We plow the fields, and scatter

Today is Rogation Sunday. Beating the Bounds (pictured) is an ancient custom still observed in many churches in England. The priest of the parish with the leaders and the parochial officials headed a crowd of boys who, armed with green boughs, usually birch or willow, beat the parish boundary markers with them. Sometimes the boys were themselves whipped or even violently bumped on the boundary-stones to make them remember. Prayers were said for protection and blessings for the lands. We still say prayers for the land and we will be doing that at my parish today.


We plow the fields, and scatter the good seed on the land,but it is fed and watered by God's almighty hand;he sends the snow in winter, the warmth to swell the grain,the breezes and the sunshine, and soft refreshing rain.

All good gifts around usare sent from heaven above,then thank the Lord, O thank the Lordfor all his love.


And so a happy Rogation Sunday to you all! (Oh yes and many thanks to Deacon Liz for all she has done and all I know you will be doing today)!