Thunderstorms had been forecast. Rain was a certainty. Did that dampen spirits? Not a jot!
A Parish walk and picnic had long been planned to celebrate St. James’ Day. Come what may…it was going to happen!
The day began with a Holy Communion service, led by Rev. Dyllis. Her homily focused on the life and times of St. James, a much-loved disciple of Jesus, and one of the earliest to be martyred for his faith. Whilst the adult congregation learned about the patron saint and the response of Jesus to James’ mother’s request to have him seated at God’s side, the Sunday Club youngsters also engaged with the gospel narrative, producing some artwork around the theme of ‘pecking order’. People of all ages arrived at the same conclusion – there is no ‘pecking order’ in the kingdom of God.
The service ended with a celebratory drink before heading off ‘down the road’ to Springfield’, the picnic venue. Road safety marshalls guided walkers across the road and along the country lanes to their destination, where a warm, sunny welcome awaited under uncertain skies.
Picnics were tucked into, drinks were served and difficult choices had to be made about which sweet treat to try first from a table laden with goodies!
Intermittent drizzle did not detract from the celebrations. Cagoules and umbrellas provided adequate protection and so the party continued.
The clip-clop of hooves on concrete announced the appearance of two star guests – a pair of donkeys named Bear and Sophie. Children and adults were delighted to have the chance to fuss them and chat with their proud owners.
Guests of all ages were invited to have a tour of the farm, seated on hay bales, riding on a trailer, pulled by a vintage Massey Ferguson ‘industrial’ tractor. The final destination was a brief stop by the lake – a lush wonderland of foliage and a serene space of tranquility. It was quite magical.
Did the thunderstorms arrive? No!
Did it rain? Yes!
Did the weather spoil the day? Absolutely not!
St. James’ Day had been celebrated in style, with something for everyone, but most importantly, as a church family.