Diocese of Llandaff

The Diocese of Llandaff is an Anglican (Church in Wales) diocese that traces its roots to pre-Reformation times as heir of a Catholic bishopric. It is headed by the Bishop of Llandaff, whose seat is located at the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Llandaff, a suburb of Cardiff. It currently covers most of the former Welsh county of Glamorgan, but once stretched from the River Towy to the middle of the Wye Valley.

Diocese of Llandaff Dioecesis Landavensis Esgobaeth Llandaf
Location
Ecclesiastical province	Wales
Archdeaconries	Llandaff, Margam
Information
Cathedral	The Cathedral Church of Ss. Peter & Paul with Dyfrig, Teilo & Euddogwy, Llandaff
Language	English, Welsh
Current leadership
Bishop	Mary Stallard, Bishop of Llandaff
Archdeacons	Rhod Green, Archdeacon of Llandaff Mark Preece, Archdeacon of Margam
Map
Map of the dioceses in the Church in Wales
Website
llandaff.churchinwales.org.uk/en/

Llandaff Cathedral

Archdeaconries and deaneries

The diocese of Llandaff is currently divided into two archdeaconries: Llandaff and Margam.^[1] From 2002–2020 there was a third archdeaconry, that of Morgannwg; in 2020, of its four deaneries, Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil & Caerphilly moved to Llandaff, and Cynon Valley and Rhondda moved to Margam. The churches in the former Deanery of Penarth & Barry moved from the archdeaconry of Llandaff to the archdeaconry of Margam in 2023.

Diocese	Archdeaconry	Deanery	Churches	Population	People/church
Diocese of Llandaff	Archdeaconry of Llandaff	Deanery of Cardiff	19	151,933	7,996
		Deanery of Llandaff	20	130,550	6,528
		Deanery of Merthyr Tydfil & Caerphilly	26	140,015	5,385
		Deanery of Penarth and Barry	18	92,180	5,121
		Deanery of Pontypridd	17	83,083	4,887
	Archdeaconry of Margam	Deanery of Bridgend	24	105,403	4,392
		Deanery of Cynon Valley	16	58,574	3,661
		Deanery of Margam	16	76,913	4,807
		Deanery of Neath	19	71,773	3,589
		Deanery of Rhondda	18	85,313	4,740
		Deanery of Vale of Glamorgan	35	30,452	870
Total/averages			228	1,026,189	4,501

Archdeacons of Llandaff

See Archdeacon of Llandaff

Archdeacons of Margam

See Archdeacon of Margam

Archdeacons of Morgannwg

• 2002–2004 (ret.): Martin Williams
• 2004–2006 (res.): David Yeoman
• 2006–2020: Chris Smith

Pre-reformation history : Catholic bishopric

Legendary foundations

Lucius of Britain

A number of traditions associate Llandaff with Lucius of Britain. Lucius was believed to be a 2nd century king who first beseeched the Pope (Eleutherius) to convert him to Christianity. The Pope's response was to send a Christian mission to Britain, which would include the building of Britain's first church. The Welsh Triads relate this tradition to Llandaff, stating that Lucius "made the first Church at Llandaf, which was the first in the Isle of Britain." another triad lists "the three archbishoprics of the Isle of Britain" and states that "the first was Llandaf, of the gift of Lleirwg (Lucius), the son of Coel, the son of Cyllin, who first gave lands and civil privileges to such as first embraced the faith in Christ." Although the Lucius legend is now considered to be pseudohistory, it was recounted by Nennius, Bede and Geoffrey of Monmouth, and seems to have been widely accepted in the medieval period.^[2]

Four names are associated with the task of executing the Pope's wishes, these include the early Welsh saints Fagan, Deruvian and Elvan. Fagan is sometimes named as "the first Bishop of Llandaff" while all three became patrons of churches and villages throughout the diocese. Iolo Morgannwg also linked these early figures to Llandaff, writing extensively on this supposed early foundation. In the Iolo Manuscripts, he credits Fagan as the second Bishop of Llandaff (succeeding Dyfan, a figure Iolo conflates with Deruvian).^{[3][4][5][6][a]}

Saint Dubricius

The diocese was reputedly founded in 560 or earlier by Saint Teilo, during the monastic movement initiated by Saint Dubricius who presided over several monasteries in Ergyng, including Hentland and Moccas. Dubricius is said to have made Teilo abbot of this daughter monastery at Llandaff, which after Dubricius' death became a monastic cathedral and the chief monastery in South Wales. Saint Dubricius is usually given as the first bishop.

Places mentioned in the 'Book of Llandaff'

The early history of diocese is, however, highly controversial, because the chief authority, the diocesan charters in the Book of Llandaff, though dating from the late 6th century, were considerably doctored to raise Llandaff's profile when they were copied in the early 12th century. Similarly, the saints' 'lives' therein have little basis in fact. Gilbert Hunter Doble and others have clearly demonstrated that there is no evidence that Saints Dubricius and Teilo had anything to do with Llandaff. Dubricius was only active in Ergyng and Gwent, while Teilo's associations with Llandaff have been transferred from his great abbey at Llandeilo Fawr.^{[citation needed]}

Early times

The original church at Llandaff (perhaps a monastery) may well have been an early foundation. However, it is likely to have been founded by Saint Oudoceus rather than Saint Teilo. The early episcopal authority in the area was, indeed, in Ergyng and Gwent, originally under Dubricius and then his disciples. Their base may have been at Welsh Bicknor, Kenderchurch or Glasbury. Teilo's foundation at Llandeilo may have superseded Ergyng in the mid-7th century or, as David Nash Ford suggests, the two may have remained the seats of independent, yet parallel, bishoprics, as late as the mid-9th century. Both had accepted the ways of the Roman Catholic Church in 777.

There certainly seems to have only been a single diocese by the late 9th century, based at Llandeilo. The Bishops were known as 'Bishop of Teilo'. When exactly the bishop's cathedra (and the Teilo traditions) moved to Llandaff, however, is not clear. Ford, again, suggests a date not much later, after the death of Bishop Nobis in 874. However, a date in the early 11th century or even later cannot be ruled out. The bishops of Llandaff long maintained absolute independence within their own territories, and the rights and privileges of the Church of Llandaff were extensive. However, there is a tradition that by 872, the bishops had already, nominally at least, accepted the authority of the English Province of Canterbury. Certainly this was the case by 982. The first Saxon bishop, Wulfrith, had been installed in 930, though he may have been of dual-nationality.

Norman times onwards

After the Norman Conquest of south-east Wales in the 1090s, the archbishops of Canterbury began to exercise their jurisdiction over Wales, and Saint Anselm placed Bishop Herewald of Llandaff under interdict. Herewald's successor, Urban, was consecrated at Canterbury, after taking an oath of canonical obedience to the archbishop, and from that time Llandaff became a full dependent of Canterbury. Standing difficulties were the admixture of race and language due to the English settlements and the ignorance and incontinence of the Welsh clergy, who had ceased to observe celibacy and gave scandal to the Normans and English alike. A reform was gradually effected, chiefly by the establishment of new monasteries and mendicant houses. The Book of Llandaff, now at the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, reflects Urban's territorial ambitions for his diocese. The present cathedral dates substantially from his time, 1120 and later.

Anglican Reformation

In the religious turmoil of the 16th century, the Bishop of Llandaff, Anthony Kitchin, was the only bishop in office at the accession of Elizabeth I who acquiesced in the religious changes and was accounted an apostate by fellow Catholics. He died in 1563. Rome had already decided to suppress the Catholic see in 1530;

Thereafter, there continued a line of Anglican bishops up to the present day. Some of these showed aptitude for the conditions of the post, e. g. Blethyn and Morgan (the translator of the Bible), also those appointed under Charles II. Another Morgan suffered many years imprisonment for his Laudian convictions. The administration of the diocese suffered from its poor endowment and limited patronage, leading at the end of the 18th century to non-resident bishops (e.g. Watson) and the holding with other ecclesiastical benefices (such as the Deanery of St. Paul's). Failure to speak Welsh characterised the bishops during this period. Bishop Ollivant notably took up the challenge of providing churches for the newly industrialised valleys. The population explosion created pressure for the division of the diocese, which was put into effect with Disestablishment. The diocese remained part of the Province of Canterbury until the creation of the Church in Wales on 31 March 1920.

Notes

1. An account in the Book of Llandaff is that in 156AD, King Lucius sent two ambassadors, Elfan and Medwy, to Pope Eleutherius asking that he be made a Christian and that his subjects might also become Christians. Both ambassadors were baptised and ordained, with Elfan being made a bishop. Both men returned to Britain where they taught and converted many in the court of King Lucius. Elfan is said to have become the first Bishop of Llandaff.^[7]

List of churches

APC = ancient parish church; MC = medieval chapel.

Archdeaconry of Llandaff

Caerphilly and Aber Valley Ministry Area

This was formed from the Eglwysilan & Caerphilly Rectorial Benefice.^[8] It has an estimated population of 40,722.^[9] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and one Team Vicar.^[10]

Church	Founded (building)
St Andrew, Penyrheol	1960s
St Catherine, Caerphilly	c. 1910 (1920s) (2000)
St Martin, Caerphilly	pre-1870s (1879)
SS Peter & Cenydd, Senghenydd1[a]	1896
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Ilan, Eglwysilan	APC	2023[14]

¹original dedication to St Peter

Notes

1. Although closed and apparently destined for redundancy in 2017,^[11] the church was in 2021 re-opened as a church plant from Citizen Church, based in Cathays, Cardiff.^[12] The church appears now to be administratively part of the Parish of Citizen Church, Cardiff,^[13] and no longer part of the Benefice of Eglwysilan (St Ilan) and Caerphilly (now the Caerphilly and Aber Valley Ministry Area).

Gabalfa and Tremorfa Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Gabalfa and Tremorfa.^[15] It has an estimated population of 19,978.^[16] As of October 2024 it was served by one Vicar and one Curate.^[17]

Church	Founded (building)
St Mark, Gabalfa	c. 1870 (1968)
St Philip's Community Church, Tremorfa	1930 (1966)

Garth Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Capel Llanillterne, Michaelston-Super-Ely, Pentyrch, Radyr, St Fagans and Tongwynlais.^{[18][19][20][21]} It is named after. It has an estimated population of 33,024.^[22] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[23]

Church	Founded (building)
Christ Church, Radyr	1903
St John the Baptist, Danescourt, Radyr	APC
St Cadoc, Pentyrch	APC (1857)
St David, Groesfaen	1892
St Ellteyrn, (Capel) Llanilltern	APC (1862)
St Mary, St Fagans	APC
St Mary and St James, Taffs Well1	c. 1897
St Michael & All Angels, Tongwynlais	1850 (1877)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Michael, Michaelston-super-Ely[24]	APC	2010[a][25]
St Mary, Nantgarw	1845	1983[26]

¹original dedication to St James

Llan Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Gilfach Goch, Tonyrefail and the Llantrisant Rectorial Benefice.^[27][28] It is named after. It has an estimated population of 67,922.^[29] As of October 2024 it was served by three Vicars.^[30]

Church	Founded (building)
SS Illtyd, Gwynno & Dyfodwg, Llantrisant	APC
SS Julius & Aaron, Llanharan	APC (1857)
St Anne, Talygarn	MC (1887)
St David, Miskin	1878 (1907)
St Illtyd, Llantwit Fardre	APC
St Illtyd, Llanharry	APC (1868)
St Michael & All Angels, Beddau	1936
St Paul, Pontyclun	1895
St Peter, Brynna	1830s
St David, Tonyrefail	1903
St Alban, Tonyrefail	1930 (1981)
St Barnabas, Gilfach Goch	1899
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Andrew, Llantwit Fardre[31]		1980s
Old St Peter's, Peterston-super-Montem	MC	1830s[32]

Merthyr Tydfil Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Abercanaid, Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil, Merthyr Vale, Penydarren and Troedyrhiw.^{[33][34][35][36]} It is named after. It has an estimated population of 46,882.^[37] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and three Vicars.^[38]

Church	Founded (building)
Christ Church, Pant	1870s
All Saints, Dowlais	C19th (C20th)
Christ Church, Cyfarthfa/Georgetown	1853 (1857)
SS Peter & Paul, Abercanaid	1884 (1911)
St Tydfil, Merthyr Tydfil	APC (1901)
St David, Merthyr Tydfil	1847
St John the Baptist, Troedyrhiw	1851
St Mary & Holy Innocents, Merthyr Vale1	1926 (1974)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
Church of St Tydfil's Well, The Quar, Merthyr Tydfil	?
St Luke, Gellideg	?	c. 2019
St John the Baptist, Dowlais[39]	1827	1997
St John, Penydarren[40]	1858	pre-2009
St James the Great, Pentre-bach[41]	late C19th	1979

¹originally dedicated to St Mary^[42]

North Cardiff Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Cardiff Roath Park, Lisvane and Llanishen.^[43][44][45] It is named after. It has an estimated population of 35,470.^[46] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[47]

Church	Founded (building)
Christ Church, Roath Park1	1964
St Denys, Lisvane	APC
St Faith, Llanishen	1958
St Isan, Llanishen	APC

¹originally known as Christ Church Llanishen

Pontypridd Ministry Area

This was formed from the benefice of Pontypridd,^[48] previously including the parish of Pwllgwaun and Llanddewi Rhondda. It has an estimated population of 39,148.^[49] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and one Vicar.^[50]

Church	Founded (building)
St John the Evangelist, Graig	pre-1901 (1920s)[51]
St Luke, Rhydyfelin	1907 (1962)[51]
St Mary, Glyntaff1	1839[51]
St Catherine, Pontypridd	1868[51]
Christ Church, Ynysybwl	1887[51]
St Gwynno, Llanwonno	APC[51]
St Luke, Cilfynydd	1892[51]
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Matthew, Pontypridd[52]	1885[b] (1907)[53]	2006/07[54]
Mission Room, Pen-y-coedcae[55]	before 1900[c]	1980s?
St Barnabas, Trehafod[d][56][57]		pre-2012[58][e]
St David, Hopkinstown (Llanddewi Rhondda)	1855[51]	2022[59]
St Mark, Pwll Gwaun[60]	1892	2011

¹since 2022 administered from Citizen Church in Cardiff rather than as part of the local Ministry Area

Notes

1. Decree of redundancy and deconsecration dated 16 March 2012.
2. Mission Church in Church Road, Trallwn.
3. The Mission Room appears on an Ordnance Survey Maps dated 1900 and continues to appear at ST 06058 87727 until at least the 1960s.
4. Although the village of Trehafod lay partly in the former Rhondda Borough, St Barnabas was within the parish of Llanddewi Rhondda and therefore in the Pontypridd Deanery.
5. Decree of Redundancy and Deconsecration dated 16 March 2012

Roath and Cathays Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Cardiff Citizen Church, Cardiff Dewi Sant, Cathays, Roath St Edward, Roath St German, Roath St Margaret, Roath St Martin and Urban Crofters.^{[61][62][63][64][65][66][67]} It is named after. It has an estimated population of 57,697.^[68] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader, five Vicars and one Curate.^[17][69]

Church	Founded (building)
Dewi Sant, Cardiff3	1863
SS Andrew & Teilo, Cathays (Citizen Church)1	1879 (1897)
St Anne, Roath (Urban Crofters)2	1872 (1886)
St Michael & All Angels, Cathays	1922 (1995)
St Edward, Roath	1915 (1919)
St Margaret, Roath	APC (1870)
St German, Roath	1857 (1884)
St Martin, Roath	1886 (1901)

¹originally dedicated to St Teilo. Also runs churches in Pontypridd (St Mary's Glyntaff) and Caerphilly (Senghenydd) ²closed 2015 and reopened 2019 as Urban Crofters ³originally dedicated to St Andrew; closed in 1954. Congregation of Eglwys Dewi Sant (founded 1891; see below) moved in, and church reconsecrated as Dewi Sant 1956.

St John the Baptist Ministry Area

This was formed from the Cardiff City Parish.^[70] It is named after. It has an estimated population of 6,847.^[71] As of October 2024 it was served by one Priest-in-Charge, one Assistant Curate and one Associate Priest.^[72]

Church	Founded (building)
St John the Baptist, Cardiff	MC
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St James the Great, Cardiff	pre-1890 (1894)	2006
St Dyfrig, Cardiff[73]	1872 (1893)	1969
All Saints, Adamsdown1	1856 (1893)	1965[74]
(Old) Eglwys Dewi Sant, Cardiff	1891	1954[75]
St Alban, Blackweir[76]	?

¹dedicated to St Elvan until 1903

South Cardiff Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Cardiff St Dyfrig & St Samson, Cardiff St Mary, Grangetown and Roath St Saviour.^[77][78][79] It is named after. It has an estimated population of 47,003.^[80] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader.^[81]

Church	Founded (building)
St Mary the Virgin, Cardiff	1843
St Saviour, Splott	1884 (1888)
SS Dyfrig & Samson, Grangetown1	1907
St Paul, Grangetown	1879 (1890)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
Old St Mary's, Cardiff	APC	1701
St Stephen, Cardiff	pre-1900 (1902)	1992
All Saints, Tyndall Street, Cardiff	1856	1899[82]
St Barnabas, Saltmead[83]	1896	post-1960

¹original dedication to St Samson

Taff Rhymney Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Bargoed, Bedlinog, Brithdir, Deri, Fochriw, Gelligaer, Llanbradach, Llanfabon, Pontlottyn, Treharris, Trelewis and Ystrad Mynach.^{[84][85][86][87][88]} It is named after the Taff Valley and the Rhymney Valley. It has an estimated population of 52,387.^[89] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader, two Vicars and one Curate.^[90]

Church	Founded (building)
St Gwladys, Bargoed	1877
St Aidan, Rhymney Bridge	C19th
St Tyfaelog, Pontlottyn	1863
SS Mary & Andrew, Fochriw1	1864
St Cadoc, Gelligaer	APC
St Margaret, Gilfach	1895 (1933)
St Mabon, Llanfabon	APC (1847)
St John the Baptist, Nelson	1887
St Matthias, Treharris	1896
Holy Trinity, Ystrad Mynach	1855
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
All Saints, Llanbradach[91]	1896	c. 1994
Llanbradach Chapel[92]	late C19th	C20th
St Mary, Fochriw[93]	1907	1981
St Cadoc, Bedlinog[94]	1873 (1912)
St Cynon, Treharris[95]	1861	1986[96]
St Mary, Trelewis[97]	1886	pre-2004
St Peter, Deri	c. 1890
St David, Brithdir
Trinity Church, Pengam[98]	pre-1877
St Anne, Cefn Hengoed	1931 (1939)	early 2010s

¹original dedication to St Andrew

Taff Wenallt Ministry Area

This was formed from the Whitchurch Rectorial Benefice.^[99] It is named after. It has an estimated population of 34,750.^[100] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and three Vicars.^[101]

Church	Founded (building)
All Saints, Llandaff North	1873 (1955)
All Saints, Rhiwbina	1931
St Mary, Whitchurch	APC (1884)
St Thomas, Whitchurch (Birchgrove)	1911 (1913)

The Cathedral Ministry Area

This was formed from the Cathedral Parish of Llandaff.^[102][103] It has an estimated population of 6,228.^[104] As of October 2024 it was served by one Dean, one Canon Precentor and one Canon Chancellor.^[105]

Church	Founded (building)
Cathedral of SS Peter & Paul with SS Dyfrig, Teilo & Euddogwy, Llandaff1	APC

¹original dedication to SS Dyfrig & Teilo

West Cardiff Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Caerau, Ely, Fairwater, Glan Ely and the Canton Rectorial Benefice.^{[106][107][108][109]} It has an estimated population of 64,800.^[110] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and four Vicars.^[111]

Church	Founded (building)
St David, Cowbridge Road West	1871
St Peter, Fairwater	1937
Resurrection, Glan Ely	c. 1910 (1933)
St Catherine, Canton	1885
St John the Evangelist, Canton	1855
St Luke, Canton	1909
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Mary the Virgin, Caerau	APC	1973
St Timothy, Caerau	1957	2023[112]

Archdeaconry of Margam

Afon Nedd Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Llansawel Briton Ferry, Skewen and the Neath Rectorial Benefice.^{[113][114][115]} It is named after. It has an estimated population of 39,559.^[116] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and one Vicar.^[117]

Church	Founded (building)
St David, Neath	1866
St Illtyd, Llantwit-juxta-Neath, Neath	APC
St Thomas the Apostle, Neath1	APC
St Teilo, Tonmawr2	c. 1920 (2003)
St Mary, Briton Ferry	APC (1892)
St John the Baptist, Neath Abbey	1850
St Mary, Skewen	1905 (2012)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
SS Peter & Paul, Cimla, Neath	1964 (1970)	2022[118]
St Clement, Briton Ferry[119]	1866	2007
St John the Baptist, Briton Ferry[120]	1878	2013
St Thomas, Pantyrheol, Briton Ferry[121]	1881
All Saints, Skewen[122]	1905	2006
St Catherine, Melincryddan, Neath	1891	2020
St John, Oakwood	c. 1902	c. 2000[123]

¹original dedication to St Thomas a Becket ²known as the Tonmawr Mission until 2003

Barry Ministry Area

This was formed from the Rectorial Benefice of Barry,^[124] including the former parishes of Merthyr Dyfan and Cadoxton-juxta-Barry. It has an estimated population of 54,821.^[125] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[126]

Church	Founded (building)
SS Dyfan & Teilo, Merthyr Dyfan1	APC
St Cadoc, Cadoxton	APC
St Mary, Barry Dock	1905
All Saints, Barry	1908
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Nicholas, Barry[127]	APC (1876)	1950s
St Paul the Apostle, Barry[128]	1893	2017
St Baruc, Barry Island[128]	1897	2019

¹original dedication to St Teilo

Bro Noddfa Newydd Ministry Area

This was formed in 2022 by the union of the parishes of Cadoxton-Juxta-Neath, Cilybebyll, Dulais Valley, Dyffryn, Tonna and Vale of Neath.^{[129][130][131][132][133]} Its name means "A new safe haven" in Welsh.^[134] It has an estimated population of 34,303.^[135] As of October 2024 it was served by three Vicars.^[136]

Church	Founded (building)
St Cadoc, Cadoxton-juxta-Neath	APC
St Anne, Tonna	1892
St John the Evangelist, Cilybebyll	APC
St John the Baptist, Alltwen	1888
St David, Dyffryn Cellwen	1925
St Margaret, Crynant	MC (1910)
St Cadoc, Aberpergwm	MC (1809)
St Mary, Blaengwrach	c. 1608
St David, Resolven	1850
St Matthew, Dyffryn	1871
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Mary, Seven Sisters	pre-1894 (1911)	c. 2022[137]

Cowbridge Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Colwinston, Llandow, Llysworney and the Cowbridge Rectorial Benefice.^[138][139] It is named after the town of Cowbridge. It has an estimated population of 8,700.^[140] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[141]

Church	Founded (building)
St Tydfil, Llysworney	APC (1894)
Holy Trinity, Llandow	APC
St Michael & All Angels, Colwinston	APC
St Canna, Llangan	APC (C19th)
St Mary, St Mary Hill	APC
St Michael, Flemingston	APC (C19th)
Holy Cross, Cowbridge	MC
St John the Baptist, Llanblethian	APC
St Dochdwy, Llandough-juxta-Cowbridge	APC
St Mary, St Mary Church	APC
St Brynach, Llanfrynach	APC
St John the Evangelist, Penllyn	c. 1850
St Senwyr, Llansannor	APC
St Hilary, St Hilary	APC
St Owain, Ystradowen	APC (1868)

Cynon Uchaf Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Aberdare St Elvan, Aberdare St Fagan, Aberdare St John the Baptist, Aberdare St John the Evangelist and Hirwaun.^{[142][143][144]} It is named after the upper Cynon Valley. It has an estimated population of 26,220.^[145] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and one Vicar.^[146]

Church	Founded (building)
St Fagan, Trecynon	1853 (c. 1858)
St James, Llwydcoed	1895
St Luke, Cwmdare	1887
St Elvan, Aberdare	1852
St John the Baptist, Aberdare	APC
St Matthew, Abernant	c. 1880 (1889)
St Lleurwg, Hirwaun	1858
St Winifred, Penywaun	1958
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St David, Aberdare[147]	1853
St John the Evangelist, Robertstown[148]	1890

Cynon Valley South Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Aberaman, Abercynon, Cwmaman, Cwmbach, Matthewstown, Miskin, Mountain Ash, Penrhiwceiber and Ynysboeth.^{[149][150][151][152][153]} It is named after the Cynon Valley. It has an estimated population of 34,284.^[154] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[155]

Church	Founded (building)
St Margaret, Aberaman	1883
St Donat, Carnetown	1898
St Gwynno, Abercynon	1904
All Saints, Matthewstown/Tyntetown	1903
St Winifred, Penrhiwceiber	1883
St Mary Magdalene, Cwmbach	1882
St Margaret, Mountain Ash	1862
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Peter, Abercwmboi[156]	1918
St David, Mountain Ash[157]	1886	post-1950
St Teilo, Miskin[158]	1890	post-1950
St John the Baptist, Miskin[159]	1909	2007
St Illtyd, Cefn Pennar	1894
St Joseph, Cwmaman	1890	2021

De Morgannwg Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Michaelston-Le-Pit, Penmark, Porthkerry, Rhoose, St Andrews Major, St Lythans, Sully and Wenvoe.^{[160][161][162][163]} Its name means "South Glamorgan" in Welsh. It has an estimated population of 20,975.^[164] As of October 2024 it was served by one Vicar.^[165]

Church	Founded (building)
St Peter, Rhoose	1912 (1993)
St Curig, Porthkerry	APC
St Mary, Penmark	APC
St Michael & All Angels, Michaelston-le-Pit	APC
St Andrew, St Andrew's Major	APC
St Peter, Dinas Powys	1881 (1930)
St John the Baptist, Sully	APC
St Bleddian, St Lythans	APC
St Mary, Wenvoe	APC

East Vale Ministry Area

This was formed from the East Vale Rectorial Benefice.^[166] It has an estimated population of 4,213.^[167] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and one Vicar.^[168]

Church	Founded (building)
St Cadoc, Pendoylan	APC
St Donat, Welsh St Donats	APC
St Bridget, St Bride's-super-Ely	APC
St Peter, Peterston-super-Ely	APC
St Mary the Virgin, Bonvilston	APC
St Nicholas, St Nicholas	APC
St Cadoc, Llancarfan	APC
St Illtyd, Llantrithyd	APC
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St George, St George-super-Ely[169]	APC	c. 2019
Llancadle Chapel of Ease	MC	C18th/19th[170]

Heritage Coast Ministry Area

This was formed from the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Rectorial Benefice.^[171] It is named after the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. It has an estimated population of 19,949.^[172] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[173]

Church	Founded (building)
St James, Wick	APC
St Tathan, St Athan	APC
St Donat, St Donats	APC
St Illtyd, Llantwit Major	APC
St Mary, Monknash	APC
Holy Trinity, Marcross	APC
St Cadoc, Llanmaes	APC
St Michael, Llanmihangel	APC
St Giles, Gileston	APC
St Michael, Ewenny	APC
St Bridget, St Brides Major	APC
All Saints, Southerndown	1876 (1968)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Brewis, Eglwysbrewis[174]	APC	early C21st
St Andrew, St Andrews Minor	APC	C17th/18th[175]

Llynfi and Upper Afan Valleys Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Caerau, Glyncorrwg, Llangynwyd, Maesteg and Troedrhiwgarth.^{[176][177][178]} It is named after the Afon Llynfi and Afan Valleys. It has an estimated population of 26,664.^[179] As of October 2024 it was served by one Vicar.^[180]

Church	Founded (building)
St Cynfelin, Caerau	1910
St John the Baptist, Glyncorrwg	APC (1907)
St Cynwyd, Llangynwyd	APC
St Michael & All Angels, Maesteg	1898
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Mary the Virgin, Troedrhiwgarth, Maesteg	1891	2023[181]
St David, Maesteg	1853	2023
St Tydfil, Bryn[182]	c. 1890 (1902)	2018
St Gabriel, Abergwynfi[183]	1894	post-1985[184]
St Peter, Nantyffyllon, Caerau[185]		pre-2012[186]
St John the Evangelist, Cymmer[187]	pre-1927[184]	c. 2010

Margam Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Kenfig, Kenfig Hill, Margam, Newton Nottage, Porthcawl and Pyle.^{[188][189][190][191]} It is named after Margam Abbey (the town of Margam, confusingly, is in the Port Talbot Ministry Area). It has an estimated population of 34,858.^[192] As of October 2024 it was served by two Vicars.^[193]

Church	Founded (building)
St Mary, Margam Abbey	APC
St John the Baptist, Newton, Porthcawl	APC
St David, Nottage	1948 (1992)
All Saints, Porthcawl	1866 (1914)
St Mary, Trecco Bay	1953 (1964)
St James, Pyle1	APC (C15th)
St Mary Magdalene, Maudlam, Kenfig	APC
St Theodore, Kenfig Hill	1891
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
Old St David's, Nottage	APC	C17th or earlier
St Colman, Cefn Cribwr[194]	1924	2012

¹this church was located in Kenfig and was moved (literally) to Pyle in the 15th century due to encroaching sands

Pedair Afon Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Aberkenfig, Bettws, Llandyfodwg & Cwm Ogwr, Llangeinor & the Garw Valley, Llanilid, Llansantffraid Aberkenfig and Pencoed.^{[195][196][197][198]} Its name means "Four Rivers" in Welsh. It has an estimated population of 38,245.^[199] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and four Vicars.^[200]

Church	Founded (building)
SS Ilid & Curig, Llanilid	APC
St David, Pencoed	c. 1877 (1915)
St Paul, Heol-y-Cyw	1889
St Bridget, St Bride's Minor, Aberkenfig	APC
St John the Divine, Tondu, Aberkenfig	1868
St David, Bettws	APC
St David, Pontycymmer	1911
St Ceinwyr, Llangeinor	APC
St Tyfodwg, Llandyfodwg	APC (1870s)
St David, Ogmore Vale	1879
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St James, Blaengarw[201]	1890	2004
St Mary, Pont-y-rhyl, Pontycymer[202]	1892	1986
St Theodore, Pontycymer[203]	pre-1895
St Theodore, Bryncethin[204]	1896	1992
St Thomas the Apostle, Coytrahen, Tondu[205]	pre-1899 (1934)	post-1970s
St John the Baptist, Ogmore Vale[206]	1900 (1914)	2004
St Peter, Nant-y-moel[207]	1889	1960
St Paul, Nant-y-moel[208]	1909	1992

Penarth Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Llandough-juxta-Penarth and Penarth.^[209] It is named after Penarth. It has an estimated population of 26,385.^[210] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader, one Vicar and one Curate.^[211]

Church	Founded (building)
All Saints, Penarth	1891 (1954)
St Peter, (Old) Cogan	APC
Holy Nativity, Penarth	1894 (1952)
St Augustine, Penarth	APC (1866)
St Dochdwy, Llandough	APC (1866)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Luke, Penarth[212]	1960	2006
St Lawrence, Lavernock1	APC	2002[213]
St James, Leckwith	APC (1866)	C20th[214]

¹occasional services still held

Pen-y-bont ar Ogwr Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Coity, Coychurch, Laleston, Merthyr Mawr, Newcastle, Nolton and Penyfai.^{[215][216][217]} It is named after Bridgend (Pen-y-bont ar Ogwr in Welsh). It has an estimated population of 54,564.^[218] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and one Vicar.^[219]

Church	Founded (building)
St Mary, Coity	APC
St Mary, Nolton	MC (1887)
St Mary, Brackla (meets in school)	1995
St Crallo, Coychurch	APC
All Saints, Penyfai	1903
St Teilo, Merthyr Mawr	APC (1852)
St David, Laleston	APC
St Illtyd, Newcastle	APC
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
St Tudwg, Tythegston[220]	APC (1876)	late C20th

Port Talbot Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Aberavon St Mary, Aberavon St Agnes, Baglan, Cwmafan, Margam St David, Port Talbot St Paul, Port Talbot St Theodore and Sandfields.^{[221][222][223]} It is named after the town of Port Talbot. It has an estimated population of 44,811.^[224] As of October 2024 it was served by one Ministry Area Leader and two Vicars.^[225]

Church	Founded (building)
St Catharine, Baglan	1875
St Michael, Cwmavon	APC (C17th)
Holy Trinity, Sandfields	1953 (2008)
St Agnes, Aberavon/Port Talbot	1902 (1910)
St Theodore, Port Talbot	1897
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
Old St Baglan's, Baglan	APC	1954
New St Baglan's, Baglan	1959	2024
All Saints, Cwmafan[226]	1855	1980
St Peter, Goytre[227]	1915	2019
St John, Pontrhydyfen[228]		pre-2012
Holy Cross, Port Talbot[229]	1827	2008
St Paul, Port Talbot[230]	1910	2016
St David, Margam	1959	2024
St Mary, Aberavon	APC (1859)	2024[231]

Rhondda Ministry Area

This was formed by the union of the parishes of Clydach Vale, Dinas, Pen Rhondda Fawr, Penygraig, Pont Rhondda, Porth Newydd, Rhondda Fach Uchaf, Tonypandy, Williamstown and Ystradyfodwg.^{[232][233][234][235][236][237][238]} It is named after the Rhondda area. It has an estimated population of 70,235.^[239] As of October 2024 it was served by three Vicars.^[240]

Church	Founded (building)
St Barnabas, Penygraig	1897 (1915)
St John the Evangelist, Cymmer, Porth	1889
St Thomas, Clydach Vale	1896
St Andrew, Tonypandy	1877
St Illtud, Williamstown	1884 (1891)
St George, Cwmparc	1896
St Matthew, Treorchy	1871
All Saints, Trealaw
St Cynon, Llwynypia
St Stephen, Ystrad Rhondda	1896
St Dunstan, Ferndale	1906
Holy Trinity, Tylorstown	1883
Llanfair Uniting Church, Penrhys1	1992[241]
St Peter, Pentre	1889
St John the Baptist, Ton Pentre, Ystradfodwg	APC (1893) (1987)
Former churches	Founded (building)	Closed
Dinas Mission, Dinas[242]	1897	2018
St Anne, Ynyshir[243]	1886	c. 2018
St Dyfan, Clydach[244]		1965
Christ Church, Ferndale[245]	1876 (1886)
St Luke, Maerdy[246]	pre-1923
All Saints, Maerdy[247]	1885	2011
St David, Ton Pentre	1881	1980s
St Mark, Gelli[248]	1896 (c. 1910)	1987
St Paul, Porth[249]	1890	2014
St Luke, Llwyncelyn[250]	1921[251]	pre-2017
St David, Tonypandy[252]
St George, Tonyrefail[253]
St Alban, Treherbert (Tynewydd)[254]	1891
St Mary, Treherbert[255]	1866	1970s
All Saints, Treherbert[256]	1894
St Tyfodwg, Treorchy[257]	1895
St David, Tylorstown[258]	1906	late C20th
St Mary Magdalene, Pontygwaith[259]	1896	1997
St Thomas, Wattstown[260]	1896

¹a joint church of the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Baptist Union of Wales, the Church in Wales, the Congregational Federation, the Methodist Church, the Presbyterian Church of Wales, the Union of Welsh Independents, and the United Reformed Church

Dedications

Medieval churches (chapelries in italics)

• Holy Cross: Cowbridge
• (Holy) Trinity: Llandow, Marcross
• St Andrew: St Andrew's Major, St Andrew's Minor
• St Anne: Talygarn
• St Augustine of Hippo: Penarth
• St Baglan: Baglan
• St Bleddian: St Lythans
• St Brewis: Eglwysbrewis
• St Bridget: St Bride's Major, St Bride's Minor, St Bride's-super-Ely
• St Brynach: Llanfrynach
• St Cadoc: Aberpergwm, Cadoxton-juxta-Barry, Cadoxton-juxta-Neath, Gelligaer, Llancarfan, Llanmaes, Pendoylan, Pentyrch
• St Canna: Llangan
• St Ceinwyr: Llangeinor
• St Crallo: Coychurch
• St Curig: Porthkerry
• St Cynwyd: Llangynwyd
• St David: Bettws, Laleston, Nottage
• St Denys: Lisvane
• St Dochdwy: Llandough-juxta-Cowbridge, Llandough-juxta-Penarth
• St Dunwyd: St Donats, Welsh St Donats
• SS Dyfrig & Teilo: Llandaff
• St Ellteyrn: Llanilltern
• St George: St George-super-Ely
• St Giles: Gileston
• St Gwynno: Llanwonno
• St Ilan: Eglwysilan
• St Ilar: St Hilary
• SS Ilid & Curig: Llanilid
• St Illtud: Llanharry, Llantrithyd, Llantwitfardre, Llantwit-juxta-Neath, Llantwit Major, Newcastle
• SS Illtud, Gwynno & Dyfodwg: Llantrisant
• St Isan: Llanishen
• St James: Kenfig, Leckwith, Wick
• St John the Baptist: Aberdare, Cardiff, Glyncorrwg, Llanblethian, Newton, Radyr, Sully, Ystradyfodwg
• St John the Evangelist: Cilybebyll
• SS Julius & Aaron: Llanharan
• St Lawrence: Lavernock
• St Mabon: Llanfabon
• St Margaret: Crynant, Roath
• St Mary: Aberavon, Bonvilston, Briton Ferry, Caerau, Cardiff, Coity, Margam Abbey, Monknash, Nolton, Penmark, St Fagans, St Mary Church, St Mary Hill, Wenvoe, Whitchurch
• St Mary Magdalene: Maudlam
• St Michael: Colwinston, Cwmavon, Ewenny, Flemingston, Llanmihangel, Michaelston-le-Pit, Michaelston-super-Ely
• St Nicholas: Barry, St Nicholas
• St Owain: Ystradowen
• St Peter: Cogan, Peterston-super-Ely, Peterston-super-Montem
• St Senwyr: Llansannor
• St Tathan: St Athan
• St Teilo: Merthyr Dyfan, Merthyr Mawr
• St Thomas Becket: Neath
• St Tudwg: Tythegston
• St Tydfil: Llysworney, Merthyr Tydfil
• St Tyfodwg: Llandyfodwg
• No dedication/dedication unknown: Llancadle

Post-medieval churches

• All Saints: Barry (1908), Cardiff (1856), Cwmavon (1855), Llanbradach (1896), Llandaff North (1873), Maerdy (1885), Matthewstown (1903), Merthyr Tydfil (C19th), Penarth (1891), Penyfai (1903), Porthcawl (1866), Rhiwbina (1931), Skewen (1905), Southerndown (1876), Trealaw (?), Treherbert (1894)
• Christ Church: Ferndale (1876), Merthyr Tydfil (1853), Pant (1870s), Radyr (1903), Roath Park (1964), Ynysybwl (1887)
• Holy Cross: Port Talbot (1827)
• Holy Nativity: Penarth (1894)
• (Holy) Trinity: Pengam (C19th), Sandfields (1953), Tylorstown (1883), Ystradmynach (1855)
• Resurrection: Glan Ely (1910)
• St Agnes: Aberavon (1902)
• St Aidan: Rhymney Bridge (C19th)
• St Alban: Blackweir (?), Tonyrefail (1930), Treherbert (1891)
• St Andrew: Caerphilly (1960s), Cardiff (1863), Fochriw (1864), Llantwitfardre (?), Tonypandy (1877)
• St Anne: Cefnhengoed (1931), Roath (1872), Tonna (1892), Ynyshir (1886)
• St Baglan: Baglan (1959)
• St Barnabas: Gilfachgoch (1899), Penygraig (1897), Saltmead (1896), Trehafod (?)
• St Baruc: Barry Island (1897)
• St Cadoc: Bedlinog (1873)
• St Catherine: Baglan (1875), Caerphilly (1910), Canton (1885), Neath (1891), Pontypridd (1868)
• St Clement: Briton Ferry (1866)
• St Colman: Cefn Cribwr (1924)
• St Cynfelin: Caerau (1910)
• St Cynon: Llwynypia (?), Treharris (1861)
• St David: Aberdare (1853), Brithdir (?), Cardiff (1891), Cowbridge Road West (1871), Dyffryncellwen (1925), Groesfaen (1892), Hopkinstown (1855), Maesteg (1853), Margam (1959), Merthyr Tydfil (1847), Miskin (1878), Mountain Ash (1886), Neath (1866), Nottage (1948), Ogmore Vale (1879), Pencoed (1877), Pontycymmer (1911), Resolven (1850), Tonpentre (1881), Tonypandy (?), Tonyrefail (1903), Tylorstown (1906)
• St Dunstan: Ferndale (1906)
• St Dunwyd: Carnetown (1898)
• St Dyfan: Clydach (?)
• St Dyfrig: Cardiff (1872)
• St Edward: Roath (1915)
• St Elwen: Aberdare (1852), Adamsdown (1856)
• St Fagan: Trecynon (1853)
• St Faith: Llanishen (1958)
• St Gabriel: Abergwynfi (1894)
• St George: Cwmparc (1896), Tonyrefail (?)
• St German: Roath (1857)
• St Gwladys: Bargoed (1877)
• St Gwynno: Abercynon (1904)
• St Illtyd: Cefn Pennar (1894), Williamstown (1884)
• St James: Blaengarw (1890), Cardiff (C19th), Llwydcoed (1895), Pentrebach (C19th), Taffs Well (1897)
• St John the Baptist: Alltwen (1888), Briton Ferry (1878), Dowlais (1827), Miskin (1909), Neath (1850), Nelson (1887), Ogmore Vale (1900), Troedyrhiw (1851)
• St John the Evangelist: Canton (1855), Cymmer (?), Graig (C19th), Oakwood (1902), Penllyn (1850), Penydarren (1858), Pontrhydyfen (?), Porth (1889), Robertstown (1890), Tondu (1868)
• St Joseph: Cwmaman (1890)
• St Lleurwg: Hirwaun (1858)
• St Luke: Canton (1909), Cilfynydd (1892), Cwmdare (1887), Gellideg (?), Llwynycelyn (1921), Maerdy (?), Penarth (1960), Rhydyfelin (1907)
• St Margaret: Aberaman (1883), Gilfach (1895), Mountain Ash (1862)
• St Mark: Cardiff (1870), Gelli (1896), Pwllgwaun (1892)
• St Martin: Caerphilly (C19th), Roath (1886)
• St Mary: Barry (1905), Blaengwrach (1608), Brackla (1995), Cardiff (1843), Fochriw (1907), Glyntaff (1839), Merthyr Vale (1926), Nantgarw (1845), Penrhys (1992), Pontyrhyl (1892), Seven Sisters (C19th), Skewen (1905), Trecco Bay (1953), Treherbert (1866), Trelewis (1886), Troedrhiwgarth (1891)
• St Mary Magdalene: Cwmbach (1882), Pontygwaith (1896)
• St Matthew: Abernant (1880), Dyffryn (1871), Pontypridd (1885), Treorchy (1871)
• St Matthias: Treharris (1896)
• St Michael: Beddau (1936), Cathays (1922), Maesteg (1898), Tongwynlais (1850)
• St Paul: Barry (1893), Grangetown (1879), Heolycyw (1889), Nantymoel (1909), Pontyclun (1895), Port Talbot (1910), Porth (1890)
• St Peter: Abercwmboi (1918), Brynna (1830s), Deri (1890), Dinaspowys (1881), Fairwater (1937), Goytre (1915), Nantyffyllon (?), Nantymoel (1889), Pentre (1889), Rhoose (1912), Senghenydd (1896)
• SS Peter & Paul: Abercanaid (1884), Neath (1964)
• St Philip: Cardiff (1930)
• St Samson: Grangetown (1907)
• St Saviour: Splott (1884)
• St Stephen: Cardiff (C19th), Ystradrhondda (1896)
• St Teilo: Cathays (1879), Miskin (1890), Tonmawr (2003)
• St Theodore of Tarsus: Bryncethin (1896), Kenfig Hill (1891), Pontycymer (1895), Port Talbot (1897)
• St Thomas: Briton Ferry (1881), Clydach Vale (1896), Coytrahen (C19th), Wattstown (1896), Whitchurch (1911)
• St Timothy: Caerau (1957)
• St Tydfil: Bryn (1890)
• St Tydfil's Well: Merthyr Tydfil (?)
• St Tyfaelog: Pontlottyn (1863)
• St Tyfodwg: Treorchy (1895)
• St Winifred: Penrhiwceiber (1883), Penywaun (1958)
• No dedication/dedication unknown: Dinas (1897), Llanbradach (C19th), Penycoedcae (C19th)

See also

• List of Catholic dioceses in England and Wales