On This Day in Wembury
8 May 1950 — Blessing of the Earth and Sea
On this day the Western Evening Herald noted that Rogation Sunday was being observed in Wembury by the ancient custom of blessing the earth and the sea. Weather permitting, the Vicar of Wembury, Rev. Kenneth Tagg, planned to perform the blessing after matins. Across the South Hams, other clergy also marked the tradition: Rev. Robert Ball of Plymstock was to lead his congregation from the Church of the Good Shepherd to Oreston Quay for the blessing of the waters, while Rev. A. T. P. Byles of Yealmpton was to bless the fields at matins and evensong.
Reflection: Rogation ceremonies remind us of the deep roots between faith, farming, and fishing communities. In postwar 1950, the blessing of Wembury’s land and sea echoed centuries of dependence on both, asking for protection and fruitfulness in the year ahead.
Source: Western Evening Herald, 8 May 1950.
Entries are summaries and interpretations of historical newspaper reports.