Sunday, St. Mary the Virgin Church in Warwick came alive with a moving and vibrant service celebrating Harvest Thanksgiving, bringing together farmers, families, and members of the wider community.
The service, led by Father Carl Williams, priest in charge at St. Mary’s, was rooted in the church’s tradition of Rogation Sunday—a time to reflect on God’s creation and humanity’s responsibility to care for the earth.
“Rogation reminds us that God is the Creator and has entrusted us to be caretakers of His earth,” Father Williams explained. “Harvest Thanksgiving allows us to bring the bounty of the land before God’s altar and give thanks for the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands.”
The celebration featured farmers from across Bermuda who shared their produce and personal stories. One guest speaker spoke passionately about growing up in a farming family, recalling how his father’s dedication inspired him to leave accounting behind and continue the tradition of working the land.
After the service, parishioners and guests processed outside, where tractors, tools, and farming equipment were blessed, symbolizing the church’s gratitude and prayers for the farming community. The gathering continued with fellowship in the parish hall, rekindling the spirit of traditional harvest services that have been part of the church’s history for generations.
Father Williams noted that this year focused on farmers, but in future years the church hopes to broaden the celebration to honor other essential groups, such as fishermen and those in transportation.
“This is not a new concept, but we want Harvest Thanksgiving to become a feature event here at St. Mary’s every year,” he said.
Adding to the joyous occasion were musical and cultural contributions. Tiffany Fox played piano in place of Robert Edwards, and parish member Hannah Bushara, now an international performer, lent her talents as well. The service concluded with the Warwick Gombeys, led by Mr. Trott, who brought energy and tradition to the event.
“Wherever the Gombeys are, people gather and dance,” said Father Williams with a smile. “I was even dancing—it was such a wonderful moment.”
The timing of the celebration coincided with the Harvest Full Moon, adding a poetic touch. Father Williams reflected on the moon’s importance in farming, recalling traditions from his home in Barbados where crops were planted according to the moon’s cycles.
For St. Mary’s, the Harvest Thanksgiving was not only about food and farming, but also about unity, hope, and faith.
“St. Mary the Virgin is a diverse parish with people from all walks of life,” Father Williams said. “We had children, elders, and families together. In a time when Bermuda is at a crossroads, this service was a reminder that there is always hope—because with God, there is no destruction or confusion, only hope.”
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