Parish History
The church is unusual in its long history in that it has been served by members of two religious orders: the Franciscans (1687-1857) and the Benedictines (1857 - Present). Monmouthshire, the county in which Abergavenny is situated, remained loyal to the Catholic Church thanks to Fathers Philip Evans and David Lewis, members of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), who celebrated Mass and administered the Sacraments to the Catholics of the town and countryside. seen below
More on parish history
Both priests celebrated Mass in the chapel of the Gunter Mansion in Cross Street and were martyred for their faith in 1679. More information about David Lewis can be
David Lewis Chapel
David Lewis was born in 1616 in Abergavenny, Wales. Born to Catholic mother and a Protestant father. David Lewis was the youngest of nine children. Ordained a Catholic priest in 1642, he served communities including Abergavenny and nearby areas for over 30 years. Following the criminalisation of Catholic practice in 1678 he was arrested along side a fellow Catholic priest, Phillip Evans, who were both later tried and sentenced to death for their beliefs and practices.
Following the criminalisation of Catholic practice in 1678 he was arrested along side a fellow Catholic priest, Phillip Evans, who were both later tried and sentenced to death for their beliefs and practices.
On the 27nd August 1679, David Lewis was hanged drawn and quartered and became the last Catholic martyr in Wales. David Lewis is commemorated across communities in Wales for his contribution to multiple Parish communities including Abergavenny, and for his ultimate sacrifice for our Lord.
