Farming Ministry Rooted in Community

As Rector of St Mary’s, Dodleston and All Saints, Higher Kinnerton — parishes set in the heart of semi rural Cheshire and Flintshire countryside — and as Chaplain of Bishop’s Blue Coat Church of England High School, farming ministry has become one of the most joyful parts of my calling.

 In recent years, our connection with the local farming community has deepened in ways I never could have imagined. We’ve held Plough Sunday services, blessed fields and animals, and created beautiful farm hampers as a heartfelt “thank you” — recognising the tireless work our farmers do to sustain the nation. My husband crafted wooden crosses that I illustrated and the congregation painted and each was hand-delivered with care and prayer to every farm.

These moments of gratitude have helped forge lasting friendships. We now welcome nearly every farmer in the parish to our seasonal services — especially for Harvest, which has become a true celebration of shared life and labour. A recent highlight was the privilege of officiating the wedding of two beloved farmers who have been together for over 40 years. 

This passion for farming has naturally extended into my chaplaincy. During Harvest, I took a group of students to a local dairy farm in Dodleston. We met the farmers, learned about robotic milking, and explored what modern farming looks like.

Recently a Year 11 student beamed as she told me that day changed her life — it opened her eyes to her calling. She’s now secured a dairy farming apprenticeship, and she’s even arriving at her prom… on a tractor! 

Moments like this remind us that the future of farming is full of hope, resilience, and promise — and that the Church has a vital role to play in standing alongside those who care for the land and feed the world.

Revd Hana Amner is Rector of St Mary’s Dodleston, All Saints Higher Kinnerton and Chaplain of Bishop’s Bluecoat CofE High School