As the seasons turn and autumn colours begin to appear, we come once again to celebrate Harvest. It is a time of thanksgiving — for the fruitfulness of the earth, the labour of farmers and growers, and the abundance we so often take for granted. Harvest reminds us not only of the gifts we have been given but also of our calling to share them with others. In a world where many go without, thanksgiving and generosity belong together. We are called to live as people of hope — sowing kindness, justice, and peace in our communities.
That same hope is needed in times of pain and division. As the Bishop of Manchester has said in response to the recent synagogue attack: “The way we defy those who seek to sow hatred in our communities is to draw closer to one another in love. Hate can never defeat hate; only love can conquer hate.” As Christians, we stand alongside our Jewish brothers and sisters in grief and in prayer. We hold the families of all those affected close to our hearts, asking for God’s comfort, healing, and peace. Whatever community we belong to, we are called to share hope. In the face of violence, fear, and division, we are reminded that God’s love is stronger than hate, and that Christ calls us to be witnesses of that love.
Today we are also encouraged in that hope through the appointment of The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury. May her ministry strengthen us all in the call to walk together in faith, hope, and love.
In the wisdom and words of St Paul, ‘And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
With love and blessings Revd Tracy
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