THIS coming Sunday, all over the country and at our war memorials, we shall be remembering all those who gave their lives and who have suffered as a result of war and conflict. We shall gather, wearing our poppies, with those who are currently serving in the forces, now or in the past, and with other uniformed organisations.
We shall keep a two-minute silence at 11am, as was done for the first time on the 11th hour, of the 11th month, to remember the horror of war and to re-commit ourselves to peace in our country and in the world.
Perhaps this year, this is particularly poignant as we are well aware that there is still much conflict going on around the world, and particularly in Gaza and Israel as well as Ukraine and other places. We see every day on the news more bombing, more violence, more killing. It is distressing for us, let alone those who are in the midst of it, and we must renew our efforts for peace.
Jesus taught his followers to be peace-makers; to build good relationships with each other and in the world. He said: Blessed are the peace-makers for they shall be called children of God. He encouraged people to work through conflict by listening to each other, to be present with one another, and to re-imagine a different future.
We are to work together to build a safe and happy future for ourselves and for our children: a world where no one suffers from hardship, conflict, war, or violence. We are called to pray for peace in our world; for world leaders to work for peace and to find ways in which we can live together peaceably for the good and the flourishing of all.
Rebecca Harris,
Team Rector, White Horse Team Ministry
