This journey follows in the footsteps of the 17th century Quakers of Dolgellau. Their plight and the persecution they faced was highlighted by Marion Eames in her Welsh language novel 'Y Stafell Ddirgel' (The Secret Room), which was translated into English in 1975.
In the programme Dilyn yr Ysbryd (Following the Spirit) we'll walk along paths used by the early Quakers in the Dolgellau area in the company of some of today's Quakers.
The locations visited during the walk contain a number of familiar names to those who have taken an interest in the story of the Quakers in Wales - Tabor Chapel (the first meeting house in the area), Dewisbren Uchaf (home of Dorti Owen who is an inspiration to many Quakers today and Bryn Mawr, home of Rowland Ellis, hero of 'Y Stafell Ddirgel'. He, his family and a large number of fellow Quakers decided to emigrate to America in the 17th century to flee from the persecution they were being subjected to in Wales. The town and college of Bryn Mawr in Philadelphia are testimony to his success in his new home.
Silence is very important to the Quakers. In the silence, they await guidance from the spirit. According to William Penn (a leading Quaker who established Pennsylvania) true silence is like sleep to the body. In silence, the Quaker forgets everyday things and turns to God.
Dewi Gregory, producer and director of Dilyn yr Ysbryd says, "Silence is at the heart of the Quakers, and therefore it was important that part of the programme should be full of silence. For me, this was a challenge and a great opportunity. It's not often that one has the opportunity to introduce silence on screen. But, in order to understand more about the Quakers, this is what we had to show as this is the very core of their worship."
© 2012 S4C
O Gymru / Made in Wales