We live in a region of outstanding rural beauty. We are surrounded by mountains, lakes, forests and farms. Every day, in every season we can notice, appreciate and be grateful for the seasonal changes around us. We can participate in our surroundings by walking, cycling, swimming, sitting still and breathing in the fresh air, and by eating and enjoying the local grown produce.
So it is that with a grateful heart that we as a church, celebrated this years harvest festival
Several local farms were visited just prior to our harvest festival service on Sunday 28th September. Whilst acknowledging as a community, our thanks to them for all their all round hard work ,they were invited to participate in our Harvest festival service by donating some produce, that would later be distributed to the food back and others in more need than us, to enjoy.
Chris Potter spoke to us about Scruffy the Scarecrow, who stood every day, throughout the year , unnoticed by most in a field.
He drew a comparison between the Scarecrow and Jesus. Both who stand constantly nearby, protecting, caring, providing. We often don’t notice Jesus but he is always there, always present, always bountiful in his love for us.
The children of the Sunday school participated by making a collection of beautiful scarecrows, though some, with many eyes , were very scary indeed!
Members of the congregation brought along dried goods for the food bank, and teams helped to distribute this where it was needed
Many local farms were very generous and supportive. Here below are some that contributed.
All the farms are very welcoming and friendly, and sell a large range of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. It is a huge benefit to us who live in this beautiful region. Many farms have festivals and celebrations of their own, such as the potato festival in Cessy.
It is good for us as a fellowship to connect with and support our local farms all year around with gratitude and joy.
Lord, we thank you for your bountiful provision, for the beautiful lands around us that provide and supply us with all we need, for the farmers and workers who labour throughout the year to deliver food to our tables.
Give us grateful , generous and prayerful hearts to remember all those who work to serve our needs and for those who have need and limited funds.
Keep us mindful throughout each of the seasons of our year
Amen
JENNY BEIGHTON
