HARVEST FESTIVAL:

The tradition of celebrating Harvest Festivals is not something that has been an integral part of the Catholic tradition in this country. That said, I have valued the involvement of Much Woolton School in a special Harvest Mass at St Mary’s over the years, and this year, I am taking part in an Ecumenical Harvest Service at Hope University. I think the focus is particularly significant in the broader context of our duty to redouble our efforts to care for the planet and prepare a better world for the generations to come. There are times when, despite our best efforts, it may seem that we are swimming against an unstoppable tide in the opposite direction, but I would like to offer a word of hope and encouragement. I do take heart from the fact that our children and the younger generation in general are much savvier about the need to redress the destructive forces at work in our world than I was at their age. Add to that the assurance of St Paul that “by turning everything to their good God co-operates with all those who love him, with all those that he has called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) Indeed, it was that chapter of St Paul which become the focus of our reflection at the meeting we had in Bishop Eton with our fellow religious from the different Orders and Congregations last week. Earlier in the chapter you hear Paul wrestle with the same cosmic struggles: “From the beginning till now the entire creation, as we know, has been groaning in one great act of giving birth; and not only creation, but all of us who possess the first-fruits of the Spirit, we too groan inwardly as we wait for our bodies to be set free.” Paul then encourages us to live in hope and with patience. Let’s do as he says.