The Church of St Lewis and St Xavier, Usk

Between 2017 and 2019 The Church of St Lewis and St Xavier in Usk, underwent the first phase of major improvements, which included essential waterproofing repairs, structural consolidation of the north porch, installation of a ramp and accessible toilet, and creation of a new chapel. A few years later it was time to look for funding for the second phase of the work and the project attracted much support from the local community, Usk Town Council, and funding organisations such as the James Pantyfedwen Foundation. Local fundraising also contributed to achieving a successful outcome and ensuring that the parish truly “owned” the transformation of the church.

The second phase included internal work on the church. It completed the solution to the problem of water ingress, impermeable internal emulsion paint which was trapping moisture in the walls was replaced by an appropriate “breathable” wall coating to prevent moisture and salts building up behind the paint layer; the 50 year old lighting system was expensive to run and was replaced by new LED lighting which will reduce energy costs; and the worn carpet glued with failing bitumen to the wood block floor was removed. Replacement carpet allows the retained wooden floor to breathe and reduce moisture being held at the base of the walls. The work has removed all remaining vestiges of asbestos in the building; new artwork restores the visual aspect of the church, focussing attention on the main altar and steps have been taken to plant bee and insect friendly plants in the graveyard behind the church to improve local biodiversity. Using rare native plant species, the church has started developing the site as a haven for wildlife and a welcome retreat for local people.

The internal refurbishment and restoration has certainly enhanced the church as a place of prayer and quiet reflection for local people and visitors to our town. The church now offers a safe space for visitors, particularly with improvements to the flooring. The work of decoration around the main altar restores the visual environment of the church and the freshness that congregations would have noticed in the mid- 19^th Century. Particularly exciting was the discovery under layers of paint of the panels of angels playing musical instruments set in the reredos at the back of the altar and their restoration. The latest technology is also now in place to stream services. 

“We thank everyone for their support and sponsorship, and we can now be proud to promote our church as a centre of pilgrimage to St David Lewis.”