St. Devereux: St Dubricius

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St Devereux Church is part of the Ewyas Harold Group of Parishes.  www.wormbridgeandstdevereux.co.uk  For information on services see below.

HISTORY & ARCHITECTURE

The church is dedicated to Saint Dubricius, or Dyfrig, who was born in Herefordshire perhaps as early as c.450, traditionally in the village of Madley. His family were Christian, the area being Ergyng, in south Herefordshire, centred around the old Roman town of Ariconium. He founded two monasteries: at Hentland (Hennllann), possibly at Llanfrother Farm, and at Moccas; he was undoubtedly a noted missionary teacher in their famous monastic schools and is mentioned in the Book of Llandaff. He was a Bishop and he is said to have been promoted to be Archbishop of Wales. Stories connect him with Arthur. 

Saint Dyfrig died on Bardsey (Ynys Enlli); in 1120 his reputed relics were transferred to Llandaff Cathedral where his shrine can still be seen. He was certainly one of the most important of early Welsh saints and it is possible that he knew the Saint Devereux area because the circular mound on which the church stands indicates a very early religious site. 

The change of village name to Saint Devereux arose from confusion with the Devereux family, landowners, one of whom was the Earl of Essex the favourite of Queen Elizabeth I. 

The church has an Elizabethan chalice dated 1576. The nave is 13th century, though part may be earlier, the chancel and tower are 14th century but there has been modern restoration. Two of the three bells are 14th century and are inscribed to Scante Johannes and Sanctus Johannes respectively. The font is c.1500 and most of the interesting monuments and floor-slabs are 17th century. A Guidebook is available.

St Devereux
Hereford
HR2 9DJ

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