Creationtide

 

I've noted the different names for this period in the liturgical year, between September 1st and October 4th. They include Season of Creation (ecumenical) Creation Time (United Church & others) and Creationtide (Anglicans.) I like the latter the best because the tide is the twice daily inhalation and exhalation of our oceans and seas. It is one of the manifold wonders of our planetary home.

When we lived in the province of Nova Scotia we spent time along the Bay of Fundy where the tides are so great that they run like powerful rivers and the rise and fall can be 16 metres, the equivalent of a four-storey building. We kayaked on the Bay of Fundy from Grand Manan Island, in New Brunswick and we had to be mindful of the force of the water. We also paddled around the rocks, below, and ended up wading through deep mud to shore when we misjudged the ebb. 

Earlier this year we were in Israel and spent time along the Mediterranean Sea where there is virtually no tide because of the narrow opening the Straits of Gibraltar. Tides also fluctuate in storms and at a full moon. It's all so wonderful and mysterious, explainable yet incomprehensible.

We are experiencing the tides once again, this time on an island off the Northeast shore of Newfoundland. The tides are modest here, but noticeable, and we pay attention. Creationtide calls us to pay attention to the breath of the planet, and to cherish all that God has brought into being. 

It will be a few days before I check in again, so love the Earth, day by day. Celebrate, pray, act, commit!