Harvest Celebration Stories
Harvest season is a time to express our gratitude to God for His abundant provision. Across our diocese, we are excited to hear how parishes have been celebrating in different ways that reflect not only thankfulness for God’s good gifts but also a spirit of sharing and generosity toward one another and those in need!
St Paul’s Boundary Road
On Saturday 5th October, St Paul’s hosted a free Harvest Meal for members of their church and the local community. Over 40 people gathered for a delicious meal of chicken pie with braised red cabbage and desserts, all prepared using produce from the church’s community garden and surplus ingredients donated by local shops and supermarkets that might otherwise have gone to waste. A dedicated team of 10 volunteers worked hard preparing, cooking, and hosting the meal, creating a warm and welcoming event for all.
St Thomas’s Kirkby
On Sunday 6th October, St Thomas’s Kirkby in Ashfield transformed the traditional vision of harvest into a welcoming, urban celebration that extended beyond crops and produce. During their Harvest Festival, the church gave thanks to God for the gifts of community and collaboration, welcoming members from local charity organisations like Ashfield Voluntary Action, Kirkby Chorus, and Men in Sheds. These groups do invaluable work in alleviating poverty, isolation, and anxiety in the local area. After a service filled with gratitude, the congregation enjoyed lunch together in the hall, using their new community kitchen equipment for the first time.
St Andrew’s Mission Hall, Blidworth
On Saturday 21st September, St Andrew’s Mission Hall celebrated harvest with creativity and joy. The event featured a range of activities for adults and children, with over 20 children and 20 adults participating in baking, leaf printing, and making a harvest collage. A scavenger hunt and songs added to the excitement of the day!
More than just a celebration of food, these harvest events remind us to pause and recognise the abundance of God’s gifts in our lives and how we can share His blessings with one another. As we continue to reflect on the harvest season, may we be reminded of our call to care for creation and for each other. Have you had a harvest event in your church recently? We’d love to hear about it – you can get in touch here.