It was a glorious spring day on Sunday, May 7, when the Rockburn Presbyterian Church welcomed a small group of people to its Apple Blossom Sunday. The service paid tribute to the beauty of nature and was a celebration of community. Led by Debra Amrein-Boyes, it took place on the church grounds, with the stone church steps serving as the altar. Huge buckets filled with fragrant apple blossoms framed the steps. The congregation was seated on picnic tables and lawn chairs.
Between hymns, prayers, and poetry readings, there was a classical aria performance by frog puppets. The service then paused as the congregation visited with two day-old lambs and their mother who had been transported in a small trailer to the grounds. Debra Amrein-Boyes explained, “The lambs and apple blossoms are a symbol of rebirth.”
The service continued with music provided by Rob Ireland and Gordon Furey with special performances by Tracy Mangal-Finlayson on saxophone. After the benediction and choral amen, the live music continued and the church picnic began. The crowd grew bigger as did the chatter and the visiting with neighbours.
As the picnic got underway, Amrein-Boyes took time to take in the beauty of her surroundings. “We just don’t want it to die,” she sighed, referring to the small church congregation. In recent years many churches have closed their doors due to declining church attendance. “We decided to form a community of church and community members,” she added. And so, Rockburn Hall Events was formed.
The group is composed of members of local communities; some are church members, some private citizens. Amrein-Boyes explains, “We want to draw attention to the value of service in the community. We want to build community and keep the heritage church that sits in the middle. We created events that don’t cost a lot of money. It’s an opportunity to catch up with your neighbours and friends.”
Monthly events
The events run monthly throughout the summer and into the fall. Next up is the third annual potluck supper, which will take place on June 8 at 6 p.m. in the church hall across from the Rockburn Pub. Reservations are needed, as there is limited space in the hall. Attendees are asked to bring food to share with the group, their own dishes and cutlery, and “enjoy good food and good company.”
On August 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the group is hosting the first Rockburn Village Fête and Flea Market. This traditional British fête will take place on the village green; there will be games and competitions for adults and children, including pony rides, a Best-Dressed Pet competition, live music, local vendors, bake sales, and of course, the traditional English tea will be served.
A craft fair and flea market on September 26 will be the next event in the church hall. It will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. offering one-of-a-kind treasures. Local vendors will offer garden produce and local handmade items.
The last event on the calendar will take place on Sunday, October 4, on the village green outside Rockburn Presbyterian Church. The Blessing of the Animals is an outdoor service where all animals are welcomed. Gail Macgregor will preside over the ceremony. “(This is) an old tradition which reminds us how all nature is connected and ours to care and cherish.”
To receive further details and updates, or to reserve, contact the group at rockburnhallevents@gmail.com.