Salisbury Cathedral, in common with many other cathedrals in the UK, is running a thoughtful programme of World War One commemoration events for the local community, diocese and the Cathedral’s many visitors. There’s a historic trail, a Roll of Honour, special services, reflective events, a Field of Remembrance, concerts – music, prose and poetry- and, throughout it all, prayer.
The first few months of the war provide the impetus for the start of the programme but there will also be occasions which pick out significant moments from now until 2018.
The commemoration begins at the end of June when we mark the assassination of the Archduke Ferdinand during the weekend of 27-29 June followed by a specific opportunity for reflection on the anniversary of the outbreak of war on Monday 4 August.
Throughout the summer, visitors will be invited to contribute to a ‘Roll of Honour’ remembering loved ones affected by any war, in any age and any country.
In the Autumn there will be opportunities to think more deeply about ‘just war’, hear WW1 poetry and attend a special Act of Remembrance.
The Dean of Salisbury, the Very Revd June Osborne, said “The centenary commemorations of the First World War are immensely important both to the families of this country and throughout the nations of the Commonwealth. The Cathedral’s long association with military regiments and our own evocative memorials of individuals and events enable us to play a key role in those commemorations. From the outbreak of war, to the battles which claimed such sacrifice of life, through to the Armistice and a changed world, we will be remembering and honouring our past and looking forward in hope.”
