Farming’s Shop Window

Bishop Karen will take part in the farming industry’s national open day this weekend.

Open Farm Sunday takes place on 11 June, with farms across the county and country welcoming members of the public to learn the story behind our food.

Bishop Karen will visit four farms, near Shroton, Wareham, Weymouth and Wimborne.

She will be accompanied by the Revd Jean Coates, the Diocese’s Rural Officer for Dorset, who over the years has built up a great many valued relationships with farmers and businesses.

Bishop Karen said,  “Although farming employs fewer people than in the past, it remains vital, keeping us nourished, protecting our environment and natural heritage, and supporting thousands of jobs in support and distribution.

“I will see a wide variety of farming in action – thatching, bee keeping, dairy, sheep, pigs and alpacas!

“The Church’s role is to support and affirm all those who make up community life, to encourage signs of God's Kingdom which literally ‘give us our daily bread’. Farming is going through a great time of uncertainty and I know that anything we can do to support local farms, buy local produce and offer the gift of Christ’s love through our action is much appreciated.

“You can find out which farms are open in your area just by going to www.farmsunday.org/visit-a-farm and sticking in your post code.”

Bishop Karen will finish her tour with Evening Prayer at St Bartholomew’s Church in Corton, in the hills above Portesham, at 5 pm. All are welcome.