Abington Church Harvest Thanksgiving Service

Abington Church in Murroe holds its Harvest Thanksgiving Service on a Sunday in September each year, a long-standing fixture of the Church of Ireland parish calendar in this part of east Limerick. The service gives thanks for the harvest in the traditional style, with the church decorated for the occasion, and is followed by tea and refreshments next door in the parish room. All are welcome, regardless of parish or denomination.

What to expect

The Harvest Thanksgiving Service follows the familiar Church of Ireland pattern for this time of year: hymns and readings built around the harvest theme, the church decorated with produce and flowers for the occasion, and a collection taken up during the service for the Bishop’s Appeal, which supports overseas relief and development work. In past years the Bishop has attended in person, and on at least one occasion the service also marked the addition of a new patronal name for the church, so it can carry extra significance beyond the usual annual thanksgiving. Afterwards, the congregation moves next door to the adjoining parish room for tea and refreshments, giving neighbours and visitors a chance to catch up. The exact date shifts a little from year to year, typically falling on a Sunday in the second half of September, so the parish newsletter or the Abington Church Facebook page is the best place to confirm the precise date and time closer to the day.

While you’re in Murroe

Murroe sits on the edge of the Slieve Felim hills in east Limerick, with the grounds of Glenstal Abbey nearby making a natural stop before or after the service. There is more to see in Murroe and across Co. Limerick.

Good to know

• A Sunday in September; recent years have fallen around 3pm to 5pm on the third Sunday of the month
• Venue: Abington Church, Murroe, Co. Limerick
• Free to attend; a collection is taken for the Bishop’s Appeal
• Tea and refreshments follow in the adjoining parish room
• Confirm the exact date via the Abington Church Facebook page nearer the time