Restored by the water

It’s been a busy and rewarding day at Church Farm. We took the opportunity to test the soil across different areas of the farm and surrounding land. This will help us understand the current condition of the soil so that we can care more effectively for what is already growing and thoughtfully introduce new species to the area.

With the help of Agriculture Lime, who collected samples from two key locations, we’ll soon receive the results of the S1 tests — including pH, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium levels, and organic matter content. These insights will guide us in nurturing a healthier and more balanced ecosystem.

While out in the fields, I was grateful for a moment to pause and take in my surroundings — to listen to nature and observe the subtle signs of the changing season. Although this autumn has been unusually mild so far, the signs of transition are unmistakable. Leaves are beginning to turn, migratory birds have started their long journeys to warmer climates, and the water table is slowly rising. Being surrounded by rolling hills and entrusted with the care of creation on this scale makes these changes feel especially significant.

One particular moment of blessing came as I stood beside the stream running through the land. The sound of rushing water immediately invited me to quiet both my inner and outer voice — to simply listen. It brought to mind Psalm 23:3: “He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul.”

In that quiet, I was reminded that when we still our own voices, we become attuned to something greater — to the voice of our Creator. It is a voice that restores, affirms the goodness of nature, and gently reminds us that all of this is, indeed, very good.