The stones of Llandaff Cathedral started to take shape in the 12th century, but they were built upon the site of an earlier Celtic church which had its beginnings with Dyfrig, Teilo and Euddogwy. Together with St Peter and St Paul, they are patrons of the Cathedral.
Dyfrig played his part in the lives of so many. He confirmed St Gwynllw (St Cadoc’s father), installed St Deiniol as an abbot, ordained and consecrated St Samson. He was held in deep affection by many in his day. A well travelled bishop, he retired to Bardsey Island where he died around the year 550. The relics of his life were transferred to Llandaff in 1120, but his shrine destroyed during the 16th century Reformation.
A reputed relic of Teilo remains, part of his skull, which is enshrined in the Cathedral. He was born in Dyfed, probably near Tenby, and a pupil of Illtud. He founded his own monastery of Llandeilo Fawr (in Powys) where he combined the role of abbot and bishop. His nephew was St Euddogwy who accompanied him back to Wales after several years in Brittany to escape the Yellow Pestilence.
Hwyl
Epstein's Majestas
jumps and makes its mark,
dominates the domain
of Dyfrig's Llan
which he handed on to Teilo,
and Euddogwy in due course.
Their first subtle home
of daub and wattle,
a timberland home for God,
gave way to stone and art
along the River Taff,
a sign of stability.
The sacred takes hold.
Majesty makes its mark here
but the walk along the river
leads to something more,
the movement of God in the world
he has made
and which moved
the heart of Dyfrig
deep into the Divine
A dance of love,
a walk of life.
Here,
in the downward curve
of the landscape
which skirts the water's edge
and cradles the Cathedral with a kiss
across the flow of the Taff,
there is a moment of hiddenness
waiting to be discovered.
Bible Reading
From Colossians 3:1-4 So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.
Prayer
Lord God,
here I stand,
in a place made holy
by the hordes of faithful
who have prayed here
in this building raised upon the back
of Dyfrig, Teilo and Euddogwy
whose names cling to the Cathedral,
and whose foundations are strong.
As we walk in their way
let their prayers sustain us,
and help us in our hiddenness in Christ,
to set our mind on Higher things
with a heart fit for Heaven.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Stay Awhile
Stay awhile, be still, and be at peace.
Enjoy the coolness and the light
the high ceilings
and the silence,
in this sacred moment,
this holy place.
Listen to the sounds of nature,
whisper your own prayer
among the birdsong.
Walk along the side of the river,
enjoy the rhythm of life
which flows by.
Enjoy the stillness of the church,
the Majesty of Christ
raised high.
Enjoy the immensity
and maybe find a quiet corner,
a small place to call home,
for now.
Pray for
Pray for the people who live here,
all who minister in this place,
and for the life of
the Diocese of Llandaff.
For all who feel lost in life,
orthose who feel that little
is majestic about their lives.
Hwyl Fawr
May God's glory guard us.
May his love mould us.
May his compassion soften our hearts
and make us more loving
and ready to serve,
so we may give him glory. Amen.
St Dyfrig, pray for us.
St Teilo, pray or us.
St Euddogwy, pray or us.
All the Saints of God, pray for us.
LINKS & INFO
Website: llandaffcathedral.org.uk
Where next?
Plan your journey to the next part of the Llanscape of Wales using our Google Maps Trail:
South Cardiff Ministry Area 