St John the Baptist RC Church in St John Village , St Augustine , is taking its annual harvest celebrations to another level this year by adding two new elements.

In the run-up to the Sunday, June 26 harvest, there will be a “Week of Prayer” in the parish church, running from Monday, June 20 to June 24. The week will feature sermons from some powerful preachers, including Abbot John Pereira of Mount St Benedict, Frs Steve Duncan and Matthew d'Hereaux and Monsignor Esau Joseph.

Each evening will begin with adoration at 5 p.m. and continue with benediction at 6 p.m. and Holy Mass at 7 p.m.

Secondly, the church has switched from its usual churchyard venue on St John Road , where they have been held for the last 30-plus years, to the nearby Mount St Benedict grounds at the foot of the Mount.

This is to enable the introduction of a variety of sporting events, making the day more of a total family affair, involving all age groups.

There will be an increase in the number of stalls, providing a wider variety of goods and gifts to patrons.

The popular Bouncy Castle will be on spot to provide even more fun for the children, in addition to longer pony rides and the inclusion of the all-time favourite - the Dunkin' machine.

This year, lunch will comprise creole dishes, with a choice of either chicken, pork or fish. Lunch will be on sale from 11.30 a.m. Tickets cost $25 and patrons have a chance of winning two airline tickets to Barbados .

Local culture will also form part of the proceedings, since village steelband Flamingoes and a popular DJ will supply music throughout the day and a cultural show will be staged at 4 p.m.

The usual blessing of the stalls will take place following an 8 a.m. open-air Mass at the grounds.