Team Rector’s Letter May 2022
1 May is ‘MAYDAY’
What do we understand by that word?
Traditionally, 1 May is celebrated as an ancient spring festival, reaching back to pre-Christian times. In the past, to have survived winter at all was a cause for thanksgiving, and after the hardships of winter to see the rebirth of the created world as the warmth of longer days brought growth. Dances round the may-pole, singing, and cake are usually part of the Mayday festivities.
In 1889, May Day was chosen by socialists as the date for International Workers Day, celebrating the dignity of human work. In some countries it is known as Labour Day. Clearly this is a very different celebration from the traditional May Day.
Finally, the international distress signal is “Mayday” calling for help, for rescue.
So this mayday:
We celebrate the God of creation, in the beauty of nature.
We recognise the God of justice in the dignity of every human being.
We call out to the God of rescue, when we are feeling vulnerable, and lost, helpless and afraid.
Happy Mayday!
Reverend Ren Harding (Team Rector)
The Vicarage, 6 Tile Kiln Lane, Joydens Wood, Bexley, DA5 2BB
01322-528923 renharding@hotmail.co.uk
