A sense of togetherness

What better way to embrace the great outdoors than by soaking up the atmosphere at a summer festival? I love stepping outside and witnessing the wonders of nature and togetherness. We are spoilt for choice; whether you’re a music lover, film aficionado, oyster-loving mermaid, green-fingered gardener, bookworm or simply seeking spiritual solace, there’s a festival for you. In the UK, countless summer festivals offer an opportunity to relish the beauty of nature and rejuvenate our souls; it’s a powerful combination.

I love the Chelsea Flower Show. With its mixture of colourful and inspirational floral designs, it’s a true seasonal gem. I also have many happy memories of the Notting Hill Carnival, a brilliant and vibrant celebration held over the August Bank Holiday weekend. A new addition to my list this year is the Cape Clear Island Storytelling Festival, a gathering of the finest storytellers in the world. 

Hebrews 10:24-25 says: “And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching” (CSB). Gathering together in community strengthens God’s divine love for us. This idea was recently explored by a team of researchers from Yale University who studied the social behaviour of individuals who attend festivals. The experience was found to be life-affirming for the participants. The positive experiences they had during and after the festival had a significant impact on their lives. According to the survey conducted after the event, attendees reported feeling more connected to humanity and willing to help strangers. This reminds me of Jesus’ teachings; he taught the Golden Rule, found in Matthew 7:12:“Do to others what you would have them do to you.” 

Festivals, at their core, promote harmony and togetherness, making attending them all the more worthwhile. The social support and connections made from gatherings are life-affirming. Warm, light and long days delight our senses and, whatever your interest, festivals make unforgettable memories. I hope you’re able to get to one or more this summer!

Lord God and loving Father, 

Please guide and strengthen us as we navigate the summer

and holidays.

May we remain committed

to helping others

And sharing with them the blessings of summertime. 

Heavenly Father,

who brings light and love, 

Please help us to share your message of hope and healing.

Let us embrace the path

of peace and godliness, 

Walking together hand in

hand so that we may never

lose our way.

Abba Father, share your compassionate grace,

To renew and revitalise our minds and bodies, bringing comfort and solace.

Amen.