The special church service for FOOD Week, to be conducted by the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Bathurst Ian Palmer, will be set underneath a large gum tree between three different varieties of grapes at the Burrendong Way vineyard.

Mortimers Wines owner Peter Mortimer encouraged everyone to come along to the non-denominational service, regardless of faith.

“It’s a harmonious outdoor service for everybody. People who don’t go to church come along because its such a lovely service,” Mr Mortimer said.

“We have people who come along who might go to church three times a year, and make this their time to catch up with friends. It’s a lovely chance to catch up in a different environment.”

The Blessing of the Harvest has been running since 2006, after Mr Mortimer was inspired by Ulladulla’s annual Blessing of the Fleet festival, and encouraged by retired Holy Trinity Anglican Church priest Frank Hetherington to go ahead with the idea.

He said the service, which begins at 10am, gives many people a chance to meditate and reflect.

“It allows you to re-assess where you are and how lucky you are, in a non-threatening environment,” Mr Mortimer said.

Mr Mortimer said people were welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy after the hour-long service, and said guests could stay and enjoy the countryside as long as they liked.

Holy Trinity Anglican Church congregation members will also host a morning tea afterwards, and music, barbecue and wine will follow in the winery’s cellar door from noon.

If weather is inclement, the service will be held at The Barrel Hall, the winery’s new on-site accommodation.

alexandra.king@fairfaxmedia.com.au