An Outline for a Service Around a First World War Memorial

[Note: this outline service for a local commemoration is not intended to replace the Remembrance Sunday/Remembrance Day service.]

Introduction

We have gathered around this memorial today to remember all those from this community who were caught up in the courageous but tragic events of the First World War. We remember those who were killed in action, or by disease, the bereaved, the lost, the families which were shattered, the wounded, maimed and injured, those who held in silence unspeakable memories of warfare.

As we remember those who fought and those who remained anxiously at home in this community, let us pray that God will heal all memories, speak a word of peace, and bring us his healing.

Lord, have mercy.

All Lord, have mercy.

Christ, have mercy.

All Christ, have mercy.

Lord, have mercy.

All Lord, have mercy.

May the God of all healing and forgiveness draw us to himself and cleanse us from our sins, that we may behold the glory of his Son, the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

The reading, or calling of the names

After all the names inscribed on the memorial have been audibly read, a senior citizen from the local community says:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

we will remember them.

All We will remember them.

Small bouquets, single blooms of white and pink flowers, or sprigs of rosemary are placed at the foot of the memorial.

A Prayer of Remembrance may be said.

 

A Reading

A young member of the local community reads an account by one of the Old Testament prophets of God’s intention to make a new covenant, to bind people together in a common cause.

Either Jeremiah 31.31-34

or Ezekiel 36.24-34

At the end, the reader says

Blessed are the peacemakers,

All for they shall be called children of God.

 

The Commitment to Peace

Let us pledge ourselves today to live as good neighbours, to honour the past, to care for all who are in need, and to live at peace among ourselves and with all people.

All Lord God, Father of all,

we pledge ourselves

to serve you and this neighbourhood,

to bring relief to all who are in need,

and comfort to the sad, lonely, and distressed;

Keep us ever mindful of the struggles

and achievements of former generations,

and of this place where we make our home,

now, and in the days to come. Amen.

Strengthen our hearts, and hands, and minds, O Lord,

to work together for peace;

to see you in one another;

and to seek your kingdom above all things;

that your will may be seen to be done

and your kingdom come,

through Jesus Christ,

the Lord of lords and King of kings. Amen.

As we ask that God’s will may be done in this and every place, so we pray together as Jesus Christ has taught us:

Our Father who art in heaven,

or Our Father in heaven, …

 

The Blessing

God grant to the living grace,

the departed rest,

the Church, the Queen,

the Commonwealth and all the world peace and concord;

and the blessing of God Almighty,

the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,

be among you and remain with you always.