Saint Gwenfyl facts for kids

Saint Gwenfyl was an early Christian saint from Wales. She lived a very long time ago, in the 6th century. Not much is known about her life, but she is remembered as part of an important Welsh family connected to a leader named Brychan.

Who Was Saint Gwenfyl?

Saint Gwenfyl was believed to be one of the children or later family members of Brychan. Brychan was a legendary king from Wales. Many saints were said to be part of his large family.

Her Chapel

Gwenfyl started a small church, or chapel, called Capel Gwenvyl. This chapel was located in a place called Llanddewi Brefi in Ceredigion. It was connected to the main church there. Sadly, this chapel does not exist anymore.

Other chapels were also found near Llanddewi Brefi. These included chapels for other saints like Saint David and Saint Lucy. This shows that the area was important for early Welsh Christians.

Sharing a Feast Day

Saint Gwenfyl shares a special day of celebration, called a feast day, with her sister, Saint Callwen. This day is on November 1st each year.

Like Callwen, Gwenfyl's name is only mentioned briefly in old Welsh records. These records are like ancient family trees or calendars of saints. Some historians think she might have been a descendant rather than a direct child of Brychan. This means she was part of his family, but perhaps a grandchild or great-grandchild.