Categories: uncategorized
Date: 16 November 2006 19:11:29
A normal Sunday Eucharist with no overt reference to Remembrance Day, apart from the sermon and the choir anthem: The Russian Kontakion (Kiev Melody). However, this service was swiftly followed by the formal town Remembrance Day service next to the war memorial. The choir arrived at the last minute like Brown's cows - we are used to having a 'leader' who 'knows what to do' but this year we were on our own. A wreath-bearer was hurriedly chosen and the crucifer (newly promoted by popular vote) led us to approximately the right spot. Of course, the military and the other uniformed groups (Cubs, Scouts, Brownies) had been practising for weeks and knew just where to stand. 'O God our help in ages past' and the National Anthem was sung to the accompaniment of a much reduced and rather subdued town band. A rather poignant moment as a member of the crowd noisily collapsed and needed medical attention brought home to me what we were really remembering, and suddenly a slight confusion about where to stand mattered not at all. I don't suppose on 11/11 all those years ago they were too sure where they stood, either.