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Home » Religion and Belief » Nonconformist denominations » Methodist Revival

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  • This letter is in the hand of the hymn writer and mystic, Ann Griffiths (1776-1805) who was born at Dolwar Fach farmhouse, Llanfihangel-yng- Ngwynfa, Montgomeryshire. Like many of her generation, Ann Griffiths experienced a spiritual awakening under the influence of the Methodist Revival. She went on to write some of the most important hymns in the Welsh language, works which are regarded by many as masterpieces of European religious verse. Her work was heavily influenced by the Welsh Bible, and also by the folk songs of her area. She also came into contact with the theological ideas of her neighbour, the preacher, John Hughes. Ann Griffiths wrote this letter to her friend, Elizabeth Evans. Elizabeth was probably the sister in law of John Hughes. Of the eight letters of hers which have survived, this is the only example of a letter in Ann Griffiths's hand. Her letters express profound spiritual experience, and give us an idea of the subjects discussed in the Methodist meetings of the period. The poet and critic Saunders Lewis was of the opinion that they contain 'some of the most sublime religious prose in the Welsh language'. Ann Griffiths was married in 1804; but died the following year, soon after giving birth to a child who lived for only two weeks.
An undated letter (c.1797-1804) from Ann Thomas (later Ann Griffiths) to Elizabeth Evans [page 1 of 4]
  • This is a fragment of a work by the Rev. William Williams, Pantycelyn (1717-1791). It is in the author's writing and does not seem to have been published. 'Williams Pantycelyn' was born in Cefn-coed, near Llandovery in the parish of Llanfair-ar-y-bryn, Carmarthenshire. He was educated at Llwyn-llwyd Academy with a view to becoming a doctor. However, after hearing Howell Harris (1714-1773) preaching at Talgarth, Williams was immediately converted. He joined the Established Church and was ordained deacon in 1740. He later devoted all his energies to the Methodist movement and became one of its leading figures in Wales. Following his marriage in 1748 he went to live at his mother's old home, Pantycelyn, in his native parish. Williams is regarded as one of the most important and popular hymn-writers in Wales. He wrote over 800 hymns, many of which are still sung today. He was also a poet and writer of prose. He died in 1791 and was buried at the church of Llanfair-ar-y-bryn, Llandovery.
Religious poetry by the Rev. Williams Williams, Pantycelyn, page 1 of 56
  • John Elias (1774-1841) is regarded as one of the most important Welsh Methodist preachers of his period. He was born in the parish of Aber-erch near Pwllheli, but is most commonly associated with Anglesey, where he lived and worked from 1799.
Sermon by the Methodist preacher John Elias (1774-1841) in his own hand, 15 April 1820 [image 1 of 3]
  • John Elias (1774-1841) is regarded as one of the most important Welsh Methodist preachers of his period. He was born in the parish of Aber-erch near Pwllheli, but is most commonly associated with Anglesey, where he lived and worked from 1799. In addition to his work as a preacher, Elias was renowned locally for his medical knowledge. He prepared his own medications which he sold at his wife's shop in Llanfechell.
Pestle and mortar of the Methodist preacher John Elias (1774-1841)
  • John Elias (1774-1841) is regarded as one of the most important Welsh Methodist preachers of his period. He was born in the parish of Aber-erch near Pwllheli, but is most commonly associated with Anglesey, where he lived and worked from 1799.
Seal of the Methodist preacher John Elias (1774-1841)
  • John Wesley (1703-91) was the founder of the Methodist Church, and visited and preached in Wales on numerous occasions between 1739 and 1790.
Preaching chair used by John Wesley, 18th century