An article from The Church of England Newspaper
Harvest Festivals are still valued by most adults, although only half say children still participate in them.
The figures emerged from a new ComRes survey which found that two thirds (65 per cent) say their memories of Harvest Festival were positive, with the main perceived benefits listed as generosity to people in need (62%), giving thanks for good things in our lives ( 51%) and teaching children where food comes from (48%)
Three quarters of respondents (73%) said they remembered celebrating harvest Festival as a child, with most remembering bringing in food to give to people in need (61%) as well as attending Harvest Services or saying prayers (64%) Only just over a tenth of those polled (13%) see no value in participation.
The Church of England’s Chief Education Offer, the Revd Nigel Genders, said: “It’s encouraging to know that parents agree, and there is a clear call for more schools of all kinds to use the coming weeks to celebrate harvest, and I hope many will do so.”
Harvest Service at St Edmund’s – 10.30am, Sunday 6th October.
Harvest Service at St James’ – 10.30am, Sunday 13th October.