Diocese of St Asaph explained

Jurisdiction:Diocese
Saint Asaph
Local:Esgobaeth Llanelwy
Coat:Coat of Arms of the Diocese of St Asaph.svg
Coat Size:150px
Flag:Flag of the Diocese of St Asaph.svg
Flag Size:150px
Province:Wales
Dean:Nigel Williams
Cathedral:St Asaph Cathedral
Archdeaconries:St Asaph, Montgomery, Wrexham
Map:Map of Church-in-Wales.svg

The Diocese of Saint Asaph is a diocese of the Church in Wales in north-east Wales, named after Saint Asaph, its second bishop.

Geography

The Anglican Diocese of St Asaph in the north-east corner of Wales stretches from the borders of Chester in the east, to the Conwy valley in the west, to Bala in the south-west, and Newtown in the south-east. The population is in excess of half a million people.

The more populous areas are to be found along the coast and in the large conurbation of Wrexham, the principal town. The industrial areas around Wrexham and Deeside have undergone great change in the past decade or so. Where once the coal, steel and textile industries provided most of the employment, the economy is now much more diversified and one of the fastest growing in the UK. A major employer is Airbus UK (currently part of BAE Systems), while Wrexham Industrial Estate is one of the largest in Europe. North-east Wales also acts as a dormitory area for Chester Business Park, which is dominated by MBNA. This economy is ministered to by an Industrial Chaplain, a post which alternates between a Church in Wales priest and a Presbyterian Church of Wales minister.

Most of the diocese is rural, interspersed with small market towns and village communities. The southern area of the diocese in north Powys is undergoing regional development, especially with the advent of a good number of small industries. Because of the beauty of the landscape, at holiday times there is a large influx of visitors from England and further afield. Tourism is now one of the growth industries of this area of Wales.

Traditionally, the Diocese of St Asaph extended across the border into England. However, following disestablishment on 31 March 1920, the Shropshire parishes of Criftins, Hengoed, Kinnerley, Knockin, Llanyblodwel, Llanymynech, Melverley, Morton, Oswestry, St Martins, Selattyn, Trefonen, Weston Rhyn and Whittington were transferred from the Diocese of St Asaph to the English Diocese of Lichfield.

History

This diocese was founded by St. Kentigern about the middle of the sixth century, when he was exiled from his see in Scotland. He founded a monastery called Llanelwy at the confluence of the rivers Clwyd and Elwy in north east Wales, where after his return to Scotland in 573 he was succeeded by Asaph or Asa, who was consecrated Bishop of Llanelwy.

The diocese originally coincided with the Welsh principality of Powys, but lost much territory first by the Mercian encroachment marked by Watt's dyke and again by the construction of Offa's dyke, soon after 798. Nothing is known of the history of the diocese during the disturbed period that followed. Domesday Book gives scanty particulars of a few churches but is silent as to the cathedral.

Early in the twelfth century, Norman influence asserted itself and in 1143 Theobald, Archbishop of Canterbury, consecrated one Gilbert as Bishop of St. Asaph, but the position of his successors was very difficult and one of them, Godfrey, was driven away by poverty and the hostility of the Welsh. A return made in the middle of the thirteenth century (British Library, Cotton MSS, Vitellius, c. x.) shows the existence of eight rural deaneries, seventy-nine churches, and nineteen chapels. By 1291 the deaneries had been doubled in number and there were Cistercian houses at Basingwerk, Aberconway, Strata Marcella and Valle Crucis, and a Cistercian nunnery, Llanllugan Abbey. The cathedral, which had been burnt in the wars, was rebuilt and completed in 1295. It was a plain massive structure of simple plan, and was again destroyed during the English succession Wars of the Roses. When it was restored by Bishop Redman the palace was not rebuilt and thus the bishops continued to be nonresident. At the end of the fifteenth century there was a great revival of church building, as is evidenced by the churches of that date still existing in the diocese.

The chief shrines in the diocese were St. Winefred's Well, St. Garmon in Yale (cy|Iâl), St. Dervel Gadarn in Edeirnion, St. Monacella at Pennant and the Holy Cross in Strata Marcella. All these were demolished at the Anglican Reformation. At that time the diocese contained one archdeaconry, sixteen deaneries and one hundred and twenty-one parishes. The bishop at this time had five episcopal residences, four of which were assumed by the Church of England bishop under Edward VI.

The Report of the Commissioners appointed by his Majesty to inquire into the Ecclesiastical Revenues of England and Wales (1835) found the see had an annual net income of £6,301. This made it the wealthiest diocese in Wales and the fourth richest in Britain after Canterbury, London and Winchester.[1]

Lists of archdeacons

Archdeacons of Montgomery

See main article: Archdeaconry of Montgomery.

The archdeaconry was created from that of St Asaph on 6 February 1844.

Archdeacons of Wrexham

The archdeaconry was created from those of St Asaph and of Montgomery on 25 March 1890.

Some archdeacons of Wrexham are recorded with the title Archdeacon of Wrexham and Ruthin.

Hayley Deborah Yeshua Matthews (born 1968) was collated Archdeacon of Wrexham on 5 March 2023.[4] She trained for the ministry at Ridley Hall, Cambridge before receiving ordination in the Church of England: she was made deacon at Petertide 2007 (1 July) - by Nicholas Reade, Bishop of Blackburn, at Blackburn Cathedral - and ordained priest the following Petertide (28 June 2008) - by Geoff Pearson, Bishop of Lancaster, at Lancaster Priory (i.e. Matthews' title church). During her time in Lancaster she was Chair of Churches Together Lancaster,[5] Chaplain to the Dukes Theatre,[6] and Honorary Padre to the Duke of Lancaster's Regimental Association.[7] She served her title (curacy) at Lancaster Priory before moving to Manchester: first as Pioneer Chaplain to MediaCityUK and Honorary Chaplain to Salford University [8] and the BBC where she was a regular contributor to BBC Radio Manchester,[9] then as Rector of Holy Innocents Fallowfield [10] with Birch, Honorary Chaplain to Manchester University at St Peter's House and Padre to 6MI Manchester.[11] From 2012 - 2018 Matthews served as Trustee to the William Temple Foundation, latterly as acting Chair [12] publishing the Temple Tract Grace and Power: sexuality and gender in the CHurch of England in 2015.[13] Matthews was Director of Lay Training for Leeds diocese, Principal of Leeds School of Ministry, and an honorary canon of Ripon Cathedral prior to her archidiaconal appointment.

Archdeaconries and deaneries

DioceseArchdeaconryDeaneryChurchesPopulationPeople/church
Diocese of St AsaphArchdeaconry of MontgomeryDeanery of Cedewain917,7161,968
Deanery of Mathrafal2112,707605
Deanery of Penedeyrn67,7861,298
Deanery of Pool1516,0101,067
Deanery of Valle Crucis1111,0781,007
Archdeaconry of St AsaphDeanery of Denbigh1418,7941,342
Deanery of Dyffryn Clwyd1211,894991
Deanery of Holywell1435,4042,529
Deanery of Llanrwst and Rhos2674,1812,853
Deanery of St Asaph1669,7304,358
Archdeaconry of WrexhamDeanery of Alyn1244,2503,688
Deanery of Dee Valley1838,7412,152
Deanery of Hawarden1980,4164,232
Deanery of Mold1124,1782,198
Deanery of Wrexham848,6156,077
Total/average212511,5002,413
In addition to the clergy 'on the ground', the diocese is served by one Potential Cleric, two Hope Street Senior Leaders, one Bishop's Chaplain, one Anglican Chaplain and three Honorary Assistant Bishops.[14]

List of churches

APC = ancient parish church; MC = medieval chapelry.

Archdeaconry of Montgomery

Caereinion Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Garthbeibio, Llanerfyl, Llanfair Caereinion, Llangadfan, Llangynyw, Llanllugan, Manafon, Meifod, Pont Dolanog and Pont Robert.[15] It is named after Llanfair Caereinion, the principal village. It has an estimated population of 4,857.[16] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader (shared with Tanat-Vyrnwy), one Priest-in-Charge (shared with Tanat-Vyrnwy), one Pioneer Priest and one Assistant Curate.[17]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Tydecho, GarthbeibioAPC (1862)
St Erfyl, LlanerfylAPC (1870)
St Mary, Llanfair CaereinionAPC (1868)
St Cadfan, LlangadfanAPC
St Cynyw, LlangynywAPC
St Mary, LlanlluganAPC
St Michael & All Angels, ManafonAPC
SS Tysilio & Mary, Meifod1APC
St John the Evangelist, Dolanog1853
St John the Evangelist, Pontrobert1853
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
1Original dedication to St Tysilio

Cedewain Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Aberhafesp, Betws Cedewain, Dolfor, Kerry, Llanllwchaiarn All Saints, Llanllwchaiarn St Llwchaiarn, Llanmerewig, Llanwyddelan, Mochdre and Tregynon.[18] It is named after the medieval cantref of Cedewain. It has an estimated population of 16,433.[19] As of September 2024 it was served by one Priest-in-Charge.[20]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Gwynog, AberhafespAPC
St Beuno, Bettws CedewainAPC
St Michael & All Angels, KerryAPC
All Saints, Newtown1890
St Llwchaiarn, LlanllwchaiarnAPC (1816)
St Llwchaiarn, LlanmerewigAPC (1845)
St Gwyddelan, LlanwyddelanAPC (1865)
All Saints, MochdreAPC (1867)
St Cynon, TregynonAPC
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Paul, DolforC19th2020
St Mary, Newtown[21] APC1856
St David, Newtown18432006

Pool Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Berriew, Buttington, Castle Caereinion, Criggion, Forden, Fron, Guilsfield, Llandrinio, Llandysilio St Mary, Llandysilio St Tysilio, Llandyssil, Montgomery, Pantyffridd, Penrhos, Pool Quay and Welshpool.[22] It is named after Welshpool, the principal town. It has an estimated population of 17,113.[23] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader, two Priests in Charge and one Associate Priest.[24]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Beuno, BerriewAPC
All Saints, ButtingtonAPC
St Garmon, Castle CaereinionAPC (1865)
St Michael & All Angels, CriggionMC (c. 1770)
St Michael & All Angels, FordenAPC (1867)
St Aelhaiarn, GuilsfieldAPC
SS Trinio, Peter & Paul, Llandrinio1APC
St Tysilio, LlandysilioAPC (1867)
St Tysul, LlandyssilAPC (1866)
St Nicholas, MontgomeryAPC
Pantyffridd Mission Church1858
Holy Trinity, Penrhos1625 (1845)
St John the Evangelist, Pool Quay1862
St Mary, WelshpoolAPC
St John's Mission Church, GarthmylC19th
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
Christ Church, Welshpool18391998
Trewern Mission ChurchC19th
Belan Mission Church[25] 18402020
1original dedication to St Trinio

Tanat-Vyrnwy Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Brithdir, Bwlchycibau, Llanarmon Mynydd, Llanfechain, Llangadwaladr, Llangedwyn, Llangynog, Llanrhaeadr-Ym-Mochnant, Llansantffraid-Ym-Mechain, Llansilin, Llanwddyn, Llwydiarth, Pennant Melangell and Penybontfawr.[26] It is named after the River Tanat and River Vyrnwy. It has an estimated population of 7,301.[27] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader (shared with Caereinion), two Priests-in-Charge (one shared with Caereinion), and a House for Duty Priest.[28]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Cedwyn, LlangedwynMC
St Melangell, Pennant MelangellAPC
St Dogfan, Llanrhaeadr-ym-MochnantAPC
St Silin, LlansilinAPC
St Thomas, Penybontfawr1855
St Garmon, LlanfechainAPC
St Mary, Llwydiarth1854
St Myllin, LlanfyllinAPC (1710)
St Bridget, Llansantffraid-ym-MechanAPC
St Wyddyn, Llanwddyn1887
Christ Church, Bwlchycibau1864
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Cynog, LlangynogAPC (1792)c. 2018
St Mary, Brithdir1892c. 2018
Rhiwlas Mission Churchc. 2018
St Garmon, Llanarmon Mynydd MawrMC
St Illog, HirnantAPC (1886)
St John the Baptist, LlanwddynMC1880s
St Cadwaladr, LlangadwaladrMC2020
St Michael, Llanfihangel-yng-NgwynfaAPC (1864)2020

Valle Crucis Mission Area

This was formed in 2022 by the merger of the existing mission areas of Valle Crucis and Penedeyrn.[29] The original Valle Crucis was formed in 2017 by the union of the parishes of Bryneglwys, Corwen St Ffraid, Corwen SS Mael & Sulien, Glyndyfrdwy, Gwyddelwern, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog, Llandegla, Llangollen St Collen, Llangollen St John, Llansantffraid Glyn Ceiriog, Llansantffraid Glyn Dyfrdwy, Llantysilio, Pontfadog and Trevor,[30] and was named after Valle Crucis Abbey. Penedeyrn was formed by the union of the parishes of Bala, Cerrigydrudion, Dinmael, Frongoch, Llandderfel, Llandrillo, Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr, Llangar, Llangwm, Llawrybetws and Ysbyty Ifan,[31] and was named after part of the historical area of Edeirnion. The combined Mission Area has an estimated population of 19,695.[32] [33] As of September 2024 it was served by two Priests in Charge and a House for Duty Priest.[34]

ChurchFounded (building)
Christ Church, Bala1811 (1857)
St Mary Magdalene, CerrigydrudionAPC
St Trillo, Llandrillo-yn-EdeyrnAPC (1776)
St John the Evangelist, Cynwyd1856
St Collen, LlangollenAPC
St Tysilio, LlantysilioAPC
Trevor Parish Church1772
SS Mael & Sulien, CorwenAPC
St Bridget, Llansantffraid Glyn DyfrdwyAPC (1611)
St Thomas, Glyndyfrdwy1859
St Tysilio, BryneglwysAPC
St Tecla, LlandeglaAPC (1866)
St Garmon, Llanarmon Dyffryn CeiriogAPC (1845)
St John the Baptist, Pontfadog1847
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Mary, Betws Gwerful GochAPC
St Mark, Frongoch1858
St Michael, Llanfihangel Glen MyfyrAPC20201
SS Mor & Deiniol, Llanfor2APC1992
All Saints, LlangarAPC1856
St Jerome, LlangwmAPC (1747)
St Cywair, LlangywerAPC (1871)c. 2000
St Deiniol, Llanuwchllyn[35] APC2004
St Beuno, LlanycilAPCc. 2000
St James, Llawrybetws[36] 1861
Pentrefoelas Parish Church[37] C18th (1859)
Holy Trinity, Rhosygwaliau1880
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Ifan[38] APC (1861)2016
St Catherine, Maerdy1878c. 2022[39]
St Derfel, LlandderfelAPCc. 20231
St Mary, Eglwyseg18701985
St James, Glan-yr-afon1864
St Ffraid, Llansantffraid Glyn CeiriogMC (1790)
St Beuno, GwyddelwernAPC
St Aelhaearn, Llanaelhaearn[40] APCC17th
St John, Llangollen18582020[41]
1occasional services still held 2original dedication to St Deiniol

Archdeaconry of St Asaph

Aberconwy Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Bryn Pydew, Craigydon, Deganwy, Eglwysrhos, Llanddoget, Llandudno Junction, Llangystenin, Llanrwst, Llansantffraid Glan Conwy and Penrhyn Bay.[42] It is named after the former district of Aberconwy. It has an estimated population of 33,954.[43] As of September 2024 it was served by two Priests-in-Charge and an Associate Priest.[44]

ChurchFounded (building)
All Saints, Deganwy1899
St Michael & All Angels, Llandudno Junction1930
SS Eleri & Mary, Llanrhos2APC
St Martin, EglwysbachAPC (1782)
St Paul, Craig-y-Don1895
St Cystennin, LlangystenninAPC (1843)
St David, Penrhyn Bay1963
St Grwst, LlanrwstAPC
St Bridget, Llansantffraid Glan ConwyAPC (1841)
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Garmon, Capel GarmonMCpre-2006
St Mary, Llanrwst1841-18421980s
St Doged, Llandoged1APC2020
St Catherine, Bryn Pydewearly C20th (1961)2020
1Occasional services still held 2original dedication to St Eleri

Aber-Morfa Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Bodelwyddan, Rhuddlan, Rhyl Holy Trinity, Rhyl St Ann, Rhyl St Thomas and Towyn.[45] It is named after ?. It has an estimated population of 41,017.[46] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader, two Priests-in-Charge and one Transition Minister.[47]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Margaret, Bodelwyddan1860
St Mary, RhuddlanAPC
Holy Trinity, Rhyl1835
St Thomas, Rhyl1867
St Ann, Rhyl1894
St Mary, Towyn1873
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St John, Rhyl[48] 18851997

Aled Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Abergele, Betws-Yn-Rhos, Brynymaen, Colwyn, Colwyn Bay St David, Colwyn St Paul, Llanddulas, Llandrillo-Yn-Rhos St George, Llandrillo-Yn-Rhos St Trillo, Llanelian, Llanfair Talhaearn, Llangernyw, Llysfaen, Pensarn and St George.[49] It is named after the River Aled. It has an estimated population of 47,402.[50] As of September 2024 it was served by three Priests in Charge.[51]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Michael, AbergeleAPC
St David, Pensarn1880 (2011)
St George, St George1APC (1893)
St Michael, Betws yn RhosAPC (1838)
St Elian, LlanelianAPC
St David, Colwyn Bay1903
St Paul, Colwyn Bay1872 (1888)
Christ Church, Bryn-y-Maen1899
St Cynfryd, LlanddulasAPC (1869)
St Mary, Llanfair TalhaiarnAPC (C17th)
St Digain, LlangernywAPC
St Sannan, LlansannanAPC
St Cynfran, LlysfaenAPC
SS Catherine & John the Baptist, Old Colwyn21903
St George, Rhos-on-Sea1913
St Trillo's Chapel, Rhos TrilloMC
St Trillo, Llandrillo-yn-RhosAPC
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St John, Trofarth1873c. 2009
St Andrew, Colwyn Bay[52] 19082013
St Winifred, GwytherinAPC (1867)
St John the Baptist, Pontygwyddel18821982
St Catherine, Old Colwyn18372013
St David, Pandy Tudur1866-1867
1original dedication to the Welsh saint Siôr 2original dedication to St John the Baptist

Bryn a Mor Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Cwm, Dyserth St Bridget, Dyserth SS Mael & Sulien, Dyserth St Michael, Ffynnongroyw, Gronant, Gwaenysgor, Llanasa, Meliden St Mary Magdalene, Meliden St Melyd, Newmarket, Prestatyn Christ Church, Prestatyn Holy Spirit and Trelawnyd.[53] It is named after the hills (bryn) and sea (mor) which dominate the landscape. It has an estimated population of 26,718.[54] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader.[55]

ChurchFounded (building)
SS Bridget & Cwyfan, Dyserth1APC
St Michael & All Angels, TrelawnydAPC (1724)
SS Asaph & Cyndeyrn, Llanasa2APC
All Saints, Ffynnongroew1881
St Mary Magdalene, GwaenysgorAPC
St Melyd, MelidenAPC
Christ Church, Prestatyn1863
Holy Spirit, Prestatyn1968
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
SS Mael & Sulien, CwmAPC (c. 1500)
St Winifred, Gronant[56] C21st
1original dedication to St Cwyfan 2original dedication to St Asaph

Denbigh Mission Area

This was formed in 2018 by the union of the parishes of Bodfari, Bylchau, Caerwys, Cefn, Denbigh St Marcella, Denbigh St Mary, Henllan, Llandyrnog St Cwyfan, Llandyrnog St Tyrnog, Llangwyfan, Llannefydd, Llanrhaeadr-Yng-Nghinmeirch, Nantglyn, Sinan, Trefnant and Tremeirchion.[57] It is named after Denbigh, the principal town. It has an estimated population of 18,223.[58] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader and one Associate Priest.[59]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Stephen, BodfariAPC (1865)
St Mary the Virgin, Denbigh1875
St Marchell, LlanfarchellAPC
St Sadwrn, HenllanAPC (1806)
St Tyrnog, LlandyrnogAPC
St Cwyfan, LlangwyfanAPC
St Dyfnog, Llanrhaeadr-yng-NghinmeirchAPC
St James, NantglynAPC (1862)
Holy Trinity, Trefnant1855
Corpus Christi, TremeirchionAPC
St Michael, CaerwysAPC
SS Nefydd & Mary, Llannefydd1APC
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Thomas, Bylchau[60] 1857c. 2019
St David (Leicester's Church), Denbigh1578-1584Never completed
St Hilary, DenbighMC1874
St David, Denbigh[61] 1838 (1895)C20th
St James, Prion18592008
St Mary, Cefn Meiriadog18642023
All Saints, Sinan18732023
1original dedication to St Nefydd

Dyffryn Clwyd Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Clocaenog, Efenechtyd, Gyffylliog, Llanarmon Yn Ial, Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd, Llanelidan, Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd, Llanfwrog, Llangynhafal, Llanrhydd, Llanychan, Llanynys, Rhewl and Ruthin.[62] It is named after the Vale of Clwyd. It has an estimated population of 12,291.[63] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader, two Priests in Charge and one Associate Priest.[64]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Foddhyd, ClocaenogAPC
St Mary, CyffylliogMC
St Michael, EfenechtydAPC
St Garmon, Llanarmon-yn-IâlAPC (1736)
(New) St Peter, Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd1863
St Meugan, LlanrhyddAPC
SS Cynfarch & Mary, Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd1APC
St Cynhafal, LlangynhafalAPC
St Hychan, LlanychanAPC
St Saeran, LlanynysAPC
Minster of St Peter, RuthinAPC (C17th)
SS Mwrog & Mary, Llanfwrog1APC
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Mary, DerwenAPC1999
St David, Eryrys18621980s
St Elidan, LlanelidanAPC2020
Rhewl Church[65]
(Old) St Peter, Llanbedr Dyffryn ClwydAPC1864
1additional dedication to St Mary added later

Elwy Mission Area

This was formed from the parish of St Asaph.[66] It is named after the River Elwy. It has an estimated population of 3,730.[67] As of September 2024 it was served by one Dean and one Canon Precentor.[68]

ChurchFounded (building)
Cathedral of SS Asaph & Cyndeyrn, St AsaphAPC
SS Asaph & Cyndeyrn, St Asaph (?)MC (1872)

Estuary and Mountain Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Bagillt, Brynford, Caerfallwch, Flint SS Mary & David, Flint St Thomas, Gorsedd, Halkyn, Holywell Holy Trinity, Holywell St James, Holywell St Peter, Mostyn, Rhesycae, Rhosesmor, Whitford and Ysgeifiog.[69] It is named after the natural features in the area. It has an estimated population of 35,943.[70] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader, four Priests in Charge and one Assistant Curate.[71]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Peter, Holywell1849 (2008)
Holy Trinity, Greenfield1871
SS Mary & Peter, Bagillt11839
St Michael, Brynford1853
SS Mary & David, Flint1MC (1848)
St Thomas, Flint Mountain1875
St Mary the Virgin, HalkynAPC (1878)
Christ Church, Rhes-y-cae1847
St Paul, Rhosesmor1876
St James the Apostle, Holywell3APC (1769)
Christ Church, Mostyn1845
SS Mary & Beuno, Whitford2APC
St Paul, Gorsedd1853
St Mary, YsceifiogAPC (1839)
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St David, Flint18722011
St Peter, Bagilltc. 18902012[72]
1originally dedicated to St Mary alone 2original dedication to St Beuno 3original dedication to St Winefride

Archdeaconry of Wrexham

Alyn Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Broughton, Brymbo, Bwlchgwyn, Gresford, Gwersyllt, Holt, Isycoed, Llay, Minera St Mary, Minera St Tydfil, Pentre Broughton, Rossett and Southsea.[73] It is named after the River Alyn. It has an estimated population of 45,673.[74] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader and two Curates.[75]

ChurchFounded (building)
All Saints, GresfordAPC
St Paul, Pentre Broughton1889
All Saints, Southsea1884 (1984)
Christ Church, Bwlchgwyn1867
St Tydfil, Coedpoeth1875 (1895)
Holy Trinity, Gwersyllt1851
St Chad, HoltMC
St Paul, Isycoed1718 (1829)
St Martin of Tours, Llay1925
St Mary, MineraC17th (1866)
Christ Church, Rossett1841 (1892)
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Peter, Brynteg18942006
St Paul, Berse Drelincourt[76] 1742pre-2010
St John, Brymbo1837 (1891)1974
St Alban, Tanyfron[77] 18962010
St Peter, Rhosrobin1881 (1898)
St Mary, Brymbo1838 (1871)2023

Borderlands Mission Area

This covers the former parishes of Broughton, Connah's Quay St David, Connah's Quay St Mark, Hawarden, Queensferry, Sandycroft, Sealand and Shotton.[78] It is named after the Welsh-English border. It and Rhos a Mynydd have an estimated population of 81,940[79] and, as of September 2024, were served by one Mission Area Leader, two Priests in Charge and one Associate Priest.[80]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Mary, Broughton1824
St Mark, Connah's Quay1837
St David, Connah's Quay1915
St Deiniol, HawardenAPC (1859)
St Bartholomew, Sealand1867
St Andrew, Garden City, Queensferrypre-1900
St Ethelwold, Shotton1875 (1902)
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Michael & All Angels, Mancot Royal
Holy Innocents, Queensferry1887 (1889)1960
St Francis, Sandycroft11875 (1913)c. 2022[81]
1original dedication to St Ambrose

Maelor Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Bangor Monachorum, Bettisfield, Bronington, Erbistock, Eyton, Hanmer, Marchwiel, Overton, Penley and Worthenbury.[82] It is named after the historical area of the Maelor. It has an estimated population of 8,672.[83] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader and one Assistant Curate.[84]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Dunawd, Bangor-on-DeeAPC
Holy Trinity, Bronington1836
St Hilary, Erbistock3APC (1861)
St Chad, HanmerAPC (1892)
St Mary Magdalene, PenleyMC (1901)
SS Deiniol & Marcella, Marchwiel1APC (1778)
St Mary the Virgin, Overton-on-DeeAPC
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Mary Magdalene, Tallarn Green1851 (1873)2007
St Deiniol, Eyton19392022[85]
St John the Baptist, Bettisfield21851 (1874)2023[86]
St Deiniol, WorthenburyMC (1739)2022[87]
1original dedication to St Deiniol 2occasional services still held (Pilgrim Church status) 3original dedication to St Erbin

Mold Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of New Brighton, Cilcain, Gwernaffield, Llanferres, Mold, Nannerch, Nercwys, Northop SS Eurgain & Peter, Northop St Mary, Pontblyddyn, Rhyd-Y-Mwyn and Treuddyn.[88] It is named after Mold, the principal town. It has an estimated population of 26,115.[89] As of September 2024 it was served by three Priests-in-Charge, one Mission Area Priest and one Assistant Curate.[90]

ChurchFounded (building)
St James, New Brighton1893
St Mary, CilcainAPC
St John the Evangelist, Rhydymwyn1864
Holy Trinity, Gwernaffield1838 (1872)
Christ Church, Pontblyddyn1836
St Mary, MoldAPC (c. 1500)
St Michael & All Angels, NannerchAPC (1853)
St Mary, NercwysMC
SS Eurgain & Peter, Northop1APC
St Mary, TreuddynMC (1875)
St Berres, LlanferresAPC
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St John the Evangelist, Mold1879
St Mary, Northop Hallc. 1890 (1912)2020
1original dedication to St Eurgain

Offa Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Chirk, Froncysyllte, Penycae, Rhosllanerchrugog St David, Rhosllanerchrugog St Mary, Rhosymedre, Ruabon All Saints and Ruabon St Mary.[91] It is named after Offa's Dyke. It has an estimated population of 29,407.[92] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader, one Priest in Charge, one Associate Priest and three Assistant Curates.[93]

ChurchFounded (building)
St John the Evangelist, Rhosymedre1837
St Mary, Chirk1APC[94]
St David, Froncysyllte1871
St Thomas, Penycae1878
St Mary, Johnstown1929
St Mary, RuabonAPC
All Saints, Pen-y-lan1889
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
Halton Mission Church[95] 1878pre-1998
St David, Rhosllanerchrugog1893c. 2020[96]
St John the Evangelist, Rhosllanerchrugog[97] 18532005
1original dedication to St Tysilio

Rhos a Mynydd Mission Area

This covers the former parishes of Bistre All Saints, Bistre Emmanuel, Bistre St Cecilia, Buckley Good Shepherd, Buckley St Matthew, Cymau, Ewloe, Hope, Llanfynydd, Mynydd Isa, Pentrobin and Penyffordd. The churches in this area were originally part of the Borderlands Mission Area, but this was deemed unworkably large and these churches split off to form the new Mission Area in 2024.[98] For population and clergy numbers see Borderlands.

ChurchFounded (building)
St Cecilia, Mynydd Isa1892
Holy Spirit, Ewloe1938
The Good Shepherd, Drurylate C19th
St Matthew, Buckley1822 (1905)
St Cynfarch, HopeAPC
St Michael & All Angels, Llanfynydd1843
Emmanuel, Penyffordd1881 (1959)
Emmanuel, Bistre, Buckley1842
All Saints, Buckleypre-1892 (1892)
St John the Baptist, Penmynydd, Pentrobin1843
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
All Saints, Cymau18702023

Wrexham Mission Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Bersham, Esclusham, Rhosddu, Wrexham All Saints, Wrexham St Giles, Wrexham St James, Wrexham St John, Wrexham St Margaret and Wrexham St Mark.[99] It is named after Wrexham. It has an estimated population of 48,457.[100] As of September 2024 it was served by one Mission Area Leader, one Priest in Charge and one Assistant Curate.[101]

ChurchFounded (building)
St Mary, Bersham1873
Holy Trinity, Esclusham1877
St John, Rhosnesni1894 (1974)
St Mark, Caia Park1961
St Giles, WrexhamAPC
All Saints, Wrexham1912
St Margaret, Garden Village1928
Hope Street Church, Wrexham2021[102]
Former churchesFounded (build)Closed
St Peter, Wrexham1910C20th
St Mark, Wrexham18581956
St John the Baptist, Wrexham19091998
St David, Wrexham1890
St James, Rhosddu18752024[103]

Dedications

Medieval churches

Post-medieval churches

See also

Sources and references

Notes and References

  1. The National Cyclopaedia of Useful Knowledge Vol.III, (1847), London, Charles Knight, p.362
  2. Web site: New Archdeacon of Wrexham to be installed next Sunday. October 1, 2018. The Leader.
  3. Web site: New Archdeacon of Wrexham .
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  6. Web site: Lancaster Theatre and Cinema. The Dukes.
  7. Web site: Regimental Association .
  8. Web site: Faith | University of Salford. The University of. Salford. www.salford.ac.uk.
  9. Web site: • Sunday Breakfast. mikeshaft.com.
  10. Web site: Holy Innocents' Fallowfield, Manchester. www.achurchnearyou.com.
  11. Web site: 6 Military Intelligence | The British Army.
  12. Web site: William Temple Foundation - Shaping debate on religion in public life.. William Temple Foundation.
  13. Grace & Power: Sexuality and Gender in the Church of England (2015)
  14. Web site: St Asaph - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  15. Web site: The Benefice of Caereinion Mission Area, Comprising Garthbeibio, Llanerfyl, Llanfair Caereinion, Llangadfan, Llangynyw, Llanllugan, Manafon, Meifod, Pont Dolanog, and Pont Robert . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  16. Web site: Caereinion . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  17. Web site: Mission Area of Caereinion - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  18. Web site: The Benefice of Cedewain Mission Area, Comprising Aberhafesp, Betws Cedewain, Dolfor, Kerry, Llanllwchaiarn and Newtown, Llanmerewig, Llanwyddelan, Mochdre, and Tregynon . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  19. Web site: Cedewain . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  20. Web site: Mission Area of Cedewain - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  21. Web site: Home . 2017-07-28 . www.newtownparishes.co.uk . en.
  22. Web site: The Benefice of Pool Mission Area, Comprising Berriew, Buttington, Castle Caereinion, Criggion, Forden, Guilsfield, Llandrinio, Llandysilio, Llandyssil, Montgomery, Penrhos, Pool Quay, and Welshpool . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  23. Web site: Pool . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  24. Web site: Mission Area of Pool - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  25. Web site: Designs . Daydream . Belan Mission Church . 2021-02-02 . Church Near Me . en.
  26. Web site: The Benefice of Tanat-Vyrnwy Mission Area, Comprising Bwlchycibau, Llanfechain, Llanfyllin with Llanwddyn, Llangadwaladr, Llangedwyn, Llangynog, Llansantffraid-Ym-Mechain, Llansilin, Llwydiarth, Pennant Melangell, and Penybontfawr . 2021-02-02 . www.crockford.org.uk.
  27. Web site: Tanat-Vyrnwy . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  28. Web site: Mission Area of Tanat-Vyrnwy - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  29. https://dioceseofstasaph.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/08-Merger-of-Penedeyrn-and-Valle-Crucis-Mission-Areas.pdf
  30. Web site: The Benefice of Valle Crucis Mission Area, Comprising Bryneglwys, Corwen, Glyndyfrdwy, Gwyddelwern, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog, Llandegla, Llangollen and Trevor, Llantysilio, Llansantffraid Glyn Ceiriog, Llansantffraid Glyn Dyfrdwy, and Portfadog . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  31. Web site: The Benefice of Penedeyrn Mission Area, Comprising Bala, Betws Gwerful Goch, Cerrigydrudion, Llandderfel, Llandrillo-Yn-Edeirnion, Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr, Llangar, Llangwm, Llawrybetws, and Ysbyty Ifan with Pentrefoelas . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  32. Web site: Penedeyrn . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  33. Web site: Valle Crucis . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  34. Web site: Valle Crucis Mission Area - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  35. Web site: GENUKI . Genuki: Llanuwchllyn, Merionethshire . 2017-07-23 . www.genuki.org.uk . en.
  36. Web site: Llawr y Betws Parish Church . 2021-11-02 . www.clwydfhs.org.uk.
  37. Web site: Check out this commercial property on Rightmove! . 2017-07-28 . Rightmove.co.uk . en-GB.
  38. Web site: St. John's Church, Ysbyty Ifan . 2017-07-28 . Guto Bebb . en.
  39. Web site: Former St. Catherine's Church, Maerdy Plot for sale - £60,000 . 2024-09-12 . OnTheMarket . en.
  40. Web site: English – Coflein . 2024-09-10 . coflein.gov.uk.
  41. Web site: Llangollen Group of Churches: A Statement - St Collen's Church Llangollen . 2024-09-12 . www.stcollenschurch.org.uk.
  42. Web site: The Benefice of Aberconwy Mission Area, Comprising Bryn Pydew, Craigydon, Deganwy, Eglwysbach, Glan Conwy, Llanddoget, Llandudno Junction, Llangystenin, Llanrhos, Llanrwst, and Penrhyn Bay . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  43. Web site: Aberconwy . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  44. Web site: Mission Area of Aberconwy - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  45. Web site: The Benefice of Aber-Morfa Mission Area, Comprising Bodelwyddan, Rhuddlan, Rhyl, Rhyl St Ann, and Towyn . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  46. Web site: Aber-Morfa . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  47. Web site: Mission Area of Aber-Morfa - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  48. Web site: IE . Rhyl St John's Church . 2017-07-28 . www.clwydfhs.org.uk.
  49. Web site: The Benefice of Aled Mission Area, Comprising Abergele, Betws-Yn-Rhos with Trofarth, Brynymaen, Colwyn, Colwyn Bay, Llanddulas, Llandrillo-Yn-Rhos, Llanelian, Llysfaen, Petryal, and St George . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  50. Web site: Aled . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  51. Web site: Mission Area of Aled - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  52. Web site: St Andrew's Church, Colwyn Bay has now closed - The Benefice of Colwyn Bay and Bryn-y-Maen . 2017-07-28 . parish.churchinwales.org.uk . en-US.
  53. Web site: The Benefice of Bryn A Mor Mission Area, Comprising Cwm, Dyserth, Ffynnongroyw, Gwaenysgor, Llanasa, Meliden, Prestatyn, and Trelawnyd . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  54. Web site: Bryn a Mor . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  55. Web site: Mission Area of Bryn a Mor - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  56. https://alto-live.s3.amazonaws.com/XGTMXXzAUjfRb6KHPli1kjxIm3M/-wddIUBApdH6VhAVQqSqylH3Pz4/Brochure/%5B0%5D/qbxXUL2J80qUFwlUZ7zKMA.pdf
  57. Web site: The Benefice of Denbigh Mission Area, Comprising Bodfari, Bylchau, Caerwys, Cefn, Henllan, Llandyrnog, Llangwyfan, Llannefydd, Llanrhaeadr-Yng-Nghinmeirch, Nantglyn, Sinan, Trefnant, and Tremeirchion . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  58. Web site: Denbigh . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  59. Web site: Mission Area of Denbigh - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  60. Web site: Bylchau, Denbigh Detached house - £60,000 . 2019-10-17 . OnTheMarket . en.
  61. Web site: IE . Denbigh St David's Church . 2017-07-28 . www.clwydfhs.org.uk.
  62. Web site: The Benefice of Dyffryn Clwyd Mission Area, Comprising Clocaenog, Derwen, Efenechtyd, Gyffylliog, Llanarmon Yn Ial, Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd, Llanelidan, Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd, Llanfwrog, Llangynhafal, and Llanychan with Llanynys . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  63. Web site: Dyffryn Clwyd . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  64. Web site: Mission Area of Dyffryn Clwyd - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  65. Web site: missionarea.info . 2017-07-25 . www.missionarea.info . en.
  66. Web site: The Benefice of St Asaph (Cathedral of St Asaph and St Cyndeyrn) . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  67. Web site: Elwy . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  68. Web site: Mission Area of Elwy - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  69. Web site: The Benefice of Estuary and Mountain Mission Area, Comprising Bagillt, Brynford, Caerfallwch, Flint, Gorsedd, Halkyn, Holywell, Mostyn, Rhesycae, Whitford, and Ysgeifiog . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  70. Web site: Estuary & Mountain . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  71. Web site: Mission Area of Estuary and Mountain - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  72. Web site: The Churches of Britain and Ireland - Bagillt . 2024-09-14 . www.churches-uk-ireland.org.
  73. Web site: The Benefice of Alyn Mission Area, Comprising Broughton with Berse, Brymbo, Bwlchgwyn, Gresford, Gwersyllt, Holt, Isycoed, Llay, Minera with Coedpoeth, Rossett, and Southsea . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  74. Web site: Alyn . 2024-09-11 . Church in Wales . en.
  75. Web site: Alyn Mission Area . 2024-09-12 . Alyn Mission Area . en.
  76. News: Randall . Liam . 2015-08-22 . Property Insider: Converted Wrexham church with beautiful stained glass windows on sale for £325,000 . 2017-07-28 . northwales.
  77. Web site: IE . Tanyfron Church . 2017-07-28 . www.clwydfhs.org.uk.
  78. Web site: The Benefice of Borderlands Mission Area, Comprising Bistre, Broughton, Buckley, Connah's Quay, Hawarden, Hope, Llanfynydd, Pentrobin, Sandycroft, Sealand, and Shotton . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  79. Web site: Borderlands . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  80. Web site: Mission Area of Borderlands - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  81. Web site: An Other For Sale In Sandycroft, CH5 2QN For Sale 4,957 Sq Ft . 2024-09-13 . propertylink.estatesgazette.com.
  82. Web site: The Benefice of Maelor Mission Area, Comprising Bangor Monachorum, Bettisfield, Bronington, Erbistock, Hanmer and Tallarn Green, Marchwiel, Overton, Penley, and Worthenbury . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  83. Web site: Maelor . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  84. Web site: Mission Area of Maelor - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  85. Web site: Evans . Harri . 2023-04-02 . Church untouched since last service to be sold as 'development project' . 2024-09-12 . North Wales Live . en.
  86. Web site: 2010-01-01 . Church . 2024-09-13 . Bettisfield Village Web . en-GB.
  87. Web site: Andie . 2023-01-22 . A visit to St Deiniol’s Parish Church, Worthenbury . 2024-09-13 . Based in Churton . en.
  88. Web site: The Benefice of Mold (St Mary) Mission Area, Comprising Cilcain, Gwernaffield, Llanferres, Mold, Nannerch, Nercwys, Northop, Pontblyddyn, Rhyd-Y-Mwyn, and Treuddyn . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  89. Web site: Mold . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  90. Web site: Mission Area of Mold - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  91. Web site: The Benefice of Offa Mission Area, Comprising Chirk, Penycae, Rhosllanerchrugog, Ruabon, and Rhosymedre . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  92. Web site: Offa . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  93. Web site: Mission Area of Offa - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  94. Web site: 12 May 2017 . A Brief History – St Mary's Church, Chirk . 2019-11-27 . www.stmaryschirk.org.uk.
  95. Web site: Check out this property for sale on Rightmove! . 2017-07-28 . Rightmove.co.uk . en-GB.
  96. Web site: 2024-06-24 . Wrexham village church could be knocked down under car sales proposals . 2024-09-10 . The Leader . en.
  97. News: 2017-05-04 . St. Johns Parish Church, Rhos - Wrexham History . usurped . https://web.archive.org/web/20170728120509/https://www.wrexham-history.com/st-johns-parish-church-rhos-2/ . July 28, 2017 . 2017-07-27 . Wrexham History . en-GB.
  98. https://dioceseofstasaph.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/DSA00079_RhosaMynydd_RecruitmentPack.pdf
  99. Web site: The Benefice of Wrexham (St Giles's Parish Church) (St Mark) (St Mary) (All Saints) (St Margaret) (St James) (St John) . 2018-09-11 . www.crockford.org.uk . en.
  100. Web site: Wrexham . 2024-09-12 . Church in Wales . en.
  101. Web site: Mission Area of Wrexham - The Church in Wales . 2024-09-12 . www.churchinwales.org.uk.
  102. Web site: Our Story . 2024-10-07 . Hope Street Church . en-GB.
  103. Web site: 2024-03-08 . Historic community church announces closure after nearly 150 years in Wrexham . 2024-09-10 . The Leader . en.