I wanted to say a BIG ‘Thank you’ to all those who played a part in ensuring that our commemoration of Remembrance Sunday was done in a way that was truly fitting for the significance of the occasion.
Estimates suggest that a total of between 250 and 300 people attended one of the Acts of Commemoration at the villages’ four War Memorials (led by myself, Gerry Stacy and Peter Thacker)—with perhaps a hundred also attending the main service in St Mary’s, Easton.
A special ‘thank you’ goes to James Young for coordinating the presence of the Royal British Legion (under the leadership of John Lang). It was so good to have so many members of the RBL with us, to be able to meet them personally and to hear some of their stories.
If you are interested, the audio recording of my sermon is available below. The sermon focused on the phrase “We honour your service”; and provides an opportunity for us all to honour our country’s service men and women, as well as to ponder the ‘service’ of Jesus, the Suffering Servant who, in the words of our Gospel reading, ‘gave his life as a ransom for many’.
Finally, if you would like to hear more from the experience of John Lang, serving as a Rear Admiral in the Navy, it’s not too late to book your place for his Martyr Worth Online Lecture on Tuesday 30th November – unfortunately, the live lecture is now sold out. This lecture series is a fund-raising initiative on behalf of our benefice—with all proceeds going to support the work of our parish. So we would value your presence and support. To book your place you can do so online https://itchenvalleychurches.org/martyr-worthy-lectures/