Community Service of Remembrance
On Monday, Armistice Day, our community came together as a mark of remembrance for the dead and injured of the First World War and of all conflicts since.
Our Community Service of Remembrance was led by the young people of Y6 who together shared readings, poems and provided a commentary on the origins of Remembrance Day. They also led special prayers to honour the memory of all those affected by war, including those killed or injured in the service of our nation. We also prayed for their families and all civilian victims of war around the world, especially all the children.
The Service opened with an introduction and a welcome followed by an invitation for every child and adult to stand still for a minute’s silence. Even our very youngest children managed this brilliantly.
Later in the service, representatives of each class, led by one of our parents, Mr Hardy, a Major in the Army Reserve, who also wore full ceremonial uniform, took part in a simple procession in which wreaths of paper poppies made by the children, were laid at the foot of a simple wooden cross on the Sanctuary.
As ‘The Last Post’ was played everything was still as we all took time to reflect and offer prayers for peace.
I would like to thank young people and staff of Y6 for leading the Service; Mr Hardy for volunteering to be part of the liturgy; everyone who was able to join us on the day; and Fr Paul for allowing us to use the church.
Remembrance Day Lessons
In preparation for Armistice Day, the children learned about the origins of Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day and why both are so important to everyone in our country. They learned about The Great War and its impact, not just on soldiers, but also their families at home. They learned that since its inception Remembrance Sunday is now a focal point for also remembering the dead and injured of all conflicts since.
