhys, our patron saint, was a 7th century missionary and the church stands in a commanding position between the Penarfynydd mount and the glorious sweep of wild coastline that runs on to Aberdaron and Bardsey. The tall chimney-like stone bellcote is a prominent object seen from the sea and the Rhiw uplands and it was customary for fishermen to use it as a guiding mark when fishing out in the bay. The church is reached by a western gateway leading to a narrow and low Norman doorway. Inside the church is a long single nave edifice with traditional ‘old-fashioned’ box pews on the south side and plain bench-like pews on the north side. The font at the west end is early medieval.
The famous Anglo-Welsh poet RS Thomas was one time Vicar of both Aberdaron and Llanfaelrhys and in recent years an upstairs room has been constructed to house many of his books and pictures. The room attracts many literary pilgrims as the church is unlocked for most of the year. It is one of only two churches from where you can see Bardsey Island.
We look forward to welcoming you to our church.
Griff Jones 01758 780 293 | helenjones67@btinternet.com
