Remembrance Sunday 2017

13 November 2017 - All

It is sobering to remember the price so many women have paid in times of war, be it in active service, as civilian victims or as the wives, mothers, sisters and girlfriends of those who have perished or been injured.

2017 marks the hundredth anniversary, not only of the Battle of Passchendaele, one of the bloodiest of WW1, but also of the formation of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps and the Women’s Royal Naval Service, the WRENS. The following years saw women come to play an indispensable role in both military campaigns and civilian war efforts. On Remembrance Sunday this year, recalling Jesus’ mother, Mary, whose own soul was pierced by the death of her son, we particularly remembered their contribution, and the many unsung heroes to whom we owe so much.

With readings and prayers from some of our prefects and Warrant Officer Colin Irving, the Holst Singers’ wonderful singing of Duruflé’s Kyrie and Mark Blatchly’s For the Fallen, sung by the choir, we reflected that we are all affected in some way by the tragedy of war. Equally, inspired by a song sung by the Military Wives and the trumpet calls of the Last Post and Reveille, played by Isabella, L6, we acknowledged the strength and support that we can offer to one another.

Together we are stronger.

Jane Chaffey, School Chaplain

Photo credit: Hazel