St Michael’s Church Eglwysfach hosts the R S Thomas Literary Festival and Poetry Competition from 25-27 September, celebrating the legacy of its renowned former poet-vicar.

It is also held in fond memory of founder, Joy Neal, who died in December 2024.

It starts with a walk led by Professor Richard Suggett, Nicola Roberts, David Billingsley and Owen Shiers, exploring the landscape that inspired R S Thomas, followed by tea.

Owen Shiers in the church considers the connections between land, poetry and music in ‘Singing the Land’.

Morning Prayer, Saturday, 11am, is led by the Right Rev. Dorrien Davies, Bishop of St. David’s, with the Most Reverend Cherry Vann, Archbishop of Wales, preaching. Light refreshments follow.

The afternoon begins with Bangor University professors Tony Brown and Jason Walford Davies in conversation about R S Thomas’ early ministry and life.

At 3.30pm, artist and poet Roger Wagner presents the link between landscape and poetry.

A concert at 6pm in the church with Sophie Rudge (soprano and harp), George Gibbon (counter tenor) Daniel Davies (cello) entitled ‘Poems of Stillness’, includes Hilary Tann’s setting of RS Thomas’s poetry to music. Drinks and nibbles follow.

Holy Communion (9.30am, Sunday) is led by Rev. Lynn Rees, followed by the presentation ‘Reverence and Praise in Poetry’ by poet and playwright Menna Elfyn.

Forty-six poets have entered the afternoon poetry competition in the church, based on quotations from RS Thomas’ poetry. Professor Tony Brown and Menna Elfyn judge the competition and poets will read their entries. This is open to all for £5.

The church services are open to all.

Talks and concert are £10 each, pay on the door or book in advance.

The walk is £10 - booking advised. 

Penrallt Books will have a stall, and tea/coffee will be available throughout.

For more, visit www.eglwysfach.co.uk or contact Alison Swanson - 07834884096 / [email protected]