In a significant cultural milestone, the four Gospels have been translated into the Welsh dialect of north Pembrokeshire, offering a fresh take on familiar texts. This project, unveiled at one of Wales’ major cultural gatherings, highlights the unique linguistic heritage of the region.
Pembrokeshire’s Unique Linguistic Landscape
Contrasting with the predominantly English-speaking south, north Pembrokeshire boasts a distinct Welsh dialect. The translation of the Gospels into this dialect was spearheaded by Rev Lyn Lewis Dafis, aiming to enhance their relevance and accessibility for local communities.
The Visionary Behind the Translation
Lyn Lewis Dafis, born in 1960 in Llain, Mynachlog-Ddu, pursued his passion for Welsh language and literature at Aberystwyth University. His career as a librarian at the National Library of Wales spanned 25 years, during which he also engaged in theological writing under the bardic name Dogfael. Ordained as a deacon in 2015 and later as a priest, Dafis served various roles within the Church in Wales, contributing extensively to Welsh-language media and literature. Sadly, he passed away in 2022.
Bringing the Gospels to Pembrokeshire
Rev Dafis began his translation using the Beibl Cymraeg Newydd as a foundation, driven by his dedication to the Gospel and passion for minority languages. Although completed around 2000, the translation was unpublished until posthumously released online with his family’s consent.
From Text to Sound
The translation was further immortalized in an audio format in 2026, commissioned by the Bible Society. Collaborating with Undeb yr Annibynwyr Cymraeg and Llyfrau Llafar Cymru, the project involved local volunteers and gained exposure on the BBC Cymru’s Dechrau canu dechrau canmol.
Cultural Celebration
The audio version of the Gospels debuted at the Eisteddfod in Pembrokeshire on August 6, 2026, as part of the Welsh Bible app ap Beibl. Sian Rees from the Bible Society paid tribute to Dafis at this event, which is a cornerstone of Welsh cultural life, drawing about 150,000 attendees annually to celebrate Welsh arts and traditions.
Access to the Translation
The four Gospels in Pembrokeshire Welsh can be accessed by downloading the free ap Beibl app and selecting Y Beder Ifengyl. They are also available on the YouVersion platform.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
