Bishop Dorrien's St Davids Day Message

In his first St Davids Day message, the new Bishop of St Davids, Dorrien Davies, thanks Wales’ politicians for their work in “these difficult days”

Assuring Senedd members of his prayers, Bishop Dorrien Davies also encourages them with the words of Wales’ Patron Saint, St David, to “be joyful, keep the faith and do the little things”.

The message was delivered to the Senedd in Cardiff Bay by Year 10 pupils from Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi Church in Wales VA School and received by the First Minister, Mark Drakeford, and Eluned Morgan, the Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales.

It says, “During these difficult days for Wales and the world, I am mindful of the responsibilities and pressures put upon all members of the Senedd as you face hard decisions and challenging situations. My St David’s Day message is a simple and sincere one. That is, to express heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all that you are doing for the well-being of the people of Wales.

“I would like to assure you of my continued best wishes and prayers, and share the eternal words of our Patron Saint, Dewi Sant, "Be joyful, keep the faith, and do the little things that you have heard and seen me do’”".

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi’s Headteacher, Rachael Thomas, Rev Canon Leigh Richardson, Sub-Dean at St Davids Cathedral, and Arts Council of Wales Chief Executive, Dafydd Rhys, joined year 10 and 11 pupils as they presented their messages and recited the Lord’s Prayer in Welsh, English, Ukrainian, and Polish, symbolising unity and solidarity across borders and languages.

In a poignant moment, a Ukrainian student stepped forward to present the First Minister with her country's flag, symbolising her connection to the ongoing conflict, sharing that her grandfather is currently serving on the front line, adding a sobering reminder of the human toll of such conflicts.

Mrs. Thomas also conveyed a heartfelt message from Penrhyn Dewi’s partner school in Lesotho, emphasising the universal yearning for peace and solidarity, transcending continents.

Reflecting on the occasion, Eluned Morgan expressed her pride in welcoming the students to the Senedd:

"As we commemorate St. David's Day, these remarkable students exemplified the spirit of peace and unity that our nation holds dear - their words resonated deeply and inspired us all. I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Rt Revd Davies for his support and to all those who contributed to making this a profound celebration of our shared values – it was truly a privilege to host this event."