Bishop Helen-Ann returned to Fieldays again this year, and had an excellent day exploring the vast site, and speaking to many different people.  A particular focus for her conversations with various exhibit-holders was the pastoral care of farmers, their families, and all those who work in agriculture.  She spent time in the Fonterra marquee in conversation with staff, and contributed to the giant wall mural ('painting by numbers').  It was good also to connect with some of the individuals and groups that the bishop interacts with on Twitter.  Bishop Helen-Ann acknowledged the important work that may of our parishes do to support rural communities, and the financial support also that many farmers bring to the life and work of the Church through stock schemes.  Two of our Anglican schools were also present: St Paul's Collegiate, and St Peter's, Cambridge, who are both offering specialised courses in agribusiness.  Given that Anglicans brought the first cows to Aotearoa, it was good to be reminded of the links between the labour of agriculture, and the labour of the mission of God in which all creation participates!

In the photograph, Bishop HA is pictured with Farryn and Jason on the Rural Support Trust stand within the LIC marquee.