Greetings at the beginning of a new month as Thoughts from The Vicarage returns!
The beginning of August is known as Lammastide. Lammas Day itself is August 1st according to the Book of Common Prayer and is the ancient forerunner of Harvest Festival. Dating from Anglo-Saxon times it probably replaced an earlier pagan festival marking the beginning of harvest.
Traditionally, a loaf of bread was blessed that was made from the first corn harvested and ground, such was their utter dependence on a reliable harvest each year at a time when it was so difficult to store food safely for any long period.
It is associated with the Jewish offering of the first fruits to God in gratitude reflecting the principle enshrined in this ancient feast is that we should always offer the first and the best to God in humble gratitude for His gift of life to us and to the whole natural world.
Lammastide has really caught my attention this year. It seems so very timely as harvest approaches within this drought-stricken part of the world. Chris, of Lambourn market stall was telling me of the terrible effect of drought upon the rice harvest in Italy (the largest producer of rice in Europe). Add to the climate the uncertainty of supply from war torn Ukraine and it seems a good opportunity to express support and appreciation to our farmers at the beginning of harvest, and to all those involved in the food industry.
As we returned home, driving through France the ‘secheresse’, the dryness was of a stunning magnitude as I endlessly commented to Mr Vicarage. It was also noticeable that sunflowers were being commercially grown much further North than previously – presumably in response to the shortage bought about by the war in Ukraine.
However, we look at the changing climate and agriculture, Lammastide, like Harvest Festival reminds us to give thanks in addition to challenging our attitudes and values towards the created world upon which all human life depends.
The good news was that the grape vines were as evident as ever and of course we carried out a certain amount of quality control while in la belle France!
Thank you to all those who welcomed Rita and Liz who led our services and, many thanks, as ever to Christine who led worship on July 17th.
On Sunday we look forward to welcoming you to either the quiet contemplative Book of Common Prayer communion at 8am in Eastbury or at the sung Eucharist at 10.30 in St Michael’s Lambourn – it would be super to see you in one of our ‘cool’ churches. All and we mean all, are welcome, meanwhile,
Every blessing for the week ahead
Julie