Welsh Nationality, and How Alone It is to Be Saved: A Sermon

"Welsh Nationality, and How Alone It is to Be Saved: A Sermon by Davies" by Rev. W. G. Davies is a theological sermon published in the early 1870s, following its delivery in 1870. This discourse engages with the social and religious condition of the Welsh people, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual growth and the dangers of stagnation in knowledge and understanding. The book primarily addresses issues of national identity, cultural preservation, and the moral obligations that come with the pursuit of knowledge within a spiritual framework. In this sermon, Davies utilizes the biblical text “But one thing is needful” to explore how the Welsh population must not only cling to their traditions but also embrace intellectual development and progressive thinking. He advocates for the importance of diverse knowledge—beyond religious understanding—arguing that ignorance will lead to moral and societal decay. Through a framework that intertwines spirituality with the pursuit of learning, he urges his audience to recognize the peril of remaining stagnant and to actively engage in acquiring knowledge that will benefit both their spiritual lives and the future of Welsh nationality. The sermon serves as a call to action for Welsh individuals to seek progress while retaining their linguistic and cultural heritage.