FAITH IN THE COMMUNITY: Harvest celebrations help us to think of those in need
By the Rev Andrew Sheard, rector, Warblington-with-Emsworth
We recently enjoyed a Harvest Supper at St James’ Church, Emsworth, which allowed us to try a variety of international foods – as well as supporting the work of two local foodbanks.
Harvest is in some ways a strange festival for churches in the middle of cities and towns to celebrate – the days when all local farmers came into church to thank God for a successful Harvest are behind us. Even in Emsworth, it’s not quite the same as it was.
But it still gives us a chance to thank God that we have enough to eat, and many churches do now tie in their Harvest celebrations with a chance to donate food for those who struggle to afford decent meals.
In our case, we also learnt about the experiences of others living and working around the world, and what the church does to support international humanitarian organisations.
The food at the event was brought by attendees, so everyone present was able to try a variety of sweet and savoury hot meals and salads. This included pavlova from Australia, profiteroles from France, curry from India, chilli from Mexico, and a feta cheese salad from Greece.
As part of the event there was a talk was by Jerry Adams, who previously worked with Tearfund and has worked on water, sanitation, and hygiene programs, including in Nepal, over the past 15 years.
He talked about the challenges that have been created by the floods in Nepal, for example the impacts of damage to the water network, overcrowding in surviving buildings, and the impact on the local education system.
We also heard about the response that Tearfund and their local partners have provided on the ground, including delivering essential supply and shelter kits and working with first responders in the immediate aftermath.
I wonder if you ever pause to think where your food comes from, and who is involved in the process of growing crops, rearing cattle, bringing fresh fruit and vegetables to our supermarkets, or making sure the food we need is always available in our shops?
We tend to take these things for granted, but that’s not always the case in other parts of the world. Whether you have a faith or not, let’s be thankful for all those involved in that process, and be aware of how we can donate to those who don’t have enough to eat.
ST JAMES CHURCH, Church Path, Emsworth, PO10 7DP
ST THOMAS A BECKET CHURCH, Church Lane, Warblington, PO9 2TU