A 24–7 prayer walk, country style
“ASK, SEEK, KNOCK”, are the words of scripture featured on our Diocesan 24/7 prayer scroll. Words which were acted upon by parishioners from Castlewellan and Kilcoo on Sunday 25 May, during their 24–7 prayer weekend.
The rector, Revd Brian Cadden, takes up the story…
Coming as it did on Rogation Sunday, we set off to take prayer out into the farms and countryside of our parishes which straddle the northern foothills of the Mourne Mountains and the rolling farmlands of south Down.
Our prayer trek took us to some of the farms and rural businesses (a cycle retailer) of our community. It opened the eyes of many to the challenges our farmers face in their daily lives, and expressed our thanksgiving to God for his blessings on our labours.
We also prayed for farming families, farm safety, the farming of livestock and the crops for market. Living in such a beautiful, and precious natural environment, we prayed for the visitors to the hills and those engaged in the conservation and supply of one of our most precious resources – water!
As could be expected, we had our fair share of rain on Sunday afternoon, (mustn’t complain!) but it lifted and by the time we reached Bryansford we were welcomed with a cup of tea! Farmers were encouraged, non – farmers were enlightened, and the craic was good!
About Rogation Sunday
Rogation Sunday is the day when the Church has traditionally offered prayer for God’s blessing on the fruits of the earth and the labours of those who produce our food. The word “rogation” is from the Latin rogare, “to ask.” Historically, the Rogation Days (the three days before Ascension Day) were a period of fasting and abstinence, seeking God’s blessing on the crops for a bountiful harvest.