|
|
The Lamb and Flag
The Lamb and Flag is a symbol which is to be found in many aspects of the parish. It is the emblem of the Williams family of Aberpergwm house, and has found its way into many features of St Cadoc’s Church. Within the town of Glynneath, the emblem has been incorporated into the emblems of various institutions, such as the Town Council, Cwmnedd Primary School, Glynneath choir and even two of the pubs (The Lamb and Flag, and Oddfellows).
Glynneath Town Council Emblem
The Lamb and Flag Pub
The Lamb and Flag emblem seems to have been adopted by the Williams family, whose motto is Y Ddioddefws y orfu — the one who suffers, overcomes. The words of the motto fit the symbol of the Paschal Lamb, Jesus, who through his suffering on the Cross defeated death itself. In the Bible, there are several references to Jesus as the Lamb:
· John the Baptist called Jesus “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”. (John chapter 1 verse 29 onwards)
· The context of Jesus’ death was the Jewish festival of the Passover, where the people remember that it was the sacrifice of the Passover Lamb that saved Moses and the Israelite people in Egypt (Exodus chapter 12). Jesus’ vulnerablility and self-sacrifice gives many parallels with the Passover Lamb.
· In the Book of Revelation, a spiritual vision of heaven, the author see Jesus in heaven as the victorious Lamb who was slain but is now King of heaven worshipped by all (Revelation chapter 5 verse 6 onwards). Over the centuries, many artists have portrayed these scenes of heaven with the Lamb accompanied by a flag of victory, symbolising Jesus’ conquering of death, sin, Satan and all enemies of God.
In heraldry, many families use the Holy or Paschal Lamb. Although details vary, the Lamb is usually shown with a nimbus (halo) to denote holiness with a banner of a red cross (not to denote the national flag of England, but a more ancient symbol of Christian victory). The Lamb and Flag seems to have become the unofficial emblem of the town; behind it’s attractive design is a profound Christian truth on the identity and significance of Jesus Christ.
Outside wall of church Detail on East wall above the altar
Motto, arms and emblem on memorial
to Rees Williams
The Lamb from the Book of Revelation, Vicar's stall detail on altar cross
