YFC and farmers praised at Cathedral Harvest Thanksgiving

A SERVICE of “Thanksgiving for the Harvest” was held at Exeter Cathedral on Sunday, October 4.

It was hosted by Devon Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs with Devon branch of the National Farmers’ Union.

YFC members decorated with harvest themes and flowers the avenues of pillars in the nave.

The Officiant was Interim Dean, The Very Rev Stephen Waine and the Preacher was The Rev Jeremy Putnam, Diocesan Mission Enabler.

There was wonderful singing from the Devon County Junior Choir and Schola Exe.

There was a full congregation for the service which included favourite harvest hymns.

Devon YFC County Chairman Annaleise Retallick led the Procession of Offerings, Cereals from the Exe Valley and North Devon Groups, Roots and Vegetables from Tarka and South Dartmoor Groups, Fruit from Haldon Group, Milk and Dairy Produce from East Devon Groups.

Prayers were read by Devon YFC Vice-Chairman Harry Sprague, Mrs Bridget Down, County Organiser and Junior Vice-Chairman Sophie Pratt.

David Chugg, Devon NFU County Chairman gave the reading from Deuteronomy and Cathy Case, Devon NFU Deputy County Chairman gave the reading from Luke.

The Address was given by Rev Putnam who praised Newton St Cyres YFC for their Memorial Tractor Run in memory of Nathan Saunders.

He spoke about the great stewardship of farmers through what had been a particularly difficult year, adding that farmers are of great value to God for the great works they do.

His Address included references to Sandford Orchards cider, Jeremy Clarkson (the other JC), Kaleb Cooper, also referencing some of the issues farmers had faced in recent times.

The Absolution and Blessing were by the Bishop of Exeter, Rev Dr Mike Harrison.

Honoured guests at the service included the Lord Mayor of Exeter.

The collection was for Exeter Cathedral and Exeter Food Action.