Across the diocese, our churches and schools have been holding services and taking part in civic and community events to mark Remembrance Sunday.
Once again, Bishop Martyn led the city of Leicester's civic Remembrance Service at the Cenotaph in Victoria Park on Sunday and was joined by hundreds of people, including serving members of the armed forces, veterans, police officers and dignitaries.
Reflecting on the morning, the Bishop of Leicester said: “A poignant gathering in Victoria Park as we remember those who gave so much and pray for those caught today in the storms of war and conflict.”
In Loughborough, Bishop Saju carried out the service of Remembrance in the town’s Queen’s Park alongside the Revd Elizabeth York, Chaplain to the Royal British Legion Loughborough Branch and Lead Chaplain at Loughborough University.
Thought to be one of the largest remembrance gatherings in the country, more than 5,000 people joined serving and former members of the Armed Forces to pay tribute to our fallen heroes.
(*Photo courtesy of Charnwood Borough Council.)
Silence fell at 11am, following The Last Post, as thousands of paper poppies were scattered from the top of the Carillion Tower war memorial.
During his reflection, Bishop Saju paid tribute to Ken Carson, a 92-year-old, who has worked tirelessly in the background with the Royal British Legion Loughborough Branch to organise this parade for around the last 40 years.
*(Photo courtesy of Charnwood Borough Council.)
“His life is a testament to what Remembrance Sunday stands for,” said the Bishop of Loughborough. “He embodies: Consistent Commitment; Diligent Dedication; Powerful Passion and Sacrificial Selflessness. These are the very qualities we look up to as we recall the sacrifices of those precious lives lost in wars because for our tomorrow, they gave their today!”
Though unable to attend in person, Ken watched a live stream of the service from his home.
Later in the day, Bishop Saju joined with diocesan colleagues including Canon Missioner of Leicester Cathedral, the Revd Dr Sarah Gill, and Director of the St Philip’s Centre, the Revd Dr Tom Wilson, to take part in a multi-faith Remembrance Day gathering at Brahma Kumaris in Leicester.