VE Day Commemoration:

Today, we pause to honour the memory of the brave soldiers from Nicholforest who gave their lives during the Second World War. Their courage and sacrifice remain a lasting testament to the cost of freedom and the strength of our community in times of great trial.

In recent months, members of our PCC have been undertaking careful research into the lives of those who served, particularly those from our own parish. This has deepened our understanding and appreciation of their stories—stories of resilience, duty, and devotion.

If you would like to look through this, at the back of the church you will find a newly prepared brochure on our findings and offering reflections on those whose names are etched on our War Memorial and on gravestones. This includes not only those from the Second World War, but also those who served and died in the First World War.

Let us continue to hold these names in sacred remembrance — not only today, but always — as we give thanks for their lives and pray for peace in our time.

Prayer of Remembrance and Gratitude

Gracious and Eternal God,
On this day of remembrance, we come before You with grateful hearts.
We give thanks for the courage and sacrifice of the men and women
from Nicholforest and beyond,
who gave their lives in the Second World War,
and in the First World War before it.

We remember especially those from our own community,
whose names are engraved in stone and in our hearts—
young lives given in the cause of peace, justice, and freedom.
May their memory be a blessing and a guide to us always.

Lord, we thank You for the peace we enjoy today,
and we pray for all who still live in the shadow of war.
Grant wisdom to the leaders of the nations,
and raise up peacemakers in every land.

Bless the work of those who preserve these stories,
who tend memorials and keep the flame of remembrance burning.
May we be faithful in honouring the past
and in shaping a world where love triumphs over hate,
and peace overcomes all fear.

In the name of Jesus Christ,
the Prince of Peace,
Amen.