Traditionally, Plough Sunday has been observed on the First Sunday of Epiphany since
the Victorian age, however, it has a much older association with the first working day after
the twelve days of Christmas, hence the phrase ‘Plough Monday’ used in some places.
In the past, ploughs were often kept in the parish church and were blessed at this service.
After long winters, during which farm work was scarce, the observance of this agricultural
festival looked ahead to the time of sowing and the promise of harvest to come.
Although the nature of farming has changed over the centuries, today Plough Sunday
is still seen as a way of celebrating farming and human labour more generally near the
start of the calendar year. It is an opportunity to cherish the land and to remind us all
of our dependence upon it and upon God. Today, a traditional plough will be blessed at
Tibberton Church during the 10.30am service.
The Revd David Morris said: “As a group of rural parishes, we believe it is important to
celebrate the agricultural year. We start each year with a Plough Sunday service as we
look to offer all our work for the coming year to God, for God’s blessing.”
A prayer for Plough Sunday:
Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation:
for in your abundant care you have given us fertile
land, rich soil, the seasons in their courses.
You provide seed for sowing, water, light
and
warmth to bring forth the miracle of growth.
You give us skill to work the land,
to prepare and nourish it, that it may be fruitful.
By your blessing, let this plough be a sign of
all that you promise to us.
Prosper the work of our hands, and provide
abundant crops for your people to share.
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
God speed the plough.
Kingswinford Deanery –
Rural Dean: David Hoskin;
Lay Chair: Anthony Lovesy
Diocese of Lesotho (South Africa):
Bishop Mallane Taaso
