20 April 2026
The Theydon Parishes held their annual Lambing Service on Palm Sunday.
The service bought people together from across the Benefice to bless the new lambs, and to give thanks to local farmers, shepherds, and for all those who work on the land: on whom we depend for our daily needs.
The Theydon Parishes Lambing Service can trace its roots back to Theydon Garnon where the original service used to take place in a barn at Searles Farm; offering some protection from the unpredictable British weather.
In more recent years the Service was moved to Stapleford Tawney with the support of a local farmer, George Padfield, and has been steadily rebuilding its place in the local calendar.
Today, the service enjoys growing popularity as both a community gathering and a celebration of rural life, drawing parishioners and visitors alike who value the connection to farming traditions and seasonal rhythms.
Vicar, the Rev'd Sarah Moss (pictured above), reflected:
“The Lambing Service reminds us of the deep bond between community, faith, and the land - it’s a simple tradition, but one that continues to bring people together year after year.”