St Mary’s Luccombe Portishead
Across Bath and Wells church communities have been gathering to celebrate Harvest and give thanks for God's provision.
In Portishead, people of all ages came together to celebrate Harvest. There were beautiful flower arrangements, salt dough creations and plenty of food. Hollowed pumpkins filled with sand were made into bright, sustainable flower displays. Everyone shared a harvest meal made with Fairtrade ingredients, at which a local Fairtrade speaker shared how the everyday choices we make can help support others around the world.
The Churches of the Chew Valley held their first family Harvest Service at Yeo Valley Head Quarters, where they were lucky enough to be inside the beautiful yurt at the Organic Gardens with the fire lit. Everyone enjoyed music, activities for children, a lovely service and a very special talk from Mary Mead, all followed by delicious tea and cake. Then, as a real treat, they were then taken to see some of the newest additions to the farm - three new born calves!
Meanwhile, St Mary’s Luccombe Harvest service had some unusual visitors in their congregation – a host of scarecrows! After sitting quietly in the pews during the service they then stood alongside the villagers who had created them, to be judged in the parish scarecrow competition.
The Churches of the Chew Valley St George's Church School, Wembden Yeo Valley
In Wembdon, there was a special Harvest Festival at St. George’s Church School. Mrs Jayne Pond, RE Lead & Year One Teacher, shares her reflection.
"On the morning of Friday 10 October 2025, the children and staff of Wembdon St. George’s Church School gathered at St. George’s Church, Bridgwater, to celebrate this year’s Harvest Festival. Two services were held — one for Years 4, 5 and 6, and another for Reception, Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3 — allowing every child in the school to take part in this special act of worship and thanksgiving.
Our focus this year was on supporting the Bridgwater Foodbank, helping local families and individuals who may be struggling. Judith, a volunteer from the Foodbank, joined us to explain how donations are used and how the charity supports people in our community. She also invited the children to think about what kinds of foods can be cooked using just a kettle — helping them understand that even small contributions can make a real difference.
"The generosity of our school community was remarkable. Together, the children collected 167.2 kilograms of food and household essentials. On average, a single-person food parcel weighs around 10 kilograms, and one for a family of four weighs about 25 kilograms — meaning our donations will provide vital support to many people in need.
Judith also shared that the need for the Foodbank continues to rise, with a 7% increase in users this year, making donations like ours even more essential to the Bridgwater community.
"The church looked beautiful with its vibrant Harvest display of sunflowers, fresh produce, and harvest loaves, surrounded by the children’s generous gifts. The joyful singing, heartfelt prayers, and thoughtful reflections made the occasion one to remember.
"Together, we are growing gratitude and sharing hope."