Soldiers at The Somme

We Will Remember Them

First World War Centenary 2018

The centenary of the Armistice which ended the hostilities of the First World War is being marked across the nation.

Among the many physical reminders of the Great War are countless memorials inside and outside churches together with rolls of honour which record the names of men and women who gave their lives. Remembering the end of what was sometimes called ‘the War to end all wars’, the Church of England presents a series of resources for public worship and private prayer.

Church of England resources

These resources comprise:

  • vigil service to mark the centenary of the end of the Great War, for use on the evening of 10 or 11 November;
  • a public act of commitment to work for peace, which could be used in conjunction with a civic Remembrance Day ceremony, or as part of public worship;
  • a narrative called ‘Steps towards Reconciliation’, which reflects the need to work together for peace;
  • among others, prayers for peace, reconciliation, visiting a war grave.

Other resources will be made available to download for use online closer to the time.

Other resources to download

We have linked with HOPE and the Bible Society to help provide resources for churches and schools to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War. HOPE have set up a dedicated website for the centenary. Visit remembrance100.co.uk for resources and information about events taking place around the country throughout 2018.

View other resources available
People in a row holding wreaths made from poppies Credit: Graham Lacdao, St Paul's Cathedral

A Prayer for the way of peace and reconciliation

Lord, strengthen our hearts, hands, and minds, to work together for peace;
to see you in one another,
and to seek your kingdom above all things; that your will may be done, and your Kingdom come,
through Jesus Christ, the Lord of lords and King of kings.
Amen.

Chaplains in The British Army

The rapid growth of The British Army from the pre-war total of around 150,000 men supported by the 250,000 reservists of the Territorial Force to a final strength, even after immense losses, of 4 million, demanded a similar expansion of the Church’s chaplaincy provision.

Read more about the role of Chaplains in The British Army

Bell ringers in the First World War

Many bell ringers joined the war effort, and many lost their lives. Just after the war, the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers wrote to all bell towers to compile the Roll of Honour. In total 1,400 bell ringers lost their lives.

Read more about bell ringing to mark the Centenary of the Armistice
Chaplain

A chaplain is a minister, priest or a lay representative attached to a secular institution such as a hospital, prison, military unit, school, business, police department, fire department, university, or private chapel.

Parish

The smallest pastoral area within the Church of England. A parish usually has one main church building.

Bishop

A senior ordained person who has oversight of clergy and lay people in a diocese.

Communion

a) the sacramental sharing of bread and wine by the faithful, following the example given in the Last Supper of Christ with his disciples; b) a service in which Holy Communion is received.

Worship

Offering praise to God.