Tomorrow we observe Armistice Day, on the 11th day of the 11th month, at the 11th hour. Armistice Day commemorates the Ceasefire during the Great War, leading to the end of the fighting on the Western Front. This day has been the official day in the UK and the Commonwealth, for remembrance of all those who lost their lives and sacrificed so much.

The Red Poppy became a symbol of remembrance after John McCrae, a Canadian Lieutenant, wrote a beautiful poem called ‘In Flanders Fields.’ He wrote this poem after seeing the sight of poppies growing amongst the graves of Flanders.

There are other coloured poppies to commemorate, also. The Purple Poppy is for all the animals who have been used in battle and efforts towards Peace. Dogs, horses, rats, dolphins, sealions, pigeons, elephants, canaries, camels, and oxen. The list goes on. They have all been used in wartime.. Many did not survive. The official day for animal remembrance in the UK is August 23rd, but we also remember them at this time.

The Black Poppy commemorates the efforts of Black, African, and Caribbean people in times of war. This was launched in 2010. The centre of the poppy is green to remember the green fields of France during WW1.

And the White Poppy, created in 1933 by the Co-op Women’s Guild, is a symbol of Peace for all victims, and a commitment to a more peaceful future without conflict. This must surely be our hope and prayer. So pause tomorrow at 11am. We stand on the backs of so many, and may we live a good, full life of love and service.

We had a lovely evening last night with Sarah Norris joining us. Her wonderful energy filled the room as she brought an inspired address and our messages. Thank you so much, Sarah. We love having you! Alison Keogh chaired our evening.

Thank you to our readers and prayer people. A special thank you to Ken for reading ‘The Charge’ and bringing in wartime artifacts from his grandfather, who served in WW1. Thank you to Julie for the music. Thank you, Carole, for our cake, and Sue for our hospitality. Thanks also to our healers and all those who set up, break down, and wash up each week.

Prayer of the week

Please pray for all victims and their families of wartime conflict, especially those who come back with PTSD and psychological wounds. How can anyone who has encountered the horror of war possibly share it with family?. May they receive all the ongoing help and healing that they need.

Let us also remember those animals who have aided humankind in their pursuit of Peace.

Calendar up tomorrow.

Have a beautiful, grateful week!