A Harvest round-up

Churches across the diocese have been marking Harvest with services, and community activities, giving thanks to God for the fruit of the land and for the farmers who work to provide the food we eat. This year’s celebrations come after a difficult season for many farmers, who faced the challenges of a long hot summer with water shortages, winter feed shortages and the spread of the disease, blue tongue.

Somerset Young Farmers from across the county gathered for a special Harvest service at Wells Cathedral, bringing the life of the countryside into the heart of the cathedral. Three tractors stood outside, while some of the young farmers brought animals into the service as they came together to give thanks to God for the land, its people and all it provides.

At St Andrew’s in Cheddar, the church gateway was decorated in autumn colours, and the congregation collected non-perishable food to donate to Cheddar Valley Foodbank. At St Peter’s Church in Portishead, the team created Harvest decorations and gathered donations for Clevedon and District Foodbank, as well as supporting the charity ‘Ripple Effect’.

Meanwhile the Churches of Chew Valley South took their celebrations outdoors, going bee hunting around Yeo Valley gardens to learn about pollination. They also saw calves born just days before the visit. Their activities offered a practical reminder of the wonder of God’s creation and our responsibility to care for the natural world.

In Bridgwater, at St John the Baptist Church, Revd Lis Sparrow reflected on the harder reality behind this year’s Harvest. Speaking about whether it is still possible to celebrate after a drought that has left farmers struggling with poor crops and water shortages, she said: “This summer gave a glimpse of desert conditions, we were out of comfort zone, in the wilderness, but God was with us and God will provide in ways we least expect.”

Diocesan Rural Adviser Rob Walrond says: “Harvest is a time to give thanks to God for all that the land provides, but this year it also reminds us to stand with our farmers and rural communities after a very difficult season. Their work matters, and as a church we want them to know they are valued, prayed for and supported.”

Our photograph shows (LtoR: St Peter’s church Portishead, St Andrew’s Cheddar then more from St Peter’s.  The bottom row shows images from Somerset Young Farmers at Wells Cathedral)