A rare King James Bible, more than 400 years old, has been discovered in the cupboard of an old church in Wales.
Christian Today reports that the Rev. Dr. Jason Bray became the new vicar of St. Giles Church in Wrexham, Wales earlier this year. Dr. Bray was inspired to search for some ancient items mentioned as belonging to St. Giles in Alfred Palmer’s The History of the Parish Church of Wrexham.
While sifting through some dusty cupboards, Dr. Bray came across the Bible, dated 1611, the year translation of the King James or Authorised Version of the Bible, commissioned by King James, was completed.
After discovering the historic Bible, Dr. Bray sent it to the National Library of Wales to confirm its authenticity.
According to Dr. Bray, “It has seen better days but most of it is in remarkably good condition. Most churches had them but the fact ours is a first edition and it's been kept here all that time, it's really exciting."
Christian Today reports that construction of St. Giles Church was begun in the 14th century and it is one of the most beautiful churches in the entire United Kingdom.
Wrecsam.com describes the historic church: “The richly-decorated tower, 135-feet high, with its four striking hexagonal turrets, was begun in 1506. The tower is appointed with numerous medieval carvings including those of an arrow and a deer and the attributes of St Giles.”
But besides being beautiful, the church is itself a piece of history, and the newly discovered Bible adds to its charm.
The Bible is currently being safely stored. Dr. Bray hopes to raise sufficient funds to be able to display the Bible for others to see.
Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Publication date: October 8, 2015
