Welsh Journals

WELSH RELIGIOUS HISTORY? Keith Robbins For a few years before its establishment, the World Council of Churches was officially described on letterheads as 'in process of formation'. The same description can be applied to the Welsh Religious History Society. This meeting in Lampeter is another in a sequence of meetings which have been held in various parts of Wales in recent months to draw attention to the Society and to inform interested parties about its plans and ambitions. My first task, therefore, as Principal of this institution, is to say 'croeso i chwi gyd' to St. David's University College. I still use this title, for it is the one with which most people are familiar but in fact, after much heartsearching we have decided that we wish to be known as University of Wales, Lampeter and only await confirmation from the Privy Council before we can use this new title officially. I mention it at the outset because it may come as a surprise to some of you who may have had a connection with Lampeter over many years. I hasten to add that it is a decision taken in the light of developments within the University of Wales and as a result of changes in nomenclature throughout the United Kingdom brought about by the establishment of new universities. I wish to emphasize that no disrepect to the name of St. David is intended. Indeed, there are certain specific ways in which we are seeking to keep his name alive. The Chapel, for example, will shortly be dedicated to St. David on St. David's day 1994. 1 also wish to stress, amidst all the changes that have taken place in recent decades, and which will continue, that Lampeter remains conscious of the role it has played, and to an extent, still plays, in the modern religious life of Wales. It is, therefore, particularly appropriate that I should welcome you here on this occasion in my capacity as Principal. My second task is to welcome you in my capacity as President of the Society. I am very conscious of the considerable honour that has been accorded me by this gesture. I shall endeavour to serve the Society to the best of my ability, though freely confessing the inevitable handicap of an English birth and upbringing, not to mention a dozen