This past week we have been taking the time to remember the men and women who served, were injured and who died in two World Wars and other conflicts around the world. Recognising the sacrifice that they and their families have made so that we can live in a society that is free and democratic has been our focus this week. We have made poppies, wreaths and crosses; we have observed our two minutes silence and participated in a moving service in our memorial garden singing hymns, reading poetry, and listening to the reflections of Rev. Susan Kent. The weather was grey but the rain held off for the service, as is fitting for a Service of Remembrance. The children and staff showed respect and dignity during the service and seemed to really appreciate the solemnity of the occasion. Rev. Susan Kent (Rector of the United Benefice of Upper Weardale) has written:
“It has been my privilege and pleasure to share school assemblies and school worship at Stanhope Barrington throughout my ministry here in Weardale. During my time in school I introduce the children to words used in church worship; tell scripture stories; encourage them to think of those less fortunate than ourselves and develop a thoughtful approach to moral issues of the world. This valuable time together always results in many interesting conversations with the children, who are always attentive and insightful.”
Thank you Rev. Kent for leading our Service of Remembrance and for helping us to develop into thoughtful, compassionate, and respectful citizens. To find out more about the work of the British Legion and the Poppy Appeal please click on the links.
In Flanders Fields
By Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, 1915, WW1
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
