The Story of St James' Church

In the second half of the 12th century the chapel in Wick was given to Ewenny Priory 'on condition that the Prior provide for three services weekly'.

At some stage it was annexed to the parish of St Brides Major. We know that this was the position in 1563 and that it was served by vicars of St Brides until 1950, when the villages of Wick, Monknash and Marcross were combined to form a single benefice, which in turn became part of the Rectorial Benefice of Llantwit Major in 1983.

External view of St James Church

The oldest features or the church are the chancel arch, the chancel window and the font, which are Norman. The stone altar has a pre-Reformation mensa slab with a cross carved into the centre.

The remains of a medieval preaching cross in the churchyard are separately listed as a Grade II monument, classed as 'at risk'.

By the mid-19th century the building had fallen into decay. It also needed to accommodate more people. With the help of a grant from the Incorporated Church Building Society, major work was undertaken under the direction of John Prichard, the Diocesan Architect. This involved substantially rebuilding the north wall and replacing windows. The windows from this era are in the Early English style, rising to a point, following the shape of a niche which already existed in the sanctuary. In keeping with the fashion of the time, multi-coloured stonework was used around the windows.

The porch and vestry were also added, while the tower was heightened by four to five feet and capped with a pitched ‘saddleback’ roof in a style adopted for some other churches in this part of South Wales and the Gower peninsula.
View of the altar

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Hello and welcome to our church. If you are a new visitor, we have a page for you to get to know us and learn more about planning a visit.
Click here to see more.

Visitors click here.

Planning your Visit

New to Our Church? A Warm Welcome

We’re really glad you’re considering joining us.

If this is your first time visiting, the information below is designed to help you feel comfortable and know what to expect on any service day. Our hope is that you feel welcomed, valued, and at home among us.

Where and When

We meet in 12 different church buildings across the Vale of Glamorgan. You’ll find the full list of locations and service times on this website.

There are no rules about which church you should visit. Some people choose the church closest to where they live, while others are drawn to a particular building because of its history, beauty, or community. Wherever you decide to join us, you can be sure of a warm and friendly welcome.

What to Expect on a Sunday

Our services are mostly an Eucharist which you will find typically calm, reflective, and welcoming, with readings from the Bible, prayers, hymns or songs, and a short sermon. We offer communion which you are invited if Baptised to recieve bread and wine but we do also offer a blessing instead if you wish. If you want a blessing instead of communion then please com eup in line and just cross your hands over your chest. The style of worship may vary slightly between churches, but the sense of community and hospitality is the same across the Ministry Area.

You don’t need to dress in any particular way people attend in a wide range of clothing, from casual to more formal. Just come as you are.

If you arrive a little early, you’ll usually be greeted by a steward or member of the congregation who will be happy to help you find a seat, a service sheet, or answer any questions.

Children and Families

Children and families are very welcome in our churches. In some of our buildings there are activity sheets or quiet spaces available. If your child needs a break during the service, please feel free to step out and return when you’re ready no one will mind. We have a great programme lined up for children of all ages. Our Treasure Seekers meet in St Illtud's, Llantwit Major on the first Sunday of the month and St James, Wick & St Mary, Monknash on set days.

After the Service

In many of our churches, refreshments are served after the service. This is a lovely opportunity to meet people, ask questions, and get to know the community a little better. You’re very welcome to stay, there’s no obligation, just a friendly invitation.

Accessibility

Most of our church buildings have wheelchair access. Please note that Gileston is our only building accessed by steps only.

Audio induction loops are available in most of our church buildings for those who use hearing aids.

Facilities

Toilets are available at our buildings in Llantwit Major, Southerndown, and Ewenny.

Get in touch with us to plan your visit

If you would like to come and visit the church beforehand you are more than welcome! Get in touch and we can arrange a time that suits you.

Name:

Telephone:

Email Address:
Comments / Questions or anything you would like to say?

Next, we will contact you by email to say hello and help arrange anything necessary for your visit.

We hope that whoever you are, you will feel at home at our churches.