Dear Friends,

We are making our Harvest thanksgiving this week.

I invite you to take to heart Jesus’ words in the gospel – to consider the birds and the flowers around us, and to extend that to the natural beauty of our area. Time spent enjoying all the moods of our land and sea is perhaps one of the greatest gifts we receive here and something which keeps us aware of our God and Creator. As we enjoy the views, maybe too, we can extend our appreciation to those who care for the land and manage our coast line and reflect on how we play our part in caring for our environment in all the choices we make.

This year we have not been able to gather as village communities to mark Harvest – so if you are a farmer please know that people around you are giving thanks for your commitment today; and if you know a farmer and have contact with them please tell them what a good job they do!

If you would like to make a traditional harvest-tide gift to support those who are less blessed with abundance, here are a couple of idea about charities to support:

The Freedom Centre in Barnstaple is continuing to support those who need their help. Find out more at:

https://freedomcommunityalliance.org.uk/

and their donation page is:

https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/donation-web/charity?charityId=1011150&stop_mobi=yes

Christian Aid also have an Autumn Appeal. Details are on their website:

https://www.christianaid.org.uk/

God bless,

Samantha