WHAT IS ROGATION SUNDAY?
Rogation Days, an ancient custom observed since the 5th century. Rogation—meaning to ask God’s blessing of the harvest, earth and sea, reminding ourselves that we are the stewards of Creation. Originally an agricultural observance, it has been broadened and made more inclusive—the crops, the catch of the sea, the fruits of our labors in all their aspects.
A pagan custom was “beating the bounds”, with a procession walking out the boundary lines of the village and marking the bounds with stakes. Sticks of willow and birch were used to strike the stakes; hence, “beating the bounds”. Subsequently the custom became incorporated into Rogation Days celebration and was celebrated by walking the boundaries of the parish and acknowledging in this way our tangible stewardship.
Rogation Days are to honor God for all creation, and to pray for the land and sea and the gifts of labor, and for the needs of all. The traditional Rogation Days are the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday before Ascension Day and Rogation Sunday is the Sixth Sunday after Easter.
Bring Your Shovels!
At all services today we will pray for God’s Blessings on your gardens and the community Garden and the Flores family farm that provides produce for our food ministry The Table. Bring your seeds, your hoe or trowel or a small garden ornament to be blessed at our services on Sunday, May 1.
THE SCIENCE & SPIRITUALITY OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Rabbi Devorah Lynn and Fred Lipschultz, Ph.D
Sydnor Hall May 1, 10 a.m.
In honor of Rogation Sunday join Devorah and Fred as they talk about the current scientific wisdom and how sacred text speaks to us. They will also talk about what impact we can have individually and as a community.
Dr. Fred Lipschultz is the Regional Coordinator for the National Climate Assessment and Senior Scientist at USGCRP. The Program works to coordinate 13 Federal agencies that conduct climate research for the President’s Climate Science Advisor in the Office of Science & Technology Policy at the White House. He also teaches Salsa Dancing .
Rabbi Devorah Chaplain for The Jewish Social Services of Montgomery County Maryland and Georgetown University Hospital.