From the crimson red altar dressings, to the scarlet red poppies threaded through floral displays and lapels, to the ruby red petals scattered over the balcony, there was a fiery theme which glowed throughout the church. Red, the colour of danger. Red, the colour of passion and energy. Red, the colour of love. Red, the colour of blood…life blood drained in conflicts. Lives lost.
Combined, all these associations amplified the occasion of Remembrance Sunday. The congregation of St. James’ church, together with family, friends, neighbours, representatives from various organisations including Stalmine scout group came together to remember all those who have lost their lives in conflict.
Led by Rev. Dyllis, the service opened with the presentation of flags by the uniformed organisations. The young scouts carried out their duties with pride under the watchful gaze of their leaders.
Blood-red poppy-wreaths were laid at the war memorial on behalf of the Police Services, the Army, the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force, the Nursing Services, the National Coastguard, the Women’s Institute, the Royal British Legion, the Parish Council and 1st Stalmine Scouts.
Close to 11.00am, Rev. Dyllis made her way to the back of the church, where poppy petals were strewn down from the balcony as the Last Post was sounded from above, marking the start of the national two-minute silence. The symbolism of the red petals, fluttering downwards, then coming to rest on a red carpet, both singly and in heaps, was not lost on the congregation. Casualties on a battlefield lay in front of them. The haunting musical notes made a poignant accompanying sound. Emotions were running high.
The readings, prayers, hymns and homily all echoed the theme of love…love of God, love for each other and the extraordinary love which enables mankind to lay down their life for others. More subtle references to the colour red associated with love, were unmistakably present. The symbolism continued.
The service ended on an uplifting note with ‘Thine be the Glory’, with the inference of how love has the power to overcome everything – even death.
The uniformed organisations collected their flags and led the way out of church and into another welcoming space to share refreshments and fellowship.
…They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them…
Laurence Binyon
