Harvest Festival is a longstanding tradition in our parish and this year, falls on 27 September, taking on a special significance as it is also the day on which Greta will be ordained Deacon.

Harvest is traditionally a time for thanksgiving to God for creation and for the gifts of the harvest. It is therefore a good time to think of things that we can be thankful for. This year, it may seem difficult to feel thankful for much.  With our heightened levels of Covid stress, with new cases on the rise again and talk of a second wave, it can be hard to appreciate the world around us. However, even though, due to the pandemic, we are not as we once were, the sun still shines, the rain still pours and if you are lucky enough to be near some trees, the birds still sing. Even if nothing else springs to mind, these are all things that we can take a moment to be thankful for, to give thanks to God for his creation.

Here are some of the declarations that Greta will be making in her ordination service. Please hold her in prayer.

Do you accept the Holy Scriptures as revealing all things necessary for eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ?
Ordinand: I do so accept them.

Will you be diligent in prayer, in reading Holy Scripture, and in all studies that will deepen your faith and fit you to bear witness to the truth of the Gospel?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.

Do you believe the doctrine of the Christian faith as the Church of England has received it,  and in your ministry will you expound and teach it?
Ordinand: I believe it and will so do.

Will you strive to make the love of Christ known through word and example, and have a particular care for those in need?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.

Will you be a faithful servant in the household of God, after the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.

Will you endeavour to fashion your own life and that of your household according to the way of Christ, that you may be a pattern and example to Christ’s people?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.

Will you work with your fellow servants in the gospel for the sake of the kingdom of God?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.

Will you accept the discipline of this Church and give due respect to those in authority?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.

Will you then, in the strength of the Holy Spirit, continually stir up the gift of God that is in you, to grow in holiness and grace?
Ordinand: By the help of God, I will.