logo

Header graphic for coastal parishes. Shows images of the three church buildings, the coastal parishes logo, and text 'Coastal Parishes North Devon' and 'The church of England in Woolacombe, Mortehoe and Lee', with a background image of Woolacombe Bay. Overlayed image of St Sabinus - Woolacombe Overlayed image of St. Mary's - Mortehoe Overlayed image of St. Matthew's - Lee

It's time for Sring to Spring

A diagram showing the seasons as the Earth rotates around the Sun.The spring equinox takes place when the Earth’s axis is tilted neither towards the sun nor away from it.

 As I sit and write on another gloomy day in February, I cannot help looking forward to March and the meteorological beginning of spring on the first, St David’s Day. All around me is the evidence of the new life waiting to burst from the earth as daffodils, crocus and even primroses defy the wind and the rain. Spring traditionally begins, though, on the Vernal Equinox, which this year falls on 20th March.

The word ‘Equinox’ comes from the Latin, combining the words equi, (equal) and nox, (night). The spring equinox takes place when the Earth’s axis is tilted neither towards the sun nor away from it, giving the impression that day and night last for an equal amount of time.

Equinoxes take place simultaneously in the northern and southern hemispheres, but with the seasons reversed. So, whilst we ring in the spring this March, those south of the equator will be entering astronomical autumn.

In a sense, changes in temperature, daylight, and all manner of situations happen to us regularly. Change is a part of life.

The changing of the seasons is a timely reminder that change is woven into the fabric of our world. In much the same way, change is a central theme in the Christian life. Just as nature cannot remain dormant forever, so too are we called to grow, adapt, and embrace new beginnings in our faith journeys.

Throughout the Bible, we find stories of transformation—whether it is Abram becoming Abraham, Saul’s conversion to Paul, or the disciples leaving behind their old lives to follow Jesus. These examples show that change is not only inevitable but often necessary for spiritual growth. It is through change that we are shaped and refined, learning to trust in God’s guidance even when the path ahead is uncertain.

Lent, which continues in March, is a season in the Church calendar that particularly invites us to reflect on change. It is a time to let go of old habits, seek forgiveness, and prepare for the hope of Easter. As we observe the world around us bursting into life this spring, may we also be encouraged to welcome change in our own lives, trusting that God is at work in every new season.

 

Revd Susan.