The tradition of Harvest stretches back far into history – in the Old Testament the people of God were encouraged to offer to God thanks at the safe gathering of the Harvest and to share the ‘first fruits’ with him. This was done by tithing - placing a 10th of the best of the crop before the altar. Over the years this has been expressed in a variety of ways, but in more recent history has become focused on sharing food – tins etc – with those in need in our communities.Click here to read the full article or click the Download Button to get it in pdf format.
God’s Generosity and our GratitudeAs the days turn colder, the Autumn leaves begin to fall, and the evenings get darker our thoughts turn to Harvest This year we are joining with parishes across the country in reflecting on God’s Generosity.As we prepare for our own Harvest, we would like all of us to find time and space in the coming days to think about God’s generosity Then between Sept 22nd and 29th we will be asking you to think about our Gratitude and how we respond with Thankful hearts – but that is for next week.Each day this week try to find 5 – 10 mins to pause – perhaps light a candle – and reflect on the day.In Genesis God creates all things and at the heart of that creation is humanity – He invites us to be stewards of all creation.In the modern world we have become detached from that creation in many ways – and take so much of it for granted; treating things as if they are ours by right, rather than recognising them as a gift. In the lives we lead we are often challenged by difficult situations or face issues that can overwhelm us. Our minds can become focused on the things that are wrong, or we do not want, and we fail to see beyond them to the gifts God continues to generously give us.As you are still and reflect perhaps read again the stories of creation in Genesis (yes there are at least 2 stories in Chapter 1 & 2)Then look back at the last day and pray that you may see beyond the things that overwhelm us and may glimpse moments or signs of God’s generous love.As the week progresses perhaps create a list of those things (perhaps on the back of this leaflet) and looking at it recognise the breadth and depth of God’s love and generosity,
I hope that you will be able to join us over the coming days as we celebrate our Patronal Festival as a Parish. A Patronal Festival is when we give thanks for the saint we are named after and so whose ‘patronage’ we are under. It is a bit like a birthday celebration as we look back to what has been and forward with hope and prayer to what will be – asking that we may be inspiredby, and seek to follow the example of, our patron saint. For us as a Parish Mary is our patron – and 15th August is a major festival of Mary. (Later on we will celebrate her as Patron of St Mary’s Church and then St Faith as patron of St Faith’s Church).<br><br>To read on, click the Download button...
