Archbishop receives Freedom of the City of Swansea

The Archbishop of Canterbury is to be presented with the Freedom of the City of Swansea at a ceremony in the city's Guildhall today.

The Lord Mayor of Swansea, Cllr Richard Lewis said the Freedom Ceremony was Swansea's way of recognising one of its most famous sons:

“Dr Williams is a true son of Swansea and he’s always maintained his links with the city over the years. He was educated at Dynefor School in the city, before going on to Cambridge.”

“Dr Williams is the first Welshman to hold the post of Archbishop of Canterbury and he is now one of the best known clergymen in the world.”

The ceremony will be followed by a celebratory Service at St Mary's Church in the city. Those present will include Bishops and many clergy and among them will be John Davies, the Bishop of Swansea and Brecon.

Bishop John said: “Archbishop Rowan's connections with and his fondness for Swansea and its people are well-known and widely appreciated.”

“That a son of the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon, whose growing faith was nurtured by some of its clergy, has gone on to become not only one of the world's most distinguished theologians but also to hold the highest office in the Anglican Church is, without doubt, a source of great pride for both City and Diocese.”