Oblate News

A Unique Holy Water Stoup in Amlwch

On the Isle of Anglesey / Ynys Môn

An Ancient Piece of the Christian Heritage of Ynys Môn

Christianity came to Anglesey from the influence of the early Welsh Saints and the Romans. It was continued by the local courts of Welsh Princes. In one or their churches the Holy Water Stoup the image of which you see below was used.  Archaelologists from Bangor University have indicated that the stoup is from the 14^th Century and is of great importance.  It is made from the stone of a local quarry. 

Holy Water Stoup

It was originally made as the bottom half of a gargoyle. It was buried a the time of the Reformation. At some stage it was dug up and given to the local Catholic families. It was used by the faithful in their own homes for Masses, Baptisms and as a Holy Water Stoup.  In 1922 the first Mass Centre was opened in Amlych in a converted stable at the rear of a hotel.

The Stoup was part of the Liturgical furnishings in the Mass Centre. In 1937 a new church dedicated to Our Lady Star of the Sea and St. Winifride was opened. The unique design was a symbol of an upturned boat.

Our Lady Star of the Sea and St. Winifride

The Holy Water Stoup was installed in the new church. The Oblates of Mary Immaculate took pastoral care of the parish of Amlwch in 1941.

The Stoup represents Centuries of Catholic Faith in North East Angelsey. It has been there during difficult days and has survived down to the present. It is a reminder of the faith passed on by those who have gone before.

Thank you to Irene Darby and Gareth Roberts of Amlwch for sharing from their local heritage.