Farmers harvest thanksgiving in the Cathedral

The Worcestershire Farmers’ Harvest Thanksgiving took place in Worcester Cathedral on Sunday. People from across the county gathered to give thanks for the farmers who ensure we have food on our plates, as well as to celebrate rural life in general.

The service was organised by the Chaplaincy for Agriculture and Rural Life (CARL).

During the service young people from Worcestershire Young Farmers’ Clubs brought gifts to the altar to represent the different types of harvest. Prayers were offered focussing on the concerns of a range of organisations involved in farming and rural life.

An address was given by Jake Freestone, Farm Manager for Overbury Farms. He said:

“Harvest is a time to look back over the year, reflect on the challenges and how we can learn from them. Farmers all over the world face a number of challenges. Talking to each other helps and gives us the chance to share solutions. Farmers have always faced challenges – we are a resilient and resourceful bunch. However, farming provides a lifetime of opportunity. Let us be opportunistic about what is ahead.”

The service included some traditional harvest hymns and there was a retiring collection for the Farming Community Network, a charity which walks with farmers and members of the farming community in times of difficulty.