Joyful Gymanfa Ganu Celebration Brings Four Aberdare Schools Together in Song

We enjoyed a fabulous morning in the Cynon Uchaf Ministry Area as pupils from Aberdare Town Church School, Cwmbach Church in Wales Primary, Cwmdare Primary School, and Aberdare Park Primary School gathered in St Elvan's Church for one of our much‑loved Gymanfa Ganu celebrations.

The singing filled the space with joy, energy, and community spirit as children raised their voices together in worship and song.

The morning brought together church and community schools in a shared celebration of music — a vision championed so passionately by our Head of Education, Clare Werrett, whose dedication continues to strengthen the bonds between our schools. We are truly blessed by her talent, creativity, and commitment to nurturing a love of singing across the Diocese.

We were also deeply grateful to Mike Thomas, MBE, whose beautiful piano accompaniment supported and uplifted every hymn and song offered by the children.

The message of praise and unity echoed through the morning as pupils sang with confidence, delight, and a sense of belonging.

The Gymanfa Ganu once again proved to be a cherished moment in our diocesan calendar, a chance for children to celebrate their gifts, their schools, and one another. It was a joy to see them singing as one family, sharing faith and friendship through music.

A Gymanfa Ganu is a traditional Welsh gathering where a community comes together to sing hymns, celebrating music, faith, and fellowship in a shared, joyful atmosphere. Rooted in the rich heritage of Welsh chapel life, it brings people of all ages together to raise their voices in harmony, usually led by a conductor who guides the congregation through well‑loved Welsh hymns. More than a musical event, a Gymanfa Ganu is a cultural expression of unity and praise, a moment where communities join as one through the power of collective singing.

Rev'd Peter Godsall sent the children back to school thanking them for their singing, and praying for them as the term draws to a close.

If you'd like to find out more about our work with schools Clare can be contacted via email on clarewerrett@cinw.org.uk

“Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.” — Psalm 96:1