A blessing of the lambs service in the Church of England occurs during or at the end of the lambing season. It is a special occasion on which to give thanks for the new lambs and to pray for the well-being of the sheep and the farmers.
The Lamb of God is a central figure in Christian theology, and the service reinforces this symbolism.
On Sunday, May 4 Rev Jacques Desrosiers held the blessing of the lambs service at St Mary’s East Guldeford. The rector, Rev Paul White, and Rev Michael Georgiou, assistant curate in the Rye benefice, also presided. Church wardens Annie and Richard Baker, local farmers, organised this delightful service which was held in a packed church.
The children who came were delighted with the frisking lambs in the graveyard adjoining the church.
Instead of a sermon Jacques cleverly interviewed Annie and Richard and the congregation learnt more about the intricacies of the lambing season. It was informative, perhaps too much so at times, and added to the enjoyment of the service. The congregation was invited outside to watch as the lambs were blessed.
Everyone was entranced as the scene unfolded when a ewe decided to escape from the pen, leaving her rather anxious new lambs behind. Help was on hand – Annie swept one of the lambs up in her arms and Paul White did likewise, evoking the words of the late Pope Francis: “Give me pastors who smell of their sheep.” And indeed he did.
Music for services at the church is a challenge given the absence of electricity. Fortunately Martin Bruce has a battery-powered keyboard, amplifier and ingenious sampler app enabling a surprisingly good approximation to a church pipe organ sound to be managed. He accompanied the vigorous hymn singing, Lesley Moore’s poised performance of Bach’s Sheep may safely graze and gave a sparkling account of a Buxtehude fugue as the concluding voluntary.
Scrumptious homemade cakes were served with tea after the service and the flowers in the church were arranged beautifully by Annie Baker.
Image Credits: Martin Bruce , Kt bruce .