The Anglican Church of St Peter The Fisherman in Hout Bay will be holding a special Remembrance Day ceremony on Sunday November 11.
Traditionally, Remembrance Day pays tribute to members of the armed forced who lost their lives in World War I, but over the years has also included those who died in World War II.
St Peter’s parishioner Virginia Johnson, one of the organisers of the event, has pointed out that hostilities in the world have not ceased, which is why it is important that those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to bring about peace are remembered.
“This year also marks 100 years since the end of World War I, so there is further cause to memorialise these soldiers. There are no congratulations in war. It’s not about pomp and circumstance, but respectfully remembering those who died.”
She said it had become apparent that the significance of Remembrance Day was becoming lost on the younger generation, and so it was hoped the service could serve as a learning experience for them to become acquainted with this important part of history.
The service will be presided over by Reverend Gaile Beckett, and will include a bugler, a two-minute silence and a remembrance cross placed at the front of the church.
Surviving members of World War II have been invited to attend, and have been requested to wear their military awards for the occasion.
“There will also be an opportunity for congregants to light a candle or lay a wreath at the front of the church in memory of those who have fallen. One of our older congregants, Pam Harper, will be providing a synopsis of what Remembrance Day means,” Ms Johnson said.
Ms Johnson and her team have been granted permission to raise funds for the South African Legion through a poppy collection outside Hout Bay Spar on Saturday November 10, while poppies, the international symbol of remembrance, will also be available at the church on the Sunday morning.”We will be singing the national anthem at the service, and we will also have two items by the St Peter’s Church Choir.”
Ms Johnson’s daughter, Debbie Nordien, has designed a special commemorative poster for the service and these will be placed at various points in Hout Bay.
The November 11 service starts at 10am.
